Manhattanhenge: When the Sun Aligns with NYC's Street Grid

Manhattanhenge (coined by Neil deGrasse Tyson) occurs when the setting sun aligns perfectly with Manhattan’s east–west streets, framing a golden disc between steel canyons.

Dates (Approximate)

• Late May: ~May 28–30
• Mid-July: ~July 11–13

(Reverse “Manhattanhenge” — sunrise alignment — occurs ~Dec 5 & Jan 8.)

Why It Happens

Manhattan’s grid is rotated 29° clockwise from true east–west. The sun’s azimuth at sunset matches this azimuth twice yearly (symmetrical around summer solstice).

Best Viewing Streets (Wide, Unobstructed Westward)

• 14th St, 23rd St, 34th St, 42nd St, 57th St, 72nd St, 79th St, 86th St, 96th St, 106th St, 116th St, 125th St.
• Iconic backdrops: 34th (Empire State), 42nd (Chrysler), 57th (Billionaires’ Row).

Tips

• Arrive 30 min early — crowds swell.
• Bring tripod for photography.
• Check weather — clouds ruin it.
• Traffic: NYPD may close cross-town streets; use subways.

Cultural Moment

Viral photos, rooftop parties, marriage proposals. A fleeting reminder that the city’s rigid grid still dances with the cosmos.