Manhattan will turn even more magical this evening as a twice-per-summer solar spectacular brings a dazzling glow to the concrete jungle. It’s Manhattanhenge — the Big Apple’s take on Stonehenge — a string of evenings when the sun sets in perfect alignment with the island’s street grid. The striking display draws thousands of spectators each summer.
With clear, sunny skies, tonight’s Manhattanhenge forecast couldn’t be better. Here’s where to look and when to watch the first Manhattanhenge showing of the season.
Where to see Manhattanhenge
You can’t catch Manhattanhenge just anywhere, hence the name. Since the sun sets in the west, behind North Jersey, it’s best to watch from the eastern side of the island (but not too far east; make sure New Jersey is still visible.)
According to the American Museum of Natural History, the best thoroughfares to enjoy Manhattanhenge include 14th Street, 23rd Street, 34th Street, 42nd Street, and 57th Street. The Tudor City Overpass near the United Nations headquarters is a popular spot. For beyond-Manhattan viewing, try Hunter’s Point South Park in Long Island City, according to NYC Parks.
When to see Manhattanhenge in 2024
The moment of Manhattanhenge — where the bright sun perfectly aligns between the city’s concrete bookends — only lasts a few minutes. Fortunately, it’s not a one-night-only event. The phenomenon occurs over a string of two evenings, twice each summer.
Tonight’s event is the kick-off, with Manhattanhenge striking at 8:13 p.m. ET. This is “half sun” Manhattanhenge; at the moment of city-grid alignment, half of the sun’s orb is above the horizon and half is below. Wednesday, May 29, will be “full sun” Manhattanhenge at 8:12 p.m. ET. During this time, the entirety of the sun’s sphere will shimmer above the horizon.
Manhattanhenge will occur again July 13 at 8:21 p.m., and again July 12 at 8:20 p.m. ET, according to ABC 7 — but we recommend taking advantage of this week’s spectacle given the perfect, clear-sky forecast.
