14 Spectacular U.S. Buildings with the Best Views
When it comes to quintessential American experiences, few things compare to gazing out from the top of a breathtaking building. The United States is home to some of the most awe-inspiring views in the world, featuring iconic skyscrapers, historical sites, and hidden gems. With the explosion of tourism and travel, particularly as more people seek local destinations, these landmarks have become must-visits for travelers, architecture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.
According to the International Trade Administration, domestic travel volume was estimated to reach 2.31 billion person-trips in 2023, with millions rediscovering iconic locales closer to home. These 14 landmarks showcase broad cityscapes, sweeping mountain ranges, and beautiful coastal views, offering unforgettable perspectives.
Empire State Building, New York City
The Empire State Building is the world’s most recognized skyscraper because it provides extraordinary views across Manhattan. Its observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors attract millions of yearly visitors eager to see the city’s iconic skyline, including Central Park, the Hudson River, and Times Square.
According to the Empire State Realty Trust, over 4 million people visited the building in 2022, cementing it as one of America’s must-see attractions. The Art Deco architectural wonder showcases brilliant nighttime displays that multiply its visual attractiveness. The best time to experience SUMMIT One Vanderbilt without many people present is during early morning or late evening.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, New York City
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt has redefined how we experience urban views. Offering mirrored interiors and all-glass elevators reaching over 1,000 feet, it’s an immersive and reflective adventure.
You’re not just looking out but also interacting with the space and light around you, making it a favorite for photographers and art enthusiasts alike.
Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), Chicago
The Willis Tower’s Skydeck is legendary. It is perched on the 103rd floor and has glass-floored balconies extending four feet out into the sky. “The Ledge” offers visitors the sensation of floating above the city.
On clear days, you can see across four states—Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan. Standing at 1,450 feet tall, Willis Tower maintained its status as one of Chicago’s top tourist destinations in 2023, welcoming 1.9 million guests, as The Sky Deck Chicago reported.
Space Needle, Seattle
The Space Needle, a symbol of Seattle, offers stunning views of Elliott Bay, Mount Rainier, and the bustling city below. This 605-foot tower features rotating floors in its SkyCity restaurant, giving diners a panoramic experience while they enjoy their meal.
Its 2018 renovation introduced a glass-floor observation deck, elevating its charm. According to its official website, more than 1 million visitors enjoy its unparalleled beauty annually.
Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island, Michigan
Fort Mackinac was built during the American Revolutionary War and is both a historical treasure and a visual delight. Set high on a cliff, it provides spectacular views of the island’s lush greenery and Lake Huron’s crystal-clear waters.
It’s a quieter, lesser-known gem perfect for combining history lessons with postcard-perfect sceneries.
Columbia Center (Seattle’s Tallest Building)
At 933 feet, Columbia Center is the tallest building in Seattle, having the Sky View Observatory on the 73rd floor. You’ll be treated to sweeping views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and downtown Seattle.
It’s the perfect vantage point to appreciate the juxtaposition of the cityscape against the surrounding natural beauty.
Stratosphere Tower, Las Vegas
The Stratosphere Tower in Las Vegas delivers a mix of thrill and beauty. At 1,150 feet, it is the tallest structure in Vegas, and its observation deck offers expansive views of the surrounding desert and neon-lit Strip.
Its adrenaline-pumping rides, including the Big Shot, make it a favorite for adventurers.
Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia
The famous Rocky Steps in Philadelphia serve as a tourism destination, providing excellent panoramas of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and functioning as a local gathering spot. At the base of these steps, visitors can access the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which presents masterpieces from acclaimed artists worldwide.
The museum demonstrates architectural excellence by combining classical architectural elements with an impressive presence that unifies historical aspects with artistic beauty. The location opens internally and externally to present a setting where artistic masterpieces engage passersby.
Gillette Castle State Park, Lyme, Connecticut
This medieval-style stone castle, designed by actor and playwright William Gillette, is situated high above the Connecticut River and serves as an observation point. Built in 1919, the castle displayed Gillette’s innovative spirit through its distinctive stone wall designs and wooden decorations, as well as its well-concealed entryways.
Its unique design and panoramic views make it feel like stepping into another era, offering visitors a glimpse into history and nature. The mountain-top castle features hiking trails and scenic terrain, which create an appropriate retreat for romantics, history enthusiasts, and nature seekers.
U.S. Bank Tower’s OUE Skyspace, Los Angeles
This iconic LA landmark is renowned for its thrilling glass slide, a one-of-a-kind experience that takes visitors outside the building and offers breathtaking views of the sprawling city below. As part of the OUE Skyspace experience in Los Angeles, the slide provides city visitors with an entertaining alternative to observation decks by allowing them to descend through the air while viewing amazing views of distant landmarks.
The building is a marvel of modern architecture, and the attraction has become a must-visit for tourists and locals seeking a mix of adrenaline and awe-inspiring vistas.
Four Seasons Hotel George V, Washington D.C.
This hotel is not primarily billed as an observation venue, but its rooms have some of the best views overlooking Capitol Hill and its lush, green surroundings. Guests can enjoy stunning sights right from their windows, whether it’s the iconic architecture or the vibrant natural scenery that catches their eye.
Combined with its spacious, well-appointed rooms and top-tier amenities, the hotel perfectly balances luxury and breathtaking vistas. It’s a favorite choice for travelers seeking both comfort and an unforgettable view during their stay.
Chrysler Building, New York City
The Chrysler Building shines as an Art Deco masterpiece, its spire shimmering like a crown above the city. Though it doesn’t have an official observation deck, nearby rooftops and buildings offer fantastic views of its stunning design.
The nearby Tudor City Overpass is a popular (and free!) spot to capture the full majesty of the Chrysler amidst New York’s vertical wonders.
The Edge at Hudson Yards, New York City
Opened in 2020, The Edge is one of New York City’s newest attractions and the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. Rising 100 stories above the ground, visitors can enjoy glass floors, glass walls, and a 360-degree view of the Hudson River, the Statue of Liberty, and beyond.
By 2023, The Edge became one of NYC’s fastest-growing attractions, drawing travelers eager for heart-pounding Instagram-worthy shots.
John Hancock Center (875 N Michigan Ave), Chicago
High above the Windy City, this landmark—now officially named 875 N Michigan Ave—houses the 94th-floor observation deck known as 360 CHICAGO. The standout feature? Its “Tilt” experience, where visitors can lean over the edge (safely secured, of course!) for unparalleled views of Lake Michigan and Chicago’s massive, glittering skyline.
360 CHICAGO has gained recognition for its family-friendly appeal, making it one of the city’s top attractions in 2023.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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