Picture this: the sun as a fiery orb of cosmic swagger, aligning with Manhattan’s grid in a twice-yearly flirtation known as Manhattanhenge. On May 28 and 29, 2025, New Yorkers and those on a luxury travel adventure ditch the usual hustle to witness this urban solstice, where the city’s concrete canyons frame a sunset so perfect it could make even the hardest working cabbie pause.
Elbow your way through the crowds to find this curated list of ultra-luxe residences where you can soak in the celestial show from private balconies, rooftop lounges, and sky-high penthouses, all with a cocktail in hand and no tourists in sight.
The Perrie: Midtown’s Chic Hideaway for Sunset Gazers
Tucked into the leafy charm of Turtle Bay, The Perrie is a Midtown gem that’s equal parts serene and sophisticated. This collection of 95 one-bedroom residences is designed for those who crave indoor-outdoor elegance, with open-plan kitchens, wide-plank white oak floors, and massive windows that drink in natural light. Nearly every home boasts a private balcony—your personal front-row seat to Manhattanhenge’s golden glow, with Midtown’s skyline as your backdrop.
When you’re not sunset-chasing, indulge in amenities like a courtyard garden with a fire pit (s’mores, anyone?), a fitness center with an outdoor yoga area, or a coworking suite for when you need to pretend you’re working. It’s urban living with a side of zen. Explore more about luxury living at The Perrie.
Photo: Nicholas Venezia
Monogram New York: Skyline Glamour Meets Celestial Views
Rising at 135 East 47th Street, Monogram New York is a Midtown masterpiece by Ismael Leyva Architects, with interiors by the globally celebrated Neri&Hu. Steps from Grand Central and the Chrysler Building, this architectural stunner places you in the heart of Manhattan’s pulse.
The real showstopper is The Sphere Club, a penthouse amenity suite that’s basically a love letter to luxury. Think sophisticated bar, cozy reading lounge with a fireplace, and a private dining room—all framed by panoramic views that make Manhattanhenge feel like it was staged just for you. Sip a martini, watch the sunset ignite the skyline, and thank your lucky stars you’re not stuck in Times Square. Learn more about NYC’s architectural icons at Monogram.
Photo: Arch-Exist
VIA 57 WEST: Where Art Meets Astronomy
On West 57th Street, VIA 57 WEST—a Bjarke Ingels Group masterpiece—redefines luxury with its audacious, triangular silhouette. Developed by The Durst Organization, this architectural icon between 11th and 12th Avenues offers studios to four-bedroom residences, each with floor-to-ceiling windows that capture Manhattanhenge’s warm, western light.
The building’s unique design maximizes views of the Hudson River and the city’s glittering grid, making it a prime place for sunset seekers. It’s not just a home; it’s a whole experience. Dive into VIA 57’s bold design at ArchDaily.
Snag your front-row seat to Manhattanhenge without street-level chaos; these properties deliver luxury, exclusivity, and views. Shades on, pour something sparkling, and let Manhattan’s streets align with the stars—all from the comfort of one of these ultra-chic abodes.
Image: Alex Fradkin
What is Manhattanhenge?
Manhattanhenge is a phenomenon where the setting sun aligns perfectly with the east-west streets of Manhattan’s grid, creating a stunning visual effect as the sun dips below the horizon, framed by the city’s skyscrapers. The term, coined by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, draws from Stonehenge’s solstice alignments. Its popularity stems from the striking beauty of the urban sunset, blending nature with New York City’s iconic skyline.
It attracts crowds, photographers, and social media enthusiasts, especially at key vantage points like 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd, and 57th Streets. Since this is truly a rare event, occurring only four times annually (two full and two half sun alignments), plus the fact it’s celebration of astronomy in an urban setting, amplifies the wow factor for residents and tourists alike.
Top image: Pixabay
Theresa Longo (B.B.A Hon) is a former Miss Italy World contestant & professional brand ambassador based in Toronto. She covers topics such as performance auto, high fashion and world travel.
