As a photographer, I'm always looking for new places to explore and capture. Probably some of the coolest places in Manhattan to take pictures are rooftops. Think of the Top of the Rock, Empire State Building and now, my favorite hidden gem: the Orchard Street Hotel.
I love downtown Manhattan. Everything south of Washington Square Park and north of Wall Street has so much character (and fewer tourists). It's fun to peruse all of the expensive boutiques we can never afford to shop at, walk on the dated cobblestones in West Village and eat at the inexpensive yet delicious restaurants in Chinatown. Yet, we sometimes need a break from all the traffic and noise.
That's why I love to chill on rooftops: the easiest way to escape, yet observe everything that's going on beneath you. It makes for beautiful landscape and a fun way to spend any time of day. During the summer, if you go to any rooftop in NYC by 8pm, you will witness probably the most fascinating sunset in your life.
When I first got there, this is what the view looked like:
Looking uptown, you can see all the iconic buildings in Times Square.
But of course, there are other interesting things to look at too, like this couple relaxing on the fire escape on a lazy afternoon.
...or this unfinished construction project, making for a rather artsy photo.
My favorite, however, is still the fact that people have the time, energy, and logistics to paint such a beautiful mural for us to enjoy
All of these sites would have gone unnoticed had it not been for such a fantastic location.
After waiting another hour after the sun set completely, I was able to capture an exciting and vibrant night scene
The Freedom Tower will soon be ready for people to visit and go all the way to the top!
Looking the other way back Uptown, this is what I saw
Contrary to popular belief, DO look down!
The Orchard Street Hotel is a fun and relaxing way to enjoy Manhattan. It gives you almost a perfect view of uptown, downtown, and everything in between! Please do be safe, and remember: the signs saying the roof is under construction and off-limits only applies to boring people.
For my explorers out there, the Orchard Street Hotel is located at the following:
163 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
Don't be a square; go have an adventure.
