Here’s something that’s just made it to the top of my TO-DO-IMMEDIATELY-IN-NEW-YORK list: witnessing Manhattanhenge. This mysteriously-named event – also known as the Manhattan Solstice – is a beautiful phenomenon that occurs in the city twice a year when the sunset aligns perfectly with the east-west grid of New York City, and the sun’s golden rays point and dazzle down the streets. The dates vary each year depending on the Summer Solstice, but this year it occurs around sunset on May 28 and July 12.
Insider tip: For the best chance of seeing it, the American Museum of Natural History says: “Position yourself as far east in Manhattan as possible, but make sure that when you look west across the avenues you can still see New Jersey. Clear cross streets include 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd, 57th, and several streets adjacent to them. The Empire State building and the Chrysler building render 34th street and 42nd streets especially striking vistas.”
(Photos via here)
