This year’s Manhattanhenge topped the year’s before. It saw people in the middle of street, on top of cars, and even on top of other people. Drivers had to be extra cautious when driving near a street that had a view of Manhattanhenge since people were everywhere and had their eyes of the setting sun. But what’s the big deal about a sunset?

What is Manhattanhenge?

Manhattanhenge is a phenomenon that occurs most famously in New York City when the sunrise or sunset align with the street grid creating truly powerful images. This “henge” effect happens in other cities with uniform street grids and an unobstructed view of the horizon; for example, there’s a Chicagohenge too.

The term Manhattanhenge is a spin-off from the Stonehenge since in both locations the rising and setting sun align with structures, stones in the case of the Stonehenge, and skyscrapers in New York City. Famed astrophysicist and beloved author Neil Degrasse Tyson coined Manhattanhenge and has been heavily involved in the growing popularity of the urban phenomenon.

When to see Manhattanhenge?

About 4 times a year you can catch this spectacle: before and after the summer solstice (sunset) and before and after the winter solstice (sunrise). Be sure to get there hours ahead of the scheduled time of sunset or sunrise or else you’re not going to get a good spot. Thousands of photographers, professionals to amateurs, and ordinary joes flock to the streets in hopes to witness Manhattanhenge.

For 2018 the dates are May 30th 8:12 pm and July 12th 8:20 pm.

Some key locations that have good vantage points to see Manhattanhenge are from 9th, 14th, 23rd, 34th, and 43rd street. These streets have clear views to New Jersey and the Hudson which allows you to view the sunset unobstructed. Neighboring streets also have adequate views; however, either way you’ll be at the mercy of Mother Nature. I’ve been to plenty of botched Manhattanhenge because of an inopportune passing cloud. It sucks, but it’s worth the chance and the atmosphere and community of photographers that come out every year are amazing.

My favorite spot is the Tudor City Overpass because it has a height advantage and a great view of the Chrysler building. The thing is though that it’s a lot of people’s favorite spot, and the sunset can really only be viewed from the dead center of the overpass, so time is of the essence (being early pays off).

If you can’t make it to the Tudor City Overpass, you can catch Manhattanhenge while crossing a street. Lots of people walk out in the middle of the street and take pictures for as long as they can until cars start honking. Other people, more daring people, stand in the middle of the road on the double yellow line with cars whizzing by them left and right (not recommended). I recommend standing in the half of the crosswalk that allows cars to turn so you’re not in danger and causing more traffic. There are usually police officers monitoring everything and protecting people from traffic. Listen to them and follow their directions, stay off the streets and stay safe.