The dazzling solar event lines up with Manhattan’s iconic street grid twice a year.
New Yorkers and tourists alike are once again preparing for one of the city’s most photographed natural events as Manhattanhenge returns in 2026.
The twice-yearly phenomenon transforms Manhattan’s streets into glowing corridors of sunlight when the setting sun aligns perfectly with the borough’s street grid. The event typically occurs on two evenings in May and two evenings in July, drawing photographers, commuters and sunset enthusiasts across New York City.
This year’s first Manhattanhenge viewing began on Thursday, May 28, with another prime viewing opportunity arriving Friday evening.
The striking event has become a seasonal tradition in the city, with crowds gathering along major crosstown streets to capture the rare alignment between the urban skyline and the setting sun.
What is Manhattanhenge?
Manhattanhenge occurs when the sunset lines up precisely with the east west streets of Manhattan’s grid system, creating a glowing beam of sunlight between rows of buildings.
According to the American Museum of Natural History, the alignment produces a radiant effect that illuminates both sides of Manhattan’s cross streets at the same time.
The phenomenon is often compared to Stonehenge because of its connection to solar alignment, though Manhattanhenge is uniquely tied to New York City’s architectural layout.
The event has become especially popular among photographers and social media users hoping to capture dramatic images of the sun framed by skyscrapers.
Here’s when Manhattanhenge will happen in 2026
There are four key Manhattanhenge moments scheduled for 2026.
Half sun viewing took place Thursday, May 28, at 8:14 p.m. ET.
Full sun viewing will occur Friday, May 29, at 8:13 p.m. ET.
Full sun viewing returns Saturday, July 11, at 8:20 p.m. ET.
Half sun viewing concludes Sunday, July 12, at 8:21 p.m. ET.
During the full sun dates, the entire sun becomes visible between the buildings before dipping below the horizon. During the half sun dates, only part of the sun aligns with the grid.
Best streets and viewing spots in Manhattan
Several Manhattan streets are known for offering especially clear views of the sunset during Manhattanhenge.
The most popular locations include:
14th Street
23rd Street
34th Street
42nd Street
79th Street
Each of these crosstown streets provides long sightlines toward the Hudson River, making it easier to view the sun directly between the city’s buildings.
There are also a few alternative viewing locations outside the busiest intersections.
The Tudor City Overpass in Manhattan has become a favorite elevated spot for photographers seeking panoramic views. In Queens, Hunter’s Point South Park in Long Island City also offers an impressive vantage point of the glowing skyline.
Because Manhattanhenge draws large crowds, many attendees arrive early to secure a clear viewing area before sunset.
Tips for getting the perfect Manhattanhenge photo
Photographers hoping to capture the ideal Manhattanhenge image are encouraged to plan ahead before heading into the city.
Checking the weather forecast ahead of time can help determine visibility conditions for sunset photography.
Arriving early is recommended since popular intersections often become crowded well before the event begins.
Using a tripod may help stabilize shots in low light conditions as the sun begins to disappear below the skyline.
Many photographers also prefer using a high aperture setting, such as F/16, while keeping ISO settings low for sharper sunset images.
Experts also suggest experimenting with foreground subjects to create more visually interesting compositions. Silhouettes of pedestrians, fountains or city landmarks can help add depth and scale to Manhattanhenge photos.
Manhattanhenge continues to captivate New Yorkers
Over the years, Manhattanhenge has evolved from a niche astronomy event into one of New York City’s most recognizable seasonal attractions.
The combination of architecture, natural light and timing creates a rare visual experience that can only be fully appreciated in Manhattan’s carefully designed grid system.
For many New Yorkers, the event signals the arrival of summer and offers a brief moment where the city’s fast moving streets pause for a shared view of the sunset.
As thousands prepare to line Manhattan’s streets once again, Manhattanhenge remains a reminder of how nature and urban life can briefly align in spectacular fashion.