VerdictDestinations 🛡️ Independent — no pay-to-rank🔎 Graded for who you are✓ Verified 2026-06-17How we grade → The verdict
Who it's worth it for
Great for
- Couples
- Solo travellers
- Photographers
Depends
- Travellers on a budget
- If you've only got a day
- Families with kids
Worth it for couples, solo travellers and photographers.
Why we say this
Insider secrets & local vibes
The mirrored copper honeycomb of 154 interlocking staircases is striking and photogenic from every angle.
Not independently verified — estimatedThe exterior photo is free, and the climb is only about $10–15 if you want to go up.
Not independently verified — estimatedSince reopening it's wrapped in floor-to-ceiling safety netting with the top levels gated, so the climb is short and the views obstructed.
Not independently verified — estimatedIt's pure Instagram-bait with no real substance once you've taken the photo.
Not independently verified — estimatedWhat it feels like
Reading the room, traveller by traveller
With friends
A fun quick photo op on a Hudson Yards loop with Edge and the High Line.
As a couple
Good for a striking shot, but not worth the paid climb as a standalone.
Solo
A five-minute curiosity best caught while passing through the mall and gardens.
Good to know
Before you go
Cost
Photo free; climb ~$10–15
- Best time
- Daytime for the mirrored-copper photo; golden hour for the warmest reflections.
- Getting there
- 7 train to 34th St–Hudson Yards, right beside it.
- Booking
- Free to view; reserve a timed climb ticket online if you want to go up.
- Accessibility
- Climb is stairs-only above the base; the plaza around it is fully step-free.
Alternatives
If it's not your thing, try
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🛡️ Independent — no pay-to-rank🔎 Graded for who you are✓ Verified 2026-06-17How we grade →