Twice every year, Manhattanhenge captivates New Yorkers and tourists alike as the sun aligns perfectly with Manhattan's street grid.

The event is a favorite of photographers and often brings people out onto sidewalks on spring and summer evenings to watch the unique sunsets.

In 2024, Manhattanhenge first occurred on May 28 and 29. Repeat performances will take place at 8:20 p.m. on Friday, July 12 and 8:21 p.m. on Saturday, July 13, according to the American Museum of Natural History. 

Where does the name Manhattanhenge come from?

The name "Manhattanhenge" was coined by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson in a 1997 article for Natural History magazine. Inspired by Stonehenge, where the sun aligns with England’s prehistoric stones during solstices, Tyson applied the concept to Manhattan's landscape.

When is Manhattanhenge?

Manhattanhenge typically occurs twice a year, around the summer solstice in late May and mid-July. During this time, the setting sun matches up with Manhattan's east-west street grid, casting rays along the city's west-east streets.

Was Manhattanhenge planned?

While Manhattanhenge bears some resemblance to England’s Stonehenge, the phenomenon was not intentionally planned.

Manhattan's grid system, set forth by the Commissioners' Plan of 1811, features streets running east-west and north-south. For the setting sun to be seen from all of Manhattan’s cross streets, the sun’s angular distance from due west must align precisely with the city's cross streets, which are situated 29 degrees north of west. This alignment happens when the sun climbs toward the summer solstice in late May and as it moves away from the solstice in July.

Where can you see Manhattanhenge?

Manhattanhenge can be observed along all major east-west streets of Manhattan. Some of the best viewing points, according to meteorologists, include 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd and 57th streets because they are wide and offer unobstructed views of the horizon.

Is Manhattanhenge visible at sunrise?

Yes, Manhattanhenge is visible at sunrise twice a year, typically around mid-December and early January. Similar to sunset viewings, the best vantage points to see Manhattanhenge at sunrise include 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd and 57th streets.