I’m been driving my family crazy for the past month or so, as I try to get a great night shot of the Manhattan skyline for my blog banner. Of all the possible views of my fair city, I’ve decided to go for the view from Queens, because it’s the one that stirs my heart the most. You know the view if you’ve ever driven into Manhattan at night on the Long Island Expresswway. It hits you straight on, smack in the face, as you head over the last hill toward the Midtown Tunnel. Awesome.
Of course, I can’t set up a tripod on the LIE. So, I’ve been making my husband stop the car on the 21 Street on-ramp of the upper level of the Queensboro Bridge as we are schlepping the kids in from theater classes on Roosevelt Island. He pulls over and puts the flashers on, and I lean out the window and do my thing. We’ve done this about 4 times now, and this is the best shot I’ve gotten so far using this approach. Still not good enough for the banner, but with some cropping and zooming, it’s getting close. See?
So far no one has hit us, and no cop has stopped us, but I get the feeling my days are numbered if I keep trying this approach. Plus, I can’t get the photo sharp enough because of the constant vibrations of the on ramp and the car. I’m afraid to get out and set up a tripod for fear someone will “clip me”. (That’s my Grandmother’s term for getting hit by a car).
What I really need is a rooftop in Long Island City. Or maybe I’ll head down to the water in LIC and see what view I get there. If anyone has any suggestions as to where I can go to set up a tripod, let me know. Of course, at that point, finding the time to do it will become my biggest problem.
Until then, If you see me parked on the Queensboro on-ramp, try not to clip me.
Category: Considerations
Does it have to be LIC? I don’t know of any rooftops there. But I do have three spots to suggest in Brooklyn.
First, I’d say head to Williamsburg. At the end of N. 7th there’s there’s dirty waterfront area with a big cement platform covered in broken glass. Gorgeous view, steady surface.
Second, I’d say head to Dumbo. Ther’s a small, clean, beautiful little beach there, between the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges (closer to the Manhattan), which also has a stunning view of the skyline and good places to set up.
Third, how about the Promenade? Go to Brooklyn Heights and walk away from the courts along Montague St. until you hit it.
Danielle : Thanks so much! That’s exactly the kind of info I needed. I was wandering in Williamsburg, but couldn’t find the right waterfront access.
What about from Astoria…Astoria Park near the Hell Gate Bridge?
What about from Riker’s? Come on, have a sense of humor!
Last suggestion is this. Call Citibank Community Relations at 1-866-799-7985 and see if there is an observation deck in the Queens skyscraper in LIC. It’s the tallest building in Queens and LI. They may just let you up there for a photo…
I give you these suggestions because even though the skyline photo is very nice, the prominant ventilation duct work has to be removed…Keep at it, though, it’s good work in progress.
I’d have some suggestions from the Jersey side, if you are interested, but don’t know if you want to look east towards the city. Out where I am, there are some great views of the city and no traffic.
DAWN:
WOuld love to hear your suggestions.Thanks!
TBTAM
I read this article in the Daily News this morning and was absolutely convinced that it was you until I read further down and learned that the person who was killed had been a male artist living in Queens. Still, first seeing that headline and blurb was a frightening moment. Please be careful!
Danielle:
Whoa, that is really scary…I got chills.
Don’t worry, I never leave my car, but since I now have so many great suggestions for waterfront manhattan views, I’ll be leaving the bridge for the riverside.
Thanks for your thoughts.
TBTAM: Great places for views of Manhattan from NJ–Route 3 going east from Clifton (year round) and there is a historic home –sorry, the name has slipped my memory–in Clifton/Paterson up on the hills with a fantastic view. Also in Clifton–Valley Road and Van Houton Ave–a “T” intersection that faces east–fantastic view of the city.
Further West–in Boonton Township is a park called Tourne Park, and if you climb the hill there to the top the view is also supposed to be fantastic (my husband and daughter have climbed it, I haven’t made it to the top yet…)This one is better in winter, due to all the trees.
Last, but not least, the NY/NJ border has a Mount Fuji restaurant right off the NY thruway (exit 15) and on clear days/nights it also has a great view of the city.
Hope these help! Dawn
Dawn:
Thanks so much for your suggestions. That one in Clifton sounds especially promising – we head that way frequently and I can see being able to fit a quick trip in on our way.
Thanks again!
I have no idea about what is where in New York, but your idea of a rooftop in LIC gave me the idea about getting permission from a business open at night to set up the tripod on their roof.
Any hospitals in LIC?
Hi,
We just returned from a trip to NYC. Love it!! Had a few good meals…Lupa was fantastic, The Little Owl was really good. I got a couple of great photos of the city from the Top of the Rock that I’ve posted on my site. Check them out if you get the time. I enjoy your blog!
Matt: What’s your site? I’m clicking you name and it’s not taking me anywhere….