12 US Cities with the Most Skyscrapers, And Where to Get the Best Views

The United States boasts some of the world’s most iconic skylines, each telling a unique story of architectural innovation and urban development. From towering giants in bustling metropolises to sleek high-rises in coastal cities, skyscrapers define the American cityscape. Here’s a look at the 12 US cities with the most skyscrapers and the best spots to admire their breathtaking views.

1. New York City, New York

Skyscraper Count: 305 buildings over 500 feet tall

Best Viewpoint: Brooklyn Bridge Park offers panoramic views of Manhattan’s skyline, including the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center. For an elevated perspective, the Edge at Hudson Yards provides a thrilling glass-floor experience.

2. Chicago, Illinois

Best Viewpoint: The Skydeck at Willis Tower features “The Ledge,” a glass balcony extending 4.3 feet outside the 103rd floor, offering unparalleled city views. Alternatively, the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck at the John Hancock Center provides a unique tilt experience.

3. Miami, Florida

Skyscraper Count: 68 buildings over 500 feet tall

Best Viewpoint: South Pointe Park Pier in Miami Beach offers stunning views of the downtown skyline, especially at sunset. For a rooftop experience, the Sugar lounge atop the EAST Miami hotel provides a chic setting with panoramic vistas.

4. Houston, Texas

Skyscraper Count: 40 buildings over 500 feet tall

Best Viewpoint: The Sky Lobby on the 60th floor of the JPMorgan Chase Tower is open to the public and offers sweeping views of Houston’s skyline. Hermann Park’s McGovern Centennial Gardens also provide picturesque city backdrops.

5. Los Angeles, California

Skyscraper Count: 37 buildings over 500 feet tall

Best Viewpoint: The OUE Skyspace LA atop the U.S. Bank Tower features an open-air observation deck and a thrilling glass slide. Griffith Observatory also offers iconic views of the downtown skyline against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.

6. San Francisco, California

Skyscraper Count: 24 buildings over 500 feet tall

Best Viewpoint: Twin Peaks provides a 360-degree view of San Francisco’s skyline, including the Salesforce Tower. The Ferry Building along the Embarcadero also offers scenic waterfront perspectives of the city’s high-rises.

7. Boston, Massachusetts

Skyscraper Count: 23 buildings over 500 feet tall

Best Viewpoint: The Skywalk Observatory at the Prudential Center offers panoramic views of Boston’s skyline and beyond. For a ground-level experience, the Charles River Esplanade provides picturesque cityscapes, especially during sunset.

8. Seattle, Washington

Skyscraper Count: 21 buildings over 500 feet tall

Best Viewpoint: The Space Needle’s observation deck offers iconic views of Seattle’s skyline, including the Columbia Center. Kerry Park is another popular spot for capturing postcard-worthy images of the cityscape.

9. Dallas, Texas

Skyscraper Count: 20 buildings over 500 feet tall

Best Viewpoint: Reunion Tower’s GeO-Deck provides a 360-degree view of Dallas’s skyline. The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge also offers unique perspectives of the city’s high-rises, especially when illuminated at night.

10. Jersey City, New Jersey

Skyscraper Count: 19 buildings over 500 feet tall

Best Viewpoint: Exchange Place Waterfront offers unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline across the Hudson River. The Liberty Science Center’s observation deck also provides panoramic city vistas.

11. Atlanta, Georgia

Skyscraper Count: 17 buildings over 500 feet tall

Best Viewpoint: The SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel offers aerial views of downtown’s skyscrapers. For a more grounded experience, Jackson Street Bridge is a popular spot for capturing the city’s skyline.

12. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Skyscraper Count: 16 buildings over 500 feet tall

Best Viewpoint: One Liberty Observation Deck provides sweeping views of Philadelphia’s skyline, including the Comcast Technology Center. The steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art also offer iconic city vistas.