Find your cents of fun

IT'S NO FAIRY TALE, YOU CAN FIND CHEAP THRILLS IN NEW YORK, AS PIP LARKHAM DISCOVERS

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When I last came to New York in 2009, I took the fast, ear-popping lift at the Rockefeller Center to enjoy those iconic Big Apple skyscraper views. But in 2025 you can journey higher to the 69th and 70th decks, where you'll find The Beam and Skylift.

Opened in February 2024, The Beam (£18) gives visitors the chance to recreate that famous 1932 image of ironworkers happily eating their lunch, sitting on a steel beam, 69 floors high.

As someone who's scared of heights, I felt more than apprehensive as I buckled up on the beam, which rises and turns 180 degrees, giving you the most spectacular/terrifyingly high (delete as applicable) views.

Under clear blue skies, I felt exhilarated to see the city like this, then a tiny bit relieved as the beam lowered and I stepped off.

Next up was the 70th floor to experience the Skylift (£25).

Opened last October, the circular Skylift elevates you to even higher heights and rotates to give you a 360-degree view.

Again, the vista is amazing, 30ft above the 872ft building.

After seeing the city as usually only the birds do, I was happy to head back down to the Manhattan sidewalks.

We were here to explore New York over three days on a budget, and our base was the Riu Plaza New York Times Square. My comfortable room on the 28th floor was light, spacious, clean and quiet.

The location also meant we were in the thick of the city so it was easy to walk to many attractions.

Shall we start with food? New York is full of delicious options, all served in generous portions.