Forget everything you know about observation decks—SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is reinventing the way you experience New York City from above! This isn't just a place to snap skyline photos; it's an immersive journey that blends art, technology, and architecture into something truly magical.
Ready to float above Madison Avenue in a glass box? Want to see yourself reflected infinitely in a room of mirrors? Or maybe you'd prefer sipping a craft cocktail with the Empire State Building as your backdrop? Whatever your sky-high fantasy, SUMMIT delivers with style. Let's plan your perfect visit to NYC's newest can't-miss attraction!
What to expect
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt isn't your average "ride the elevator, take some photos, leave" experience. Each of its dazzling floors offers a unique way to interact with New York's skyline:
Air
Step into artist Kenzo Digital's masterpiece where walls, ceiling, and floor are covered in mirrors, creating an infinite skyline that will quite literally take your breath away. The boundaries between reality and illusion completely disappear as you wander through this dreamscape.
Levitation
Feel your stomach drop (in the best way possible) as you step onto transparent glass boxes that extend 1,063 feet above Madison Avenue. Look down if you dare! The sensation of floating above the city streets is both thrilling and surreal—even hardcore New Yorkers get a kick out of this one.
Affinity
Playfully interact with dozens of massive, reflective orbs in this whimsical space where physics seems optional. Watch as the metallic spheres respond to your movements, creating a constantly changing landscape. Kids especially love this room!
Unity
See yourself transformed into patterns of light as cutting-edge technology captures your movements and projects them as colorful digital art. It's like dancing with the city itself.
Apres
When you're ready for a breather, this gorgeous café and cocktail bar lets you savor the views in comfort. Acclaimed restaurateur Danny Meyer's carefully curated menu offers everything from light bites to craft cocktails—all with a side of spectacular panoramas.
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How long should I spend at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
The answer depends on what kind of visitor you are:
- The efficient explorer (45-60 minutes): If you're on a tight schedule during your NYC adventure, this timeframe lets you hit all the major highlights. You'll get your jaw-dropping photos, experience each installation briefly, and tick SUMMIT off your bucket list. Perfect for busy travelers trying to maximize their New York itinerary.
- The immersive enthusiast (90-120 minutes): This is our recommendation for most visitors! With 90+ minutes, you can fully absorb each exhibit without rushing, find the perfect angles for photos when spaces are momentarily clear, and still have time to relax with a drink at Après. The changing light conditions also create different moods in the exhibits, especially if you visit during sunset.
Timings and getting there
- Opening hours: Daily, 9am–12am (Last entry: 10:30pm, last ticket slot: 10pm)
- Address: One Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017 (Next to Grand Central Terminal)
Getting here
🚇 By Subway
- Take the 4, 5, 6, 7, or S to Grand Central-42nd Street Station.
- From Grand Central’s Main Concourse, follow signs for SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
🚌 By Bus
- Madison Ave & 42nd St: M1, M2, M3, M4
- 42nd St & Vanderbilt Ave: M42
- Lexington Ave & 42nd St: M101, M102, M103
🚗 Parking Options Nearby
- SP+ Parking (52 E 41st St): $20-$40/hr
- Grand Central Terminal Parking (335 Madison Ave): $15-$50/hr
- Icon Parking (110 E 42nd St): $18-$55/hr
Best time to visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Timing your visit right can completely transform your SUMMIT experience. Here's what to expect at different times:
🌅 Early bird special (9am-11am):
The secret weapon for photographers and crowd-haters! Morning light casts a gentle glow across the city, crowds are minimal, and you'll have much more space for those perfect shots. The mirrored surfaces in AIR catch the morning sunlight in spectacular ways. Bonus: You'll have the rest of your day free for other New York adventures.
☀️ Midday (11am-3pm):
Clear visibility makes this perfect for tourists wanting to spot landmarks. On sunny days, the views extend for miles in every direction. While busier than mornings, weekday afternoons are usually manageable crowd-wise.
🌇 The golden hour (1-2 hours before sunset):
This is the SUMMIT superstar experience. Arriving before sunset means you'll witness the magical transformation as daylight fades, golden hour bathes the city in warm light, and then Manhattan's iconic lights begin twinkling below you.
🌃 Night owl (After 9pm):
Experience a more sophisticated, adult vibe as the crowds thin out and the twinkling city becomes the star. The reflective installations take on a more dramatic, moody quality with the nighttime lighting. Perfect for date nights or when you want a more relaxed experience.
Facilities & amenities
- Restrooms: Located only on the top floors.
- Gift Shop: The Boutique on the 93rd floor for exclusive souvenirs.
- Dining: Après offers food and drinks with incredible views.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, sighted guides available upon request.
- Photography: Allowed, but no tripods or heavy camera gear.
- No Storage: No lockers or cloakrooms—travel light.
- Strollers: Must be folded in elevators and on observation decks.
Insider tips to maximize your visit
- Skip the disappointment of sold-out time slots by booking your tickets at least a few days in advance—or weeks ahead for sunset slots!
- Your smartphone is perfect for photos, but if you're bringing a dedicated camera, keep it simple—tripods, selfie sticks, and professional equipment are prohibited.
- Consider your SUMMIT visit an experience rather than just a quick photo stop—the 90+ minute timeframe lets you truly appreciate each unique space.
- Be prepared for airport-style security screening, so avoid bringing unnecessary items that might slow you down.
- For the ultimate hack, book a late afternoon weekday visit (Tuesday-Thursday) for smaller crowds than weekend sunset slots—but with nearly the same magical experience!
FAQs
Yes! SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is a popular attraction, especially during sunset hours. Booking online in advance ensures you get your preferred time slot.
Absolutely! Kids love the interactive elements like the floating orbs in Affinity and the mirror illusions in Air. However, the Levitation glass floors may be intimidating for some children.
No, outside food and beverages are not allowed. However, you can enjoy snacks, coffee, and cocktails at Après on the 93rd floor.
Yes! The observation deck is fully accessible, with elevators and accessible restrooms on every level. Wheelchairs are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Mornings (9am- 11am) and late-night hours (after 9pm) typically have the smallest crowds. If you want a more peaceful experience, these are the best times to go.
Photography is allowed, but professional equipment like tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited. A smartphone or handheld camera is best for capturing the experience.
