New York City's newest immersive cultural experience, the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Observation Deck is a blend of art, technology, and entertainment like no other. Set atop the tallest commercial skyscraper in Manhattan, this observatory is high atop Grand Central Terminal.
Everytime you want to question your perception of the built world, a visit to this NYC Observatory is the solution. The way you question your perception? Installations, glass ledges, and exterior glass-floor elevators.
Oh, also, there's also Après, where you can get foods and beverages, including cocktails - indoor and on the outdoor terrace.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt in a nutshell
Handy information
| ⏰ Suggested duration: | 1-2 hours |
| ☀️ Best time to visit: | Around sunset |
| 💜 Must see: | AIR |
| 🎟️ SUMMIT One Vanderbilt ticket: | $42 |
| 🚇 Closest Metro: | Grand Central-42 Station, NY 10017 |
Views to catch
Empire State Building
Chrysler Building
United Nations Building
One World Observatory
Central Park
Statue of Liberty
Things to know
Official name: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Date of opening: 21 October 2021
Architect: Kohn Pedersen Fox
Architectural style: Modern, Contemporary
Function: Observation Deck, Immersive Art Experience
Opening hours and address
Open hours: 9 AM – 12 AM
Last entry: 10:30 PM
Closed on Tuesdays
Address: 45 East 42ndStreet, New York, NY 10017
Getting there
Why you must visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
- Peak over the skyline: Begin your journey with an elevator ride to the top of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. The observation deck offers a 360-degree view of New York City, making you feel like you’re holding the city’s skyline in your hands.
- Immerse in art: The tower is not just about the view. It houses several immersive art installations, offering a unique multi-sensory experience that goes beyond visual appeal.
- Social media hotspot: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt has been a social media sensation since its opening. Highlighting travel influencers trendy travel posts, your experience here is sure to garner likes.
- Beyond an observation deck: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt redefines the concept of an observation deck by integrating art, technology, design, and adventure, offering more than just a view.
- Ease of access: Located next to the Grand Central Station in Midtown Manhattan, reaching SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is a breeze, adding to the convenience of your visit.
Which SUMMIT One Vanderbilt observatory deck tickets should you buy?
The Observatory is a popular choice amongst tourists and locals alike. It is the perfect way to dive into modern and mind-blowing experiences and your gateway to explore a world full of possibilities and ideas!
Hence, long waiting lines are natural. Here are some SUMMIT One Vanderbilt tickets you can buy, so you can save time and dime:
Plan your visit
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt opening hours
The observation deck is open from:
- 9 AM – 11 PM
- Last entry: 10:30 PM
- Closed on Tuesdays
Getting to the observation deck
By bus
- The bus stop closest to the Observatory, is E-42 St/Madison Ave. It's a 1-minute walk away from the attraction.
- The M-42 Bus will get you to E-42/Madison Ave.
By train
- The train station closest to the Observatory, is Grand Central Terminal. It's a 2-minute walk away from the attraction.
- The trains Danbury, Harlem, and Hudson Line, among others, should be the ones to get you there.
Top things to do at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt observation deck
1Experience the magic of the AIR
Air is a five-part-story-driven immersive experience that is designed to create the illusion of boundless space. Not only is it interactive and playful, but it encourages physical connectivity to the space. With that, during the sunset, the waves of colour turn the SUMMIT into a beacon of light and energy and a beautiful work of art to be admired by all of New York City!
2Levitate! And not like the Imagine Dragons
There are two fully transperant ledges, each 8 feet deep that let guests hover over 1000 feet above Madison Avenue. The thought of it alone is blowing our mind right now.
This Levitation experience, is the largest five-sided glass-enclosed structured in all of New York City. Talk about impressive!
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3Ascent with the adrenaline
An exterior elevator (the first of its kind), Ascent lets people rise up an additional 120 m, off of the tallest floor of the Summit One Vanderbilt Observation Deck. Ascent, is the highest rack and pinion elevator in the world!
If that wasn't enough, it's also the largest glass floor elevator in the world! Talk about breaking multiple records at the same time. It's insane. It's also one of the first usecases for heated glass in the States, and anti-reflective glass in an elevator enclosure.
4A meal at Aprés
Exclusivity is big in NYC, and this experience provides just that. A culinary experience that is sure to blow your tastebuds off, this restaurant helps you enjoy the city from both an open-air terrace, and an indoor lounge.
If the views weren't incentive enough, we hear the food here is incredible too! What are you waiting for?
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Best time to visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
The best time to visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is just before sunset. This is the perfect time too witness the stunning transformation of the New York skyline as day turns into night. The city lights begin to twinkle, creating a mesmerizing view that's perfect for photography. Weekdays are typically less crowded, if you're looking for a laid-back experience. However, if you enjoy a lively atmosphere, weekends are the time to go. In terms of the best time of the year, the months between April to June, and September to early November have plesent weathers to enjoy clear views of the city. Regardless of when you visit, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt promises an unforgettable experience with its breathtaking views and immersive installations.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt reviews
Amazing experience, different than the others. The baloon concept? Exeptional! And all those mirrors! You can't explain it, you have to live it! The best observatory in NYC. Congratulations!
- Karolina, Headout, June 2024
The entrance, the admittance, the Lift up, the staff, the restrooms, the Bar on top, the giftshop, all was bestpossible organized and helpful !!! The outview as well as the glass and mirror scenary were phantasticallly and overwhelming !!! We will come again, and we will recommend it to our family, friends and acquaintances !!! Many thanks !!!
- Rudolf, Headout, June 2024
It was a whole experience! They made me feel fear, joy, curiosity, etc... so many different things. Really an awesome experience
- Paola, Headout, March 2024
Attractions near SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
One of most famous museum in New York, and possibly the world, MoMA, is a must-visit. With over 150,000 amazing works of art to explore, a day out at MoMA is sure to leave you in awe, AND blow your socks off!
A Statue of Liberty cruise is that one thing in NYC that you have to do no matter what happens. A day out with lady Liberty, is *just* what the doctor ordered!
If you've dreamed of New York, you've dreamed of Rockefeller Centre. And Top of the Rock, is that very dream realised, 70 floors high up. An observatory that promises calm, and delivers it, is much needed in a city that essentially never stops buzzing. Top of the Rock, Top of the World. Easy.
If you're looking for one attraction that's synonymous with NYC's history, it's the Intrepid Museum, hands down. A building that has video footage, original artifacts, exhibtions, and interactive displays, is definitely worth a visit or two.
Have you really been to New York if you don't go to Central Park? The *most* iconic location of the Big Apple, the Central Park is a must-visit, even if it's your 100th time in the city!
Insider tips for visiting the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt observation deck
- Carry your proof of vaccination, as it is mandatory for entering SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
- If you plan to visit the Observation Deck on a Saturday or during the holidays, ensure that you book your tickets in advance.
- It is recommended that you carry sunglasses with you, as the reflective materials used in the building will create an uncannily bright environment.
- You cannot drink, eat or smoke inside SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Observation Deck.
Restaurants near SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Here are some top restaurants which are located near the attraction, that you must add to your plan for the day!
When in NYC...go to Shake Shack, as many time as you can - that's it. That's the rule. Burgers, fries, and milshakes? We'd never leave!
Pershing Square , is your gateway to a perfect meal in New York. Widely known for its pasta, vibes, interiors, and service - this bistro is sure to leave your taste buds in awe for a long, long time.
The Campbell is your one-stop-shop for the best pizzas, charcuterie boards, and mouth-watering appetizers. Perfect for a family sit-down meal, this place is sure to leave your heart longing for more.
Everyone who has been here, has termed this place as their favourite. With great steaks, views and an amazing outdoor area...who wouldn't call this their go-to spot? Benjamin Steakhouse Prime is where you should be going, for the time of your lives.
For everyone who prefers gluten-free food, Madison and Vine is the solution. Very well recommended by locals and tourists alike, this place will take care of all your healthy but tasty food needs, to the best-of their abilities.
Hotels near the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Although a day's trip is enough to see everything there is at the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, it's never enough for New York City. And honestly, who doesn't love a vacation?!
If seeing every attraction in NYC is your idea of a perfect vacation, Westin New York is your hotel of choice. Located right in the heart of the city, this hotel will help you save up on your travel time, and keep adding attractions + experiences to your itinerary.
Known for its ideal location and great views, Hyatt Centric at Times Square, is a hotel widely known for the same. For comfy stays at a hotel that saves time and dime? Sign us up right now!
We're providing you with a list of hotels to choose from that are located extremely close to major attractions. This hotel is another one of those. For luxury, efficiency, and the good times in life, stay here! Oh, and don't forget the easy commute it provides. The hotel is conveniently located near major stations to provide easy access.
Frequently asked questions about SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
What is the ideal amount of time to spend at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Observation Deck?
Is the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Observation Deck better at night?
Is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt the tallest building in the city?
How soon do I need to book my tickets before visiting the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
What are the starting prices for SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Observation Deck tickets?
