SUMMIT One Vanderbilt: My Guide for Tickets & Your Visit

In this article, you will find all the information you need about the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt observation deck in New York.

Here I have summarized what the major advantages of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt are and why it currently offers the best overall experience for an observation deck in New York.

SUMMIT is currently the tallest building in Midtown Manhattan, providing you with the best views of the Big Apple.

The unique, multi-sensory experience spanning three floors of the impressive skyscraper, an outdoor area, and a great dining option make the overall experience of this observation deck absolutely one-of-a-kind in my opinion! No other attraction in New York currently offers this.

From SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, you can enjoy an unobstructed and unique view of the city's iconic buildings:

The observation deck at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt spans three floors of the impressive skyscraper.

The latest "place to see" is SUMMIT in the One Vanderbilt skyscraper, accessible through the main hall of Grand Central Station in Midtown Manhattan. The experience is amazing; there's no other way to describe it. The experiences are multifaceted. For us, it is the best attraction in Manhattan.

It is known for its spectacular 360-degree panoramic views and the reflective rooms. From floor to ceiling, and even the elevator is all mirrored. This provides you with unique views of the city and a special experience.

Compared to other observation decks in New York, this experience offers you the best value for your money and a unique experience.

Right after the ticket check, you must go through a security check. Afterwards, shoe covers are provided for you. These are mandatory to keep the floor from getting scratched and dirty.

Then you take an elevator directly to the 91st floor, 300 meters up. Just the elevator ride is an experience in itself. Upon arrival at the first of the three art installations designed by Kenzo Digital, you enter a mirrored room (Transcendence 1). It feels as if you are about to fall into the abyss.

It takes a moment to get used to all the reflections. Once you can detach your gaze from the mirrored floor, you'll see all the iconic buildings and places in New York: Hudson River, Bryant Park, East River, Central Park, The Edge observation deck, Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, Downtown Manhattan, and the One World Trade Center. Wow, a perfect view.

The best part: It is the first observation deck on the east side of Manhattan. You won't have this view from any other viewpoint in New York. Get your camera ready and take pictures. Lots of pictures.

Now head up one floor (Transcendence 2) to find yourself in a similarly mirrored room, only this time you are standing on a balcony looking down at Transcendence 1.

There are also glass boxes that protrude slightly (Levitation) and you can look down onto Madison Avenue. Here too, you should not have a fear of heights!

I found the glass box experience in Chicago more impressive, as we weren't under time pressure like here. From the moment you enter, time ticks away to enjoy the view in just a few seconds (it's unfortunately not about enjoyment here), and to take pictures.

Room 3 is called AIR: AFFINITY and is the most Instagrammable spot. The silver balls reflect and float through the air powered by fans. The playful aspect is at its peak here.

Room 4 AIR: UNITY follows, bringing you through an art installation (nothing special in my opinion) to a huge screen. Scan your wristband and watch the clouds intently. Can you recognize your face in the interactive sky simulation? Really cool.

Now you are ready to explore another remarkable attraction: "APRÈS", SUMMIT One Vanderbilt's sky-high lounge with Nordic-style café offering light dishes and cocktails (the prices are high, accordingly to the view, but really good). Go out onto the terrace for an even higher view on the south and west sides of the building. Of course, the walls over the abyss are made of armored glass. Find a clean spot to take photos.

If you're not afraid of heights, you should now go to ASCENT: a glass elevator with a transparent floor that rises along the side of the skyscraper. You really shouldn't be afraid of the height. This takes you to the highest viewpoint at 427 meters in Midtown Manhattan.

The observation deck is completely made of glass. The photos and the view look fantastic. For us, it's currently the most beautiful observation deck in New York. It does not compare to the view from Top of the Rock, however. But SUMMIT offers a unique overall experience that is more contemporary and provides more for the ticket price.

You absolutely must reserve tickets here in advance and book your time slot, as everyone wants to go here now.

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