Summit One Vanderbilt is an observation deck and immersive art space located at the top of the One Vanderbilt skyscraper, a 1,401-foot architectural marvel that opened in 2020. Situated next to Grand Central Terminal, the skyscraper is one of the tallest buildings in New York City and symbolizes the future of modern design in Manhattan.
The attraction spans three floors (91st–93rd) and features interactive art installations by Kenzo Digital, a world-renowned immersive artist. The combination of mirror-lined observation decks, glass floors, sky-high balconies, and digital art exhibits transforms a traditional observation deck into an extraordinary sensory adventure.
Key Highlights of Summit One Vanderbilt
1. Air by Kenzo Digital
This installation is one of Summit One Vanderbilt’s main draws. “Air” creates a feeling of infinite space through reflective glass and mirrored walls, offering a surreal perspective of the NYC skyline. The immersive experience makes visitors feel as though they are floating above Manhattan.
2. Levitation Skyboxes
For adrenaline lovers, the Levitation Skyboxes extend 1,063 feet above Madison Avenue, with clear glass floors that let you see straight down. These transparent skyboxes offer thrilling photo opportunities while giving visitors a rush of excitement.
3. Ascent Glass Elevator
The Ascent is a glass-enclosed outdoor elevator that takes guests even higher to experience the skyline from above the observation deck. As one of the tallest glass-floor elevators in the world, it delivers a thrilling ride and unmatched views.
4. Reflective Observation Decks
Unlike traditional observation decks, Summit One Vanderbilt incorporates mirrored walls, ceilings, and floors, creating the illusion of infinite reflections. This innovative design offers endless photo opportunities and a sense of stepping into an art installation rather than just a viewing platform.
5. Après Lounge and Dining
Summit One Vanderbilt also offers Après, a stylish lounge and café where visitors can enjoy cocktails, coffee, and light bites with one of the most impressive backdrops in the city.
Location and Accessibility
Summit One Vanderbilt is located at:
One Vanderbilt Avenue, New York, NY 10017
Right next to Grand Central Terminal, it’s easily accessible by subway, bus, and regional trains. Visitors can enter the building directly through Grand Central, making it one of the most conveniently located observation decks in New York.
Ticket Information
Summit One Vanderbilt offers timed-entry tickets to control crowd size and enhance the visitor experience. Prices vary based on age and add-on experiences like the Ascent glass elevator.
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Adult Tickets (Ages 13+): From $39
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Youth Tickets (Ages 6–12): From $33
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Children (5 and under): Free
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Ascent Elevator Experience: Additional fee per ticket
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VIP Experiences: Include priority entry and special access
Tickets are best purchased online in advance to guarantee entry at your preferred time.
Best Time to Visit Summit One Vanderbilt
The best times to visit depend on your goals:
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Morning: Fewer crowds and softer lighting for photography.
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Golden Hour (Sunset): A magical time to see Manhattan bathed in golden hues, followed by the glittering city lights at night.
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Evening: Fewer crowds and dramatic cityscape views.
Booking sunset time slots is highly recommended but tends to sell out quickly.
Visitor Tips for the Best Experience
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Dress Comfortably: The mirrored floors and glass elements mean skirts or dresses might not be ideal. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and standing.
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Plan for Reflection: With mirrors everywhere, photography can be tricky. Be mindful of reflections when taking pictures.
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Arrive Early: Arriving early for your time slot ensures you have time to enjoy the exhibits without feeling rushed.
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Use Public Transportation: Given its location, Summit One Vanderbilt is easiest to reach via subway or train.
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Stay Charged: The views and exhibits are Instagram-worthy, so bring a fully charged phone or camera.
How Summit One Vanderbilt Compares to Other NYC Observation Decks
New York City has several iconic observation decks, including Top of the Rock, Empire State Building, Edge at Hudson Yards, and One World Observatory. Summit One Vanderbilt stands out because:
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It combines art installations with skyline views for a truly unique experience.
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The glass skyboxes and Ascent elevator offer unparalleled thrills.
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Its location in Midtown Manhattan provides unbeatable views of iconic landmarks like the Chrysler Building and Empire State Building.
Summit One Vanderbilt is less about just seeing New York and more about experiencing it in an immersive and futuristic way.
Why Summit One Vanderbilt Matters
Summit One Vanderbilt is more than a tourist attraction; it represents innovation in architecture, art, and entertainment. It pushes the boundaries of what observation decks can offer, blending technology and design to create a space where visitors can feel connected to the city in a completely new way.
Its popularity also reflects a shift in travel trends—modern tourists want experiences, not just sightseeing. The installation showcases how iconic buildings can become cultural landmarks, attracting millions of visitors and reshaping New York’s skyline tourism industry.
Conclusion
Summit One Vanderbilt is a must-visit for anyone traveling to New York City or looking for a unique local experience. With its futuristic design, interactive exhibits, sky-high thrills, and breathtaking views, it redefines what an observation deck can be. Whether you’re a tourist seeking the perfect photo opportunity or a New Yorker wanting to see your city from a new angle, Summit One Vanderbilt is an unforgettable adventure.
