Guide to visiting SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is an exciting and immersive experience housed inside New York City’s iconic One Vanderbilt skyscraper.

It is a three-level multi-sensory art immersion that blends cutting-edge technology, art installations, and breathtaking views to create an unforgettable impression.

Beyond its interactive features, it also symbolizes architectural excellence and innovation.

The attraction is a testament to the boundless creativity that defines the spirit of NYC, a city that never sleeps.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets to Summit One Vanderbilt.

# Tickets for Summit One Vanderbilt

It is better to buy your tickets online in advance to avoid last minute disappointment.

Things to know before booking tickets

Summit One Vanderbilt tickets are available online and at the attraction.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.

When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.

Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, they may sell out during peak days.

Booking early also helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

Go to the ticket booking page, select your preferred timeslot, date, and number of tickets, and buy the tickets instantly.

After the purchase, you will receive the tickets via email.

You don’t need to take any printouts.

Present the e-ticket on your smartphone at the entrance on the day you visit, and you can walk into the skyscraper immediately.

Summit One Vanderbilt tickets

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Image: Iloveny.com

The Entry Ticket includes access to three levels of The SUMMIT, each offering a unique and immersive experience:

Explore the “AIR” exhibit, a breathtaking display of transparency and reflectivity ideal for taking beautiful photos.

Admire Yayoi Kusama’s magnificent installation, “REFLECT,” which enhances your journey with beauty and contemplation.

Get the rush at “LEVITATION,” perched on a glass-bottomed ledge 1,000 feet above Madison Avenue.

Enjoy amazing 360-degree vistas of New York City and beyond, including famous landmarks like the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building.

Ticket Prices

Non-Peak
Adult (13+ years): US$46
Child (6 to 12 years): US$39
Infant (up to 5 years): Free

See also  Guide to visiting Empire State Building

Peak
Adult (13+ years): US$52
Child (6 to 12 years): US$46
Infant (up to 5 years): Free

Buy This Ticket

Things to do at The Summit

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt skywalk
Image: Newyorkyimby.com

Some of the top things to do at Summit One Vanderbilt are:

  • Experience Air is one of the largest art experiences in the world, created by Kenzo Digital. Air is a four-chapter immersive journey that blends elements of art, technology, architecture, and thrill to challenge your perception of reality.
  • Step into Levitation, two transparent sky boxes suspended at 1,063 feet (324.3 m) above Madison Avenue. Feel the thrill of walking in the air and enjoy breathtaking views of the city below.
  • Ride Ascent, the world’s largest external glass-bottomed elevator that rises 1,020 feet (310.9 m) above the ground. Experience a unique perspective of New York City as you ascend to the summit.
  • Enjoy a signature cocktail or mocktail crafted by Union Square Events at Après, an exclusive food and cocktail concept on the 93rd floor. Sip on a drink while admiring the stunning views of the skyline.
  • Explore the 360° observatory deck on the 93rd floor and see New York City like never before. Marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Central Park, Hudson Yards, and more

Opening hours

New York City’s One Vanderbilt opens daily for visitors at 9.30 am and closes at 10.30 pm.

It remains open on weekends and public holidays.

Please note that the last entry is at 9.30 pm.

How long does the tour take

A tour of The Summit at One Vanderbilt takes 60 to 90 minutes.

This duration is enough for exploring the three-level multisensory art immersion, capturing photos, appreciating the skyline, and identifying iconic landmarks.

Begin your journey with the immersive NYC Air exhibit by Kenzo Digital and experience the spectacular sights and sounds.

Experience Transcendence 1 from above, gaining a new perspective on the immersive exhibit at the 92nd Floor.

Stand on the glass-bottomed ledge extending over Madison Avenue, providing an exhilarating experience.

Wind down your journey with a bite and a drink in the Nordic-themed café APRÈS on the 93rd Floor.

Conclude your unforgettable experience with a visit to the Boutique to purchase a SUMMIT souvenir.

See also  Guide to visiting Tokyo SkyTree observation deck

Best time to visit

The best time to visit One Vanderbilt in New York City is weekday mornings, which tend to be less busy than peak hours during the afternoon or evening.

Visiting during the sunset hours can provide stunning views as the city transitions day to night.

Consider the weather when planning your visit, especially to enjoy outdoor elements like the terrace.

Clear days offer better visibility, while cloudy or rainy days may impact the outdoor experience.

Frequently asked questions

Tourists visiting the New York observation deck usually have these questions –

How high is Summit One Vanderbilt?

Summit One Vanderbilt is 1,401 feet (427 meters) high, making it the tallest commercial skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan and among the top 30 tallest buildings in the world. The observatory deck is located on the 93rd floor, at 1,063 feet (324.3 meters) above the ground.

How many floors are there?

It is a three-level multisensory art immersion located on the 91st, 92nd, and 93rd floors of One Vanderbilt, the tallest commercial skyscraper in midtown Manhattan. You can enjoy spectacular city views, experience immersive art installations, and even soar in the world’s largest glass-bottomed exterior elevator.

What are the opening hours?

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is open throughout the year and welcomes visitors on all days of the week except Tuesdays. The opening hours are from 9 am to 12 am, with the last entry at 11 pm. A complete tour takes one hour to 90 minutes.

Where can I book tickets for New York City’s One Vanderbilt?

You can book your tickets online or from the ticket counter at the venue. Booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

Does SUMMIT One Vanderbilt have parking facilities?

It does not have an on-site parking facility. However, you can park at the nearby parking garages.

Is One Vanderbilt accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, it is committed to providing accessibility for visitors with disabilities. There are elevators to access various levels, ramps for wheelchair users, and accessible washrooms.

Are there dining options available?

Yes, One Vanderbilt features APRÈS, a Nordic-themed café on the 93rd floor. Here, you can enjoy drinks and small bites while taking in the stunning views.

Is there a gift shop at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the Boutique, which offers a range of items related to the immersive journey.

Is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt a year-round attraction?

Yes, One Vanderbilt can be visited all year round.

What to expect at New York City’s One Vanderbilt

Here’s what you can expect to see:

Entrance (Level B1): Upon entering The Summit, visitors are welcomed on Level B1, where a dedicated team member assists in preparing for the upcoming spectacle. This first encounter lays the foundation for the immersive journey that lies ahead.

OB1 – 91st Floor: The adventure begins on the 91st floor with Kenzo Digital’s “AIR: TRANSCENDENCE 1” exhibit, which captivates visitors with a wonderful opening to the immersive NYC Air experience. After that, visitors can reflect and meditate at an art installation designed by the renowned artist Yayoi Kusama. “AIR: AFFINITY” delves deeper into the topic of air by surrounding visitors in a fascinating world of floating orbs.

OB2 – 92nd Floor: The experience reaches uncharted heights on the 92nd floor with “AIR: TRANSCENDENCE 2,” presenting a unique perspective on the immersive exhibit. “LEVITATION” invites guests to stand on a glass-bottomed ledge that extends 1,100 feet above Madison Avenue, offering an exhilarating experience. The journey finishes on this floor with “AIR: UNITY,” a one-of-a-kind, customized digital experience that places the audience in the spotlight.

OB3 – 93rd Floor: After this fascinating adventure, visitors can relax at APRÈS, a Nordic-themed café on the 93rd floor. This floor also has an uncovered terrace with sweeping views of Manhattan, allowing visitors to relish their time while enjoying the cityscape. The experience wraps up with “ASCENT,” a thrilling ride in the world’s largest glass-bottomed exterior elevator.

The Boutique: Before heading out, guests can visit the Boutique to purchase souvenirs that will remind them of their experience at The Summit.

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Researched & Written by
Jamshed V Rajan has a rich background in writing and developing internet products and communities. In 2018, he ventured into the travel industry by founding FireStorm Internet. His first venture was TheBetterVacation.com. Since then, Jamshed has dedicated himself to learning about tourist attractions and experiences worldwide. His commitment to providing accurate and detailed information makes him an invaluable resource for travelers.