The Summit One Vanderbilt: is it worth a visit?

March 29, 2025 Citie to Travel Comments Off

Right in the bustling heart of Manhattan, the Summit One Vanderbilt towers above the skyline of New York. This observation deck offers not only spectacular views, but also an immersive experience with art, technology and architectural ingenuity. In this blog, read everything you need to know before visiting this unique attraction.

History of the Summit One Vanderbilt

The Summit One Vanderbilt is located at the top of the One Vanderbilt skyscraper, an impressive building completed in 2020. The design is by renowned architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox. The observation deck itself opened in October 2021 and immediately became a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike.

How tall is the Summit One Vanderbilt?

The observation deck is spread over several floors and is located at a height of about 310 meters. Although One Vanderbilt itself is 427 meters high, the observation deck is the highest point accessible to visitors. From this height, you have an unparalleled panoramic view of the city.

The three observation decks of the Summit One Vanderbilt

The Summit One Vanderbilt occupies three floors, each with its own unique experience:

1. 91st floor: Here the experience begins with mirrors and reflective surfaces that create a surreal effect.

2. 92nd floor: On this floor you can experience the “Levitation” experience, where you float above the city on glass balconies.

3. 93rd floor: This is the highest point of the experience, with breathtaking 360-degree views of New York.

The Summit One Vanderbilt Experience

A visit to the Summit One Vanderbilt is about much more than just the view. This experience consists of several special rooms that take you step by step into a world of optical illusions and adrenaline-inducing moments:

1. The Affinity space

A room filled with floating silver spheres that capture visitors’ reflections, creating a unique and playful interaction with the environment.

2. The Levitation space

Here you step onto glass balconies that rise 330 feet above Madison Avenue. This creates a floating effect above the city, an experience that is both exciting and spectacular.

3. The Ascent space

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, board a glass elevator that takes you even higher, to 368 feet above New York City. This is one of the highest open-air vantage points in the city.

What can you see from the Summit One Vanderbilt?

From the Summit One Vanderbilt, you have one of the most impressive views of New York City. You can admire the following iconic locations, among others:

1. Empire State Building
2. Central Park
3. Chrysler Building
4. Hudson River
5. The Statue of Liberty (on a clear day)

Ordering tickets for the Summit One Vanderbilt

Would you like to visit the Summit One Vanderbilt? Then it is advisable to order your tickets online in advance. During busy periods such as the summer months and holidays, wait times can be quite long. Booking in advance will save you time and ensure that you don’t miss out on this unique experience.

How long does a visit to Summit One Vanderbilt take?

To experience everything properly, it is recommended that you allow about 90 minutes to two hours. This will give you enough time to explore the different floors, take photos and enjoy the experience to the fullest.

Where does the Summit One Vanderbilt stand?

The Summit One Vanderbilt is located in the One Vanderbilt building, right next to Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan. The exact address is:

Summit One Vanderbilt
45 East 42nd Street,
New York, NY 10017,

How do you get to the Summit One Vanderbilt?

Thanks to its central location, the Summit One Vanderbilt is easily accessible by public transportation and on foot.

1. Metro: The easiest way to get there is via Grand Central Terminal, where lines 4, 5, 6, 7 and the S-shuttle stop. From the station, it is only a few minutes’ walk to the Summit One Vanderbilt entrance.

2. Bus: Several bus lines stop nearby, including the M42, M101, M102 and M103.

3. On foot: If you are already in Midtown Manhattan, you can easily walk to the building. It is located on East 42nd Street, between Madison and Vanderbilt Avenue.

4. Cab or Uber: You can also take a cab or a rideshare service. Keep in mind that traffic in Midtown can be busy, especially during rush hours.

Summit One Vanderbilt vs. The Edge

New York has several observation decks, including Summit One Vanderbilt and The Edge. Both offer spectacular views, but differ in a number of ways:

1. Elevation: The Edge is at 345 meters, while Summit One Vanderbilt’s highest observation point reaches 368 meters.

2. Experience: Summit One Vanderbilt offers interactive art installations and glass balconies, while The Edge is known for its large glass platform that overlooks the city.

3. Location: Summit One Vanderbilt is right next to Grand Central Terminal, which makes it very accessible. The Edge is located in Hudson Yards, on the west side of Manhattan.

Both attractions have their own unique features and it is well worth visiting both to experience the New York skyline from different perspectives

Our Experience with the Summit One Vanderbilt

After multiple visits to the Summit One Vanderbilt, we can say with certainty that this is one of the most impressive attractions in New York City. Every time we visit, we discover new details and live the experience in a different way. The combination of technology, art and architecture makes it a place you won’t easily get bored of.

The glass balconies and reflecting rooms remain fascinating, and the view is simply breathtaking. Especially at sunset or in the evening, when the city lights up, it is a magical experience. We recommend everyone to visit this place at least once – and if, like us, you fall in love with the view, maybe even several times!

5 Tips for your visit to Summit One Vanderbilt

After several visits, we’ve gathered some helpful tips to make your experience even better:

1. Visit during sunset – The views are already spectacular during the day, but the transition from day to night creates a magical atmosphere.

2. Do not wear a short skirt or dress – Due to reflective floors, this can create uncomfortable situations. Rather, wear long or short pants.

3. Plan your visit outside peak hours – Morning hours or weekdays are often quieter than evenings and weekends.

4. Hold your phone and camera securely – The mirrors and glass walls make it easy to drop something, so be extra careful with your equipment.

5. Buy your tickets in advance online – This way you avoid long queues and are assured of admission at your desired time.

Special offers for a city trip to New York

Are you going on a city break to New York and would like to visit some of the sights and attractions, take advantage of the offers below and save money on your admission tickets.