This post contains a full guide to visiting SUMMIT One Vanderbilt in New York City. SUMMIT is one of the many observation decks in NYC (and in my opinion, the best!)
I’ll include includes sections on what to expect during your visit to SUMMIT, ticket information, opening times, tips for visiting, a map and general FAQs.


I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my affiliate links.
Hello 👋 I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger living near London, in England. New York City is my favourite city outside of London, and SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is my favourite observation deck in NYC.
In a hurry? Here are some quick SUMMIT links:
- Get your SUMMIT tickets here.
- SUMMIT is not included in the NYC Go City Pass – however this pass is excellent value if you are in town for a few days.
- You will need sunglasses for SUMMIT: Shop sunglasses on Amazon.
- Looking for Edge NYC? Read my Edge NYC post, or get Edge tickets here.
- This is the best mid-range hotel in Manhattan.
Your guide to visiting SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
I have split this guide into 8 main sections:
- What is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
- Where is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
- How tall is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
- What sort of art installation is at the top?
- What happens on a visit to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt? (with a full description of rooms 1 to 7)
- What is the best time to visit?
- What are the ticket prices?
- How to get to Summit One Vanderbilt.
- Tips for visiting Summit One Vanderbilt.
- Personal Opinion – is it worth it?
1. What is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is an observation deck and immersive art installation located on the 57th – 59th floor (equivalent 93rd floor) of the One Vanderbilt building. It is New York City’s newest and most unique observation deck, offering a multi-sensory experience from start to finish.
2. Where is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is situated at 45 East 42nd Street, with the entrance inside Grand Central terminal.
See How to Get to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt towards the bottom of this post for directions.
3. How tall is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
The One Vanderbilt building stands at 1,401 feet tall, making it the tallest building in Midtown Manhattan, and the fourth tallest skyscraper in New York City (as of 2025).
The SUMMIT observation experience is located on the 57th to 59th floors of One Vanderbilt. These floors are actually equivalent in height to the 91st to 93rd floors in buildings of a similar height.
This is because One Vanderbilt features higher ceilings than most other skyscrapers, resulting in fewer floors overall.
As of 2025, the three tallest buildings in New York City are One World Trade Centre, Central Park Tower, and 111 West 57th Street.
Contrary to popular belief, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is taller than The Edge at 30 Hudson Yards, which stands at 1,268 feet. However, The Edge boasts the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere, with an additional adventurous experience called the City Climb platform, where visitors can scale the exterior of the building. Read more about the Edge in Hudson Yards.
4. What sort of art installation is at the top?
The art installation at the top of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is called “Air”, created by artist Kenzo Digital. It is located across the top three floors of the building. It comprises huge mirrored floors and ceilings, with reflective materials which create an endless optical illusion effect.
There are also silver floor sculptures, a room filled with floating silver balloons, digital wall displays, and mirrored boxes. The reflective surfaces blend with the views of New York City, merging the indoor and outdoor environments in a surreal way.


5. What happens on a visit to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
SUMMIT offers 360-degree views of the Manhattan cityscape below, with views for miles in every direction on a clear day. It has an outdoor terrace, huge floor-to-ceiling windows and bar at the top.
Read on for a full walkthrough of a typical visit to SUMMIT.

SUMMIT Entry
You will only be permitted to enter 15 minutes prior to the time stated on your ticket. There is no waiting area, so if you are early, you will have to hang around until your allotted time.
When you enter, you will be given a wristband and asked to wait in line for security.
Once through security you will have your photo taken, which will be put on a backdrop and available to purchase on floor 2.
SUMMIT preparation
Next, you will join another line to receive your shoe-covers, for walking on mirrored floors. You will also be given sunglasses if you are visiting during the daytime, as reflective surfaces can be very bright in direct sunlight. You can also wear your own sunglasses (my favourite sunglasses are here and here).
Note about shoe covers: they are not great for photos, but you can’t take them off. It is best to wear flat shoes. Stiletto heels and steel toe caps are not permitted.


Next is a quick face-scan taken on an iPad, and then into the elevator up to the 57th floor.
SUMMIT elevator
The elevator is fast. There are mirrored panels, but no digital video show like the Empire State, or Edge NYC. There is also no welcome video like at One World Trade Centre. You just go into the elevator and straight up to start your immersive experience.
When you exit the elevator you will walk through a very bright hallway with floor-to-ceiling white lights. Now is a good time to put your sunglasses on (depending on the time of day). There is a sense of coolness and calmness here, which is achieved with ambient soft background noise and air-conditioning which feels remarkably like fresh air.
You will then walk into the first part of the experience: Transcendence 1.
There are three levels, and it is important to note that you cannot turn back to a previous level. This is to control the level of traffic.
Further reading: The 10 Most Famous Bridges in New York City.
Room 1: Transcendence 1.
Transcendence 1 is an enormous mirrored room with glass panels so you can see the floors above, which are also mirrored. This creates a never-ending optical illusion. The Manhattan skyline seems magnified and is reflected in every surface. No matter where you stand and which direction you look in, it is a dramatic visual experience.


There are floor-to-ceiling views of the city to the east, west and south. To the east is probably the best view of the Chrysler building that I have seen anywhere in New York City.
To the south is the dominating Empire State Building, and to the west is Hudson Yards and Edge NYC observation deck. You can also see the East river, Statue of Liberty and George Washington Bridge.



Note about clothing: there are warnings on the SUMMIT website about not wearing dresses and skirts, due to the mirrors. To spell it out, people might see up your skirt.
There is a non-reflective path you can walk if you are not comfortable on the mirrors, but this will reduce the enjoyment of the experience significantly. I wore thick tights, but pants/trousers might be better.
Room 2: Reflect.
This room is significantly more chilled. There is an art installation on the floor which looks a bit like silver mercury drops. It is called ‘Clouds’ by Yayoi Kusama.
There are more amazing views of the city, with your first view looking North in this room. At the far end is a model of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt with some facts and figures on the wall.


Room 3: Affinity.
This room contains the multi-sensory silver balloon experience. There are mirrored floors and ceilings with large silver balloons (thick balloons, like beach balls) floating around with the aid of some air machines.
It is great fun to play with the balloons, you can throw them to each other and bounce them around.


There is also a digital wall with a beautiful display of blue and white clouds. This display is also reflected in the mirrors and even on some parts of the outside of the building through the windows. This side is facing North towards Central Park.
From Affinity you will take the elevator up to the next level on the 58th floor.


Room 4: Transcendence 2.
The second Transcendence room has a view directly down into the first Transcendence room, which adds to the optical illusions. It’s hard to see where one room ends and another room starts. The lighting outside also will look a little different due to it being around an hour after you first arrived.
A great idea is to visit about an hour before sunset, so you can get to Transcendence 2 just as the sun is setting.


There is a circular opening in the floor here, which creates a round optical illusion down to the lower floor. The lights also change colour, and the view of the Empire State from across the balcony is simply stunning.

Room 5: Levitation.
Stepping through to the next room, you will find two giant glass sky boxes attached to the side of the building (1063 feet up) and a line to have your photograph taken inside one. Only the staff can take these photos, you are not permitted to take photos here yourself. The glass boxes are a thrilling/terrifying experience depending on how faint hearted you are! You can purchase the photo at additional expense.
Room 6: Unity.
For this room you have to scan the QR code on your wristband, and you will see your face appear in the clouds on the digital wall. Your face will be ‘made out of clouds’ rather than a photograph.
After Unity you will ride the elevator to the top level of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.


Room 7: Après.
Après is a cocktail bar on the 59th floor with beautiful views.
If you go at sunset you will walk into a lively rooftop bar with a DJ playing dance music and an outdoor balcony deck with drinks and snacks. The vibe is positive and upbeat, with people dancing outside on deck as well as inside the building.


This is also where you will find ‘Ascent’, the glass elevators which can take you up to the higher floors on the outside of the building for an extra $20. These are the largest glass elevators in the world! They will take you up 1,210 feet above 42nd Street.
From the bar, you then take the elevator down two floors and walk through a gift shop before getting in the line for the elevator to exit the building. This line is long but goes down quite quickly. When you get to the bottom there is another gift shop (which seems to be selling the same items as upstairs).
Edit: For those asking about my coat above, you can buy a similar one on Amazon here (and my hat here).
6. What is the best time to visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
In my opinion, visiting about an hour before sunset is the best time to go. Allow 30 minutes to get through security first. Your visit is not timed and you can stay as long as you like.


7. What are the ticket prices?
There are three types of tickets available for SUMMIT One Vanderbilt:
- Basic SUMMIT Experience:
- Price: Starting at $43 for adults.
- Includes: General admission to the SUMMIT experience.
- Mid-Range SUMMIT Ascent:
- Price: Starting at $57 for adults.
- Includes: General admission plus the Ascent glass elevator experience.
- Top-End Ultimate SUMMIT:
- Price: Starting at $63 for adults.
- Includes: General admission, the Ascent glass elevator experience, and a complimentary cocktail or mocktail. (Note: You must be 21+ to consume alcohol in the USA).
You can buy tickets on Viator here.
There is cheaper pricing available for NY residents (type your zip code in here to see prices).
You will need to add another $10 for sunset admission. Book online here.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt tickets are not included in any of the NYC passes, so you will have to pay separately. Evening tickets are the same price as daytime tickets, but sunset is more expensive.
8. Tips and things to be aware of at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.


1. Operating Hours:
SUMMIT is open from 08:00 to 22:00 daily, with last entry at 20:30. Be sure to check the official website for any changes to operating hours before your visit.
2. Photography and Equipment:
Prohibited Items: Long selfie sticks (over 12 inches), tripods, and professional cameras are not allowed inside SUMMIT.
Personal Items: Luggage, carry-on bags, wheeled bags, and suitcases are not permitted. However, handbags are allowed, though they will be inspected before entry. Note that there are no locker facilities available on-site.
3. Clothing & Footwear:
Stiletto shoes, work boots, and sports cleats are not allowed due to safety concerns and to protect the mirrored floors.
Be mindful of your clothing, especially since the mirrored floors create reflective surfaces everywhere. It’s advisable to avoid skirts and dresses without tights. A jumpsuit or pants/trousers may be a more comfortable and practical choice.
4. Shoe Covers:
Despite what may be depicted in promotional photos on the official website, you are required to wear shoe covers to protect the mirrored surfaces. These covers must be worn until you reach the bar at the top level. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes under your shoe covers.
5. Ticket Information:
City Passes: Tickets for SUMMIT One Vanderbilt are not included in any of the New York City Passes and must be purchased separately. However, the City Passes offer excellent value if you are planning to visit multiple attractions in NYC over more than one day. Purchase your NYC City Pass here.
6. Additional Tips:
Given the mirrors and the reflective environment, it’s wise to plan your outfit accordingly.
9. How to get to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
There are three entrances to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
I used the one located inside Grand Central Terminal, specifically in the Vanderbilt Passage. To find it, head toward the rear of the terminal building and follow the overhead signs in the main concourse pointing to the Vanderbilt Passage.
Subway Access:
- The area is well-served by several subway lines, including the 4, 5, 6, and 7 trains, all of which have stops at Grand Central Terminal.
- The S (Shuttle) train also connects to Times Square.
Road Access:
If you choose to drive, be aware that nearby parking garages are available but can be quite expensive.
There are also entrances at 45 East 42nd Street, and the corner of Vanderbilt Avenue and 43rd Streeet.

10. Personal opinion: Is Summit One Vanderbilt worth it?
100% yes. It was a unique experience and lots of fun.
SUMMIT is my favourite observation deck in NYC. It offers beautiful and immersive art installations, as well as 360 degree views of New York City, and the whole experience is very well managed. Book tickets here.


SUMMIT is not the tallest viewpoint in NYC, but personally I prefer slightly lower views, as they offer great views of buildings from a similar viewpoint (rather than looking down on them from above).
One of the best things about SUMMIT is the way it intertwines the modern art inside with the panoramic views of the lower Manhattan skyline outside.
What else is there to do near SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
SUMMIT is situated in midtown Manhattan, with Bryant Park, Madison Avenue and New York Public Library all within walking distance.
Grand Central Station is a tourist attraction in itself, and it also houses a food market on the street level.
SUMMIT is also not far from the Museum of Modern Art (MoMa), the Rockefeller Centre (try this tour of the Rockefeller complex), Top Of The Rock and St Patrick’s Cathedral. Times Square is a 10 minute walk.
If you visit Top of the Rock, you can get a great view of the top of Summit One Vanderbilt. If you go at night, you may see the top of the building glowing in different colours.

Where to Stay in New York City (Manhattan)
Here are my top picks for Manhattan hotels on Booking.com:
Best luxury hotel: 33 Seaport Hotel is a 5 star hotel right next to Wall Street and the Financial district. 10 minute walk from Brooklyn Bridge subway station.
Best mid-range hotel: Hilton Garden Inn New York/Midtown Park Avenue is a 3 star hotel with on-site restaurant, just minutes from the Empire State Building.
Best budget hotel: Hotel St. James is a 2 star hotel in the theatre district with a guest library, business centre and free wifi.
Best Sustainable hotel: Intercontinental New York Barclay Hotel is an exceptional 5 star hotel which meets the Travel Sustainable Level 2 criteria from Booking.com, read more here.
You can see the current hotel deals in Manhattan here.
I recommend reserving your room immediately to get the best price. It’s usually free to reserve on Booking.com, and you can always cancel later on. Most properties on Booking.com allow free cancellation up to the day before the booking date.

Summit One Vanderbilt FAQs.
Below are some frequently asked questions about SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
Q: Is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt worth it?
A: Yes, the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt experience is totally worth it. This new observatory and immersive experience is a must-do on any itinerary for Manhattan. It also has a glass elevator on the outside.
Q: How long does it take to do SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
A: I recommend allowing at least 2 hours for your experience. You might need longer than this if you wish to spend time in the cocktail bar or the gift shop. Bear in mind at peak times there can be a queue for the elevator to get back down to ground level.
Q: What is the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt experience?
A: The SUMMIT One Vanderbilt experience is an immersive, multi-sensory tourist attraction in Manhattan, New York City. It combines art, mirrors and panoramic views at the top of a skyscraper to give a unique experience.
Q: How much does it cost to go to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
A: Tickets to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt start at $39, with discounts for resident New Yorkers. See more information above in the Ticket Prices section, or purchase general admission tickets here.
Q: Can I wear boots SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
A: You can wear boots as long as they are not heeled boots or steel toe caps, or sports cleats. You will be walking on mirrored floors with thin shoe covers on.

Q: Can I wear a dress to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
A: It is recommended that you wear trousers/pants or leggings. I wore a dress with thick tights, but I would probably wear jeans next time.
The official website says: “Due to the nature of the space and presence of reflective and transparent flooring materials, we recommend wearing pants, shorts, or tights to enjoy the full SUMMIT experience. For guests uncomfortable walking on reflective surfaces, we do offer a non-reflective privacy path throughout the space”
Q: Are there any guided tours on SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
A: It’s a great idea to go on a guided tour which also includes Summit entry. Here are some options:
- Tour of Midtown Highlights + Optional SUMMIT Tickets
- SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Skip-the-Line VIP Guided Private Tour
- Midtown Manhattan Guided Tour with SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Entry
- VIP SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Midtown Grand Central Highlights Tour
- Grand Central Terminal: Private Tour with SUMMIT ONE Vanderbilt
Q: Is Summit One better at night or day?
A: The best time to visit Summit One Vanderbilt is at sunset. Time your visit for one hour before the sun goes down, for the best views. If you intend to visit during the day, I recommend early morning to beat the crowds (it gets extremely busy during the day).
Q: Is there a bar in SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
A: Yes there is a cocktail bar and café called Après on the top of the One Vanderbilt building. It is 1,603 feet above the Manhattan streets. It has an outdoor bar on the terrace and a classic New York snacks menu, including hot dogs and pretzels. The bar is run by Danny Meyer’s Union Square Events and is the perfect place for a cocktail with a view.
Q: How much did SUMMIT One Vanderbilt cost to build?
A: The skyscraper One Vanderbilt building was developed by partners Hines, SL Green Realty Corp and NPS. It reportedly cost $3.31 billion to complete.
Q: What are the Summit One Vanderbilt opening hours?
A: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is open from 08:00 to 22:00 daily, with last entry at 20:30. Be sure to check the official website for any changes to operating hours before your visit.

Related Reading for SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
Here are some further posts relating to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and NYC.
- Guide to Visiting the Edge Observation Deck in Hudson Yards NYC
- The Highline Park NYC: Walking from Chelsea Market to Hudson Yards
- How to see the Statue of Liberty for free
- Guide to the most famous bridges of NYC
- 12 Excellent Things to do in Hudson Yards.
Pinterest Pin – How to visit Summit One Vanderbilt NYC


Thank you for reading my post on Summit One Vanderbilt NYC (United States). I hope it has helped you to plan your trip.
Have you been to SUMMIT? What did you think? Feel free to share your experiences below in the comments.
General Travel booking links:
- Booking.com is the best site for booking hotels with free reservation and cancellations.
- Viator and Get Your Guide are the best sites for original tours and activities.
- Discover Cars is the best comparison site for car rentals.
- Trip.com is good for booking flights and packages.
- Check my list of 20 excellent travel books to read on your holidays.
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