One of the things I love most about New York City is that there is always something new to see, and the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt has quickly become one of the city’s hottest attractions since the pandemic. Soaring 93 stories at the corner of 42nd Street and Vanderbilt Avenue next to Grand Central Terminal, it’s not only one of the tallest skyscrapers in Manhattan, but also offers an incredible sky-high experience for visitors.
Construction of One Vanderbilt, as the building is known, began in 2016 and was officially completed in 2021. Topping out at a height of 1,401 feet including its spire, the building itself features a unique design of diagonal sloping that tapers at higher levels, allowing more sunlight to reach street level than traditional skyscrapers. Above the commercial and office space, the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt promises to take the concept of a NYC “observation deck” to an entirely new level.
There are 3 levels to experience spanning the 91st to 93rd floors, each with a handful of immersive spaces with evocative names like Transcendence, Affinity and Levitation. The rooms are fun and kitschy and deliberately Instagram-worthy. The best is the large, multi-level rooms Transcendence I and II, with floor-to-ceiling mirrors and windows that offer seemingly endless reflections and some of the best views of Manhattan in every direction. For those who aren’t afraid of heights, take advantage of photo opps in some of the windows that jut out high above the city below. At the top on the 93rd floor you’ll also find the open-air café/bar Aprés, a gift shop and an opportunity to purchase photos taken during your visit.
Also Good to Know
Like most attractions, it’s best to buy your tickets in advance to avoid time waiting in line. Arrive on time (and not earlier or else you will be turned away until your ticket time) and plan for a minimum of 90 minutes for your visit, which includes about 30 minutes to pass through security before the experience begins. Dress to impress but keep it simple and leave the skirts and heels at home (hello mirrors in every direction). You will also be given booties to cover your shoes and sunglasses to borrow as it tends to get very bright inside with all of the windows and mirrors.
Boarding Pass 