New York Dearest
The guide, $35
A landmark · Midtown Manhattan · on five of my lists

Summit One Vanderbilt.

Worth it, says Antonina. The observation deck will light up green in honor of the holiday all while offering some of the best views of the city.

Antonina Pattiz
Antonina PattizI went myself · from my guide to Summit One Vanderbilt
Address
45 E 42nd St Directions
Hours
Daily 8 am to midnight
last entry 10.30 pm
Subway
4, 5, 6, 7, S to Grand Central-42 St, 3 min
Cost
General admission from $39 to $44, premium experiences up to $149
Tickets
Get tickets
Website
summitov.com
What this page is

Everything I’ve written about Summit One Vanderbilt on New York Dearest, in one place. It’s on five of my lists, from Best views in New York that don’t cost $40 to Best St. Patrick’s Day things to do in New York. I also wrote a whole guide to it, Is Summit One Vanderbilt worth it vs the Edge?. First what to know and when I go, in my own words from those lists. Then every list it’s on with what I wrote there. At the end, where it is and what’s near.

  1. Is Summit One Vanderbilt worth it vs the Edge?
  2. Best views in New York that don’t cost $40Worth it
  3. Best skyline views of New YorkWorth it
  4. Best observation decks in New YorkWorth it
  5. The Fourth of July in New YorkOnly if
  6. Best St. Patrick’s Day things to do in New YorkWorth it

Before you go, in my words

Quoted from my own lists
Good to know

General admission to Summit One Vanderbilt starts at $43, making it the second most expensive observation deck in NYC.

From Best observation decks in New York
When to go

Just go on a clear day and don’t go at the busiest sunset slot unless crowds don’t bother you.

From Is Summit One Vanderbilt worth it vs the Edge?
Worth it, says Antonina. Been? Say if you agree.

Where it appears on New York Dearest

Five of my lists

Summit is the newest observation experience and it’s more of an art installation than a traditional deck.

What I wrote thereFold it away

Summit is the newest observation experience and it’s more of an art installation than a traditional deck. There are mirrored rooms, glass boxes that extend off the side of the building, and silver balloon rooms that look like a fever dream. It’s stunning in photos. In person, it’s a bit of a madhouse because everyone is trying to get the same shot. The actual view is solid (you’re right next to Grand Central and you can see the Chrysler Building up close) but you’re paying $40+ for what is essentially a photo opportunity.

If Instagram content is your thing, go. The mirror rooms are legitimately beautiful. But if you just want a great view of New York, Top of the Rock is better and less chaotic.

Worth it
What I wrote thereFold it away

General Admission to Summit One Vanderbilt starts at $42 making it the second most-expensive observation deck in NYC. However, the views of NYC from this observation deck are easily worth the price!

This ticket provides access to the observation deck, Après (restaurant) and the Levitating experiences (glass boxes you can step into, hanging 1,100 feet out of the side of the building). You can also purchase the Summit Signature Experience, which provides everything previously mentioned and one free signature drink at Après.

Worth it

It’s the best observation deck restaurant in New York City, and the cocktails are nothing to scoff at, either.

What I wrote thereFold it away

Topping out at 1,401 feet, One Vanderbilt is the fourth tallest building in New York City. Nearly every surface is covered in glass or mirrors, becoming a viral sensation overnight.

Better still, Summit One Vanderbilt hosts events year-round, like an epic 4th of July party with views of the fireworks. There’s also a romance package exclusive for Valentine’s Day.

Fun Facts About Summit One Vanderbilt.

  • Summit One Vanderbilt’s Ascent elevator is the world’s highest rack-and-pinion elevator system, taking you 120 feet above the main observation deck for a higher vantage point.
  • This inspiring New York City observation deck has three glass skyboxes suspended 1,100 feet above the city, great for thrill junkies.
  • Summit One boasts numerous eco-friendly features, including rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable materials, making it one of the most sustainable observation decks in NYC.

Who Summit One Vanderbilt is Best For.

Those with limited time. Summit One Vanderbilt is on the same street as popular attractions like Times Square, Bryant Park, The New York Public Library, and Grand Central Terminal, making it a natural stop for those in a rush.

Multi-Sensory Experience. Summit One Vanderbilt blends observation deck with immersive art, featuring mirrored floors, light installations, and skyboxes that make the city feel surreal.

Thrill Factor. Step into glass skyboxes that extend off the side of the building or ride the transparent elevator, ASCENT, for a heart-pounding vertical view.

What’s Visible from Summit One Vanderbilt?

The views offered at Summit One Vanderbilt are some of the best in New York City. Its location in Midtown Manhattan is a stone’s throw away from countless attractions. There are views of the Empire State Building, Fifth Avenue, Central Park, and (faintly) Times Square.

Summit One Vanderbilt Observation Deck Prices.

General admission to Summit One Vanderbilt starts at $43, making it the second most expensive observation deck in NYC. This ticket provides access to the observation deck and Après (restaurant). You can also purchase the Summit Signature Experience for $57, which includes one free signature drink at Après.

There’s also the Summit Ascent ticket. With this purchase, you’ll get access to the observation deck, Après, and a 12-story ride in an all-glass elevator (you go up and down the side of the building; there’s no additional observation deck). New York City residents receive a $5 discount on tickets.

Summit One Vanderbilt is New York City’s newest observation deck and has immediately become a fan favorite.

What I wrote thereFold it away

Summit One Vanderbilt is New York City’s newest observation deck and has immediately become a fan favorite. Part of that success has to do with the observation deck’s constant events, including an annual St. Patrick’s Day party that’s become a bit of an NYC tradition.

The observation deck will light up green in honor of the holiday all while offering some of the best views of the city. Furthermore, their 93rd floor cafe Après will be offering green beer for those of age. Tickets generally become available the closer we get to the holiday, I’ll update this post when I have the link.

On The Best of New York

I put Summit One Vanderbilt on three of my best lists.

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