It's on 7 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
My guide to Summit One VanderbiltIs Summit One Vanderbilt Worth It vs the Edge?
- Cost$43 and up
- Address45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
- From my guide, updated September 2026.
The newest observation deck in NYC, Summit One Vanderbilt opened its doors to the public in late 2021.
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.
Word to the wise. Summit One Vanderbilt doesn’t allow heels, work boots, or any shoes that can damage the floors. They have a strict rule of not allowing you to set items on the floor, so don’t bring a big jacket or purse thinking you can set it down for a quick photo.
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.
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.
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.
Après is Summit One Vanderbilt’s restaurant, run by Union Square Hospitality (the team behind famous NYC restaurants Daily Provisions, Ci Siamo, and Gramercy Tavern). It’s the best observation deck restaurant in New York City, and the cocktails are nothing to scoff at, either.
The only downside is that Après doesn’t take reservations. You’ll have to stop by when you’re already in the observation deck.
Pros.
Cons.
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.
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.
For a more comprehensive review of NYC’s observation decks (including the pros and cons of each), read.All 5 NYC Observation Decks (Ranked by Locals)
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.
This one of those New York moments that makes you fall in love with the city all over again.
Summit One Vanderbilt is the most unique observation deck in NYC, with glass floors, ceilings, and windows making guests feel like they’re floating 1,100 feet in the air. They also host an NYE party in NYC, where for $300 (2024 price), guests receive two cocktails, a live DJ, a dessert bar, and a midnight champagne toast overlooking NYC.
Summit One Vanderbilt leans more artsy and immersive with mirrors and light.
Tickets to its viewing party usually run $350+ for access to all three of the observation deck’s floors and a glass ledge that sits 1,100 feet over Madison Ave.