SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

Observatory · Midtown East

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

Observatory · Midtown East

2

45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017

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SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt by null

Highlights

Immersive art, mirrored rooms, and breathtaking city views await  

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45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017 Get directions

summitov.com
@summitov

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45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017 Get directions

+1 877 682 1401
summitov.com
@summitov

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Last updated

Oct 26, 2025

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"Almost every awning along the stretch of The Bronx's Arthur Avenue between D'Auria-Murphy Triangle and Ciccarone Park marks an Italian name possessing something—a pizzeria, a restaurant, a bakery. But just because it's all Italian, all the time along these two blocks doesn't mean all aren't welcome to come and patronize these establishments. It's some of the absolute best Italian food in New York City lined up for your convenience, bustling with life and good eats. Executive editor Erin Florio's relatives still do their Sunday shopping in the market, which she describes as "dusty but great." Poking around and picking a few things up there is really where it's at—bright seasonal produce, sausages of all stripes dangling from the ceiling, fresh-baked bread and vinegar-y imports from the old country line the walls in cans and jars. It's true one-stop shopping." - Charlie Hobbs, Alex Erdekian, Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

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@dorothy

I’ve never been here but your kids might like that this is the most photo/selfie friendly “viewing” spot of NYC. It’s also in Grand Central Station so you have the added bonus of being able to walk around there (and pop into the Oyster Bar for a clam chowder at the lunch counter if you’re feeling peckish).

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rodrigo jimenez

Google
An amazing experience. We had the greatest time, it’s so fun. Take your time while walking through. You are in no rush. Enjoy, take pictures, be playful and happy. All three floors are fantastic, first floor is the one with all the mirrors, second floor has the platinum balloons and the third has the food and drinks. The cocktails are nicely loaded, grab one and hang out on the top floor soaking in the views. We spent 3 hours there, including around 39 minutes of line. It’s a popular attraction. One last tip, at the end you will be asked to buy digital prints or a booklet with your pictures. They mention you can’t take pictures of the screen but do not be alarmed, you can just scan your own bracelet and have access to the pictures. The booklet or the framed picture are the best option if you are going to spend money. Oh! I almost forgot, the bathroom after the snack/bar area has the best view, if you can, make sure to save a p double o, p for that. Fantastic experience!!

Carl Foisy

Google
Absolutely spectacular. We recommend visiting in the evening to see the city lights. We were planning to visit the Empire State building, but this building included the Empire State Building in our view. The experience was awesome. From the moment we walked into the elevator, through the entrance walkway, onto to the first observation floor 91. Calming audio was playing, very celestial. And the view of downtown was the first site to see. From our vantage point, we were able to see the Empire State building, Crysler building, all the way down to the world trade. We are also able to see 30 Roc, the darkness of Central Park, and the glow of lights coming from the neighborhood of times Square. You could easily see Brooklyn and essentially the entire city of New York from that advantage point. One of the rooms had this bonkers set up silver balls, floating in the ceiling and on the ground, it was pretty cool to see. The experience allowed us to go on floor 91, 92, 93 with an open aor experience at the 93 floor. I would recommend this experience to anybody visiting New York. World class views as far as I can see.

Juan

Google
I hardly ever leave reviews, but I couldn’t skip this one. Our family had such a wonderful time at the Summit in New York! From the very beginning, the team was attentive and welcoming. A special shout-out to Jason, who went out of his way to answer all our questions and explain the attraction in detail he really made the experience extra special. Everything was so well taken care of even the restrooms were spotless. The checkout process for the photo albums was fast and seamless, which we really appreciated. At the end of the tour there’s even beer, food, and ice cream for the kids, which was the perfect way to wrap things up. Another special mention to Sam, who was working at the photo stand she was so attentive, friendly, and helpful. If you’re visiting New York, this is truly a must-do experience with or without kids. My child will never forget it, and we’ll always remember how special the day was. Jason, Sam, and the whole team made us feel cared for from start to finish. Definitely recommend it’s a blast and one of the best places we visited in New York during our trip!

Bernadette Goncalves

Google
Beautiful views at the top. The dark tunnel that leads you to the elevator can ignite some anxiety so prepare yourself for that otherwise once you get the top it is amazing. Be sure to wear sunglasses for sunny days, the sun is pretty reflective especially on the first floor. There are also many photo ops on each floor. Take your time at each floor because you can't go back once you move to the next floor.

Jazmine McNamara

Google
Great views and an updated experience compared to older viewing points like top of the rock. The mirror room was very cool and different. Highly recommend booking the 5.30pm slot for sunset. This allows for time in the initial line, time in lift line and time for each level without rushing. You’ll end perfectly up the top at the outside bar at 7pm for sunset views. Fantastic new experience in NYC!

Simplyjamazing

Google
Visited with my parents at night time. I had already experienced summit one during the day so this was my first time going at night. Was definitely a little skeptical because it was night time but it didn't disappoint! The city light were so beautiful and I loved the calming music/colors being displayed when we first got to the 91st floor. The elevator ride up was beautiful as well. Staff was quick and gave instructions to make sure everyone got in on time and had the most time to spend upstairs. The exhibits definitely were still packed even at 10pm, so my parents and I unfortunately had to skip some places. Overall great experience! Lots of pictures and videos to take, and im glad I was able to experience both day and night times!

Wilf Bond

Google
Fun experience and good value for money. Only downside is that it’s far too commercialised. Every 10 minutes is another thing they’re trying to sell you, it’s very in your face. We had to queue for around 1.5 hours total even though we came at the allotted time we had booked. Cool experience though

Jim Sammons

Google
Great views of Manhattan and everything surrounding. Three levels of viewing. A few cool experiences. Prices for the picture package weren't as bad as I was expecting. The bar on the 93rd floor was very pricey, but the drinks were decent. Beautiful vistas of the city.
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Afshin S.

Yelp
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is more than just an observation deck; it's a meticulously crafted, three-level immersive experience that blends art, technology, architecture, and breathtaking city views into a truly unique and memorable adventure. Designed to be a multisensory journey, a visit here promises to engage all your senses and leave you with a profound appreciation for New York City and modern artistic expression. The Journey: A Suggested 90-Minute Immersion Your experience at SUMMIT begins on the B1 level, where you'll be welcomed and prepared for the adventure ahead. The suggested flow of the visit takes approximately 90 minutes, guiding you through a series of captivating installations and panoramic vistas. * B1 - Entrance: You begin on this level, where a team member will help you prepare for your experience. * OB1 - 91st Floor: * AIR: TRANSCENDENCE 1: This is your spectacular introduction to the immersive world of NYC Air, created by artist Kenzo Digital. Expect a dazzling display of light, reflection, and spatial artistry that immediately sets the tone for the entire experience. * REFLECT: A moment of serene contemplation awaits in Yayoi Kusama's "REFLECT" installation. * AIR: AFFINITY: As you continue through the "AIR" exhibit, you'll find yourself surrounded by a world of floating orbs, adding a whimsical and ethereal quality to the space. * OB2 - 92nd Floor: * AIR: TRANSCENDENCE 2: From an elevated perspective, you'll revisit "Transcendence 1," experiencing its grandeur from a new vantage point. * LEVITATION: For the thrill-seekers, "LEVITATION" offers an unforgettable challenge. Here, you can step onto glass-bottomed ledges that extend 1,100 feet over Madison Avenue, providing a heart-pounding, exhilarating view straight down. * AIR: UNITY: This unique, personalized digital experience allows for individual interaction. * OB3 - 93rd Floor: * APRÈS: Relax and enjoy curated food and cocktails in this Nordic-style café designed by Snøhetta, surrounded by incomparable views of the city. This area is located at the end of the experience and provides direct access to the Terrace. * TERRACE: Step out onto the wrap-around Terrace, the perfect outdoor viewing spot to take in the incredible views of Manhattan and beyond. * ASCENT: For a truly daring experience, take the world's largest glass-bottomed exterior elevator, "ASCENT," even higher, offering a final, breathtaking perspective (available for an additional fee). * BOUTIQUE: Commemorate your visit with a unique SUMMIT keepsake from the boutique. Practical Tips for a Seamless Visit: * Buy Tickets in Advance: To secure your preferred date and time slot and often benefit from better pricing, it is highly recommended to purchase your tickets in advance through the official website. * Arrive on time, but not too early: Guests are only permitted to enter the queue a maximum of 15 minutes prior to their ticketed time. Plan your arrival accordingly. * Sunglasses are a must: The reflective materials used throughout SUMMIT create an incredibly bright environment, especially under direct sunlight. * Dress appropriately: The reflective floors mean that pants, shorts, or tights are highly recommended to ensure comfort and modesty. * Footwear matters: Wear comfortable, non-marking shoes. Stiletto heels, work boots, cleats, and certain other footwear that could damage the delicate flooring are not permitted. * Hours of Operation: SUMMIT is open daily from 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM, with the last entry at 10:30 PM. * Entrances: The address is 45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017. You have three convenient entrances: * Through the Transit Hall in One Vanderbilt (at the corner of Vanderbilt Avenue and 43rd St). * The street-level entrance at 45 East 42nd Street. * Via the Main Concourse Level of Grand Central Terminal.
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Patti F.

Yelp
Sadly disappointed in this overrated, highly priced extravaganza. First off, the wait in the long lines to get through the queue to even go into the event is horrendous. Let me just say they're very good at hiding the cues that you need to be waiting in, but understand you will go through one section to one section to one section and do nothing that stand in line. They say that there are three floors, which is true. What they don't tell you, it was the third floor is nothing but a café, and a sales opportunity for them to sell their propaganda. So you essentially get two floors of THREE pretty cool displays. That's it just three displays. You get the mirror section, you get the ball section, and you get the area where you can stand in another line to take a ledge picture. That's it. I would not recommend, and would not repeat this experience. It was definitely not worth the money and it sure as heck was not worth the standing in line.
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Hank C.

Yelp
One of the tall buildings in NYC, there's an observation deck combined with three levels of art to align you with the clouds, vast spaces, and a little thrill. Entry on the basement 1 level of the Summit Vanderbilt building right connected to the Grand Central area lower ground floor. Photos on the first floor for the group will later be superimposed on all the room spaces as digital memories you can buy (though not from every room like a Disney trip - this is just greenscreen at work). Glass- and mirrored-floors, although the check-in process took some time and lines, and the scanning of the face was a little long, they do provide sunglasses and covers of the shoes are given to all the guests. Watch what you wear - mirrors on the floor, ceilings, and many other surfaces. The dark hallway to the elevators is trying to make it appear even more dazzling when you get upstairs, I'm sure. First level is the largest space - Transcendance, big mirrored room where we saw a couple get engaged. As the first room, big and bright and lots of people looking at the views. You actually do have better views throughout, it's just a cool floor/mirror/eternity feel with a bit of vertigo if you look around. Supposed to have a great light show at night as sunset costs a little more. Around the corner, an art exhibit of Reflect, with drops of metal mirrored like a little spray of wet metallic mercury floor and an architectural model of the building. Affinity is the balloon ball room, fun and noisy with the popping balls. Second floor starts with the upstairs balcony of Transcendence, then Levitation in a waiting line to get 30s (1-3ppl) or 45s (4+) to take photos in (2 glass boxes that stick out above the ground, looking down you can get dizzy). Unity is a cloud exhibit and big views out again - this is where your bands are scanned and you can see your "face" in the clouds in the video. Shoe covers off at this point, and discarded. Bathroom stop near the escalator up. Third floor has a bar/food and coffee stop, with the access to the glass elevator Ascent (if you pay extra). Outdoor terrace, entry to the glass elevator (if you paid extra and reserved for that), the bar/restaurant, and gift shop - photos and more. Then back down to another gift shop in the G-1 level and back to Grand Central waiting area. Overall a different, fun experience for the mirror and natural lighting combined with great views of the city.. not so much downtown to the harbor, but good of MetLife, Empire State, Chrysler, and some Central Park views. Was definitely magnificent, and took about 1.5hr to wander through slowly. The line took about 30 min of that...
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Julyssia O.

Yelp
The MOST beautiful views of the city will see! There's multiple levels with fun, interactive, photo worthy areas with great views on each level. This honestly took a good few hours to get through because of how beautiful and fun it was! They give you an option to buy their photos that they take around the museum, but you're more than welcome to take your own as well. Our favorite part was the balloon room and the outdoor/indoor rooftop cafe at the end! They had food, coffee, ice cream, and alcoholic drinks for purchase at the end where you and chill and enjoy the views of the city. I recommend going around 4pm the lines to enter can get pretty long and by the time we were at the best viewing spots we were able to catch golden hour and the sunset! I say it's a MUST visit!
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Rafael E.

Yelp
Our experience at Summit One Vanderbilt was truly VIP from start to finish. My fiancée and I couldn't be more grateful for the incredible team especially Danny Barrera, Mackenzie, and Fabio, who went above and beyond to make everything perfect. Danny did an outstanding job with our photos; his talent and professionalism made the whole session effortless, and we were amazed at how quickly he delivered the final shots. Thank you all for making this such a special and unforgettable experience for us.
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Mary K.

Yelp
Such a cool experience. It's the type of thing you can do more than once as well. It was very unique and you get amazing views of NYC. You can take as long as you want there. Definitely go if you're visiting!
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Annie A.

Yelp
One Vanderbilt is an incredible experience! The building's architecture is stunning, and the SUMMIT observation deck offers breathtaking, panoramic views of New York City. The immersive art installations and glass floors make the visit even more unique and memorable. The entire place is modern, well-organized, and beautifully designed -- a must-visit attraction in NYC! One feedback that I would like to add is about the balloon room, they should require the parents to watch their kids and allow everyone the opportunity to take pictures. It should not be a play ground for little kids.
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La'Tressa G.

Yelp
Summit One is quite the experience. We chose to come here based on the different immersive activities they offer & overall we had a really good time. What I will say is definitely heed the recommendation on the website telling guests to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your reservation because there is a line. I was surprised to see so many people here on a Friday afternoon, as we assumed most people would be working, but it was packed. Luckily you can move through the floors at your own pace, so you will definitely get your money's worth. I also think it's best to try and come closer to sunset or "golden hour" when the sun isn't as harsh, as during the day the glare of the sun reflecting off of the flooring can be very off putting. I also was surprised to see so many scratches/imperfections in the mirrored room, as everyone is required to wear shoe coverings & tennis shoes/slides or sandals. If you're lucky enough to find a corner of a wall/floor that isn't scratched or marked with fingerprints, do take advantage. If you're looking for something to do that your hometown may not have where you're from, or just want to break out of your everyday routine then come here.
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Ethan R.

Yelp
An incredibly breathtaking experience. From the moment you step inside, you're transported into a world of art, architecture, and views that are simply unforgettable. The observation decks give you sweeping, panoramic views of the city -- the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and all the way out to the rivers. The mirrored floors and walls create this surreal, dreamlike effect where the skyline feels infinite. And the room full of silver balloons flying around make it both fun and mesmerizing -- you'll have a lot of fun and probably take more photos here than anywhere else in NYC. Time well spent on a summer NYC evening in this immersive experience. Highly recommended for both visitors and also locals who want to have fun and see New York in a whole new way.
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Pat C.

Yelp
Summit One Vanderbilt is my favorite among the five observation decks in NYC! Had a great experience here. Beautiful views, the mirrored floors, the reflections, the immersive experience. Visited this place at sunset. I recommend getting tickets here 1-2 h before the sunset for gorgeous views of the skyline at sunset. Though it rained and was foggy for a period of time during our visit such that we could not see a lot, the sky cleared afterwards and even saw rainbow! Went here 30 minutes before the time in our tickets that I bought online a week ahead. It can get crowded at the entrance plus you'll go through security and take elevators. No work boots or stilettos. They'll give you shoe covers before going in. Since you'll be walking on mirrored floors, short skirts and dresses are not recommended. Do not forget to bring sunglasses! The entire experience can take from 2-3 hours. Take all the experience in and would not rush from floor to floor as the route is one-way only! You will not be permitted to go back to the previous floor. Each exhibit is a wonderful experience: Transcendence 1, 2, Air Affinity, Levitation (glass ledge similar to Skydeck in Chicago). Photography services are available. A must see in NYC. Highly recommended.
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Michelle M.

Yelp
My boyfriend and I visited Summit One Vanderbilt and I'd say it was worth the hype. Located steps away from Grand Central station, summit one offers gorgeous views of NYC in this observatory deck. It's definitely a more trendy and photo op focused experience than other ones I've been to, but its modern feel makes it fun. Before you begin your journey upstairs you must put plastic shoe covers on to avoid the mirrored floors getting dirty, and you take a photo of your face which is for a surprise later. There are different levels to explore when you get there, and they each have different experiences. You begin your journey in the mirror room, it's trippy walking around but in a good way. Then as you look around you, the view of NYC surrounds. You get a great view of the empire state building from here. Then there's a room with giant silver balls you can throw around and it's a great photo op. We did go when there were children who were being rough and were kicking them so just be mindful if you're bringing children to please avoid that... Then you make your way to the next floor with the bar and outdoor terrance. We got one of the themed drinks which was good and enjoyed the terrance. The terrance areas are always my favorite parts of these observation decks, because I love being able to feel the refreshing air while I admire the beauty in front of me. These were the main things that stood out to me however there are other things such as a digital experience featuring that picture you took earlier and a chance to stand on a glass box for a photo op but it had a long line so we skipped it. Since there is so much to do and experience at this one I feel as though the I didn't stare out the windows as much as I have visiting other decks in other states. But despite this, I really enjoyed this new immersive experience in NYC.
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Brigitte L.

Yelp
This experience was absolutely AMAZING and I highly recommend to anyone and everyone! This was hands down my favorite part of our trip and so glad we made the decision to come here. 96 floors high and the design and presentation and interaction of this is just spectacular! Job well done. You start off by checking in -- we actually had tickets for the glass elevator ride but it wasn't operational the day we went so they refunded us the additional cost. When you check in and go thru security, you take your first set of pictures then led to obtain your shoe covers and sunglasses. You can choose to use your own sunglasses however rest assured if you forgot yours like I did, they have plenty for you to use during your exploration. You then go to take your pictures for the clouds that you'll see later in your exploration. Really cool. You can even choose to make a funny face or however you want to see your face be presented in the clouds. Then is the elevator ride up! It does have strobe lights but staff does ask if anyone has a sensitivity to this given they have the ability to turn that off. So, look up and enjoy your ride up! Way up! Once you get out, you'll enter an all glass and mirror room. If you're scared of heights like I am it's going to be sensory overload in the beginning and you'll probably be weak in the knees like me. I just tried not to look down or over any railings and I was ok. That's my tip :) They do have a photographer there that can take your pictures which we opted to do and they turned out FANTASTIC! Highly recommend this. For all prints digitally was $25. Very reasonably priced considering that we paid way over that for only a few prints digitally at TOTR the day prior. I'll definitely be printing these to hang up at home. They have various rooms that you walk thru and each is a different experience to itself along with the breathtaking views of the city. The last part is professional pictures out on the glass ledge. Promise that if I can do this then anyone can. Again, don't look down.
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Rose H.

Yelp
Even with all of its beauty, how can one place get SO CROWDED!!!! You select the time slot you want to go and we went sunset time (which obviously will be busier than most) but certain areas felt like you were suffocating! SO MANY PEOPLE! And everyone was sitting at the windows and taking away the opportunity for others to just get a quick glance and photo which is incredibly annoying. Their crowd control, up to the point you get to the 90th floors, is actually really efficient. They did a great job with security and making sure the lines kept moving but it feels like a free for all once you make it onto the actual floors. I really did appreciate all the coworkers taking photos of everyone up there and making sure they liked the photos they took, etc. It's not common to have designated photo taking staff at places like these so I thought that was a nice touch. And the view really is incredible. I just wish the outside part was bigger.
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Michelle A.

Yelp
Tourist trap worth $50/pp-- bought advance tix and got a partial refund due to Ascent elevator out of order. Required to wear shoe covers, then herded into a dark hall and onto an elevator to the 91 fl. Great panorama, friendly guards take your pix, crowd control is excellent. Didn't take advantage of the coffee shop but enjoyed the ample seating. Enter directly from Grand Central.
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Chris H.

Yelp
One Vanderbilt, completed in 2020, is a 1401' tall skyscraper right next to Grand Central Station. It wasn't here when I worked in Midtown Manhattan but, I heard of the plans to transform the midtown east area and this was one of the projects. I'll say that the skyscraper is impressive in its overall design. My son and I bought tickets on Viator for the Summit which is a three floor observatory on top of the building. Prior to going up there is a screening process where they take your photo and then you view a short film about the building. They also show you the current viewing conditions. On the day we went at 11:30am it was overcast. I believe you can opt out and go at another time. You also have to wear shoe coverings like the kind when you go to an open house. This is to protect the flooring which is mostly glass and mirrors. The elevator ride up took less than a minute which is impressive. I'll say the Summit was built as an "experience" with the glass mirrored flooring and artwork that is present. Unfortunately, there was a lot of fog that was slowly dissipating but not enough to see downtown, New Jersey or the rest of the boroughs. I'm sure on a clear day the views are stunning. The one turnoff was the incessant mechanical noise piped through the speakers. I'll describe it as similar to sounds you hear while standing online at Space Mountain. I get that someone thought it would add to the "experience" but after about ten minutes I was like just shut it off. The third floor of the Summit has a small cafe, bar, gift shop and open air seating. It's actually quite nice to hang out, have a drink, and enjoy even more sweeping views if the weather cooperates. Overall it was a good experience and definitely worth a visit.
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Andrea R.

Yelp
I really don't know how I just made it here for the first time with the amount of times I've visited NYC. But better late than never! I did take my daughter to the Edge years ago, which was super cool, but this was better. It's also a few hour time commitment while the Edge was more of a quick view of the city so it depends on how much time you want to spend taking in the views. We went around 4pm on a Saturday end of April. I worried the lines would be super long and even considered paying the extra fee to skip the lines. While we definitely waited in a long line to get in, it wasn't that bad and I'm glad I didn't spend the $ to skip the lines. My daughter's friend was with us and said the lines were way worse when she came during sunset another time. I'm sure that's cool to see, but sunset= longer lines. Once we got to the 91st floor my kids wouldn't stop saying how cool it was up there. My son couldn't stop taking pictures of the amazing view. And my daughter and her friend were in tiktok heaven. I don't think you can get a better background for tiktoks. They also had a blast in the floating ball room, which was another perfect tiktok setting. My kids got hungry halfway thru and were happy with a pretzel bite snack. My daughter's friend has celiac so we did have trouble finding a gluten free snack, although she was able to eat the chips. A few more gluten free options would be great! At the end we did the glass elevator, which is listed as the most popular option on their website. There wasn't any line for this so I"m not sure it's that popular. It was cool, but NYC doesn't look that different whether you're viewing it from the 91st or 101st floor so I'd skip that one. I didn't think it was worth the extra charge. Overall, it was such a fun activity and I think the highlight of our quick trip to NYC. It's also conveniently located in Grand Central so if you're coming to NYC by train you can go when you first arrive or when you leave. I just recommend buying tickets ahead of time, especially on a weekend, since they tend to sell out.
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Rayanne A.

Yelp
This is a great place to go if you like to burn money and stand in lines. I mean, what is the point of a reservation if you're going to stand in line for an hour? It was cool to experience, but not at that price point. It very much is more of a photo op than anything else, so come looking your best.
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Gabriela M.

Yelp
Summit One is my favorite! We had a wonderful experience from beginning to end. You check in at your reserved ticket time, go through the metal detectors, and wait in line to be escorted to the elevator. Our wait time was about 45 mins, on a Saturday evening. We wanted to watch the sunset, so we made reservations for 4:30 p.m. since sunset time is 6:30 p.m. Unfortunately, it was a gloomy day, so we didn't get to experience the wonderful sunset views of NYC. If you want to experience the sunset, I recommend that you purchase tickets 11/2-2 hours before sunset time to give yourself enough time to check in, wait in line, and enter the summit doors. The experience includes multiple interactive rooms. My favorite was the balloon room, which offers many cool photo opportunities. The floors in the first room are mirrors, so you should avoid wearing skirts, dresses, etc. Also, high heels are prohibited because they can scratch the floors. I also recommend that you practice patience, this is a popular place, so you'll more than likely encounter a lot of people trying to take pics, taking over the windows, etc. Once you're done, you'll be welcomed by a cool bar area, where you can sit and take in the beautiful NYC views. Tickets were very affordable and well worth it!
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Krystal C.

Yelp
Put this place on your bucket list. I was in New York and this place came up as a must try experience. The day we had originally booked our tickets for had to be rescheduled because of the weather. We ended going later in the evening and I was amazed with the city view in the night. We went up three floors with different experiences. The top deck had drinks and an area you can sit and just look at the views. You are given a wristband that stores all your photos and are assessable at the end of the tour. I got the digital prints and ordered me an add on picture that I liked. Overall the place is amazing. There is a sky box area where they take your picture of you standing what feels like in the air. I enjoyed the room with the silver balls that floated above the ceiling. Definitely something you have to try once.
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Natasha R.

Yelp
Loved this experience. In my opinion, it's the very best observatories in the city. Super interactive and the views are amazing. Make sure to do your research prior to coming. You can't come in heels or dresses. Comfy shoes are best to not scratch the floors and no dresses because there are mirrored floors. There is a snack area in the end to purchase some snacks and drinks. This experience is pricy but worth it for sure. The only con i have is that the staff isn't nice or friendly. The only nice person was the very last employee at the clear elevator section. Every other person was pretty rude. I'm born and raised in nyc and can deal with that, but it's not fair when people are spending so much money to come here, esp tourist
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Nancy G.

Yelp
This was a really nice location to go and take photos, as well as getting a beautiful view of the city. Once you get there you'll be in a line till you get upstairs. Once you get upstairs you have a little more room to explore the different floors with different views. The balloon room was my favorite. I would say staff was a bit unorganized during the photo option to take in the box hanging over the city, it took a long time to get a photo. Overall, great experience with all the photos we got. At the end they have a rooftop area where the gift shop is. They also offer a package deal of the photos that they took of you throughout the experience.
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Gina N.

Yelp
The view is great but that is dependent on the weather. You also have to wear shoe covers the whole time so be prepared to hide those in your photos unless you don't mind. I chose a 12:00 initially but then asked to switch to 11:30 since that was going to work better for me. I would have had to pay a fee for rescheduling but luckily I called within 24 hours of booking so it was free to change. The line to enter the museum wasn't too bad but make sure you set time aside for this museum so that you can take your time. They let you enter the security line before your appointment but for the line after where they scan your ticket, you have to go in at the exact time and not a minute earlier. It can also get crowded when you're inside the exhibit especially if there's a popular spot to take a photo so you will have to wait your turn. We took lots of photos on each level and even waited for some spots but we were only there for under 2 hours including the wait in the security line.
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Sushma K.

Yelp
This experience is BEYOND spectacular!! Do book your ticket well in advance if you want to get the sun set experience from the 92th floor. We booked the ticket which covered the complimentary drinks as well. It's a different experience having drinks from the 92th floor!! From the elevator ride to the the 3 floors they cover to each floor experience, it is a fun experience for any age group! The wait line can be long depending on the time-slot you choose to go. Our wait time was almost 45 mins. But it was totally worth it! One of the most instragrammable places in NYC. It has a mindblowing rooftop which gives you a wonderful 360 view of the NYC city.. This is a MUST do! Dont miss out on this one!
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Anna H.

Yelp
I bought tickets online prior to our trip. My 2 granddaughters and I had a fabulous visit here. There was a long line, and they checked tickets twice during the wait. It was very organized and moved fairly quick. We were given paper foot covers, and sunglasses if needed. The first thing is to use tablets to take your own photo. Then you watch a short film about the building. Then off to the elevator. There are 3 levels with great views of the city from all. It is very bright (hence the sunglasses) with lots of photo opps. One floor had silver mylar balloons to play with, and the top had a bar, with an outdoor area for photos. There is another spot for professional photos. You can purchase digital photos after you see all the floors, and before the gift shop. I highly recommend. I visited The Edge 4 years ago, and the Empire State Building 18 years ago, but this was the best viewing platform in my opinion.
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Adriana M.

Yelp
This was my second time in New York City and I wanted to try out a new observation deck. The first time we went to Top of the Rock and it was outstanding. This time with kids, I thought that Summit would be a hit since it looks to be very interactive, modern, and new. You start by queuing up and they basically put you into timed groups in the lobby. You watch a video about the building of One Vanderbilt and then you are instructed to put on shoe booties to cover your soles and then you will go up the Ascent elevator. This ride has flashing lights, FYI. The first level they let you off is called Levitation and it features glass-bottom ledges. They do let you know to spend as much time as you want on each level because once you leave that level, you can't return. The next level is the one with all the silver/metallic balloons. Kids definitely enjoyed this one. I think it's called Transcendence. The last level is Après and this one has a café, gift shop, and outdoor balcony. I think this was actually my favorite one, probably helped by the two delicious cocktails I enjoyed (Sunset Margaritas). We were also there near sunset, so it was perfect timing to just sit outside and watch all the lights come on around us. Overall I really enjoyed this observation deck. You get great views of the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building (my personal favorite). Although I do like all the levels, I think this makes it a little gimmicky. It is also very, very crowded, so that kind takes away from the experience at times. I really do need to go with the Empire State Building next time, even though I have not visited that one simply because when you are up there you can't see it as part of the view. Note: if you don't want or can't use the escalator, you can ask staff to use the elevator to get in between levels.
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Christa M.

Yelp
I bought tickets to this place expecting it would be a quick experience and boy was I wrong. We arrived a few minutes prior to our scheduled time and we stood in the long line that snaked out into the terminal. There were plenty of workers walking around so I approached one of them to inquire about my tickets. They have a pretty good deal for military personnel (current, present, past) so I was to check in with a staff member for directions. He escorted us past the long line and right into the customer service desk. Here another friendly worker verified my ID and gave us our tickets. We no longer got back in the long line but now waited in this shorter one. There was a TSA style check we went through and the line then snaked its way to the photo op area. After the photo, we were given booties and sunglasses to use from here on out (sunglasses to use because its sooooo bright on the upper floor) After that, we went to another station that took an individual picture of you for one of the interactive screen rooms they have. We then filed into another line and waited for the elevator to take us up, up, up. Once at the top, we were free to explore. There are more then a few rooms to check out and it was so busy! It was crowded, sunny, and very warm. We were super short on time so we spent at most like 5 minutes in each room but easily you can spend up to an hour if you are into taking pictures. Once we snaked our way through every room we headed to the elevator to head back down. Now this line was long and we waited about 25 minutes. Once we made it to the 1st floor, the workers thanked us for coming in and we left. Overall this is a one time experience for me and I'm glad I checked it out. We still had fun although we were rushing! Employees we interacted with were all friendly!
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Christie N.

Yelp
What a cool place!! Beautiful building and amazing views. Drinks and little coffee shop are really good too
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Kim A.

Yelp
Amazing experience of immersive art, technology, architecture, and the best views of NYC! The Summit touches all of your senses. From the elevator to the top of the observation deck your experience is captivating! The 360 degree views of the concrete jungle of New York City is absolutely breathtaking. The art exhibits in each section offers wonderful photo opportunities and fun interactive technology. The Summit offers a glass bottom floor, glass room with 360 degree views, floating orbs, outdoor observation deck, short film, immersive art and technology and is truly a thrill! You must experience the Summit when visiting NYC, it's a great attraction for all ages.
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Alex H.

Yelp
Summit one Vanderbilt was one of my all-time favorite experiences while visiting NYC. There are more multiple levels where you can go to, and there is an interactive aspect on each level as well as amazing views of the city. We went right at sunset, which was honestly perfection because we got to see the sun set across the entire city, and then the city at night with all of the buildings lit up. It truly was magnificent. Once you reach the top level , there is also a full service bar where you can order drinks and appetizers. I would say the only downside was that it took about 45 minutes of waiting in line before you actually reach the summit. They make you go through multiple lines and once you reach the final line, you wait in a relatively dark and smaller enclosed area before taking an elevator all the way up to the top. All in all, spending money on a ticket for Summit One Vanderbilt is completely worth it! If you are visiting NYC, I would highly recommend adding this to your list of things to do as this was quite spectacular especially at sunset!
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Jessamyn D.

Yelp
Summit One Vanderblit is a great experience, waiting to get inside took awhile for us, it took us about 20-30 minutes to inside and upstairs to the exhibit. There are 3 floors where there are many photo ops, and great views of NYC! I enjoyed the room with the balloons, there were many people while we were but it's also a fun experience and you can take many pictures. We were able to see the city on a gloomy day, still a fun experience.
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Nga N.

Yelp
It's pretty cool but its pretty pricey for a quick self tour. Our time slot was 10:30AM and it took almost 30 mins to get through the line and security. When we got to the top, it was a little bit miserable. The sun hit so hard and you definitely need sunglasses to not blind you. Since the heat was so bad we move to the side with the silver balloons. While this side seems cool, it is very crowded and small. Balloons keep popping which made my little children jumpy. My husband thinks the Edge is better but it was way too cold to do the edge during winter.
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Laken C.

Yelp
Summit One Vanderbilt is easily one of the most unique and breathtaking attractions in NYC. From the moment you step into the immersive mirrored spaces high above the city, the experience feels surreal. The views of Manhattan stretch endlessly, and the reflections give the entire space an almost dreamlike quality. It's absolutely worth visiting more than once, during the day you get crisp, sweeping views of the city, and at night the neon lights make it a mesmerizing and almost futuristic experience. The one drawback is the room with the floating silver balls. It's beautiful and fun, but it gets crowded, which makes snapping a clean photo without people in the backround difficult no matter the time of day. I loved winding down at Après, the bar area inside. For those under 21, the mocktails are both creative and refreshing. Overall, Summit One Vanderbilt is more than just an observation deck it's an immersive art and cityscape experience rolled into one. it's an unforgettable visit that I'd happily return to again and again.
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Mag T.

Yelp
Amazing views of the city. I went around 10 p.m. so I felt a bit rushed on each level, but it's definitely something that you should have on your to do list when visiting NYC.
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Blair P.

Yelp
A Must-Do in NYC! My husband and I had the most amazing experience at The Summit, and it was all thanks to our incredible tour guide, Alyssa R. Even though we arrived late for our scheduled tour (oops!), Alyssa greeted us with warmth and zero judgment. She immediately made us feel welcome and part of the group. Alyssa is not only friendly and professional, but also extremely knowledgeable about New York City. She shared so many interesting facts about the city's buildings and skyline. Her passion for the city really shines through, and it made the entire experience even more memorable. What really stood out was Alyssa's attention to detail. She went above and beyond by offering to take photos and videos of us, helping us capture the breathtaking views in the best way possible. Thanks to her, we left with beautiful memories--and amazing photos. If you're visiting New York, you absolutely must visit The Summit, and when you do, make sure to request Alyssa R. as your guide.....Trust me you won't be disappointed! Thank you, Alyssa, for making our visit unforgettable! Blair
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Bunyaka N.

Yelp
Out of all the observation decks I've been in NYC. It's like going to the immersive exhibitions but also with the best view in the city. I highly recommend it!
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Lika T.

Yelp
Had a great time here! Probably spent like 3 hours in here taking photos and looking at the sunset! Probably the tallest building in New York that I've ever been! You get to see everything! I recommend getting your tickets online first because waiting in line for your tickets was long! If you got your tickets already the line moves pretty fast! We got in less than 10mins and it was crowded! The tickets were only $45 each person and you get to see 3 levels of crazy stuff! Were did everything inside and enjoyed everything! Got to see the mirror floors, balloons, push out glass window, bar, top views, and the sunset! I really enjoyed this attraction! It was probably one of my favorite ones! Got to see insane stuff that I can never see anywhere else before! At the top level you can see the view outside and enjoy the sunset with some champagne and of course Lox bagels which was so perfect for the moment! The view was stunning! I would highly recommend coming here if you're visiting New York! But get your tickets online first it faster and easier! And they do have some deals online as well!
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Hope A.

Yelp
Enjoyed the place . In my opinion tho this is a 1-2 time experience but a must to visit . The lights and architecture
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Jennifer S.

Yelp
Took my family to Summit One Vanderbilt on their most recent visit. The Summit offers stunning views of the City including looking down on the Chrysler building. It's also more fun than the other observation points (e.g., Empire State) with the silver balloon room and glass-bottom ledge. We went at sunset, which was nice. However, if you actually want to see sunset, buy a ticket early enough to get through security before the sun goes down (at least 30 mins for line/security). While beautiful at night, I think I would go during the daytime with future visitors.
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Retna S.

Yelp
This is my favorite "observation deck"in NYC. I bought the ticket online for 9 AM admission. I received an email prior to my visit to give directions on how to get there, what to wear, and prohibited items. I entered on 42nd street next to TD bank, then took the stairs down. Do not take the elevator because it will take you to the subway station. I arrived there a quarter to nine and the line had built up. After I was admitted I was given plastic bags to cover my shoes. I highly recommend wearing sneakers and not pointy heels. You can also grab a pair of sunglasses. The view is spectacular. You can see Central Park, Empire State, World Trade Center, The Edge, Bryant Park. Glasses and mirrors everywhere. A lot of people took pictures while sitting on the floor. My favorite part is the room filled with silver balloons. Very fun and a cute way to take pictures with. You can hear some balloons are popped. There are three levels of viewing areas. The terrace is outdoor so I recommend bringing a jacket. You can buy churros and drinks there. I spent about 1 and a half hours from start to finish.
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Farah A.

Yelp
I checked out SUMMIT One Vanderbilt back in December, and it was easily one of the coolest experiences I've had in NYC! The 360 views are unreal, but what really makes it stand out is the interactive design mirrored rooms that make the skyline feel infinite, floating silver balloons, and those insane glass skyboxes that let you step out over the city. It felt more like an immersive art experience than just an observation deck. It was a bit crowded, but totally worth it for a fresh, mind blowing view of NYC!
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Nicole E.

Yelp
The Vanderbilt is the fourth tallest building in NYC. Summit one is located in midtown Manhattan and recommend reservations by all means. You can buy tickets day of but if they are at capacity you are out of luck. I do recommend arriving 15 minutes early to your ticketing time as there will be lines regardless of the time. The summit one experience is broken up into three floors with some art installations. The top level ends with a rooftop view to get drinks or some bites. Overall, the views are unmatched of the city and pretty cool being 73 stories high. Just be prepared mentally that you will be dealing with huge crowds. However, great photo ops and a fun interactive balloon room. Prices range from $49 and up.
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Abraham D.

Yelp
"The Summit" en Nueva York es un lugar increíble. La vista es espectacular, y la experiencia en sí es muy moderna y divertida. Puedes ver toda la ciudad desde lo alto, y hay instalaciones interactivas que realmente le dan un toque especial. Creo que la única atracción que se paga por aparte de los pases. Merece la pena. A veces puede haber mucha gente, y la entrada no es barata, pero vale la pena si buscas algo diferente y memorable. En resumen, es un gran lugar para disfrutar de Nueva York desde otra perspectiva. Tu outfit se arruina completamente con la bolsa que te ponen en los pies.
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James d.

Yelp
Summit was very cool. We went on a day with nice weather so we had great visibility. Getting up from the lobby was a little chaotic, but once we made it up, it was amazing. They had several different rooms across three floors. We spent a lot of time in the first room waiting for a turn to get up to the windows while people took pictures. This floor has the best views up against windows but on the upper floors there's almost no one to compete for window space with. On the very top floor that's also the gift shop and cafe, there's an outdoor section that is cool as well.
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Olivia S.

Yelp
Good place to visit with family or friends. Gorgeous views, yes is crowded but you can still take some gorgeous pictures.
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Richa T.

Yelp
Pros: + One of the most iconic instagramable places to visit in NYC + Gorgeous rooftop bar for the best view of the Manhattan skyline + Discounted pricing for NYC/LI residents - but not much TBH $5 a ticket + Spacious areas with amazing photographic decor + Get the photography package Cons: - Tickets are pretty expensive though Just some friendly advice: the floors and ceilings are made of glass and are reflective. Do not wear dresses/short skirts here. Maybe consider wearing pants IG: QueenOfAdventureNYC
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Ruby N.

Yelp
This experience was wayy better than I expected. We took our friend here for her birthday and I'm usually not one for tourist activities however, this one was a great experience and blew me away. The view and immersive components of this place was amazing. You go through security and they take you all the way up where you see a breathtaking view and explore multiple floors. This is the best photo opportunity and we got the tickets that come with a cocktail/mock tail which was such a fun touch. They even allowed you to enter an outdoor area to get an even better experience.
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Alexis B.

Yelp
I visited Summit One Vanderbilt with my mom last weekend over a mom/daughter weekend. Summit is an observation deck experience on a few floors above the 73rd floor. There are views in every direction (from indoors through glass and an outdoor area with glass walls), infinity rooms (filled with mirrors and windows), glass balconies you can stand on to look down, etc. It's definitely a bit of a tourist trap, but I like to try everything once! The views are incredible, but it's pricey for what it is (in my opinion). Its main attraction seems to be its use as a backdrop for photos for Instagram, so there were lots of people dressed up for photos, on their own, with friends, with family. That's not really my thing, nor are very crowded spaces. So we did a quick visit, checking out each of the rooms quickly and taking some photos if the views from different angles. I'd say it's one those do once and then never again type tourist spots, not bad for a quick visit if you're in the area. There are some other opportunities for views in the city, but this one is definitely trying to separate itself through artsyness (there is even a room with some Yayoi Kusama works). Others are more about the engineering of the building or the views. I wouldn't recommend going out of your way for this viewpoint in particular, but if you're in the area and views and photo ops are your thing, Summit is doing a very arty version of it that is well worth a stop.
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Jacob S.

Yelp
This is the observation deck you need to visit. It's not just a tall platform to look at passively. They've done a good job curating the experience. The mirror room, full glass panel views of Chrysler and Empire State, the balloon room, the outdoor terrace. All around A+ experience. $160/3 people. Worth twice that.
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Grroovy G.

Yelp
AMAZING!! experience, start to finish. So glad the weather cooperated and it was a perfectly clear and sunny day. Felt pretty surreal to be up sooooo high. Mirror Mirrors EVERYwhere. Talk about 91-93 floors of "WOW"! (including the gents & ladies room lol). The other 'experiences' were pretty fun/unique, a bit provocative -- the shower of silver balloons and seeing your face in the clouds (or trying to). I'd go earlier as it does get pretty crowded but it was still manageable. Would love to do this again, just as the sun sets.