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.