SUMMIT One Vanderbilt NYC — About, History, Tours & Visitor Information (2025)
Get to know SUMMIT One Vanderbilt—the immersive observation experience atop Midtown’s tallest skyscraper. Learn the story behind the design, how the mirror-filled Air installation works, what tickets include, the correct entrances via Grand Central, and smart tips for a smooth 2025 visit.
About SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Perched atop the 1,401-ft One Vanderbilt tower beside Grand Central Terminal, SUMMIT blends art, technology, and skyline views. The signature experience is Air by Kenzo Digital: a sequence of mirrored spaces—Transcendence, Affinity, and Unity—that multiply the city in every direction. Open-air terraces and dramatic glass ledges called Levitation project over Madison Avenue about 1,070 ft above the street, creating unforgettable photos.
What You’ll See
Three immersive floors of mirrors and light, outdoor terraces with sweeping views of the Empire State Building and Central Park, and the famous glass skyboxes. On certain dates, the external glass elevator Ascent operates for an even higher perspective.
Why It’s Special
Unlike a traditional deck, SUMMIT is a multi-sensory installation. The mirror fields blur horizon and reflection, sunrise and sunset, turning Midtown’s skyline into a living artwork you walk through.
Brief History & Timeline
- 2016–2020 — One Vanderbilt rises next to Grand Central with major transit upgrades and a new Transit Hall connection.
- 2021 — SUMMIT One Vanderbilt opens, unveiling Air by Kenzo Digital and the Levitation glass boxes.
- 2022–2024 — Seasonal programming expands; SUMMIT becomes a top NYC sunset and night-view experience.
- 2025 — Timed entry continues; hours typically run late into the night and Tuesdays are closed (confirm your date).
Note: Entrances are through Grand Central Main Concourse, the Transit Hall (Vanderbilt Ave & 43rd St), or 45 E 42nd St. The office lobby is not an entrance. Hours vary seasonally—always check the ticket page.
Tours & Ticket Options
General Admission (Timed)
Access to all immersive levels (Transcendence, Affinity, Unity), terraces, and Levitation skyboxes. Mobile e-tickets accepted; sunset slots price higher and sell out fastest.
Midtown Guided Tour + SUMMIT Entry
See Art Deco landmarks and Grand Central with a guide, then enter SUMMIT for skyline views—great context plus easy logistics.
Architecture Walk + SUMMIT
A focused design tour through Midtown culminates at SUMMIT—ideal for photography fans and city-scape nerds.
Grand Central Tour + Optional SUMMIT
Explore the secrets of Grand Central and add SUMMIT access at checkout for a seamless combo.
Good to know: Many options offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your slot. Ascent (the external glass elevator) may be paused due to weather/operations—check availability on the day.
What You’ll Experience
Immersive Rooms
Transcendence is a mirrored infinity field; Affinity adds floating silver spheres that reshape perspective; Unity personalizes the space with an interactive cloudscape.
- Plan 60–90 minutes for the full journey.
- Sunset gives day-to-night views; mornings are calmer and often cheaper.
- Sunglasses help on bright days—mirrors amplify light.
Sky & Terrace Moments
Step into Levitation glass boxes ~1,070 ft above Madison Avenue and feel the city hum beneath your feet. Then unwind at Après, the café-bar with terrace seating facing the skyline.
Photography: handheld cameras and phones are fine; selfie sticks/tripods may be restricted. Mind reflections on mirrored floors.
Insider Tips
Best Time
Book sunset 60–90 minutes before the listed time for golden-hour and night lights. Weekday mornings mean fewer crowds.
Dress Code
Floors are highly reflective—many guests prefer pants/shorts. Wear comfortable, flat shoes (no stilettos/steel-tips).
Security & Weather
Airport-style screening; large bags/luggage aren’t allowed. Outdoor areas operate in most weather; extreme conditions can pause access.
Visitor Cheatsheet
Address
45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017 (connected to Grand Central Terminal).
Entrances
Main Concourse of Grand Central • Transit Hall (Vanderbilt Ave & 43rd St) • 45 E 42nd St.
Hours
Typically 9:00–24:00, last entry ~22:30; closed Tuesdays. Always confirm your date.
Subway
4/5/6/7/S to Grand Central–42 St, then follow SUMMIT signs.
Tickets
Mobile QR accepted; sunset costs more. Many products allow free cancellation up to 24h.
Time Needed
Allow 60–90 minutes; more if you plan photos, cocktails, or an add-on tour.
Ready to Visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
Choose your ticket, confirm your entrance via Grand Central, and catch an unforgettable NYC sunset from the sky.