SUMMIT One Vanderbilt NYC – Best Activities, Highlights & Things to Do (2025)
Rise above Manhattan at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, New York’s most immersive observation experience. Discover mirrored infinity rooms, sky-high glass ledges, and open-air terraces with panoramic views of the city. This 2025 guide covers top attractions, verified tours, and insider tips to plan your visit.
Top Experiences at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Air by Kenzo Digital
Step into a surreal world of mirrors and light where reflections blend sky and skyline—an immersive art installation across multiple levels.
Levitation Glass Boxes
Stand on transparent ledges 1,070 ft above Madison Avenue for breathtaking photos that make you feel like you’re floating over NYC.
Ascent Glass Elevator (Rooftop)
Take the world’s highest exterior-glass elevator (when operating) for a 360° lift ride beyond the observation deck.
Open-Air Terraces
Breathe fresh air from outdoor viewing decks overlooking the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Hudson River skyline.
Apres Lounge & Cocktail Bar
Relax with cocktails and snacks at the café-bar on the terrace—perfect for sunset hour with skyline views.
Day vs Night Views
Enjoy bright daytime panoramas or return after dark for glowing skyscrapers and Times Square’s lights twinkling below.
Things to Do Around SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Grand Central Terminal
Directly connected underground—explore its Main Concourse, whispering gallery, and iconic celestial ceiling.
Bryant Park
A few minutes’ walk west; relax by the lawns or ice-skate in winter with Midtown skyscrapers all around.
Empire State Building
Walk 10 minutes to another NYC classic for a historic contrast between art-deco and modern glass observatories.
Times Square
Just 12 minutes away—see Broadway lights, flagship stores, and street performers before or after your visit.
Fifth Avenue Shopping
Luxury stores and New York landmarks line Fifth Ave – perfect for pairing with your Midtown observation experience.
New York Public Library
Stop by the Beaux-Arts masterpiece on 42nd Street—its marble halls and reading rooms are free to enter.
Which SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Ticket Should You Choose?
General Admission Ticket
Includes access to all three immersive levels—Transcendence, Affinity, and Unity—plus open terraces and Levitation boxes.
Midtown Guided Tour + SUMMIT Entry
Join a walking tour of NYC’s architectural icons before ending at SUMMIT for priority entry and skyline views.
Architecture Tour + SUMMIT Ticket
Discover Midtown’s art-deco masterpieces and modern towers, then ascend SUMMIT One Vanderbilt for unmatched skyline photos.
Grand Central Tour + Optional SUMMIT
Explore Grand Central’s secrets and add a discounted SUMMIT access ticket for a seamless Midtown experience.
Tip: Mobile QR tickets accepted—no printing needed. Many options offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your visit.
Food & Drink Near SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Apres Bar & Lounge (at SUMMIT)
On-site café-bar with cocktails, coffee, and light bites—ideal for relaxing after the observation deck.
Pershing Square Café
Classic New York diner under the Park Ave viaduct opposite Grand Central—great for breakfast or brunch.
Urban Hawker Food Hall
Singapore-style food stalls just blocks away, serving street favorites from laksa to satay.
Bryant Park Grill
Upscale dining beside the park—perfect for sunset dinners after your SUMMIT experience.
Quick Visitor Tips
Best Time
Book sunset slots early for day-to-night transitions. Mornings offer fewer crowds and cheaper tickets.
Dress Code
Reflective floors—avoid short skirts; wear comfortable shoes (no stilettos). Sunglasses help against bright light.
Duration
Plan 60–90 minutes for the full immersive journey through three floors and terrace areas.
Weather Note
Some areas are open-air—check forecasts. SUMMIT operates rain or shine unless extreme weather occurs.
Accessibility
Fully ADA-compliant with elevators, ramps, and staff assistance available throughout the attraction.
Location & Subway
Enter via Grand Central Terminal – Vanderbilt Ave & 43rd St. Closest lines 4/5/6/7/S to 42 St-Grand Central.
Ready to Experience SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
Step inside New York’s most futuristic observation deck—where art, mirrors, and sky meet. Choose your perfect ticket and elevate your trip in 2025.