Summit One Vanderbilt: A “Must-See” NYC Visitor Attraction

Summit One Vanderbilt is the fourth tallest building in New York City. Located at the corner of 42nd Street and Vanderbilt, the building is advertised as the world’s highest urban “alpine meadow.”

The Bare Essentials: Summit One Vanderbilt

The Bare Essentials Summit One Vanderbilt

In addition to being the city’s fourth tallest building, One Vanderbilt is also the second tallest office building. The roof at One Vanderbilt is 1,301 feet high with a spire stretching 1,401 feet.

Kohn Pedersen Fox designed the 93-story skyscraper, which was developed by SL Green. One Vanderbilt joins the Chrysler Building and Empire State Building as the three iconic buildings that define the Manhattan skyline. 

The lobby entrance leads to Grand Central Terminal and a bank branch. Most of the building consists of offices space. However, the second floor is home to Le Pavillon restaurant. 


One Vanderbilt Structure

The facade of One Vanderbilt works with the Grand Central Station. The base of One Vanderbilt has a void shaped like a wedge. From there, the building tapers upward. In addition to several “pavilions,” it features a pinnacle at the top.

The building’s facade consists mainly of glass panels, while the sections between each floor are terracotta. 


One Vanderbilt vs. 111 West 57th Street

The fourth tallest building in New York, One Vanderbilt comes after 111 West 57th Street in terms of height. 432 Park Avenue follows One Vanderbilt on the list. Both of these other buildings are super skinny residential towers.

One Vanderbilt is second only to One World Trade Center in the office skyscraper category.


Summit One Vanderbilt

The skyscraper is famous for the Summit, otherwise known as the One Vanderbilt Observation Tower. The top floors are more than an observation deck — they also include a sky-high view of New York City.

There’s also Air by Kenzo Digital, an art exhibition, along with Après, an exclusive food and cocktail venue. Summit One Vanderbilt tickets are available during the day and night. 


Must-See City Attraction

Visitors often wonder if a city’s attraction is worth the expense. Visitors to Summit One Vanderbilt say that it is unique and, indeed, a must-do Manhattan attraction.

One Vanderbilt observation deck features three different levels and multiple rooms. Some rooms are equipped with giant video screens, while others have floating orbs.


Summit One Design

Summit One Vanderbilt is divided into three sections.

  • Ascent – glass-floored elevators that carry guests from the lobby to the observation deck at 1,210 feet
  • Levitation – glass balconies that stick out from the facade The skyboxes are suspended at 1,063 feet
  • Après –  a glass parapet and bar

Summit One Vanderbilt Tickets

If you want to visit the Summit One observation deck, advance purchase tickets are available and recommended. Parties larger than 15 can schedule a special experience. For those planning on popping the question at the sky-high location, arrangements can be made ahead of time.


Suggested Dress Code

Other than religious sites and churches, most tourist attractions don’t have a dress code. However, Summit One Vanderbilt follows one.

Because of the glass floors and multitude of reflective surfaces, including mirrored floors, skirts are prohibited. Guest are urged to wear pants, shorts, or tights. The site also recommends flat shoes “as stiletto heels and steel-toed boots” are not allowed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)FAQ

Is it expensive to visit Summit One Vanderbilt?

Ticket prices for Summit One Vanderbilt start at $39.00 for adults. Residents of New York can get special prices online only. Tickets are dated and timed.

Does Summit One Vanderbilt have a restaurant?

Après is the cocktail lounge at Summit One Vanderbilt. The drinks are great and so is the food, as Danny Meyer, a top NYC restauranteur, runs the lounge.

How long is a visit to Summit One Vanderbilt?

The One Vanderbilt observation deck includes many features. Most say that it takes two to three hours to have the whole experience. Visitors should note that there’s nowhere to check bags and that the Summit doesn’t allow big bags, backpacks, or luggage.

Is there a best time to visit Summit One Vanderbilt?

A clear day is the best one to make a visit to Summit One Vanderbilt. Some suggest going an hour before sunset. That way, you can see it in the daylight, view the sunset, and then see the view in the evening.

Is the glass elevator at Summit One Vanderbilt worth the cost?

Ascent is the world’s largest exterior glass floor that runs the top 12 stories to Summit One Vanderbilt. The elevator runs on the outside of the building. The cost is an added $20 to the basic ticket.