Viator Rating : 5 (5358 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 6.1/10 (Solid Experience)
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt: NYC's Mind-Bending Views
Overview
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt takes the idea of an observation deck and turns it into something extraordinary. Located at the top of the tallest commercial skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan, this experience mixes art and technology for an unforgettable visit.
Visitors can explore three levels of immersive, multi-sensory exhibits. The SUMMIT offers amazing 360-degree views of New York City, including close-up views of the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. This is not just sightseeing; it's an adventure for the senses.
The SUMMIT One Vanderbilt experience includes access to all indoor immersive art experiences and admission to all three floors. Guests can also enjoy LEVITATION, which features two transparent, glass-enclosed skyboxes that extend from the SUMMIT. Please note that ASCENT, the exterior glass elevators experience, is not included. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Reliability (8 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Upsell Risk (5 - Optional) : Upsells exist but avoidable
Logistics (4 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Pacing (5 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Guide Quality (5 - Adequate) : Informative but average
What People Dislike
Crowd Density (3 - Overcrowded) : Packed, uncomfortable, restricted movement
Highlights
Breathtaking 360° Views: See iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building from a unique vantage point.
Immersive Art Experiences: Explore mind-bending, multi-sensory art installations across three floors.
LEVITATION Skyboxes: Step into transparent glass boxes that extend from the building for a thrilling experience.
Top of Midtown Manhattan: Experience NYC from the summit of the city's tallest commercial skyscraper.
Sentiment Analysis
Visitors loved the breathtaking views of New York City from the SUMMIT.
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Many enjoyed the interactive art installations and found them to be unique.
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Guests highlighted the experience as well-organized and the staff was very helpful.
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The location of the SUMMIT, near Grand Central Terminal, was convenient for travelers.
Some reviewers mentioned that the mirrored surfaces could be overwhelming for those sensitive to light.
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A few visitors felt that the attraction was crowded, which detracted from the experience.
The Journey
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Ascend to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, a breathtaking architectural marvel that redefines the observation deck experience. Soaring above Midtown Manhattan, this multi-level, multi-sensory attraction blends art, technology, and unparalleled city views. Step into mirrored rooms that play with perception, floating levitation boxes extending out over the city, and an outdoor terrace offering panoramic vistas of iconic landmarks. This isn't just sightseeing; it's an immersive journey into a world where the sky is the limit, making it an unforgettable highlight of any New York City adventure. A visit here guarantees breathtaking photo opportunities and an altered sense of reality.
Know Before You Go
This ticket includes admission to all three floors of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and access to all indoor immersive art experiences, including LEVITATION. The ASCENT exterior glass elevators experience is not included. Please plan accordingly, as this experience is located at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
Hot Tip
Visitors recommend wearing comfortable shoes and sunglasses, especially on sunny days, due to the mirrored surfaces and bright light. Arriving early in the day or later in the afternoon may help avoid larger crowds, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Review Summary
People usually say the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt experience offers breathtaking 360-degree views, innovative multi-sensory art installations like mirrors and skyboxes, fast-moving lines, thrilling elevators, and a unique modern vibe superior to other NYC decks, especially at night or sunset; frequent positives include friendly accommodating staff, family-friendliness, and premium tours skipping queues. Some note negatives like crowded chaotic entry on peak times, weather impacting outdoor views, selfie crowds blocking spots, or underwhelming if expectations mismatch the artistic focus over traditional observation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Location
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