SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is an observation deck and immersive art experience at 45 E 42nd St in Midtown Manhattan, beside Grand Central Terminal. Three levels combine broad city views with mirrored rooms, suspended silver balloons and glass skyboxes that look out over Madison Avenue. Spot the Chrysler and Empire State buildings from above, then explore installations by Kenzo Digital and Yayoi Kusama. The outdoor terrace has a bar and lounge area. Allow time to move through each level at your own pace, especially if you want to see the skyline in daylight and after sunset.
An observatory beside Grand Central
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt occupies the upper levels of the One Vanderbilt tower at 45 E 42nd St, next to Grand Central Terminal. The visit begins below ground, then an elevator carries you up to the observation experience. From there, the attraction combines views over Manhattan with a sequence of art installations spread across three levels.
The changing reflections are part of the experience. Windows, mirrors and glass surfaces bring the skyline into the rooms, so the view shifts as you move through them. Look for the Chrysler Building nearby, as well as the Empire State Building and Central Park. The broad outlook also lets you pick out other city observation decks from above.
Mirrors, balloons and glass ledges
Kenzo Digital’s installation Air uses mirrored surfaces to multiply the city and sky around you. In the large reflective rooms, the floor and walls can make it difficult to tell where the room ends and the view begins. The effect changes with the light and with the people moving through the space, so pause to take in the room as well as the skyline.
Other stops change the mood and perspective. Affinity fills a room with reflective balloons, while Levitation places transparent skyboxes over Madison Avenue. The glass floor gives a direct view down the side of the building. Yayoi Kusama’s work is also part of the experience. Allow time to move through the rooms rather than treating the visit as a quick trip to a single viewpoint.
Planning the visit
The attraction can be busy, and the wait to reach the elevators may add time before the main visit. Advance booking is recommended. Once upstairs, you can spend time on each level, but you cannot go back to a floor after moving on. Take photos as you go and keep the QR-code bracelet provided during the visit if you plan to access your images.
Mirrored floors reflect what is above them, so shorts beneath skirts or dresses can make the rooms more comfortable to explore. Closed-toe shoes are advisable because visitors are given shoe covers. The outdoor terrace has a bar and lounge area, where you can take a break with views around the city. For a visit that includes both daylight and the illuminated skyline, plan to arrive around sunset and leave time for all three levels.
FAQ
How long do you need at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
Plan for about 2 to 3 hours to explore the three levels without rushing. Queues before the elevators can add time.
Is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt beside Grand Central Terminal?
Yes. The entrance is at 45 E 42nd St, beside Grand Central Terminal in Midtown Manhattan.
What should I wear to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
The floors are mirrored, so shorts beneath skirts or dresses are recommended. Closed-toe shoes are also advised because shoe covers are used.
When is a good time to visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
Around sunset lets you see the city in daylight and after the lights come on. Book ahead, as queues can delay entry.
