New York: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Ticket & Skybox Access

Summary

Sky-high glass floors, immersive art and Midtown lights in every direction

You’ll step into three floors of immersive art installations and mirrored spaces at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, then edge out onto transparent skyboxes for wild city views. With timed entry and all experiences included, you’ll see Midtown Manhattan from angles most locals never do — and maybe catch yourself smiling at your own reflection against the skyline.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t look down unless you really want to know how high you are,” our guide joked as we shuffled toward the glass skyboxes at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. I laughed, but honestly, my palms were already sweating — I mean, it’s not every day you’re invited to stand in a clear box 1,100 feet above Manhattan. The elevator ride up was quick but my ears popped, and there was this faint metallic scent in the air (maybe nerves?). Stepping out onto mirrored floors with all that light bouncing around felt like walking inside a kaleidoscope — I almost lost track of which way was up.

The views hit hard right away: Empire State Building so close it felt like you could touch it if you leaned far enough (don’t). The Chrysler Building glinted just beyond. There were kids pressing their faces to the glass, a couple taking a million selfies, and some older guy quietly sketching the skyline on a tiny pad — everyone kind of lost in their own moment. Our local guide pointed out the bridges and neighborhoods below; she even shared a story about her dad seeing the city change over decades from these same streets. It made me pause for a second and think about how many lives are stacked up down there.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from “immersive art,” but one room had these floating silver balloons that kept bumping into my head — weirdly soothing, actually. My shoes squeaked on the mirrored floor (note: no heels allowed), and at one point I caught my reflection multiplied into infinity behind me. It was both trippy and kind of beautiful. Time moved strangely up there; maybe it was just being surrounded by all that glass and sky, or maybe it was watching people react — some laughing nervously, others just staring out in total silence.

We ended up lingering longer than planned because sunset started to spill gold over Midtown and nobody wanted to leave yet. Even now, when I think about that view — all those tiny taxis crawling through Manhattan below — it still feels unreal. If you’re looking for something more than just another observation deck ticket in New York City, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt observation deck

• Arrive at One Vanderbilt skyscraper
• Explore three immersive experience levels
• Enjoy 360-degree city views
• View Empire State and Chrysler buildings

Top questions

Is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt wheelchair accessible?

Yes, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is fully wheelchair accessible.

Are children allowed at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?

Yes, children of all ages are welcome. Children age 5 and under enter free with a paid adult.

What should I wear for SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?

Wear pants or tights to avoid unwanted exposure on mirrored floors; comfortable shoes are recommended as stiletto heels aren’t allowed.

Does my ticket include access to the skyboxes?

Yes, admission includes access to the LEVITATION glass skyboxes as well as all three floors of experiences.

How long can I stay inside SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?

You can stay as long as you like after entering during your scheduled time slot.

Is there storage for bags or luggage?

No storage is available; large bags or luggage are not permitted inside.

What happens if I arrive late for my timed ticket?

If you arrive more than 20 minutes late, entry is subject to availability and may require a rescheduling fee starting at $25.

Can I bring food or drinks inside?

No outside food or beverages are allowed beyond security.

What’s included

Your ticket covers timed entry to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt with access to all three immersive floors including indoor art installations and mirrored spaces, plus entry into the transparent LEVITATION skyboxes extending over Midtown Manhattan — everything’s included except personal items or large bags which aren’t permitted inside.