There are numerous observation decks in New York City where you can experience long elevator rides, incredible skyline views and unmatchable photo opportunities. So, out of all the available observation decks, is Summit One Vanderbilt worth it?
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Short answer: yes, Summit One Vanderbilt is worth it.
We’re going to go over all the details below, but if that’s all you needed to know, you can book your Summit OV tickets here!
What is Summit One Vanderbilt known for?
Summit One Vanderbilt is known for its Instagram-worthy art installations (such as the mirror and balloon rooms) and impeccable NYC skyline views.
Unlike the other observation decks in New York City, Summit One Vanderbilt is made of several floors of optical-illusion-inspired art installations.
These art installations caused the Summit One Vanderbilt to explode on social media even before the deck’s grand opening.
Because of viral influencer videos featuring the mirror and balloon installations, Summit One Vanderbilt has quickly become one of the most popular observation decks in New York.
Is Summit One Vanderbilt worth it?
Yes, thanks to the epic NYC views, viral photo opportunities, futuristic environment and unique art installations, the Summit One Vanderbilt observatory is very worth it.
While there are a few exceptions (such as motion sickness, which I will talk about in a moment) there is no doubt that you will love visiting Summit OV.
In comparison to other New York City observatories, such as the Empire State Building or Top Of The Rock, Summit One Vanderbilt offers a young, trendy spin on the traditional observation deck style.
If you’re looking for the best NYC views, perfect Instagram pictures and heart-racing experiences from 90+ floors up, you won’t want to miss Summit One Vanderbilt.
However, I must say, if you’re prone to motion sickness, either skip Summit OV or bring your favorite motion sickness remedy (see all of my favorite motion sickness remedies here). Some of the art installation rooms, namely the mirror and balloon rooms, have trippy reflections that cause you to feel a little unbalanced.
As someone who suffers from regular motion sickness myself, I did feel a little sick, but it wasn’t anything too unbearable. I still thought Summit One Vanderbilt was worth it. It’s just something to keep in mind.
Is Summit One Vanderbilt scary?
No, Summit One Vanderbilt it not scary. All of the observation deck areas are inside and/or enclosed in tall glass windows.
The only part of Summit One Vanderbilt that is scary to some visitors is the overhanging glass box area, where you can walk out on glass over 90 floors above the ground.
I have to admit, I’m not usually afraid of heights at observation decks, but the glass boxes did make my heart beat a little faster.
Luckily, you can easily skip the glass boxes and still have a fabulous, worthwhile time at Summit One Vanderbilt, as there are plenty of other views to enjoy.
How long can you stay at Summit One Vanderbilt?
There is technically no limit for how long you can stay at Summit One Vanderbilt, as long as you enter at your designated ticketed time.
However, there are Summit OV staff in each observation room who monitor crowd control, so you will naturally move through the entire observatory in about an hour or so.
Expect to spend roughly 1-2 hours at Summit One Vanderbilt.
Is Summit One Vanderbilt worth it at night?
Summit One Vanderbilt is worth it at night if you want to see the NYC skyline lit up.
However, the views at Summit One Vanderbilt are generally better (clearer and farther) during the daytime.
Can you see Statue Of Liberty from Summit One Vanderbilt?
Yes, you can see the Statue Of Liberty from Summit One Vanderbilt.
If you look out the main windows in the mirror room, you’ll see a very small Lady Liberty toward the right in the distance.
Note, you will be able to see the Statue Of Liberty from Summit One Vanderbilt best during daylight.
Is Summit One Vanderbilt better at night or day?
Basically, if you want to have the best photo opportunities and overall farthest, clearest views, Summit One Vanderbilt is better in the day. If you are looking forward to seeing all of the bright NYC lights, Summit One Vanderbilt is better at night.
The best time to visit Summit OV is between 5:30-8:00 p.m. (during sunset) so that you can experience both the daytime and nighttime views, as well as the New York City sunset.
In fact, Summit OV tickets during sunset (extra fee) are very likely to sell out, so if you would like to visit the Summit One Vanderbilt during this time, book your tickets in advance.
You can easily book your Summit One Vanderbilt tickets here.
Is Summit One Vanderbilt Worth It Reddit Reviews
Here are three unbiased Reddit reviews on whether Summit One Vanderbilt is worth it for you to consider:
“Book it for right when it opens. Crowds are much less and there were only seven of us total in Ascent (holds 13). Because it was earlier some parties were going up with just one or two people. I took my team from the office and we all enjoyed it. As far as tourist attractions go, it’s really trippy, disorienting and overall beautifully curated.” –AlarmingDrawing
“I would research it before going — there was just a report yesterday that there was an elevator malfunction and some floors were shaking. I would be surprised if it were open.” –VR537 (The NY Department Of Buildings since declared that there is no danger to the public.)
“We visit Summit One Vanderbilt in NYC at night and it’s just so pretty!! The lights, the colors, the NYC vibe, definitely worth a visit!” –VcosNJ
Ready to book your tickets to Summit One Vanderbilt? Book here now.
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