Perched high above Midtown Manhattan, Summit One Vanderbilt is one of New York City’s most exciting attractions. Known for its immersive mirrored art installations, glass sky boxes, and breathtaking observation decks, it’s more than just a viewpoint; it’s an experience.
To enjoy everything this skyscraper has to offer, tickets are essential, and choosing the right option can make all the difference in your visit. Here’s a complete guide to Summit One Vanderbilt tickets, pricing, and tips for getting the most out of your trip.
Types of Summit One Vanderbilt Tickets
Visiting Summit One Vanderbilt comes with several ticket options designed to match different interests and comfort levels. From standard admission to thrilling upgrades like Levitation and Ascent, each ticket unlocks a unique way to experience New York City’s skyline.
General Admission
The most basic ticket grants entry to the observation decks and Kenzo Digital’s immersive mirrored art experience, Air. This is ideal for those who simply want the views and artistic installations.
Levitation Tickets
Upgrade your experience by stepping into the Levitation sky boxes, which extend out from the building 1,000 feet above Madison Avenue. These transparent glass cubes give the illusion of floating in mid-air, perfect for thrill-seekers and photographers.
Ascent Tickets
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, the Ascent glass elevators climb the exterior of the building to 1,200 feet. It’s one of the highest elevator rides in the world, and it’s not for the faint of heart.
Combination Packages
Some ticket bundles include both Levitation and Ascent, giving you access to all premium features in one purchase. These are the most complete experiences.
VIP Tickets
VIP passes typically include priority entry, exclusive access perks, and sometimes drinks or lounge benefits. These are best for visitors who want a seamless, time-saving experience.
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Ticket Prices and Age Categories
- Adults: General admission tickets start at around $42.
- Children (6–12 years): Prices usually begin at $36.
- Kids under 5: Free entry.
- Add-ons: Levitation and Ascent tickets come with an extra fee, usually between $10–$20 per person, depending on time and package.
- Peak vs. Off-Peak: Tickets cost more during sunset and evening slots, which are the most popular times. Off-peak tickets are cheaper and often less crowded.
Summit One Vanderbilt Tickets Price
When planning your visit to Summit One Vanderbilt, understanding the ticket prices is key to choosing the experience that best fits your budget and preferences. Ticket costs vary depending on age, time of day, and whether you choose add-ons like Levitation or Ascent.
General Admission
General admission starts at around $42 for adults and $36 for children (ages 6–12). Kids under 5 enter for free. This ticket gives you access to the observation decks, the mirrored art installation (Air), and the SUMMIT Terrace.
Levitation Tickets
If you want to step out onto the glass sky boxes suspended 1,000 feet above Madison Avenue, you’ll need a Levitation ticket. These cost slightly more than general admission, typically adding around $10–$15 per person.
Ascent Tickets
For the ultimate thrill, the Ascent glass elevator ride is available as a premium add-on. Tickets for Ascent usually cost about $20–$25 extra, and they tend to sell out quickly due to limited availability.
Combination Packages
Combination tickets, which bundle general admission, Levitation, and Ascent, are priced higher but offer the most complete experience. Expect to pay around $73–$82 for adults, depending on time and date.
Peak vs. Off-Peak Pricing
Prices vary depending on when you visit. Sunset and evening tickets are the most popular and therefore more expensive. Morning and weekday slots are cheaper and often less crowded.
VIP Tickets
For travelers who want a seamless experience, VIP options with priority entry and exclusive perks are also available. These are the most expensive, but they save time and add comfort, ideal if you’re visiting during peak hours.
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How to Buy Summit One Vanderbilt Tickets?
Purchasing tickets for Summit One Vanderbilt is simple, but choosing the right method can enhance your visit. From online bookings to last-minute purchases, here’s everything you need to know.
Official Website
The most reliable and popular way to buy tickets is through the Summit One Vanderbilt official website. The site lets you browse different ticket types: General Admission (basic entry), Levitation (glass sky boxes), and Ascent (glass elevator ride). You’ll also see available time slots, which is essential since entry is timed to avoid overcrowding. Booking directly guarantees authenticity, avoids hidden fees, and ensures you’ll get the most up-to-date availability. You can receive tickets via email, download them to your phone, or even add them to your digital wallet for easy access.
Ticketing Partners
If you prefer flexibility, several trusted platforms like GetYourGuide, Tiqets, and Viator sell Summit tickets. These sites often include flexible cancellation options, which the official site doesn’t always offer. Some ticketing partners also offer combo packages, for example, pairing Summit One Vanderbilt with the Empire State Building, One World Observatory, or a NYC city tour. This can save you money if you plan to see multiple attractions. Travelers who want one central booking platform for all activities in New York may find this option more convenient.
On-Site Counters
Tickets are available at the entrance to Summit One Vanderbilt, but this method carries a risk. Peak times like sunset and weekends often sell out days in advance, meaning walk-ins may only find availability for less desirable time slots. Buying on-site is best for travelers with flexible schedules who don’t mind visiting during early mornings or weekdays. It’s worth noting that ticket prices are usually the same as online, but you may spend extra time waiting in line to purchase them.
Mobile Tickets
Most online bookings, whether through the official site or a partner platform, come with mobile ticket options. These allow you to skip printing and simply scan your smartphone at the entrance. Mobile tickets are not only eco-friendly but also reduce the chance of losing your ticket during your trip. Many visitors recommend downloading tickets or taking a screenshot before arriving, since mobile data connections inside large buildings like Grand Central can sometimes be spotty. Having tickets ready to go speeds up entry and ensures a smoother experience.
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Best Time to Book Summit One Vanderbilt Tickets
Choosing the right time to book your tickets for Summit One Vanderbilt can completely transform your experience. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect at different times of day and year:
Morning Visits
Mornings are the quietest and least crowded time to visit Summit One Vanderbilt. With fewer people, you’ll have more space to enjoy the immersive mirrored rooms and observation decks. The lighting in the morning is also crisp and clear, which means better visibility across Manhattan and beyond, perfect for photographers who want unobstructed skyline shots. Morning tickets are often easier to secure at short notice and may cost less than peak-time tickets.
Afternoon Visits
In the afternoon, Summit takes on a warmer, brighter atmosphere as the sun climbs higher in the sky. The mirrored art installation, Air, looks especially striking during this time because natural light bounces off the reflective surfaces, creating dazzling effects. Afternoon visits are a good balance for travelers who want both good visibility and a livelier atmosphere, though crowds begin to pick up compared to the morning.
Sunset Visits
Sunset is the most popular and magical time to visit Summit One Vanderbilt. As the sun dips behind the skyline, the city transforms from golden hues into sparkling night lights. The mirrored floors amplify the colors of the sky, creating a surreal and unforgettable experience. Because this time slot is in high demand, tickets are priced higher and often sell out weeks in advance. If you want this experience, booking early is essential.
Evening Visits
Evening visits offer a completely different vibe. The lights of Manhattan twinkle below, and the immersive installations glow against the night sky, giving the entire experience a futuristic, dreamlike feel. Evening visits are popular with couples looking for a romantic outing, as well as those who want a more dramatic perspective of the city. Tickets for evening slots also sell quickly, so advanced booking is highly recommended.
Seasonal Considerations
Time of year matters just as much as time of day. Holiday seasons (December–January) and summer months (June–August) attract the most visitors, meaning tickets for prime times like sunset may sell out even earlier. In contrast, visiting during late winter or early spring often means fewer crowds and easier access to premium slots. Weather also plays a role: on clear days, you’ll see as far as the Hudson Valley, while rainy or foggy days may limit visibility but add a moody, atmospheric experience.
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Tips for Saving Money on Tickets
- Book Early: booking secures the best prices and time slots.
- Use Attraction Passes: Passes like CityPASS or Go City New York sometimes include Summit One Vanderbilt as part of their package.
- Visit Off-Peak: Choose weekday mornings or afternoons for lower rates.
- Group Discounts: Families or large groups may be eligible for discounts when booking together.
What’s Included with Your Ticket?
When purchasing Summit One Vanderbilt tickets, it’s important to know exactly what’s included. From immersive art installations to breathtaking observation decks and optional upgrades, each ticket offers a unique experience of New York City.
Access to Air
Every ticket includes entry to Kenzo Digital’s immersive installation, Air. This mirrored environment transforms the observation deck into a dreamlike world of endless reflections. As the city skyline bounces off the mirrored walls, floors, and ceilings, visitors feel as though they’re floating in an infinite space. It’s one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in New York City and a highlight of the Summit experience.
Observation Decks
No matter which ticket you choose, you’ll have access to multiple indoor and outdoor observation decks. From here, you can take in sweeping views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and even the Hudson River on a clear day. Each deck offers different perspectives, making it a photographer’s dream and an unforgettable way to see Manhattan from above.
SUMMIT Terrace
The SUMMIT Terrace is an open-air deck where visitors can step outside to feel the breeze while surrounded by skyscrapers. Unlike fully enclosed observation decks, this terrace offers a raw and exhilarating way to experience the city. It’s especially popular at sunset when the skyline glows in golden light, creating stunning photo opportunities.
Levitation & Ascent (Add-Ons)
While not included in basic tickets, premium options add access to the Levitation glass sky boxes and the Ascent glass elevator ride. Levitation lets you step into transparent cubes that extend 1,000 feet above Madison Avenue, giving the illusion of standing on air. Ascent, on the other hand, takes you up the side of the building in all-glass elevators for one of the highest rides in the world. These add-ons are thrilling and worth considering for adventure-seekers.
Après Lounge Access
All visitors can relax at the Après Lounge & Café, located at the top of Summit One Vanderbilt. While food and drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, the lounge offers cocktails, coffee, and light bites, all served with floor-to-ceiling windows. Many guests end their visit here, sipping a drink while enjoying panoramic views, a perfect way to round off the experience.
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Refunds, Rescheduling, and Policies
- Cancellations: Most tickets are non-refundable unless purchased with a flexible cancellation option through third-party vendors.
- Rescheduling: Date and time changes are possible for a small fee if arranged in advance.
- Weather: The summit remains open in most weather conditions, although extreme weather may affect access to the outdoor terrace or visibility.
Are Summit One Vanderbilt Tickets More Expensive at Sunset?
Yes. Sunset tickets are considered peak pricing, as this is the most popular time to visit. The experience of watching the skyline shift from golden hour into twinkling night lights is highly sought after, which is why these time slots cost more. For budget-conscious travelers, weekday mornings or afternoons are the most affordable.
Do I Need to Buy Tickets in Advance?
It’s highly recommended. While tickets are available at on-site counters, sunset and evening slots often sell out days or weeks in advance, especially on weekends and holidays. Booking online not only secures your preferred time but also provides digital entry, so you can skip the ticketing line.
Are There Discounts on Summit One Vanderbilt Tickets?
Discounts are limited but possible. Children under 5 always enter for free, while older children have reduced rates. Attraction passes like New York CityPASS or Go City New York occasionally include Summit One Vanderbilt, helping you save when bundling with other attractions. Group bookings may also qualify for discounted rates.
What’s the Difference Between General Admission, Levitation, and Ascent Tickets?
- General Admission includes the mirrored art installation (Air), observation decks, and SUMMIT Terrace.
- Levitation Tickets add access to the glass sky boxes suspended 1,000 feet above Madison Avenue.
- Ascent Tickets include a thrilling ride in glass elevators on the building’s exterior, climbing to 1,200 feet.
Each upgrade makes the experience more immersive and adrenaline-packed.
Can I Reschedule or Get a Refund on Tickets?
Most Summit One Vanderbilt tickets are non-refundable, but some flexible options are available if you book through third-party platforms. Rescheduling may be possible for a small fee if arranged in advance. In cases of extreme weather affecting visibility or outdoor access, the venue may allow changes.
How Long Do Tickets Give You at Summit One Vanderbilt?
There’s no strict time limit once you’re inside. Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the different levels, installations, sky boxes, and the café. If you plan on taking lots of photos or enjoying a drink at Après Lounge, you may want to allow extra time.
Conclusion
Visiting Summit One Vanderbilt is one of the most unforgettable experiences in New York City, offering a blend of art, architecture, and breathtaking skyline views. Whether you opt for a general admission ticket or go all-in with Levitation and Ascent, planning your tickets ensures you’ll get the best views at the best time. With flexible options for families, thrill-seekers, and VIP travelers, there’s a ticket for everyone, making Summit One Vanderbilt a must-do on your NYC itinerary.
