Summit One Vanderbilt, located at 45 E 42nd St, provides an unforgettable opportunity to see New York City from 1,200 feet above the streets, surrounded by glass walls and reflective surfaces that create a breathtaking 360° view of the skyline. On May 27, 2025, you can visit this modern observation deck, open daily from 9 AM to 10 PM, to enjoy panoramic sights of landmarks like the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Hudson River, all while snapping stunning sunset photos in its unique mirrored rooms. This guide offers detailed information on visiting Summit One Vanderbilt, including photography tips, nearby dining options, and ways to make your trip truly special. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker, this attraction promises a memorable experience with its blend of innovative design and incredible vistas.
What Is Summit One Vanderbilt?
Summit One Vanderbilt is a state-of-the-art observation deck spanning the 91st to 93rd floors of One Penn 1, offering unparalleled 360° views of New York City that make it a must-visit destination. You can reach it easily by taking the 4, 5, 6, or 7 train to Grand Central-42nd St, just a two-minute walk away, making it incredibly convenient to incorporate into your day. Open from 9 AM to 10 PM every day, the deck features three floors filled with glass ledges, mirrored rooms, and immersive spaces like the “Ascent” glass elevators that provide thrilling perspectives of the city below. Covering 65,000 square feet, it allows you to see iconic landmarks such as the Chrysler Building, One World Trade Center, and the distant Statue of Liberty on clear days. A typical visit lasts about one to two hours, with sunset around 8 PM in May being an especially beautiful time to capture the city’s golden glow. Booking tickets a week in advance through the official website ensures you secure a spot during peak hours, and it’s a good idea to review their bag policies beforehand to streamline your entry. For a comfortable stay close to the action, consider reserving a room at a nearby hotel to make your visit even more convenient.
Add Summit One Vanderbilt to your one day guided tour and catch colorful sunset reflections on mirrored walls.
Capturing the Perfect Sunset Photo
Taking a stunning sunset photo at Summit One Vanderbilt is a highlight for many visitors, thanks to its glass-and-mirror design that reflects the city’s lights in captivating ways. To make the most of the 8 PM sunset in May, plan to arrive by 7:30 PM, easily accessible via the B, D, F, or M train to 42nd St-Bryant Park, a short five-minute walk from the entrance. The 91st floor’s open-air terrace offers the best spot for unobstructed shots, where you can frame the Empire State Building against the vibrant sky. For clear photos, use a smartphone with HDR mode to balance the bright sunset and darker buildings, or bring a DSLR with a 24–70mm lens for professional-quality results. Avoid using flash to prevent unwanted reflections on the glass, and position yourself close to the windows for the sharpest views. The 92nd floor’s “Silver” room, with its mirrored walls, adds a creative twist to your shots, letting you capture the sunset’s glow in unique reflections. Tripods under two feet are permitted, but check the website for other photography restrictions to avoid surprises. Bringing a portable charger ensures your device stays powered for plenty of photos, and wiping your lens with a microfiber cloth beforehand keeps your images crisp. Share your best shots on Instagram with #SummitOneVanderbilt to join the community of visitors showcasing their experiences.
Best Spots Inside Summit One Vanderbilt
Summit One Vanderbilt’s three floors each offer distinct areas that make your visit visually spectacular, whether you’re there for the views or creative photo opportunities. On the 91st floor, the outdoor terrace provides a full 360° panorama, perfect for spotting Central Park’s green expanse or the glittering lights of Midtown Manhattan as the sun sets. Glass ledges extend over the edge, letting you peer straight down at Madison Avenue for a thrilling perspective. The 92nd floor’s “Reflect” room, with its floor-to-ceiling mirrors, creates an infinite array of reflections, ideal for snapping artistic selfies or group shots that capture the space’s futuristic vibe. On the 93rd floor, the “Ascent” glass elevators take you even higher, offering sweeping views of the skyline as you ride. You can get there quickly using the 4, 5, or 6 train to Grand Central-42nd St, just a two-minute walk away. Plan to spend about 30 minutes on each floor to fully enjoy the different spaces, and consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid larger crowds. The official website provides accessibility details, including ramp availability for wheelchairs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience. Since no food is available inside, bringing a water bottle keeps you refreshed, and the gift shop offers souvenirs like custom photo prints to remember your visit.
Just steps from Grand Central, Summit One Vanderbilt fits easily into any one day tour of Midtown Manhattan.
Getting to Summit One Vanderbilt
Reaching Summit One Vanderbilt at 45 E 42nd St is straightforward, thanks to its prime location near major transit hubs, making it easy to fit into your NYC itinerary. The closest subway stop is Grand Central-42nd St, served by the 4, 5, 6, and 7 trains, just a two-minute walk from the entrance, ensuring you can arrive without hassle. Alternatively, take the B, D, F, or M train to 42nd St-Bryant Park, a five-minute walk away, or hop on the M42 bus, which stops right on 42nd Street. If you’re coming by NYC Ferry, the East 34th St dock is a quick 10-minute subway ride away, connecting you to the deck efficiently. Arriving 15 minutes early allows time to clear security, and using a MetroCard simplifies your transit across the city. For those with luggage, Grand Central offers storage facilities to keep your bags secure while you visit. If driving, consider parking at Pier 40, accessible via the C or E train to Spring St, followed by a 10-minute subway ride to Grand Central. Checking the MTA website for real-time subway updates helps you avoid delays, and apps like Citymapper can plan your route seamlessly. For groups, setting a meeting point at Grand Central’s iconic clock ensures everyone stays together. Staying at a hotel nearby makes your visit even smoother, letting you focus on enjoying the views.
From mirrored ceilings to skyline views, Summit delivers top sightseeing in Manhattan with a twist.
Nearby Attractions to Visit
Visiting Summit One Vanderbilt pairs wonderfully with other nearby attractions, allowing you to create a full day of memorable experiences in Midtown Manhattan. Just a five-minute walk away, Bryant Park, accessible via the B, D, F, or M train to 42nd St-Bryant Park, is open until 10 PM and offers free games, seating, and a charming carousel that’s great for families. Grand Central Terminal, only two minutes away on foot, features historic architecture, shops, and dining options open until 8 PM, perfect for a quick stop. The New York Public Library at 476 Fifth Ave, a seven-minute walk, welcomes visitors until 6 PM with free exhibits showcasing rare books and art, adding a cultural touch to your day. Plan to spend one to two hours at each attraction to balance your time with Summit One Vanderbilt, and use a MetroCard to move between spots effortlessly. Checking attraction hours online ensures you don’t miss out, as some close earlier than others. All sites offer ramps for accessibility, making them welcoming for everyone. If you’re with kids, Bryant Park’s activities keep them entertained, and staying at a nearby hotel lets you relax after a busy day.
The mirrored balloon room at Summit One Vanderbilt is one of Midtown’s photogenic hidden gems.
Dining Options Near Summit One Vanderbilt
Finding a great meal near Summit One Vanderbilt enhances your visit, with options to suit every taste just steps from the observation deck. Inside Summit One, a café on the 91st floor serves light snacks like pastries and drinks until 10 PM, but for a full meal, you’ll want to head nearby. Pershing Square, located at 90 E 42nd St, just a three-minute walk from the 4, 5, or 6 train to 42nd St, is open until 10 PM and offers a menu of burgers, salads, and hearty American dishes in a cozy setting. For a more upscale experience, The Grill at 99 E 52nd St, reachable in seven minutes via the 6 train to 51st St, serves expertly prepared steaks and seafood until 11 PM, perfect for a special evening. Reserving a table through OpenTable is a smart move for popular spots, especially during peak hours. Since Summit One’s café is limited, bringing a reusable water bottle keeps you hydrated, and Pershing Square offers vegetarian options like grain bowls for diverse diets. After dining, a short walk to Bryant Park provides a relaxing spot to unwind under the stars. Using a MetroCard makes getting around simple, and checking menus online helps you plan your meal.
Family-Friendly Activities at Summit One Vanderbilt
Summit One Vanderbilt is a fantastic destination for families, offering engaging activities that keep kids and teens entertained while providing stunning views for all to enjoy. The 92nd floor’s mirrored “Reflect” room is a hit with teenagers, who love taking selfies in the infinite reflections, creating fun and shareable moments. On the 91st floor, the glass ledges offer an exciting view straight down to the streets below, thrilling older kids with a safe yet adventurous experience. The 93rd floor’s “Ascent” glass elevators, which soar above the city, captivate visitors of all ages with their panoramic vistas. You can get there easily via the 4, 5, or 6 train to Grand Central-42nd St, just a two-minute walk away. The entire visit typically takes one to two hours, a manageable duration for families with young children. Checking the official website for stroller policies helps you prepare, and since the café only offers snacks, packing a few treats keeps kids happy. After your visit, a five-minute walk to Bryant Park offers a carousel and open spaces for kids to play until 10 PM, extending the fun. Ramps and elevators ensure accessibility for strollers and wheelchairs, and bringing a small toy can keep younger children occupied during downtime. Staying at a nearby hotel makes it easy to rest after an exciting day.
After your visit to Summit, check out Broadway shows just a short walk from this iconic skyscraper.
Planning Your Visit to Summit One Vanderbilt
Creating a well-planned day around Summit One Vanderbilt ensures you make the most of its incredible views and nearby attractions, leaving you with lasting memories. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, located at 708 3rd Ave, just a five-minute walk from the 6 train to 42nd St, open until 8 PM with fresh pastries and sandwiches. Then, head to Summit One Vanderbilt by 7:30 PM, easily reachable via the 4, 5, or 6 train to Grand Central-42nd St, a two-minute walk, to catch the 8 PM sunset and spend one to two hours enjoying the deck’s sights. Afterward, take a five-minute stroll to Bryant Park, where you can relax with evening games or a carousel ride until 10 PM, perfect for winding down. Budget about six to seven hours for the entire day, including meals and transit, and bring a MetroCard to hop between locations effortlessly. Packing cash for snacks at Summit One’s café and a blanket for a cozy park break adds comfort. Checking the MTA website for subway updates keeps your travel smooth, and staying at a nearby hotel simplifies your logistics, letting you focus on the experience.
Catch sunset at Summit during your one day sightseeing tour—just in time for those epic golden-hour shots.
Nearby Entertainment Options
Complementing your Summit One Vanderbilt visit with nearby entertainment options adds excitement to your day, with Midtown’s vibrant offerings just a short walk or subway ride away. A 10-minute walk to the Theater District, accessible via the B, D, F, or M train to 47-50th Sts-Rockefeller Center, brings you to the Richard Rodgers Theatre, where Hamilton performs at 7 PM, offering a captivating Broadway experience. Booking Hamilton tickets through the official website well in advance secures your spot for this popular show. Alternatively, the Museum of Modern Art at 11 W 53rd St, a seven-minute walk via the E or M train to 5th Ave/53rd St, is open until 7 PM, showcasing world-class art exhibits that inspire visitors of all ages. Plan to spend two to three hours at either a show or the museum to fully enjoy them without rushing. Using a MetroCard makes transit seamless, and checking showtimes or exhibit schedules online helps you coordinate your day. Both venues offer ramps for accessibility, ensuring everyone can participate, and Hamilton is suitable for teens, making it a great family option. Staying at a nearby hotel keeps you close to the action for a relaxed evening.
Accessibility and Amenities at Summit One Vanderbilt
Summit One Vanderbilt is designed to be welcoming for all visitors, with thoughtful accessibility features and amenities that ensure a comfortable experience. The entire deck, from the 91st to 93rd floors, is equipped with ramps and elevators, making it fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, and you can reach it via the step-free Grand Central-42nd St station, served by the 4, 5, or 6 train, just a two-minute walk away. Restrooms on the 91st floor include wheelchair-friendly stalls, and the café offers snacks like granola bars and drinks, though it lacks seating, so nearby restaurants like Pershing Square are better for full meals. The official website provides sensory guides for neurodiverse visitors, helping you plan a visit that suits your needs. Arriving 15 minutes early allows time to clear security, and bringing a water bottle keeps you hydrated, as on-site dining is limited. For groups, setting a meeting point at the entrance near 42nd St helps everyone stay coordinated. The gift shop sells keepsakes like postcards and photo prints, perfect for commemorating your trip. Choosing a hotel nearby ensures you can rest easily after your visit.
Pair this jaw-dropping skyline view with MJ the Musical tickets for a night of unbeatable Midtown magic.
Your Summit One Vanderbilt Adventure
Visiting Summit One Vanderbilt on May 27, 2025, offers a remarkable chance to see New York City’s skyline from a glass-and-mirror observation deck, capturing sunset photos that you’ll treasure for years. To extend your trip, pick up a Queens travel guide to discover queens tourist attractions like Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, or immerse yourself in Broadway theater with MJ the Musical tickets New York for a night of entertainment. A One day guided tour New York City pairs perfectly with your visit, covering more of NYC’s highlights, while city cruises offer a relaxing way to see the skyline from the water.
Plan your perfect day with New York City tourism site to create an unforgettable NYC experience. Also, explore top sight seeing in New York, find last minute Broadway tickets NYC, or discover the best budget friendly hotels in NYC. If you’re traveling with loved ones, consider the best places to stay with family in New York, or plan a Manhattan day trip. Don’t miss unique shows like The Play That Goes Wrong NYC theater and The Outsiders New York to complete your Broadway experience.
