Today, I want to tell you about the newest attraction in New York City, the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, which is very different from anything you have seen before, as it shows you the city in a magical way. Don’t forget that you are in the Big Apple, where everything is possible!
This 93-story skyscraper is one of the newest additions to the city’s skyline. A glass building located in the heart of Midtown, right next to Grand Central Station. What has caused a sensation is that in addition to offering beautiful views of the city, it does so through immersive experiences that push you to see New York in a fun way.
Before starting, they show you a movie to better understand the concept of everything you are about to see and feel that same sensation of being trapped in another dimension. I liked the transition from the movie, the white hallway with color changing lights that you walk through to the first Kenzo Digital experience: Air (which includes Transcendence 1 and 2 and Affinity).
As soon as you enter, I assure you that you will be completely wowed! There are so many things at the same time, that you don’t know whether to look at the mirrors first, run to the windows to see the buildings, take a photo or video… it’s a feeling of wanting to do everything at the same time. It is like being trapped in another dimension through the impressive installation of mirrors. Remember those special effects from the movie Inception? That was the first thing that came to my mind.
The views are spectacular, but what stands out is the proximity of the Chrysler and Empire State buildings, it is definitely where you will get the best shots of these two icons. Also with the reflection of the mirrors, the photos are totally different. Take your time, experiment, lie on the floor, have fun in this world that they created for you.
Within Air, there is also the work of Clouds by famous Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, a stainless steel installation with patina and wax divided into 90 pieces.
Affinity, is another of the main experiences within the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, which is still part of Air. It is a much smaller room full of silver balls, which offers a more interactive experience because you can touch them, in order to connect you with the space in which you are submerged.
The other experiences are shorter, but also very cool. Levitation are two or three small spaces where, in addition to the window, there is a glass floor, in such a way that you can feel that you are “levitating” over the city (and yes, take another incredible photo). The time there is very short, as they have it organized to avoid crowds. They themselves organize the queue, the picture and you have two options: keep the ones they take with your own camera and/or buy the professional one they take with theirs.
The third experience is Ascent, which offers the opportunity to go even higher through a glass elevator (that starts from the terrace, not from below), where you can appreciate the city in all its splendor from the highest point. When you go up, they stop the elevator for a few seconds at the top, and then you go back down again. This part is optional in the purchase of the ticket.
Après is the ultimate experience that basically consists of appreciating the views from an outdoor terrace with a bar where you can buy drinks and slowly digest everything you just experienced.
Practical Information
How long does it take to see SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
Calculate around 2 to 3 hours.
Is it recommended to buy tickets in advance?
Definitely! To begin with, it is new and gets very crowded, but they also require a date and time of entry.
How to dress?
Very important! Do not wear a skirt or dress, as the floors are mirrored.
Wear comfortable shoes, in the mirror area (Transcendence 1 and 2), they will give you something to cover your feet so as to not damage the mirrors.
Wear sunglasses, the reflection hurts a lot. Although if you forget them, don’t worry because they will give you some at the entrance.
How much does it cost?
It depends on the experience you want to have and your age. For example, for adults, there are $39, $59 and $73 tickets (July 2022 prices). I know, the prices in New York are not cheap at all, but if there is an investment that you have to make, I assure you that it is this one. For me, it is one of the buildings that you should not miss for any reason.
What else can I tell you, I think you already noticed that I was fascinated by this attraction, I feel that SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is a reflection of what a city like New York is: original, creative, fun and unique. And only by living it will you understand.
Would you like to get to know NYC and live experiences like this? Make sure to contact us at info@tripdreaming.com to design and organize your trip 100% customized through our travel agency Tripdreaming.
