This is the main rooftop experience, a spacious, open-air terrace perched over 1,100 feet above Manhattan. It offers panoramic views of the NYC skyline with modern, minimal glass barriers for unobstructed photo ops. There’s no art installation here, just you, the wind, and the city.
Get ready to cap off your immersive journey at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt with a visit to its rooftop terrace. This open-air oasis is perched nearly 1,100 feet above Midtown Manhattan with no glass between you and the view. It’s the perfect place to experience New York from a fresh, elevated perspective.
What’s on the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt rooftop
-min.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&w=702.4499999999999&h=401.4&q=90&ar=7%3A4&crop=faces&fit=crop)
Après Lounge
Located on the upper floor just before the rooftop, Après offers cozy indoor seating, a Scandinavian-inspired design, and floor-to-ceiling windows with a dramatic skyline backdrop. You can purchase drinks or light snacks here and then take them to the indoor seating area.
Outdoor Après terrace
Just off the main Après lounge, this semi-outdoor extension lets you sip a cocktail or coffee while still enjoying the open sky and views, weather-permitting. Limited seating is available, and it’s a great transition space between the immersive interior levels and the full rooftop deck.
Rooftop photo spots
Strategically designed photography zones along the rooftop perimeter give you the best angles for skyline selfies, group shots, or dramatic solo portraits with landmarks like the Empire State Building directly behind you.
Minimalist seating areas
While SUMMIT’s rooftop is largely designed for walking and standing views, a few seating nooks and benches are built into the perimeter, offering rest points without compromising the minimalist design.
Nighttime lighting features
After sunset, the rooftop transforms with soft ambient lighting that lines the perimeter, subtly illuminating the space without overwhelming the city views, ideal for romantic moments, twilight photography, or stargazing.
When to visit the rooftop
- Daytime: Clear, bright conditions offer the sharpest views of NYC landmarks. On a good day, you can see for miles in every direction and even spot the Statue of Liberty on the southern horizon.
- Golden hour: About one hour before sunset is the best time to visit and capture gorgeous pictures with soft, golden light bathing the skyline in magical hues.
- Sunset: Watch the sky shift from warm tones to deep blues as the city lights begin to sparkle during sunset, a truly unforgettable moment from 1,100 feet up.
- Night: After dark, the rooftop transforms into a peaceful vantage point above the city’s glow, perfect for a romantic view or quiet reflection.
Rooftop highlights
Tips while on the rooftop
- Included with your ticket: Rooftop access is included with all standard SUMMIT One Vanderbilt tickets at no additional charge. To enjoy the full experience, choose from General Admission, Night Experience, or a Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Access.
- Catch Astronomy Nights: On select evenings, SUMMIT hosts Astronomy Nights on the rooftop, where you can stargaze through telescopes and learn about the night sky. Check the event schedule for upcoming dates here.
- Weather-dependent entry: The rooftop is open-air and may close temporarily during rain, snow, or high winds. Always check the forecast before your visit to avoid disappointment.
- Fully accessible: The rooftop is wheelchair accessible and is reachable via elevator or escalator, ensuring everyone can enjoy the view comfortably.
- What you can (and can’t) bring: Strollers, food, and drinks are not allowed on the rooftop for safety and cleanliness. However, you can relax with refreshments in the indoor Après lounge before or after.
- Dress for the elevation: It can be noticeably cooler and windier at rooftop height, especially in the evening. A light jacket is a smart choice, even in warmer months.
Frequently asked questions about the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt rooftop
The rooftop is open most days, but may close during rain, high winds, or snow for safety. Check the weather forecast before your visit.
The rooftop is designed for walking and views. Limited seating is available near the perimeter, but keep in mind that shade is minimal.
Yes! On select evenings, the rooftop hosts Astronomy Nights, where you can stargaze through telescopes and learn about celestial sights with expert guidance.
On a clear day, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, Central Park, One World Trade Center, and even the Statue of Liberty. Visibility can extend up to 80 miles in every direction.
Yes, the entire SUMMIT experience, including the rooftop, is fully accessible via elevators and ramps. Those with mobility needs can comfortably access the terrace.
