Summit One Vanderbilt
Summit One Vanderbilt is a unique cultural experience provided by the observatory located atop One Vanderbilt building, at the intersection of 42nd Street and Vanderbilt Avenue in Manhattan.
The building, which opened on September 14, 2020, boasts 73 floors, most of which are dedicated to offices and the Le Pavillon restaurant. The top three floors are occupied by the observatory.
The idea behind Summit is to create something beyond a mere observation deck. It combines elements of art, technology, architecture, and emotion to transform the traditional concept of an "observation deck" into something entirely new.
The term “Summit” is an English word that means peak or summit, reflecting its location and the experience of being at the pinnacle. In fact, the observatory is situated in the fourth tallest skyscraper in New York City.
The purpose is to challenge your perception of the city, the environment, and even yourself. Summit offers an immersive "Art in the Round" experience designed by Kenzo Digital, using transparency and reflectivity to create the illusion of infinite space.
From the top of One Vanderbilt, you have incredible panoramic views of New York City, including Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the city skyline. In addition to the views, the observatory offers interactive exhibitions that challenge your mind and stimulate creativity.
You can access it through the transit hall of Grand Central Terminal (if you're in the main area of the station) or through the doors next to TD Bank in the building itself. Remember that access to Summit is not through the main lobby of the building.
The museum is open every day from 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., with tickets starting at $42 for adults.
■ Nearest subway lines: 4, 5, 6, and 7, as well as the Shuttle at Grand Central, 42nd Street.
■ Bus routes include M101, M102, M103, M1, M2, M3, M4, Q32, and M42.
By now, you must be wondering why the name Vanderbilt and what significance it holds for New York City.
The Vanderbilt family had a fascinating presence during New York City's Gilded Age. Their struggle for acceptance in the highest circles of Manhattan and Newport forms a captivating saga of a social dynasty, as depicted in the Netflix series The Gilded Age.
Cornelius Vanderbilt, the family patriarch also known as "Commodore," started out as a ferryman and ferry business entrepreneur in Staten Island, New York. The nickname stemmed from his involvement in this public transportation sector.
Moreover, he controlled the New York Central Railroad, the world's first four-track railroad that connected New York City to Chicago. Another testament to the family's influence in this sector was the iconic Grand Central Terminal.
Vanderbilt's ventures in the railroad and shipping industries made him one of the wealthiest men in the United States, and his business acumen turned his family into a successful dynasty.
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April 12, 2024
Davilmar Santos