About this experience
Many of New York's most iconic skyscrapers, like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, are here in Midtown. Discover the bold geometric style of Art Deco and the glamorous flourishes of Beaux-Arts as your guide points at the details. You'll pass cultural giants like Macy’s and the monumental New York Public Library as you relive the drama of the skyscraper race a century ago.
Your experience culminates at over 1,000 feet up as you explore three immersive floors at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. You'll enjoy a 90-minute guided tour and skip the line for entry as well as for the hugely popular Levitation: unique glass overlooks that let you feel like you're standing atop New York. This experience also includes a cocktail in the Après Lounge and your choice of entry times, even the coveted sunset hours.
At a glance
- Duration: 3 hr
- Private experience
What is included
- Private NYC tour guide
- Cocktail or other drink at Après inside SUMMIT
- Private 90-minute outdoor walking tour
- Gratuities
- Skip-the-line entry to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
- Dedicated ambassador at SUMMIT
- Private 90-minute SUMMIT tour
Not included
- Champagne at Après
Itinerary and highlights
Capture the perfect photo of this Art Deco landmark as your guide shares the story behind its creation and the remarkable challenges that shaped it
Discover how Macy’s helped define American retail culture and why this intersection remains one of New York’s most influential crossroads
Enjoy the bustle and beauty of this 9.6-acre greenspace, affectionately known as the town square of Midtown Manhattan. Meanwhile, your guide points out the towering skyscrapers surrounding you, such as the American Radiator Building, and their enduring influence on artists
Learn about the history of this Beaux-Arts beauty and its role in shaping New York as you admire one of the city’s most beautiful examples of this architectural style. The library hides more than just books but also surprising cultural treasures, as you’ll soon learn.
Hear the story of the rivalry that reshaped Manhattan’s skyline, while taking in stunning views of the Chrysler Building and the craftsmanship that defines it.
Your visit concludes above the city as you explore all three levels of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. You’ll enjoy expedited entry, a dedicated ambassador for a private 90-minute guided visit, and the flexibility to choose your entry time, including coveted sunset hours. A signature cocktail is also included, offering the perfect end to a memorable day.
Meeting and pickup information
- Your private guide will be waiting for you outside the Gregorian Hotel at 42 W. 35th St.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- ExperienceFirst
Accessibility and practical details
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- You can choose anytime to visit the observatory, including premium sunset hours. We’ll reserve your timed ticket in advance. After your 90-minute private guided tour of the attraction, you can stay as long as you like inside.
- We recommend comfortable, non-marking shoes. Stiletto heels, work boots, cleats, and other footwear that can damage flooring aren’t allowed inside SUMMIT. The observatory has many reflective floors so they also recommend wearing pants, shorts, or tights and bringing sunglasses for the reflected sunlight.
- Enjoy a complimentary cocktail at Après, a Nordic-themed bar inside SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. You can also choose a nonalcoholic drink or other beverage. Only champagne is excluded.
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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