

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio joined city officials, developers, and tenants in cutting the ribbon for One Vanderbilt. In addition to its superlative height (yes, there’s a yet-to-open outdoor observation deck, slated to also be the second-highest in the city), the LEED and WELL-certification-aiming One Vanderbilt is also being touted as one of the most ecologically sensitive skyscrapers in New York, boasting $17 million’s worth of various sustainability features including high-performance glazing that helps to minimize heating and cooling needs and a 90,000-gallon rainwater collection system.

That is, save for the facial coverings, social distancing, and pointedly optimistic, forward-thinking prepared statements that focused on perseverance and a very near future when life within New York City’s normally bustling commercial districts and the cloud-brushing, billion-dollar skyscrapers that populate them will resume to something more closely resembling normal.Īs project architect Kohn Pedersen Fox ( KPF) describes the 77-story addition to the Manhattan skyline that, at just over 1,400 feet tall, stands as the second tallest office tower in the entire city: “One Vanderbilt symbolizes the city’s resilience and looks to the future of its central business district with a number of public realm benefits, carefully crafted materiality, and a tapered form that establishes a striking skyline presence.” Whether looking for things to do during a weekend in New York City or scouring for itinerary inspiration to fill a whole week, visiting SUMMIT One Vanderbilt won't be a regrettable decision - unless the fear of heights is really severe.One Vanderbilt, a soaring glass- and terra cotta-clad supertall tower adjacent to Grand Central Terminal in Midtown Manhattan, officially opened yesterday during a ribbon-cutting ceremony that, for the most part, proceeded in typically festive fashion. As one of the best things to do in Manhattan (or perhaps even as far as the best things to do in NYC), this observation deck-meets-art exhibition is a bucket list item worthy of even the choosiest travelers who are hard to impress. With three unique floors and several rooms to explore - each packing its own special surprises, perks, and experiences - SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is one heck of a party for the senses. Plus, the building's ideal central location in Midtown Manhattan earns it even more favor among tourists seeking out amazing things to do in the Big Apple. SUMMIT isn't just another NYC observation deck it's an immersive art installation and entire experience on the inside as much as it is an observatory. If SUMMIT One Vanderbilt testimonials bear weight, this experience is one of the top NYC attractions and is absolutely worth the time and money spent exploring its spaces and sublime city views.
