Everything you need to know about visiting One World Observatory (285 Fulton St, New York, 10007).
Not only does it have the trippiest elevator in the city, One World Observatory is also a fierce contender for best views in the city. Ride up to the 102nd floor surrounded by a VR-like film, then admire the 360-degree views at the top of the tower. Opened in 2015, the three-floor observation deck is a tourist attraction atop the offices below, but the sights truly are spectacular. Standing at 1,776 feet (see what they did there?), One World Trade Center is the tallest building in both New York City and the United States. Tickets are $34 for adults, $32 for seniors and $28 for children.
See the sights
Gawk at the entirety of Manhattan and the Empire State Building on one side and the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg Bridges on the other—and then Governors Island and the Statue of Liberty on the other. (There are 360-degree views, remember?) Sure, it’s a tourist attraction, but that doesn’t make the sights any less amazing, and you’ll want to spend hours playing eye spy with Times Square and Central Park. Head up first thing in the morning—it opens at 9am—to beat the afternoon rush, or be prepared to fights the crowds once sunset comes around. It stays open until 10pm, and yes, you should go back at night to get a completely different (but just as stunning) view.
Watch your feet
Make sure you hop onto the Sky Portal, a 14-foot glass circle that’s easy to miss on your first pass. But you should double back: The platform is covered with a projection of actual video footage of the street more than 1,000 feet below. You’ll feel like a giant as you stomp on that pesky cab that almost ran you over on the way in.
Work up an appetite
The Observatory has not one, not two, but three dining options. The most casual is One Café, serving coffee and sandwiches. Next is One Mix, a slightly less casual grill and bar. Finally, there’s One Dining, a swanky restaurant perfect for impressing guests as you watch the sun set over New Jersey.
Our New York editorial team is constantly updating and reviewing the best attractions, activities and venues across the city, so that you're always in the know, with the best of NYC. at your fingertips. One World Observatory was most recently updated with new tips on June 30, 2017.