One World Observatory
4.7(26K)google
3.9(906)yelp
Contemporary Art
Overview
Perched proudly atop the monumental, vertical, and globally recognized One World Trade Center skyscraper, this state-of-the-art observatory offers an exceptionally sophisticated viewing experience from the highest point in the city. Rising across the 100th, 101st, and 102nd floors into the Lower Manhattan sky, the platform features a spectacular high-speed SkyPod elevator network enclosed beautifully in multimedia time-lapse displays. Visitors enjoy breathtaking, unparalleled panoramic 360-degree vistas that extend beautifully across the entire oceanic horizon and sprawling metropolitan tri-state landscape.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 1.5-2 hours
Best TimeOne hour before sunset on a clear day. As the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, the fully enclosed 100th-102nd floor observatory provides a commanding 360-degree vista of the Hudson and East rivers, Brooklyn Bridge, and Lady Liberty.
Getting ThereLocated in Lower Manhattan at 117 West St. Take the E subway line to World Trade Center station, or the 1/R/W lines to Cortlandt St station. The observatory entrance integrates directly into the lower levels of the Oculus concourse.
Travel Tips
- Standard general admission tickets feature a strict timed-entry policy and become non-refundable if missed; if your schedule is unpredictable, upgrade to a flexible 'All-Inclusive' pass to enter at any hour on your selected date.
Photo Tips
Gear
- Since the observation deck is fully enclosed by double-paned glass, indoor ambient lights cause severe night reflections; press your lens flush against the glass surface or utilize a rubber lens hood to isolate reflections.
Photo Rules
- Access to the observatory requires passing airport-style security screenings; professional tripods, selfie sticks, oversized backpacks, and outside food/beverages are strictly banned, with no storage lockers available on site.
Reviews
Positive
- As the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, standing on its fully enclosed observation deck offers an unmatched 360-degree panoramic view of NYC's three major bridges and the Hudson River.
- The high-tech SkyPod elevator experience is fantastic, utilizing immersive LED animations to show centuries of Manhattan's skyline evolution in just 47 seconds—full of fun.
- Seamlessly connected to the 9/11 Memorial and the Oculus hub, the location is superb; its crowd control, security, and multilingual digital guides are thorough and efficient.
Heads up
- The observation deck is fully enclosed by massive glass windows; intense sunlight or nighttime indoor lights cause severe reflections on the glass, undermining photo quality.
- The general admission ticket is quite pricey, and it contains high secondary spending options like extra-fee interactive iPad guides or premium dining, making it less value for money.
- Even with a pre-purchased online timed-entry ticket, you still have to go through over half an hour of winding security lines and elevator queues, which can feel exhausting during holiday peaks.