From One World Observatory, you can see New York City from one of Manhattan's tallest observation decks.
The entire experience is modern and high-tech, starting with the elevator ride, followed by a time-lapse video at the Forever Theater, and digital guides that provide insights into NYC. Dear Lykkers! This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting One World Observatory.
<h3>What is one world observatory?</h3>
One World Observatory is located at the top of One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. It opened to the public in May 2015, following the building's opening on November 3, 2014.
Situated across three levels of One World Trade Center, the highest level, the 102nd floor, offers an indoor observation deck at 1,268 feet. This makes it the highest indoor observation deck in New York City. For a slightly higher view, you can visit the Apex at Edge, an outdoor observation deck at 1,271 feet. Access to the Apex at Edge requires wearing a harness and climbing up the outside of the skyscraper.
<h3>How to get to One World Trade Center?</h3>
One World Trade Center is situated at 285 Fulton Street, with its entrance on West Street.
For subway access, the closest stop is the World Trade Center station on the E line. You can also reach One World Trade Center from the Rector Street station (Line 1), the Park Place station (Lines 2 and 3), or the Cortlandt Street station (Line R).
If you're taking the PATH train, you can travel from Hoboken or Newark to the World Trade Center station.
For those taking a taxi, Uber, or Lyft, the recommended drop-off point is at the intersection of Vesey Street and West Street.
<h3> How to visit One World Observatory?</h3>
<b>Hours of operation</b>
The One World Observatory is open 7 days a week. Normally, it operates from 9 am to 9 pm, although these hours may vary depending on the season.
<b>Buying tickets</b>
Tickets for the One World Observatory can be bought at the Box Office starting at 9:00 am. To ensure better availability, it's recommended to purchase tickets online through either the One World Observatory website or the GetYourGuide website.
<h3>Ticket options – One World Observatory</h3>
Here's a breakdown of the different ticket options available for the One World Observatory:
<b>1.Standard General Admission Tickets: </b>
- Prices start at $44 for adults, plus applicable taxes and processing fees.
- Includes timed entry specified during online purchase.
<b>2.Combination Tickets: </b>
- Prices start at $54 for adults, plus applicable taxes and processing fees.
- Provides timed entry with priority access to security checks and elevators, reducing wait times.
<b>3.All-Inclusive Tickets: </b>
- Prices start at $64 for adults, plus applicable taxes and processing fees.
- Allows selection of a 3 to 4-hour entry window instead of a specific time.
- Includes priority access to security checks and elevators.
- Includes a $15 discount for purchases at onsite facilities like cafes, restaurants, or gift shops.
<b>4.VIP Tour Tickets: </b>
- Prices start at $74 for adults, plus applicable taxes and processing fees.
- Offers a VIP experience with escorted entry and a guided tour.
- Includes a $15 discount for purchases at onsite facilities.
These ticket options cater to different preferences and needs, offering various levels of access, flexibility, and additional perks to enhance your visit experience.
<h3>What to expect on your visit to One World Observatory</h3>
After presenting your tickets, you'll have the opportunity to pose for photos. Following that, you'll walk past the Horizon Grid, which displays photos and videos showcasing nearby places and historic moments in New York City.
<h3>Elevator ride to the 102nd floor</h3>
The elevator ride to the 102nd floor is considered the highlight among observation decks in New York City. Inside the SkyPod Elevators, LED screens cover all four walls.
As the elevator rises, you'll witness a mesmerizing time-lapse transformation of New York City, showcasing its evolution and growth over time. You'll see the initial settlements give way to larger buildings and eventually the iconic skyscrapers that define the city today.
<h3>See Forever Theater</h3>
Before entering the viewing area of the One World Observatory, visitors are led into the See Forever Theater. Here, a second time-lapse video showcasing life in New York City is shown.
<h3>One World Observation Deck</h3>
After watching the video in the See Forever Theater, you proceed to the observation deck. You descend two flights of stairs to reach the 100th floor. This expansive deck spans the entire floor of the building, offering 360° views of New York City and New Jersey as you walk around.
One notable feature on the observation deck is the Sky Portal. This circular glass area allows you to look straight down and see the cityscape 100 stories below.
Lykkers, after exploring all that One World Observatory has to offer, from its breathtaking views to its immersive experiences like the SkyPod Elevator and See Forever Theater, we hope you're inspired to visit this iconic landmark yourself.
Share your thoughts with us! What part of the experience are you most excited about? Have you visited before, or are you planning your first trip? Join the conversation and let us know your thoughts on this unforgettable NYC attraction!
