New York view

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt vs The Edge Comparison

Watch the city unfurl beneath you from one of these soaring skyscrapers.
By Stuart Bak

Choosing between SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and The Edge? Never fear, our guide will help you make a decision. Both observation decks have a jaw-dropping view of New York City and beyond, but which one will you go for?

Observation platform one-upmanship in the Big Apple has taken humanity to terrifying new heights in recent years. But few have gone as far as the giants that are SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and Edge, both of which offer genuinely unique new experiences for the fearless adrenaline junkie from their nerve-jangling locations over 1,000 feet in the air. So: two skyscrapers, both alike in terror-inducing height. But which is higher? Which one can you scale? Which has a mirrored infinity room? And which boasts the best views of the Empire State Building? Dive in to our guide to find out how Edge and SUMMIT compare.

SUMMIT

SUMMIT

Name: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. But ask any NYC local for directions to plain old SUMMIT or SUMMIT One and they’ll know exactly where you mean.

Age: The tapering wedge of concrete, glass, steel and terracotta tiles that is One Vanderbilt opened its doors in September 2020. Its crowning glory, SUMMIT, opened a year later in October 2021.

What is SUMMIT One? Coming up with a new concept for a Manhattan observation platform is no mean feat, given that the primary draw is always going to be those stunning 360-degree views of the iconic skyline. But a new concept is just what SUMMIT has achieved, adding cool art installations and dreamlike immersive experiences that will – says the PR blurb – see you ‘break through to a new realm’ and ‘escape the boundaries of perception’.

SUMMIT One: Vital Statistics 

  • Height: At the time of writing, One Vanderbilt is the fourth tallest building in New York, standing at 1,401 feet (427 meters). You’ll find the SUMMIT observation platforms a heart-stopping 1,100 feet (336 meters) over Madison Avenue.
  • Number of floors: 93.
  • Elevators: 42.
  • Visitors: Despite the pandemic, SUMMIT welcomed a whopping 1.4 million visitors in its first year (to October 2022).

What’s the SUMMIT Experience Like?

Mirrored room at SUMMIT

Standard tickets take you on a thrilling journey through four ‘chapters’ of frankly hallucinatory immersive experiences. You’ll start in Transcendence, where mirrored floors and ceilings reflect the city skyline, the clouds (and you) to infinity. The journey continues through Unity and Affinity, which feature such trippy effects as floating silver balls and your own face rendered in cloud form, before ascending to the main event – Levitation – a series of glass boxes that hover above the city streets. Peer down between your toes, if you dare, at the distant hustle and bustle of Madison Avenue, a mere 1,063 feet below. You’ll also get some of the best views of the Empire State and Chrysler buildings from up here. Daredevils can get higher still with the ultimate add-on experience. Buckle up for ‘Ascent’, in which fearless fun seekers can enjoy the twin sensations of stomachs dropping and knees buckling aboard one of two *glass-bottomed elevators* (the largest in the world, fact fans) that rise a further 120 feet into the air.

Fascinating SUMMIT Fact of the Day

If the eye-catching tiles that punctuate One Vanderbilt’s gleaming glass exterior look familiar, that’s because they’re the same tiles used on the ceilings inside the adjoining Grand Central Station!

SUMMIT Fast Facts

Silver orbs at SUMMIT
  • Opening hours: 9AM-midnight, year round. Last entry is at 10PM.
  • Tickets: there are several booking options available on the SUMMIT website.
  • Closest transport links: the entrance to SUMMIT is located on the main concourse of Grand Central Terminal.

But how does SUMMIT compare to Edge? Let’s find out...

Edge

Edge at sunset

Name: Not to be confused with the U2 guitarist of the same name (height 5 feet 10 inches), Edge (height 1,131 feet) is the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere.

Age: 30 Hudson Yards – currently NYC’s sixth-tallest skyscraper – was completed in March 2019. Edge opened in March 2020, closing after a mere two days due to the pandemic, then reopening in September 2020.

What is Edge? Only the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere and the second highest viewing deck in NYC, after the One World Observatory’s fully enclosed platform.

Edge: Vital Statistics 

  • Height: Up on the 100th floor, the Edge platform is at 1,131 feet (345 meters), while guests brave enough to book the City Climb experience will reach 1,271 feet (381 meters) at The Apex.
  • Number of floors: 103.
  • Elevators: 59.
  • Distance the Edge platform protrudes from the main building: 80 feet.

What’s the Edge Experience Like?

Glass viewing platform at Edge

This one’s definitely not for the faint of heart. Here on the 100th floor, 1,131 feet above terra firma, is where you’ll find some of the most astonishing 360-degree views of the Big Apple and beyond. Edge’s unique gimmick is as simple as it is frightening: the triangular viewing platform (complete with transparent floor, natch) protrudes 80 feet from the side of the building, hanging suspended over the streets of New York. And, as if that isn’t thrilling enough, there’s also the City Climb, in which brave souls are harnessed to the building for a bucket-list ascent to The Apex. Scale the top of the skyscraper and summon those nerves of steel to lean right out over the edge at an epic 1,271 feet.

Fascinating Edge Fact of the Day

The transparent nine foot balcony that surrounds Edge is angled outwards at 6.6 degrees, meaning visitors can safely ‘overhang’ the ground and rooftops far below.

Edge Fast Facts

Outdoor sky deck at Edge
  • Opening hours: 9AM-10PM Monday-Thursday; 9AM-midnight Friday-Sunday. The last elevator ascends 50 minutes before closing.
  • Tickets: general admission to Edge is included with a New York Pass. Alternatively, you’ll find various ticket options, including the epic City Climb, at the Edge website.
  • Closest transport links: the No.7 Subway is the main route into Hudson Yards, and several bus lines also stop within a few minutes’ walk.

SUMMIT vs Edge: Which Should You Visit?

If you only have time to do one, the decision is probably best based on your own personal tolerance for heights. Sure, SUMMIT’s Levitation zone is nerve-wracking, but it’s got nothing on Edge’s huge, protruding glass platform. A New York Pass gets you access to the nail-biting see-through platform at Edge as well as dozens more top New York attractions.

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intrepid school trip
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School Trip Attractions in New York

Teachers, assemble! Are you looking to take your kids on a trip to New York? Are you hoping they'll learn more than a textbook will ever teach them? Do you simply need to get out of the classroom before you have a nervous breakdown? Never fear; we're here with our recommendations for the best school trip attractions in New York! Read on, and get inspired; the children are our future, after all. Including: Empire State Building 9/11 Memorial and Museum American Museum of Natural History Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island The Museum of Modern Art and more! Higher State of Learning The Empire State Building is one of New York's most famous landmarks, and that alone may be enough to take your class there. The views from the 86th floor are breathtaking, and let you look down on the entire city. But there's learning to be had there too, thanks to the building's new interactive museum. Over 12 galleries, your kids will learn all about the building's history - when it was conceived, how it was built, and the work that has gone into it over the years to keep it updated. You can even take them to the observation deck on the 102nd floor, but that will set you back extra. And really, are they worth it? That's for you to decide. Never Forget Sometimes, learning can be fun, and other times, not so much. However, that doesn't mean the latter isn't any less important. In the wake of the tragedies in 1993 and 2001, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum was erected, ensuring that future generations never forget. It might not be fun, but it's an important turning point in the history of not just America, but the world as well. The memorial commemorates the nearly 3000 victims who lost their lives during the attacks, as well as the first responders who put their lives on the line to save many more. Then, once your class has paid their respects, you can explore the museum, where they'll experience the entire story of 9/11 through multimedia displays, archives, narratives, and a collection of monumental and authentic artifacts. Awe-inspiring History Nothing fascinates kids quite like the ancient behemoths that used to walk our planet. So why not tickle their curiosity with a trip to the American Museum of Natural History? Over 5 million history fanatics visit every year, so do yourself a favor and let your kids join them! They'll gawp at the 94-foot whale, the 563-carat Star of India sapphire, and the 2000-year-old giant Sequoia tree. But there's plenty more to see too. In the Earth and Space halls, they'll get up close and personal with meteorites while they learn about space exploration. Or head to the Human and Culture halls to help them learn about humankind's origins, and how we spread out across multiple continents way back when. Easily one of the best school trip attractions in New York, as it covers such a massive length of history and species! Lady Liberty Another of New York's most prominent landmarks, and arguably its most famous, is the Statue of Liberty. So why not take your learning clan across to Ellis Island by ferry and explore the beauty up close? Stoll around the Statue of Liberty National Monument and let them take some quick social snaps from ground level. Then, enter the statue itself and learn all about its history - from its construction to its meaning, and where it came from. There are a wealth of interactive exhibits and artifacts for them to enjoy up close, such as a copper model of the lady's face. Then, if you have time, take them to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum to learn about how immigrants helped make New York the city is today. After all that, hop on the ferry back to the mainland and pat yourself on the back for an amazing day out they won't soon forget! MoMA Lisa The art teachers out there might want to show your students how contemporary artists get it done. If so, take your class to the Museum of Modern Art, or MoMA. It houses one of the best collections of modern art on the planet, including some instantly recognizable pieces. Van Gogh's Starry Night and Warhol's Campbell Soup Cans are arguably the highlights, but there are many more pieces by world-renowned modern artists too. Monet, Gauguin, Seurat, and Cézanne are just some of the many artists celebrated at this magnificent museum. If you're taking your art class on a school trip to New York, this is one of the attractions that should be on top of your list! Image courtesy of Ark Neyman/Shutterstock City History Of course, with all the learning and history available in New York, you may want your class to learn more about the city itself. If so, head to the New York Historical Society Museum & Library, and learn more about this crazy city we call the Big Apple. They'll explore artifacts from throughout the city's history, from 16th-century arrows to 3000-year-old-toys. It's a quirky and disparate collection, for sure, but that's just what New York deserves! Besides all the older historical items, they'll find exhibits dedicated to pop culture, NYC's links to celebrity and cinema, and in the Center for Women's History, how important a role women played in the New York we know and love today. New York has a fascinating history, and you'll find it all here and more! War on the Water And finally, we'll end our list of the best school trip attractions in New York with a floating paradise of information. That's because our final recommendation, the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum and Space Shuttle, is uniquely housed on an old aircraft carrier! The Intrepid was a WWII vessel that survived torpedo strikes and kamikaze attacks, and now, you can explore the history of America's maritime warfare over its massive 150,000 square feet. Your kids will get up close with 28 aircraft and helicopters from throughout the 20th century, the space shuttle Enterprise, and a submarine called a Growler. Don't ask. And those are our recommendations for school trip attractions in New York! Wherever you take them, we hope they have fun.
Dom Bewley
statue of liberty ferry
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Taking the Statue of Liberty Ferry

Exploring one of the most iconic landmarks in the world doesn't have to mean a long trip to Liberty Island. Whether you're looking for an up-close view of the Statue of Liberty or wish to explore Ellis Island, taking a ferry from either Manhattan, NY, or Liberty State Park in Jersey City is both easy and affordable. The cost of taking these ferries can vary depending on which route you choose; fares for adults range from $18-$27 with tickets inclusive of both stops at both islands. If visitors wish to access the Statue, additional tickets will need to be purchased - it’s recommended that these are bought in advance due to high demand during peak times. On-board visitors can expect friendly staff who are more than willing to answer any questions, restrooms, snacks/drinks kiosks and spectacular views. The ride itself typically takes between 20-30 minutes each way depending on which route you take, so if time is limited it’s important to plan ahead. Once at Liberty Island visitors can explore all that this historic landmark has to offer; various guided tours, food choices such as hot dogs or sandwiches at concession stands available onboard the ferry and even special events held seasonally such as live music performances which are free with ticket purchase! After exploring Ellis Island visitors will have more than enough time for iconic photos before heading back. Visiting New York City? Taking the ferry to the Statue of Liberty is an absolute must! Not only does it offer unparalleled views and incredible experiences - it's also a great opportunity for some iconic pictures with Lady Liberty herself! Don't forget your camera – this is an experience not soon forgotten! Don't worry; if you don't know what that is or where to get it from, we're going to tell you right now. Prepare yourself for the ultimate guide to taking the Statue of Liberty ferry, and what you'll find when you reach its historic shores! What is the Statue of Liberty Ferry? As you may have gathered, it's a ferry that takes people between New York's mainland and Liberty Island, where the Statue of Liberty stands tall. From where does the Statue of Liberty Ferry depart? If you're traveling from New York, the departure point is in Battery Park: Statue Cruises Kiosk, Battery Park New York, NY 10004 The closest bus stop is Stop 12, 13, or 14 on the Downtown route. The closest subway stop is Whitehall Street/South Ferry/Bowling Green. If you are traveling from New Jersey, the departure point is Liberty State Park: 1 Audrey Zapp Dr, Jersey City NJ 07305 The closest stop is Liberty State Park Station on the HBLR. How often does the ferry leave? It's worth checking the official timetable to ensure your timings are up to date, but on average, the ferry departs from either port every 25 minutes. How do I get a ticket? We've got you covered – Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Ferry tickets are available with the below money-saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that's right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Your Attraction Pass includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Your Explorer Pass includes admission to up to 10 attractions. It's worth noting that, whichever way you decide to go, booking is required to get the ferry, and early booking is highly recommended because, as you may have guessed, it is an incredibly popular tourist destination! The History of Ellis Island Standing tall as a symbol of liberty and justice, the Statue of Liberty is an important part of America's history. The island itself is named after Samual Ellis, who owned the landmass before it was opened to the public. Ellis Island served as the primary entry point for immigration into the United States, so much so that a third of all Americans can trace their family tree to someone who landed on the island! But its job as an immigration entry point ended nearly 100 years ago, and it wasn't actually opened to the public until 1976. Nowadays, it hosts countless tourists every year, who flock there from all over the world to explore one of the most iconic landmarks on the planet. What to expect on Ellis Island The Statue of Liberty This one's a no-brainer. You wouldn't even be reading this if not for Lady Liberty herself! Yes, the Statue of Liberty now stands tall on Ellis Island. Visitors can walk around the National Monument and see the big girl up close - at least if they look up! Then, when you've enjoyed the view, so to speak, you can enter the Statue of Liberty Museum, which contains tons of amazing artifacts that detail the statue, and the island's, history in much greater detail than we ever could. See the original torch up close, touch a copper rendition of Lady Liberty's face, and explore interactive exhibits like a reimagining of the studio where the statue was first conceived. Then, head across to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, where you can learn more about the island's importance in populating America. Through first-hand accounts, artifacts, and other exhibits, you'll piece together the island's rich history. Then, try tracing your family tree back to the island in one of the many databases you'll find. Then, when you've had your fill, simply hop back on the ferry and cross over to the mainland! From the views of the harbor and cityscape, to learning more about its history and standing in awe of this magnificent monument, a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty provides an unbeatable experience full of wonder and amazement. With the accessibility for all, the convenience of booking your tickets ahead of time, and spectacular views from the crown of Lady Liberty that you won't find anywhere else, taking a ferry ride to this iconic landmark is an adventure like no other. And that's our guide to taking the statue of liberty ferry, and what you'll find on Ellis Island! Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience - book your ferry ticket today! Looking for more fun-filled adventures in the Big Apple? Check out our guide to The RIDE, your one-stop shop for every other New York landmark on your bucket list! Want to know what other attractions are covered with your pass? Check out all of them here!
Dom Bewley
Statue of Liberty
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Top 9 Things to Do Near the World Trade Center for Tourists

9/11 is one of the most important events in New York's recent history and visiting Ground Zero is a must-do. To help you plan your day, read our round-up of the best attractions in the area.
Casey Makovich

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