Visiting timetable09:00 AM10:30 PM
Sunday, January 11, 2026
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, 45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, USA
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Inside SUMMIT’s Experiences: AIR, Affinity, Levitation, Transcendence

A room-by-room walkthrough so you can pace photos, enjoy the art, and anticipate where you’ll want extra time.

11/28/2025
17 min read
Mirror effects at SUMMIT with floating balloons

SUMMIT unfolds as a narrative: discovery → immersion → awe. Use this walkthrough to pace photos, enjoy the art, and anticipate where you’ll want extra time.

Glass observatory Glass meets sky—space expands in every direction.


Overview

  • Typical time per room: 15–20 minutes; add extra at sunset.
  • Priorities: Levitation queue timing, terrace before drinks, loop back if possible.

Transcendence

  • Infinite mirrors plus skyline; work the corners for layered depth.
  • Settings: expose for highlights; keep verticals straight for symmetry.

Affinity

  • Silver orbs drift; best for portraits and slow-motion video.
  • Settings: slightly faster shutter to freeze balloons without blur.

Levitation

  • Step onto glass over Madison Ave—brief queues, big payoff.
  • Safety: short steps, eyes on horizon; step back anytime.

Terrace and Après

  • Exhale with open-air views; track the Chrysler Building and river lines.
  • Return to mirrors after blue hour for abstracts.

Tip: Timebox 15–20 minutes per room; add more at sunset.

About the Author

NYC Observation Deck Expert

NYC Observation Deck Expert

I put this guide together to make your SUMMIT visit easy, insightful, and full of practical tips for the perfect skyline moment.

Tags

Experiences
AIR
Affinity
Levitation
Transcendence

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