My daughter and I really loved our experience here. It was so amazing to be up 1,250 feet above Manhattan. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island looked so small from up there. Buying tickets was easy and they are a little pricey but so worth it. We rode up the elevator getting higher and higher. Once the elevators doors open, you are greeted with a 360 degree view of Manhattan and surrounding burroughs. It was so incredible to be able to see so much from this observation deck being the tallest building in NYC. They also offer dining and drinks at the top. We were not aware of these options when we went but I would love to return to dine. If you have no fear of heights, then I highly recommend enjoying this NYC attraction. read more

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So I did a touristy thing in NYC for the first time in maybe more than 30 years. Yes - since I was a kid living in NJ. Didn't bother to do it while I was actually living in NYC. Though I live across the water, I never imagined to do this until it was the 25 year anniversary of 9/11. I figured it was time to actually see what the One World Observatory was actually about. Unlike the more informative 9/11 memorial and museum, this is simply an elevator ride up to the Observatory to view the NYC Skyline from inside. Yes - you are not viewing the skyline outdoors (like you did circa 9/11), but surely it's nice. The elevator is pretty cool as you get a time lapse of the city from the 1900s to today. Other than that, the observatory doesn't really have anything else. It's a bit of a money grab since you easily could've had this combined with the 9/11 museum visit. If you want the historical context behind the city, you'll need to grab some audio equipment from the start otherwise you won't get much history. Entering via Oculus is probably better if you're coming from the PATH or the Subway. read more

One World Observatory - cool US Open-themed exhibit - Observatories Near Me - New York, New York

A mixed bag. I sprung for the VIP tour, which I usually try and do with things like this, since it gets me through the lines quicker. And our guide, Phillip was great. Personable and knowledgeable I can only say good things about me. But the Observatory as a whole was disappointing. There's no outdoor part to it, and the views are pretty standard compared to the other observation towers. I would say its also simple compared to the other decks, where they have other draws like Top of the Rock having the lift and beam, Summit 1 having the ballroom and glass floors, etc. There's nothing like that here. Overall, I rank it 5/6 of the observation decks I've done. 1. Top of the Rock 2. Summit 1 3. One Times Square 4. Empire State 5. One World 6. Edge read more

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We had a GREAT experience at One World Observatory, from bottom to top. We were there on a midweek visit so not crowded at all. The staff is exceptional and everyone we interacted with was incredibly kind and helpful including security. People, this is a touristy activity so go into it with that mindset. If you are military you get a 50% discount and those in your party get 20% so worth going down to the human manned ticket office. Once atop the views are gorgeous (even when cloudy) and exhibit information interesting. We decided to have a drink in the bar as we were celebrating my husband's birthday which was a milestone one. The bar staff was amazing , mixing up some delish drinks and buying my husband his. We absolutely LOVED Nicole who was helpful, fun, and had a magical personality. Yup the drink prices are up there (pardon the pun) but it's no different than any other view type establishment and I've done a few in fact I found them less than some places. Highlights of the day- drinks at the top and hanging with Nicole. read more

One World Observatory - Observatories Near Me - New York, New York

One World Trade Center was just WOAH! From the second you step up to it, the building itself is absolutely stunning. The high speed elevator ride to the top floor was amazing, you get up there so fast that my ears popped a few times on the way up! The short intro show they play is super nice and very well done. But the best part is when the screen rises up and reveals the skyline, seeing everything for the first time was just perfect. Once you walk around, you literally get a full 360 degree view of the entire city. On top of the views, they display facts about the building and they have a gift shop, restaurant and a café up there so you can take your time and really enjoy the space. It was an incredible experience from start to finish and definitely worth every penny! read more

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Posting this review in memory of those who lost their lives in 9/11. We saw this beautiful monument and took the elevator all the way to the viewing deck last year. It was a clear spring day in New York. One could see forever there. read more

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What an amazing view of NY and the skyline. We got here at Sunset and it's unbelievable. I also had a pink summer drink that was summer yummy. The waitstaff were fantastic. I could stay here forever... just wow read more

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I have been trying to visit each of the observatories/viewing platforms in the city and so far this has been my least favorite. It's not bad or disappointing or anything super negative, I just didn't like it as much as the other ones I have been to. The views are great but there isn't anywhere to go outside, it is all indoors. Also a little slower with the lines and how slowly they were allowing people up. read more

One World Observatory - Observatories Near Me - New York, New York

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Not our first time here but definitely a place worth checking out. We were visiting the Sunday, the weekend of the World Cup tournament. Crowds were low at One World Observatory (which was perfect) Besides the sad tragic history of this place- the views of the city you get is absolutely amazing! You get 360 views of the city- from The Statue of Liberty to the Brooklyn bridge to jersey city etc. Amazing! If you're ever visiting the city add this place to your list and I promise you wont be disappointed! read more

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Last Friday, my friend and I decided to go to the One World Observatory to celebrate Nurses's Week and Mother's Day and it was the perfect choice. The views took our breath away and it's absolutely an experience to live. We also had dinner and everything was absolutely delicious. I had the cauliflower for appetizer and the branzino for my main course. I can tell you, I was really happy by how delicious everything was. I was too full for dessert so I had an expressio martini, the best one that I have ever had. If you are in NYC, make sure you save some time to treat yourself there and have a lifetime experience like we did. read more

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Expectations make this fantastic. From the elevator ride depicting the growth of NY over centuries to the requisite views. Organized and plenty of space for taking in views. From the ground NY is massive from the sky you sense the density and history of the build out over the centuries! read more

One World Observatory - Observatories Near Me - New York, New York

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Dubbed the tallest building in the US due to the large spire on top of the building, One World Trade Center was built on the former site of the twin towers that collapsed during the tragic events of 9/11. Although there are several notable observatories to choose from in NYC, One World Observatory atop the One World Trade Center offers the highest vantage point in the city out of all of them. Providing a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of New York City. There are different levels of tickets you can buy at increasing price points. Offering perks such as guided tours, audio iPads, and flexibility with arrival times. And make sure to get a good spot in the elevator next to the walls when you go up. As they are actually LED screens offering a cool, time-lapsed view of New York's transformation from the 1500's to today as the elevator ascends upwards. read more

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The view is amazing! Pictures can't do it justice! We bought a city pass and did the observatory and the 9/11 museum. It was easy to use- just scanned my phone. We walked right up and up we went, no wait. The staff were all very friendly and the video they play as you ascend and descend is really cool! It shows manhattan through the ages. They did offer us an audio tour but we declined. The photos they take of you as you enter- you can purchase $40 gets you a few prints plus all the digital photos. They were good quality and we did purchase. The restaurant wasn't open when we went but I would love to come back and check it out one day. The gift shop is neat. They had a small cafe there with prepackaged items and even beer. They had a bottle of water for $8 in a tin reusable bottle that I've actually reused a few times already. It's nice and keeps drinks cold. Definitely recommend a stop here as well as the museum/memorial. read more

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Of course the views are amazing!! The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. We loved that they had a bar at the to relax and take in the read more

One World Observatory - Chocolate Martini & Whiskey Coke - Observatories Near Me - New York, New York

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Good check in with all the staff being knowledgeable and kind. It's a bit on the pricier side at $40ish but I think if you're a tourist you can probably bundle it with other things to do. I spent like 2.5 hours there but you can spend 1 hour if you're crunched for time. The elevator ride is interactive for the 50 seconds it takes to go to the top. Loved the visuals and mini movies. The view at the top is incredible. Pro tip: come on a weekday an hour before sunset and watch the sun go down in Jersey and the lights come on in the city that doesn't sleep. It's completely indoors so you don't have to worry about the weather. Also, I brought binoculars so I can enjoy the tops of the building. I would recommend using a SLR with high ISO for night time photos. It was my first time viewing NYC from such a high vantage point and it was magical. Take 4/5 to fulton or R to Cortland St. read more

One World Observatory - Observatories Near Me - New York, New York

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Visited One World Observatory and it was definitely a highlight of our trip! The views are great, seeing the entire city laid out in every direction gives alot of appreciation for the city. Totally worth it for the views alone. We also had dinner there and the setting was gorgeous. We both left impressed from the experience. If you're visiting NYC, this is a must-do! read more

This was a great view of the skyline of NYC. If in NY I would add this to the list of places to check out as it represents an important part of our history in the U.S. There will soon be an additional tower added on the Brooklyn side in the next 10 years, so plenty of time to see it before you cant. The on staff tour guides are informative. read more

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A bit pricey but great experience from start to finish. The elevator ride up and the skyline reveal are extremely well done. Unlike the Empire State Building, One World is entirely indoors, which is good and bad. Good because you don't have to worry about the elements but bad because it makes taking pictures much harder. A trip to the top of the Eastern Hemisphere is a must-do when in NYC. Also: I unfortunately did not get the gentleman's name but one of the greeters on the ground floor provided the most exceptional service. We had walked in after eating ice cream and had some on our hands. He took our garbage and brought us napkins and hand sanitizer. Small things like that are rare but very appreciated. read more

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This is one of the best views of the city. We arrived about an hour before sunset, so we were able to enjoy the cityscape both in daylight and at night. Also, remember that there's a TSA-level security check at the entrance, so add about 10-15 minutes to your entry time. My main complaint is the lack of seating areas with views. The only seating areas have views that are blocked by people standing in front of the glass screens. Otherwise, the views are incredible and among the best in NYC. read more

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One World Observatory is absolutely worth it for the views alone. The panoramic sights of New York City are breathtaking and give you a whole new appreciation for how massive and beautiful the city really is. 1776 feet high! The elevator ride down is an experience by itself. You know you're heading straight down, but it genuinely feels like a Disney-style ride--like you're spinning and moving in every direction at once. It's smooth, fun, and a little surreal, and it definitely adds to the overall experience. Between the incredible views and the elevator ride down, this is a must-do if you're visiting NYC. read more

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Overall, One World Observatory is clean, well run, and provides great views of New York and beyond. However, it was pretty pricey, even after the discount of the City Pass. The best part was the elevator and how it moves you so quickly while showing you what NYC was like throughout the decades. The downside I would say, was having to pay extra to rent the audio tour. Annoying. read more

One World Observatory - Observatories Near Me - New York, New York

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Amazing 360 degree view of New York City. If you go after 8 pm tickets are discounted 30% and you get lovely sunset pictures. read more

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This review is specifically about the observatory experience -- not the restaurant, cafe, or building itself. The big (obvious) positive: the views are wonderful. We could see for miles and clearly make out every major landmark in the area, such as the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge. But I don't know if I really feel like I got my money's worth considering the amount ($121.75 for two combination tickets purchased online in advance, taxes and fees included) I spent. The tickets we bought came with priority access, which, on an April weekday a bit before noon, didn't get us ahead of anyone. We found the areas we walked through past security on our way to the elevators to be quite dark at times. After a fair amount of walking, we reached the short line for the elevators and got assigned to one pretty quickly. Going up was an interesting experience as videos showing the hundreds of years of development of the area play. We got off the elevators and were put into another short line to enter a theater. After a few minutes, we went in and found there were no seats but more of a wide hallway with screens shaped like skyscrapers along one side with a metal bar in front. We were told rather forcefully to all move as close to that bar as possible despite not coming close to having enough people to fill the room. The video that then played was honestly just confusing to me; from my recollection, it was just b roll from all around the city with music playing. At the end -- spoiler alert -- the screens lift to reveal your first look at the view from 102 stories up. I'm someone who enjoys a good "moment" -- a similarly-designed moment at Kennedy Space Center for the reveal of the shuttle made me cry --but this one felt unnecessary. After this, I think we were in another short line? I've lost track, honestly. I believe this was when we had to wait for a staff member to become available for an upsell to the iPads, which our tickets included. But the devices looked a bit banged up and not super clean, so we skipped. You can start getting some views of the city wt this point, but the primary views are accessed via escalator. There was, to no surprise, another upsell that had each party pose for a photo (to be viewed and purchased) before accessing the main viewing area. So then we'd finally made it to the views, which again were great. There was a good amount of seating for our day, but I'd imagine that it's quickly taken up on busy days. On the interior side of the glass, the window panels have metal skyline silhouette cutouts at the bottom, pretty obviously to ensure no one sits down (unless they like pain), so I'd be very careful getting too close if I had little ones prone to tripping. I also wished there had been more -- or perhaps deeper -- information posted like I've encountered at other major buildings. But we didn't stay very long because from the moment we passed security, we kept running into areas where it seemed like a very strong air freshener was being pumped in. My mom, who is rarely scent sensitive, commented that she was getting a headache from it, and I had already noticed myself getting one. So after a quick Look through the gift shop to see if the two $5 vouchers that came with our tickets were worth using (they weren't; a bottled water was $8), we headed back down. So in summary, I'm pleased I went and would have perhaps stayed longer had I been able to handle it, but I don't think it would be my top choice to visit again. And I definitely wouldn't visit in busier times. read more

One World Observatory - A view of the Statue of Liberty with the skyline cutout at the bottom of the window to deter sitting. - Observatories Near Me - New York, New York

What a great attraction! We got the $45 tickets for about an hour ahead of when we were there, but one of the guides told us that we could go up then because it wasn't very busy. It costs more if you want to go without a wait. We got lucky with the timing on a Friday afternoon, but I imagine it can get very crowded. It's an amazing view and worth the price, I think. There is some food up here but we didn't try anything, and by reading some of the reviews there are other things to do up here. It's a 360 degree view of the New York area. The only thing that is tricky is where the sun is at the time you are up here. If the sun is shining on the side where you are, your pictures will suffer. When the sun faces the other side, then the fist side will great for pictures. I thought it was worth it and the 9/11 memorial and museum is directly across from the One World Trade Center. read more

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Lots of potential but need new management. We had the fixed menu for 5 people and a 430 reservation so we could watch the sunset. This timing we would highly recommend. However the restaurant was not ready. They were still putting the lights on the tables and took forever to even get drinks to us or explain the menu. When the drinks finally came they were good. Best part of the whole meall!! We went through 3 or 4 waiters throughout our meal we are not sure why maybe because gratuity was included so they just passed us to whoever had time. They all treated us like we were a bother. The menus were gross, dirty wrinkled and covered in food the furniture was poor and service terrible. For all these negatives we were mostly happy with the food. Everything was pretty decent. Mushrooms, pastas, shrimp, cauliflower, my husband and I both had the filet medium rare and when they arrived one was perfect and one was severely undercooked. Unfortunately the deserts were lame also. A lava cake from a mold vanilla ice cream or a teeny toffe cake also from a mold we had all three since they were free and they were garbage not worth the calories. Go to the observatory! Have a drink! Do not eat here it is not worth your time. read more

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Through Bucket Listers, I booked the "Up, Up, and Away" experience. The $65 ticket included an hour yoga class and a $10 voucher to have a drink or food item in the cafe. The yoga class was simply amazing! Our instructor provided a lot of options from beginner to advanced. After our class, we were invited to check out more of the observatory. We watched a short movie then walked around to check out the incredible views. If you love trying different workouts or consider yourself a yogi, this experience is definitely a must do! Perfect way to start a weekend! read more

One World Observatory - View from the 102nd floor! - Observatories Near Me - New York, New York

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The One World Observatory is an observation deck located on the 100th to 102nd floors of One World Trade Center. It offers a 360-degree view of Lower Manhattan and the Hudson River, as well as views of Liberty Island and Ellis Island, home to the Statue of Liberty, making it a definite New York City landmark. The stunning video clips you can watch on the way up to the observatory, and the videos you can watch once you arrive at the observatory show scenes from the past and present of New York City. The curtain-like screen that rises after the video ends, revealing a spectacular view of the Hudson River and Lower Manhattan, are truly spectacular. read more

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I had visited the observatory at the Empire State Building many times, but this was my first trip to the One World Observatory, which was built in 2015. The experience is very different than the Empire State Building. One World Trade Center is very high-tech starting with a greeting on a large board when you enter, mentioning where you are from (without mentioning your name) and how many miles you traveled. I assume this is based off of the scanned ticket. We visited when they first opened and were literally the first people in line (or lack of line). We quickly passed the exhibits which are there to keep you occupied if you are waiting (which we were not). The elevator ride to the top only takes 47 seconds to climb 102 floors. During that time, they project a video that surrounds you and shows what New York City looked like from the beginning to the present. As you climb, the views become more modern. Very cool. You then enter a room where you see a projected video of New York scenes that make you feel totally immersed. At the end of the video, the wall opens upward and you are at the Observatory. Unlike the Empire State Building, the views are all from inside, with glass that surrounds the floor continuously, and from floor to ceiling. The glass is very clean, which makes sense for the inside, but not the outside! Of course, the view is different than the Empire State Building, because you are at the southern tip of Manhattan, as opposed to midtown. The views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are excellent. Although it was a fairly clear the day we went up, it was more hazy than I expected. I'm not sure if that was from the time of day (9 am to 10 am in June), or because of wild fire smoke. Looking uptown was difficult. The elevator ride down simulated what you would be seeing if you were traveling in a glass elevator outside the building. You really did have the feeling of what it would look like. Tips: Ignore all of the add-ons (photos, audio guide, I-pads, etc.) and just enjoy the view. read more

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I had high hopes, but it didn't exactly meet my $44 expectations. It was slightly more positive than negative. Ive always been obsessed with this building so it was amazing to go inside it. But the observatory while it had amazing views, it has one of the most cash grabby annoying experiences you can have in NYC. Pros: The views are amazing, probably the best views of NYC in my opinion, and especially so if you like lower manhattan more. The go to view for harbor views. don't listen to people who say midtown is too far away, it only looks that way in photos, its plenty close enough, so yes you'll get good ESB views and whatnot. The see forever presentation was pretty cute and the reveal at the end was pretty awesome, me and my friends enjoyed it. Cons: Security. Like its as strict as airport. You basically cant have anything slightly hard in your backpack or else they'll think your a terrorist. Nada While the elevator ride had cool visuals, it was way too fast, and ruined my ears for the whole rest of the day cuz of the pressure change. I hope my eardrums aren't damaged. You get bombarded with constant unwanted photo shoots (staff will practically beg you to take them, and yes they cost alot extra), and they literally force you into a npc dialogue trying to beg you to buy their $15 crusty ah ipad which is unnecessary as someone who knows around the city. You have to basically shoo them away, but ive seen videos where they prevent visitors from moving on ahead and force them to see a minute long presentation on these ipads. The illy cafe has normal prices, but the seating is awful. Awful as in there is no seating. I understand alot of quick bite places in NYC dont have seating , but what makes it worse is that its right next to One Dine with comfy seating probably to make you feel bad that you didn't get a reservation there. read more

One World Observatory - Observation deck - Observatories Near Me - New York, New York

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So, we started from PABT and took the E train to World Trade Center. Exited from the church at and vasey st which led us to the oculus and from there we reached at the entrance of one world observatory right next to sushi wasabi place. As soon as we entered, we got our tickets done and entered with our tickets in hand. It was a weekday so it wasn't that crowded. Entered this place after almost 7 years, and forgot things already but this was a good refresher. We were throughly checked , our bags and everything. The entry was great, with history showing up on the walls. Then you are taken to the elevators where you feel like the ears popped, but the screens show a beautiful visual of the lift. You then reach this place where you are given a glimpse of the outside and enter the lobby where they try to sell you some electronic guides for $20. After that, you enter the main lobby. There there is this gift store , restroom and the grand view. This place doesn't have an outside view, all within the glass. But it's a great experience for a first time. Got to see the bridges on the east river, Liberty etc etc. literally a birds view as they say. The memorial for the twin towers and oculus is visible too from the top. After you are done, you come down using the same way. There are restaurants on the top too which I forgot to mention. Overall a great experience. But I still think the price is too much! read more

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We wanted to visit the location of the twin Towers, and see the entire city and one world observatory was the perfect stop. We saw the Memorial, which was gorgeous and had no problems going through one world observatory. We went during slow season I believe so it wasn't as crowded and we were able to spend as much time as we like through each section. read more

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I came here with my boyfriend for our anniversary and it was a lovely experience. It's a great time to see all the views and interactive things they have here. The food was alright for the prices we paid, but we loved our drinks. Obviously you pay for the atmosphere and views, so we enjoyed it for sure but probably will never be back to dine here again. FYI: I recommend going to the observatory when in daylight out still I think it would be a better experience read more

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One World Observatory at the top of One World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan, and it stands out as one of the most impressive observation experiences in New York City. Located at the summit of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, the observatory offers sweeping panoramic views that capture the full scale of the New York skyline. The atmosphere begins building even before reaching the top. The elevator ride itself is part of the experience, featuring a visual timeline that shows the transformation of New York City's skyline over several centuries as you ascend the tower. By the time you reach the observation level, the sense of height and perspective is already striking. The observation deck offers unobstructed views in every direction. From the windows, visitors can see landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Hudson River, and Midtown Manhattan stretching into the distance. The indoor design keeps the environment comfortable year-round while still delivering dramatic views of the city. The experience also includes interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that help visitors understand the geography, neighborhoods, and history of New York. These elements add context and depth rather than simply presenting the skyline as a visual spectacle. Service throughout the observatory felt organized and professional. Staff guide visitors efficiently through the entry process and help maintain a smooth flow even during busy periods. From a global travel perspective, One World Observatory ranks among the great urban observation decks I have visited in cities like Tokyo, Shanghai, and Dubai where skyline views become a defining part of the travel experience. read more

Finally made our way to the top of the One World Observatory on this recent roadtrip through New York! Visited the outside of this place in 2019 but didn't have time to visit the top until this month over the kids spring break. Paid for tickets on site but would have been cheaper if you order online in advance. Views at the top are incredible and perfect on a clear day which we had going for us. Elevator ride was quick and they have an orderly way to get people up there. You also watch a video before seeing the actual views. Amazing! Just expensive. :) read more

We really wanted to do an observation deck while visiting the city. While my first preference was to do an outdoor deck, because it was so cold and windy that day we decided to check out One World knowing it was an all indoor observation deck. You had a beautiful 360° view of the city and it was a clear blue skied day you can see Liberty Island, the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges, Empire State Building and the beautiful New York skyline. There is a restaurant and cafe up there so you could really spend a good 2-3 hours up there and enjoy the views. The only downfall is depending on the time of day you visit there can be a glare on the window so it is hard to get a good photo without some reflection. Fortunately we were up there long enough that the sun moved reducing the glare on the windows. read more

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Nice views of the city in the 1776 ft tall building. I enjoyed a nice $30 cocktail at the bar and restaurant lounge area read more

One World Observatory - Observatories Near Me - New York, New York

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A great experience at One World Observatory. Every year they honor teachers for a few months a year - they comp teachers a ticket + a plus one ticket free of charge. I attended with two teachers who gave their free +1 tickets with myself and my boyfriend. The observatory was beautiful and everything I expected and more. When we were there the pressed penny machine was down for maintenance. I collect pressed penny's so I was disappointed. But the woman from the gift shop asked her manager and they dug one up for me from the back. So thankful to the wonderful staff who made this experience spectacular. I hope to be back for another lovely sunset. read more

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A unique and efficient way to experience stunning city views. The express pay extra entry made our visit seamless, and the elevator ride was a fun cinematic ride. The observation floor itself is impressive, with plenty of space to take in the sights but there is no external viewing. A great choice for those looking for a quick and memorable experience. While it's a bit pricey, it's definitely worth it for a one-time visit. read more

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Tourist or Local I suggest coming to visit One World Observatory. You obviously want to go on a nice clear day to see the wonderful views!! But even on a cloudy day it would be a fun activity to do. I do suggest if you don't like heights not coming here though! They have private events and have had yoga events here too which was pretty cool to do. They have a coffee shop upstairs and also have a restaurant where you can dine at after taking in the views . read more

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Terrific views! Quite the cinematic presentation inside the elevators on the way up and down. Great 369 views all around. Great on a sunny day. I'm sure at sunset it's best, so if I were to do it again, I'd come then. Friendly staff. Easy booking online. read more

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