Visiting SUMMIT One Vanderbilt at Sunset

How to book sunset tickets

Make sure to pick a ticket with a time slot that lines up with the sunset on the day you’re visiting. That way, you won’t miss the magic hour.

Aim to book your entry about 1 hour before sunset so you can enjoy the views before and during the sun going down.

Keep in mind that sunset tickets sell out fast, so it’s a good idea to book at least 1 week ahead. Book 2 weeks ahead if you’re visiting on weekends or holidays.

Choose a guided tour with skip-the-line access to bypass long entry lines, giving you more time to soak in the sunset views and capture photos at your own pace.

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SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Tickets

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Edge Observation Deck Tickets: Timed Entry

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SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Night Experience Tickets

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SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Access

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Visiting SUMMIT One Vanderbilt at sunset

Visiting SUMMIT One Vanderbilt at sunset is an unforgettable experience. As you step out onto the observation deck, you'll be greeted by stunning panoramic views of the city. Watch as the sky and city colors transform with each passing moment, creating a captivating and mesmerizing display that will leave you breathless.

You can also spot iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and more. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture this unforgettable experience.

Observation deck at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt sunset hours

Sunset times in New York City vary throughout the year, with longer daylight hours in summer and shorter days in winter, so planning your visit around the changing sunset is key. Here’s a look at the monthly sunset schedule in NYC:

January: between 4:30pm and 5pm
February: between 5pm and 5:45pm
March: between 5:45pm and 7pm
April: between 7pm and 7:45pm
May: between 7:45pm and 8:15pm
June: between 8pm and 8:25pm
July: between 8:10pm and 8:30pm
August: between 7:45pm and 8:10pm
September: between 7pm and 7:45pm
October: between 5:45pm and 6:30pm
November: between 4pm and 4:45pm
December: between 4:15pm and 4:30pm

Since sunset times shift gradually as the year progresses, it’s always a good idea to check the exact sunset time for your visit date before booking your tickets. This way, you can make sure you arrive in time to enjoy those unforgettable golden hour views.

How early should I arrive?

Planning to catch that golden hour glow? Here’s how to time your arrival just right:

Arrive 60 mins before sunset to explore the reflective rooms before the main event.
Keep in mind that sunset times change by season and can vary from around 4:30pm in winter to 8:30pm in summer. Find out at what time the sun will set on the day of your visit before booking your ticket.

Things to do at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt at sunset

Admire the panoramic views

The experience of visiting SUMMIT One Vanderbilt at sunset is truly magical. Take in stunning views of the city skyline as the sun sets over NYC. The sky turns into shades of orange and pink, and the lights of the city start to twinkle at sunset.

Views from SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

Sip a cocktail

Enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine at Aprés while taking in the view of the skyline at sunset. Aprés is an indoor lounge and outdoor terrace with a bar that offers a variety of drinks, including signature cocktails inspired by the city's neighborhoods.

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt restaurant

Enjoy the interactive exhibits

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt has three levels of interactive exhibits and art installations to admire. From the thrilling adventure of the external glass elevator Ascent to finding your face in the clouds with ‘Unity’, you can experience a whole new world here.

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Visitor tips for an incredible sunset experience

Book the golden hour slot: Aim to book a slot 1 hour before sunset so you catch daylight, sunset, and night views in one visit .
Soak in the holiday magic: If you're visiting during the holidays, especially around Christmas, look out for festive lights and seasonal decor that make the sunset views feel even more magical.
Arrive early for the best spot: Try to get there about 15-mins before your entry time so you can snag a great spot by the big glass panes, especially in mirror-filled rooms like Transcendence 1 and Affinity. Trust us, you'll want that front-row view when the sun starts to dip.
Capture the perfect shot: For the best sunset photo, kneel slightly and angle your phone downward to catch the skyline reflected in the mirrored floor, this creates a dramatic double-sunset effect.
Explore each level slowly: Take your time on each level, those mirrored rooms, glass skyboxes, and the Levitation floor offer some of the most marvellous sunset shots, especially with the Empire State Building and East River in frame.
Stay for the city lights: Hang around after sunset to see the skyline transition into a twinkling nightscape. SUMMIT stays open late, especially on weekends, so you don’t have to hurry out.

Frequently asked questions about SUMMIT One Vanderbilt at sunset

What time slot should I book to catch the sunset?

Book your ticket for 60–90 mins before sunset to give yourself time to explore all levels and secure a great spot for photos or to just soak in the views before the sun goes down.

Is there a special sunset ticket?

While there is no special sunset ticket, you can choose the right time slot while booking the general admission ticket to make sure to catch the sun set.

How long should I plan to stay during sunset hours?

Plan to spend 1.5 to 2 hours at SUMMIT, which is perfect for catching the full transition from day to night.

Where’s the best place to watch the sunset from inside SUMMIT?

For fabulous views, head to the Transcendence room for skyline reflections or the Après terrace to see the sun dip behind the Manhattan skyline.

Is it crowded during sunset?

Sunset is one of the most popular times to visit, so expect the observation deck to be crowded.

What days are best for a less crowded sunset visit?

Weekdays, especially Wednesday and Thursday, tend to be a little less crowded than weekends, even during sunset hours.

Does the experience change during sunset compared to daytime?

Definitely, sunset adds warmer tones, longer shadows, and dramatic reflections, creating a completely different ambiance than during daylight hours.

Can I watch the sunset from the Ascent elevator?

Yes, but timing is key. Ascent is a timed add-on, so try to schedule your ride to coincide with sunset for an unforgettable view.