With numerous observation decks in Manhattan—SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, The Edge, Top of the Rock, One World Observatory, and the Empire State Building—choosing the best spot to view the city’s skyline can be overwhelming for visitors.
Two key factors make the decision challenging: New York boasts one of the world’s best skylines, and visiting an iconic Manhattan observation deck is necessary for a complete holiday.
The ticket prices for these decks are relatively high compared to other attractions, so tourists want to be certain before choosing which observatory to visit.
Summit One Vanderbilt and Top of the Rock are also frequently compared due to their distinctive experiences and complementary city views.
In this article, we’ll compare these two observation decks based on key factors such as height, views, location, and overall experience to help you decide the best fit for your NYC adventure.
Quick summary
| Parameter | Summit One Vanderbilt | Top of the Rock |
| Ticket price | Adults (13+): US$53 | Adults (13 to 61): US$44 |
| Youth (6 to 12): US$47 | Youth (6 to 12): US$47 | |
| Seniors (62+): US$37 | ||
| Hours | 9 am – 12 am | 8 am – 12 am |
| Location | Midtown Manhattan | Midtown Manhattan |
| Best views | Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, Central Park | Empire State Building, Central Park |
| Stories | 93 | 70 |
| Height | 1,210 feet (369 meters) | 850 feet (259 meters) |
Height of the observation deck
At 1,210 feet (369 meters), Summit One Vanderbilt is one of the tallest decks in the city. Its multi-level design provides stunning views from different angles.
On the other hand, Top of the Rock, situated at 850 feet (259 meters) on the 70th floor, offers a slightly lower but still amazing perspective of the skyline.
Known for its peaceful atmosphere, Top of the Rock offers visitors a quiet escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
While Summit One Vanderbilt impresses with its height and immersive experience, Top of the Rock provides a serene vantage point.
Winner: Summit One Vanderbilt
Outdoor vs indoor decks
Summit One Vanderbilt features indoor observation decks on the 91st, 92nd, and 93rd floors with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, providing stunning, weather-proof city views.
Its 93rd-floor outdoor deck gives visitors an exhilarating open-air experience from 1,100 feet (335.2 m) above the ground.
On the other hand, Top of the Rock combines indoor and outdoor options: the indoor deck on the 67th floor offers panoramic views with shelter from the elements.
In contrast, the open-air terraces on the 69th and 70th floors provide unobstructed 360-degree views of iconic landmarks like Central Park and the Empire State Building.
Summit One Vanderbilt is perfect for those who enjoy a modern, charming environment with indoor and outdoor perspectives.
Top of the Rock appeals to those who want a classic, open-air experience with the comfort of indoor viewing options.
Winner: Both
View from the observation deck
At Top of the Rock, you’re treated to one of the most stunning 360-degree views.
Central Park stretches north from the deck, while the Empire State Building dominates the southern view. The downtown skyline and the Statue of Liberty are visible in the distance.
The open-air design allows you to fully immerse yourself in these iconic sights, whether under the bright daylight or the city’s twinkling night lights.
Meanwhile, Summit One Vanderbilt offers equally breathtaking views of landmarks like the United Nations Building, the Chrysler Building, One World Observatory, and Central Park.
The Ascent further enhances the experience. This glass elevator travels up the side of the building, offering unparalleled views of Central Park and the East River—though it’s currently under maintenance after an incident in March 2023.
Both spots offer amazing perspectives, but Summit One Vanderbilt’s higher altitude and contemporary style provide a fresh experience.
Winner: Summit One Vanderbilt
Crowd to expect
The Top of the Rock draws large crowds, particularly during peak times, with over 2 million visitors in 2023 and an average of about 5,500 people daily.
In contrast, Summit One Vanderbilt, though popular, generally sees fewer visitors, offering a more peaceful experience.
Winner: Summit One Vanderbilt
Exhibits to experience
At the Top of the Rock, visitors can dive into Rockefeller Center’s rich history and cultural significance through various exhibits.
Interactive displays and multimedia presentations shed light on the art and architecture of this iconic landmark.
One highlight is the Beam Walk exhibit, which recreates the famous image of construction workers above the city.
In contrast, Summit One Vanderbilt exhibits use cutting-edge technology, like the AIR exhibit, which has mirrored spaces and digital art that create a futuristic vibe.
While Top of the Rock focuses on historical and cultural insights, Summit One Vanderbilt impresses with its modern artistry and tech-driven experiences.
Winner: Summit One Vanderbilt
Ticket options
Top of the Rock tickets for adults aged 13 to 61 are priced at $44, while children’s tickets for ages six to 12 are available at a discounted rate of $37.
In comparison, Summit One Vanderbilt tickets are slightly more expensive, with adult tickets costing $52 during the first 15 days of the month and $57 in the last half.
Children’s tickets at Summit One Vanderbilt are $46 in the first half of the month and $50 in the last 15 days. Both attractions offer free entry for infants under six years old.
Winner: Top of the Rock
Dress code
The dress code at Summit One Vanderbilt is slightly more extensive and designed to ensure visitors’ privacy and comfort.
Due to the observatory’s mirror-like surfaces, guests are encouraged to wear pants, shorts, or tights to prevent unintended exposure.
If you know about this dress code only at the last minute, don’t worry—Summit provides free stretchy black shorts upon request.
Stiletto heels, work boots, and cleats are not permitted to protect the glass floors, so it is best to wear comfortable, non-scuffing footwear like sneakers.
In contrast, there’s no strict dress code at the Top of the Rock, but it’s still advisable to wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
Winner: None
Which deck is better for night time visit
For a nighttime visit, Summit One Vanderbilt and Top of the Rock offer unique experiences, but Summit One Vanderbilt might have an advantage.
Summit One Vanderbilt’s modern, multi-level observation deck features interactive exhibits like Air, Clouds, Transcendence, and Levitation, which create an immersive and dynamic environment as the city lights up after dark.
The stunning views and engaging installations make the nighttime experience at Summit One Vanderbilt particularly memorable.
In contrast, Top of the Rock offers classic, unobstructed views of the city’s skyline, including a direct sightline to the Empire State Building, which is beautifully illuminated at night.
While Top of the Rock provides a timeless and serene viewing experience, Summit One Vanderbilt offers a more contemporary and interactive nighttime adventure.
Winner: Summit One Vanderbilt