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Everything You Need to Know About the One World Observatory in New York

Elevate your experience of New York city with the One World Observatory where you can enjoy breathtaking 360° views from the comfort of an indoor climate-controlled space. The observatory, on the tallest skysc...

Founded On

2015

Founded By

David M. Childs

New YorkOne World ObservatoryOne World Observatory

Quick Information

RECOMMENDED DURATION

2 hours

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

1-2 hours (Peak), 30-60 mins (Off Peak)

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE

30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Plan your visit

Did you know?

Tallest observation deck in the western hemisphere: At a height of 1,268 feet, the One World Observatory stands tall over New York city located on the top three floors of One World Trade Center from the 100th floor through the 102nd floor.

Symbol of strength: One World Trade Center stands at the site of the World Trade Center that was destroyed in the September 11 attacks of 2001. The One World Observatory serves as a tribute to the resilience of New York and its people in light of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Race to the top: One World Trade Center’s elevators can travel as fast as 23 miles per hour. The SkyPo elevator can go from the ground floor to the 102nd floor in just 60 seconds!

























Book your One World Observatory tickets

One World Observatory Standard Ticket: Skip-the-Box-Office
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Mobile ticket
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One World Observatory All-Inclusive Ticket: Skip-All-Lines with $15 Voucher
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Combo (Save 10%): One World Observatory + Edge Observation Deck Tickets
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Combo (Save 5%): One World Observatory + Statue of Liberty Tickets with Ferry Transfers
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Audio guide
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One World Observatory highlights

About the One World Observatory

Elevator ride

The SkyPod elevator ride at One World Observatory takes you to the 102nd floor in just 47 seconds! Inside the elevator, you witness a heart-pumping time-lapse of the evolution of NYC on the LED screens fitted on all four walls of the elevator.

About the One World Observatory

See Forever Theater

The Forever Theater is made up of multiple LED screens fitted together to make up one giant presentation. As the elevator ascends, watch New York evolve from its first settlements to the skyscrapers that we see today.

About the One World Observatory

The observation deck

Standing at a height of 1,268 feet, One World Observatory is New York City’s tallest indoor observation deck. The observation deck covers the entire 100th floor of the building presenting 360° views of New York and New Jersey.

About the One World Observatory

Global Welcome Center 

At the Global Welcome Center, see your place of origin added to One World Observatory’s registry of guests. This remarkable data is displayed on the biggest curved indoor LED in the world. Step in closer to the screens to become a part of this show!

About the One World Observatory

Sky Portal

One World Observatory's Sky Portal is a 4.2 meters-wide circular glass disc on the 100th floor of the building. It gives you a unique perspective of NYC, using real-time high-definition views of the streets below. The Sky Portal gives the illusion of a ledge, making it a thrilling experience.

About the One World Observatory

Horizon Grid

The Horizon Grid is a multimedia spectacle highlighting the memorable moments, famous faces, and iconic places visible from One World Observatory. This breathtaking presentation takes place using 145 screens. You’ll be sure to walk away wiser from this exhibit!

About the One World Observatory

One World Explorer

The One World Explorer uses iPad as your interactive guide to the landmarks of New York City. As you walk around the observatory gazing out at the city, One World Explorer displays facts and information about everything you look at. If this is your first time in New York consider this experience your introductory guide to NYC.

Who built the One World Observatory? 

One World Observatory was built by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, an architecture firm based in Chicago. David Childs of the same firm was also responsible for designing the building, which stands at the former World Trade Center site. The observatory serves as a tribute to the resilience of New York and its people in light of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Architecture of One World Observatory

About the One World Observatory

One World Observatory was designed by David Childs as a symbol of the strength and resilience of the people of New York in the face of tragedy. The observatory's architecture embodies both elegance and functionality, offering visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of New York City and beyond. The soaring glass walls and floor-to-ceiling windows create a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the surrounding skyline. The sleek and modern design elements, coupled with state-of-the-art technology, enhance the overall experience, offering interactive exhibits, informative displays, and immersive presentations that educate visitors about the history, culture, and significance of this iconic landmark.

Frequently asked questions about One World Observatory

What makes One World Observatory different from other NYC observation decks?

Besides being the highest observation deck in NYC, One World Observatory focuses on storytelling and tech. The immersive elevator ride, iPad guides, and real-time street views create an experience that’s both futuristic and emotionally powerful.

What dining experiences are available at One World Observatory?

The on-site ONE Dine restaurant offers an upscale dining experience with floor-to-ceiling views. It’s perfect for sunset dinners or special occasions. 

What is the SkyPod elevator experience?

The SkyPod elevator at One World Observatory takes you to the 102nd floor in just 47 seconds and is made with floor-to-ceiling LED screens. During your ride, you'll get to enjoy an immersive virtual display showcasing New York City's evolution.

Is there a souvenir shop, and what can I buy there?

There is a gift shop at One World Observatory that sells NYC-themed merchandise, exclusive observatory items, books, and photo packages. Limited edition souvenirs like skyline prints and commemorative coins are especially popular.

What’s a lesser-known fact about the building?

The One World Trade Center’s height—1,776 feet—is symbolic of the year the US Declaration of Independence was signed, tying its architectural design to national history.

Is the observatory part of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum?

No, but One World observatory and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum are located nearby and can be visited together. Book combo tickets that make it easy to explore both in a single day.