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The sky’s the limit at Ascent: The world’s highest glass-bottomed elevator

Take the Ascent: NYC’s most thrilling glass elevator ride

Get ready to soar at Ascent, the world’s largest external glass elevator that will whisk you up to One Vanderbilt’s highest vantage point.

Ascent is an external all-glass elevator that is part of the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt experience. It extends the experience of an observation deck to a whole other level. On Ascent, you reach a height of 1210 feet as you rise above the 93rd floor of One Vanderbilt Tower. The ride is a must-do for any traveler seeking a thrilling experience in NYC as it takes you up 12 stories in a glass-bottomed elevator.

Stick around on this page to dive into the full SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator experience and discover exactly what to expect on your visit.

Why this should be your next adventure

Aerial view of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt in New York City with surrounding skyscrapers.
Tourist exploring inside SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Guests enjoying panoramic night views from Summit One Vanderbilt, New York City.
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The world’s biggest external glass elevator

Ascent isn’t just any elevator, it’s the world’s largest external glass elevator, giving you unbeatable views of the New York City skyline. With two cabins that fit up to 15 people each, this ride is truly one-of-a-kind.

Reach new heights

Hop in and get ready to soar to the highest vantage point of One Vanderbilt. Surrounded by glass windows and even a glass floor beneath your feet, you’ll be soaking in stunning, panoramic views of Manhattan like never before.

An adventure you can’t miss

Part elevator, part thrill ride, Ascent delivers all the adrenaline with floor-to-ceiling glass panels that’ll have your heart racing and your camera clicking. If you love a little adventure with your sightseeing, this is the NYC experience for you.

Just a heads-up

If you want to experience Ascent, you’ll need to book it onsite. It is not included with your general admission ticket.

What to expect: An elevating experience like no other

Summit One Vanderbilt observation deck with panoramic New York City skyline view.

Step into Ascent, the world’s largest external glass elevator, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass walls and a glass floor.

Visitors enjoying panoramic views from Summit One Vanderbilt observatory in New York City.

The ride takes you up 12 stories from the 91st floor to the highest vantage point of One Vanderbilt, soaring 1,210 feet above the city.

Glass elevator ascending at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, New York City, offering panoramic views.

Expect a slow, smooth ascent that gives you stunning, uninterrupted views of Manhattan’s skyline, including iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building.

Summit One Vanderbilt New York sunset view with city skyline in the background.

For the best experience, plan your Ascent ride just before sunset to catch the city bathed in golden light and sparkling evening views.

How Ascent’s cutting-edge design takes you sky-high

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Elevator

The brains behind Ascent’s incredible ride? Cimolai Technology. This manufacturer built the two glass cabins along with the super-strong stainless steel track that connects the elevator seamlessly to One Vanderbilt. The elevator track is crafted with razor-sharp precision to deliver a smooth, safe, and top-notch performance every time.

The glass you’ll be riding on is up to 40 mm thick and even has an invisible heating system to keep things cozy, no matter the weather. Plus, Ascent is engineered to zip up to 50 mph (80 kph) and brave winds up to 100 mph (160 kph), making it as tough as it is breathtaking.

Read about One Vanderbilt's architecture

Riding green: Elevating sustainability on your elevator ride

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

Ascent is built with the planet in mind. It uses a regenerative braking system that captures and reuses energy during each ride, making it energy-efficient.

With smart lighting and eco-conscious engineering, the elevator plays a part in One Vanderbilt’s LEED Gold certification. It’s a small ride with a big impact, and is proof that high-tech can be high-responsibility too.

Frequently asked questions about the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator

Do I need a separate ticket for the Ascent elevator?

Yes. Ascent is an add-on experience, so you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket onsite once you're at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.

How much does the Ascent ride cost?

Tickets for Ascent start at $20. It’s not included in your general admission, so be sure to budget for this adrenaline-pumping add-on.

How long is the elevator ride to the 91st floor?

Just 42 seconds! That’s all it takes to zoom from the basement to the 91st floor on the main elevator before you hop on Ascent.

What makes the Ascent special?

Floor-to-ceiling glass, a see-through floor, and an invisible heating system to keep things comfortable, Ascent is a next-level ride in every way.

Is it accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, the Ascent elevator is fully accessible and designed with everyone in mind.

How high does it go?

You’ll soar up to 1,210 feet, the highest viewing point of One Vanderbilt, and one of the best in the city.

What can I see from the top?

Get ready for epic views of the Empire State Building, Lower Manhattan, and the sprawling skyline beyond.

How many people fit in Ascent?

Each cabin holds up to 15 people, so there’s room to share the thrill with friends (or a few strangers equally stunned by the view).

More reads

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

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SUMMIT One Vanderbilt deck

Observation deck

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

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