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Ascent: Glass elevator at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

Ascent is the world's largest external glass elevator which takes you to the highest vantage point of One Vanderbilt. Stay on this page to find out more about the SUMMIT One elevator experience and what to expect on your visit!

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Ascent

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Ascent

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Ascent highlights

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Elevator

World’s biggest external glass elevator

Ascent is the world’s biggest external glass elevator giving you stunning views of the New York skyline. With two cabins and a capacity of 15 persons, it is truly a one of a kind experience.

View of new york from SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

Adventure ride

Ascent is a thrilling part of the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt experience! It has floor to ceiling glass windows and a glass floor that appeals to the adventurer in you.

Your SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator experience

Your SUMMIT One elevator experience begins on the ground floor of New York's Grand Central Station, which is located beneath One Vanderbilt. As part of the queue process, you watch a short video called Celebration before taking the lift to the SUMMIT observation deck. Following that, all guests are asked to wear shoe coverings before entering the lift, which is an immersive exhibit with flashing lights that takes you to the top in just 42 seconds. The first SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator takes you to the 91st floor, where you will find Transcendence I.

Once you go through all the floors inside SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and reach the observation deck, you can take the glass elevator to get to the highest point of the building. Ascent is perfect for the adventure seeker in you, providing mesmerizing views of the New York skyline. With floor to ceiling glass windows, it slowly takes you to the highest vantage point in New York facing the south of NYC towards the Empire State Building and the Manhattan skyline. Plan your visit just before sunset for stunning views!

Architecture of the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Elevator

Cimolai Technology created the two cabins of the glass elevator, as well as the drive mechanisms and track way that connects to and integrates with the building. The lift track way is made of stainless steel, the strongest available on the market. It is built with extremely tight tolerances to ensure maximum performance and safety.

The Ascent elevator's glass is up to 40 mm thick and features an invisible heating system for a comfortable experience. Moreover the  elevators are designed to operate at up to 50 mph (80 kph) and to withstand high winds of up to 100 mph (160 kph).

Sustainability features of Ascent

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

The SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator features a regenerative braking system that recovers energy that would otherwise be lost during braking. This energy is then used to power the elevator, making it more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

The elevator also features energy-efficient lighting, contributing to the building's LEED Gold certification. These sustainability features are a testament to the building's commitment to reducing its environmental impact and creating a more sustainable future.

Do I Need a Ticket to Ride the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Elevator?

The Ascent Elevator experience is not included in your SUMMIT One Vanderbilt ticket. You will have to buy a separate ticket to Ascent, which is only available onsite.




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Frequently Asked Questions About the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Elevator

Do I need a separate ticket to use the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt glass elevator?

Yes, Ascent is an add-on experience. You will have to buy tickets onsite.

How much does it cost to ride Ascent?

Tickets to experience Ascent start from $20. The SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator - Ascent, is an add-on experience, so you’ll have to buy a ticket for this separately onsite.

How long does it take to ride the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator to the 91st floor?

It takes only 42 seconds to ride the SUMMIT elevator from the basement to the 91st floor.

Is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Ascent worth it?

Riding Ascent is a must-do for any traveler looking for a thrilling one-of-a-kind experience in NYC.

What is the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt glass elevator called?

The SUMMIT One Vanderbilt glass elevator is called Ascent.

What are some of the features of the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator?

Some of the unique features of the Ascent include its floor-to-ceiling glass and an invisible heating system.

Is the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Ascent accessible to people with disabilities?

Yes, Ascent is fully accessible to people with disabilities.

Is the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator safe?

Yes, the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator is safe and meets all required safety standards.

Is the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator sustainable?

The SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator features a regenerative braking system and energy-efficient lighting, which helps the building achieve its LEED Gold certification for sustainability.

Should I ride the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator when it’s raining?

The visibility from the observation deck and the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt glass elevator is low when it’s raining.

How high does the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Ascent go?

The SUMMIT One Vanderbilt glass elevator goes to a height of 1210 feet.

How fast is the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator?

The first SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator takes you to the 91st floor in just 42 seconds. The glass elevator - Ascent, can operate at up to 50 mph.

How many SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevators are there?

There are two elevator experiences at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. One that takes you from the ground floor to the 93rd floor, and the other is the glass elevator Ascent that takes you to the 91st floor.

What can I see from the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt elevator?

You have a fantastic view of the Empire State Building and Lower Manhattan to the south from the elevator.

What is the capacity of the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt glass elevator?

Ascent has a capacity of 15 passengers.