10 interesting facts about SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

Grand Central Terminal entrance with view of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt in New York City.

1. You can walk straight from Grand Central to SUMMIT

Yep, you read that right, there’s no need to step outside since SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is directly connected to Grand Central Terminal. You can go from the train to skyline views in just a few minutes. Talk about a grand entrance!

Summit One Vanderbilt aerial view at sunset, New York City skyline.

2. It’s the tallest commercial skyscraper in Midtown

Soaring to 1,401 feet, One Vanderbilt holds the title for Midtown Manhattan’s tallest commercial building. It’s up there with giants like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, literally shaping NYC’s skyline.

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

3. Ascent Is the world’s highest glass-bottomed elevator

If you're feeling brave, step into Ascent, twin glass elevators that climb the outside of the building to 1,210 feet. With glass floors and walls, it’s like floating above the city with nothing but sky around you. A serious bucket list moment.

One Vanderbilt skyscraper lit up at dusk with New York City skyline in the background.

4. Most of the building materials were recycled

Sustainability matters here. A big chunk of the building is made using recycled materials, all part of its push toward LEED and WELL certifications. One Vanderbilt isn’t just impressive, it’s green, too.

Summit One Vanderbilt observation deck view of New York City skyline at night.

5. 8,743 glass panels make up its shiny exterior

That sleek, reflective look? It comes from 8,743 glass curtain wall panels. Not only do they offer incredible views from inside, but they also give the tower its signature shimmering vibe.

New York City skyline at dusk with Empire State Building and One Vanderbilt illuminated under cloudy sky.

6. It’s not just one tower, it’s four in one

Look closely and you’ll see One Vanderbilt is actually made up of four connected towers that taper as they rise. This layered design gives it that sculptural look and helps it blend beautifully with neighboring Grand Central.

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

7. There was a legal battle over the air above Grand Central

In true New York fashion, there was drama. Grand Central’s owners sued the developers over air rights, the invisible real estate above the station, which allowed One Vanderbilt to stretch taller than usual. Eventually, the dispute was settled, and the tower rose.

Observation deck view of New York City skyline from SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.

8. Five buildings were demolished to make space for One Vanderbilt

Before One Vanderbilt could rise, five buildings had to come down. It was a major transformation of the block, clearing the way for one of NYC’s boldest new additions.

Grand Central Terminal exterior with bustling traffic in New York City.

9. Its shape was designed to let light reach Grand Central

The tower’s shape isn’t just stylish, it’s smart. The tapered form and angled cutouts at the base were designed specifically to let sunlight reach Grand Central, keeping the landmark well-lit and in full view.

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

10. The elevators are lightning fast

Don’t blink, you might miss the ride. SUMMIT’s elevators zoom visitors from the ground to the observation deck 1,020 feet up in under 50 seconds. Add floor-to-ceiling glass, and it's an adrenaline rush with a view.