Race to the Sky: NYC Architecture Tour With SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Discover NYC’s biggest Midtown skyscrapers and its newest observatory
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Local experts
Personal stories and insider travel tips -
Top-rated
Thousands of reviews averaging 4.9 stars -
Worry-free booking
Flexible scheduling and refunds
$75
€65
£57
C$105
A$114
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Local experts
Personal stories and insider travel tips -
Top-rated
Thousands of reviews averaging 4.9 stars -
Worry-free booking
Flexible scheduling and refunds
Highlights
- Hear how daring architects transformed New York’s skyline.
- Uncover the truth of a 1930s rivalry that changed Manhattan forever.
- Frame the perfect photo of the Empire State Building.
- Notice the Art Deco details of skyscrapers like Chrysler Building, thanks to your guide’s expertise.
- Visit the top three floors of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, where mirrors and light show you the city in a new way.
- Learn about the secrets of a Beaux-Arts landmark called the People’s Palace.
What you'll do
Discover some of New York’s most iconic buildings on this expert-led NYC architecture tour with your ticket to the incredible SUMMIT One Vanderbilt included.
We begin at the famous Empire State Building where your guide will point out the ...
Discover some of New York’s most iconic buildings on this expert-led NYC architecture tour with your ticket to the incredible SUMMIT One Vanderbilt included.
We begin at the famous Empire State Building where your guide will point out the perfect photo spot. Learn about other skyscrapers — the American Radiator Building, the Chrysler Building, and more — as your guide points out their geometric Art Deco design.
Meanwhile, we’ll dig into the stories behind these landmarks, from cultural goliaths like Macy’s (see it looming large on Fifth Avenue) to the People’s Palace, aka the New York Public Library, which holds some unexpected treasures (like a certain well-loved teddy bear).
Your adventure finishes with a flourish at the stunning SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, the city’s newest observatory experience. Spread across three dazzling floors over 1,000 feet up, this immersive space of mirrors, glass, and light transforms the skyline into something unforgettable.
Itinerary
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Empire State Building
The perfect photo spot for King Kong’s favorite skyscraper
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Fifth Avenue and Herald Square
Where you’ll learn about the cultural impact of the famous Macy’s department store
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Bryant Park
A 9.6-acre greenspace with stellar views of the American Radiator Building and more
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New York Public Library
A Beaux-Arts gem with unexpected treasures inside
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One Vanderbilt
Towering over 1,400 feet above Madison Avenue
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SUMMIT One Vanderbilt observatory
A multisensory experience of lights, mirrors and more that transforms the New York skyline
Meeting point
Where we meet
Sunglass Hut, West 34th Street, New York, NY 10001, United States
Meet your guide in front of the Sunglass Hut at Macy’s Herald Square. Your guide will be wearing an orange hat that says ExperienceFirst.
End point
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
FAQs
How much walking is there?
This tour covers around three quarters of a mile at a leisurely pace.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, this tour is accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers.
What is the cancellation policy?
We understand plans change. We offer a 100% refund or the option to reschedule up to 48 hours before your tour start time. Cancellations within 48 hours aren’t eligible for refunds or rescheduling.
When do I visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt?
Your guided tour will end outside the One Vanderbilt building. Your observatory tickets are timed, so you should enter immediately after the tour. Once inside, you’re free to explore all three floors of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt at your own pace.
When should I get there?
Plan to show up 15 minutes early. The tour starts promptly, and you may not be able to catch up if you arrive late.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, non-marking shoes. Stiletto heels, work boots, cleats, and other footwear that can damage flooring are not permitted. SUMMIT also has many reflective floors, so they recommend wearing pants, shorts, or tights and bringing sunglasses for the reflected sunlight.
What if it rains?
Our tours run rain or shine. If there’s extreme weather and we have to cancel, you’ll get a full refund.
Are gratuities included?
Tips aren’t included but are always appreciated by our guides. If you think your guide did an outstanding job, a tip is a great way to show that.
Do you have gift certificates?
Yes! If you want to give the gift of New York (or any of our destinations) to someone else, you can purchase a tour gift card. Our gift cards are good for any of our tours, and they never expire.