– This post was written by Megan Witkin–
Located on the 100th, 101st, and 102nd floors of One World Trade Center in New York City, One World Observatory offers beautiful panoramic views of Manhattan and beyond, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
The observatory opened to the public on May 29, 2015, and serves as a symbol of resilience and rebirth following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. With its innovative features like the Sky Portal and immersive exhibits, the One World Observatory provides visitors with a memorable experience.
One World Observatory highlights
Get panoramic views of New York City
See 360° views of NYC from the top of One World’s observation deck. From the 100th, 101st, and 102nd floors, you’ll see iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Central Park from a unique vantage point.
💡Top tip: Get picture-perfect photos from the top at sunrise and sunset. Consult the One World Observatory opening hours to time your visit just right.
Visit the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere
Soar to the top of One World Observatory in less than a New York minute! Hop aboard the SkyPod Elevator and climb your way to the skyscraper’s summit in 47 seconds.
Hold on tight – there’s even entertainment inside the elevator. Tracing the transformation of New York City, from its first settlers to the mega metropolis you see today, you won’t waste a single second during your One World Observatory experience.
Once you arrive at the 102nd floor – the One World Center observation deck – you’ll make history by setting foot atop the Western Hemisphere’s tallest building. At a staggering 1,776 feet high, you’ll feel like you are flying above the city.
Enjoy interactive exhibits and displays
The observatory features interactive exhibits and displays that give you information about the history of the World Trade Center, the construction of the One World Trade Center, and the significance of the site before, during, and after the terrorist attacks of 9/11.
These exhibits offer an educational experience for both local New Yorkers impacted by the events of September 11, 2001, as well as visitors to the city.
Over 10 million visitors pass through the doors of the Global Welcome Center. At the entrance, you can input data about your place of origin and add your name to the digital registry on the largest curved LED display in the world.
See if you can identify the famous faces and iconic places of New York City at the Horizon Grid. Powered by 145 screens, you are sure to learn something new about one of America’s most popular cities.
At the See Forever® Theater, you’ll get a first glimpse of the NYC skyline in an audiovisual experience. Set to light and sound, this multisensory experience honors those who constructed One World Observatory and its historical significance.
Before you leave, make sure you check out the City Pulse desk where you can get insider’s tips and recommendations by participating in an interactive presentation about the city’s geography, culture, and history.
Elevate your experience with dining options at the top
One World Observatory offers several dining options where you can enjoy refreshments while taking in the views of the city below.
One Dine is a fine dining experience located on the 101st floor and is only accessible with a ticket to One World Observatory. With a seasonally-inspired menu and an expert chef, you can elevate your One World Observatory experience with a reservation. Dining packages with a pre-fixed menu are also included, perfect for large groups or a dinner for two with a view.
If you are looking for something more casual, check out One Cafe. With lighter menu fare like soups, salads, sandwiches, and beverages, you can still enjoy the ambiance while taking it easy on the wallet.
In a rush to head to your next itinerary item on your NYC bucket list? Head over to One Cafe Express for grab-and-go bites and beverages. If you have a little more time to spare, then take a seat at One Mix, a lounge-style dining experience serving small plates and cocktails with stunning views of the city.
Plan your visit to One World Observatory
How to get there
🚘By car
Since One World Observatory is located in the center of NYC, parking can be challenging. For the nearest garage, look for the Brookfield Place shopping center across the street from One World Trade Center. Make a parking reservation before your visit.
🚉By public transport
From Penn Station: Start at the West Side near 8th Ave./Columbus Circle/Port Authority Bus Terminal/Penn Station. Board the A or C train heading towards Chambers St. Get off the train at Chambers St. Transfer to the E train heading towards the World Trade Center.
From Times Square: Take the West Side subway line (1 train) heading downtown towards WTC Cortlandt St. Get on the train at a station near Times Square or Penn Station on 7th Avenue. Ride the 1 train to the WTC Cortlandt St. station. This station is located near the World Trade Center site. Once at WTC Cortlandt St., transfer to either the 2 or 3 train heading towards Fulton St. These trains will take you closer to One World Observatory. Exit the subway at Fulton St. station and follow signs to the observatory.
From Broadway: Locate the R or W subway line, which runs along the West Side of Manhattan. Board a southbound train heading to Cortlandt St. Once you arrive at Cortlandt St. station, exit the subway and follow signs directing to One World Observatory.
From Grand Central Station: Head to Grand Central Station on the East Side of Manhattan. Once inside Grand Central Station, locate the platform for the 4 or 5 train. Board either the 4 or 5 train going downtown and ride it to the Fulton Street station.
Upon arriving at Fulton Street station, exit and follow signs for the exit that leads to One World Observatory.
⏱️Opening hours
One World Observatory hours are adjusted depending on the season.
During the summer months, hours can extend from 9 am to 9 pm to take advantage of the extra daylight hours. Outside of the summer season, One World Observatory is open from 10 am to 7 pm.
