Name: One World Observatory
Address: 117 West St, New York, NY 10007
Telephone: (844) 696-1776
Rating: 4.7

Observatory located on floors 100-102 of One World Trade Center, with exhibits & restaurants.

Central Park

Provided by Google

Times Square

Rockefeller Center

Statue of Liberty

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

One World Trade Center's top floor is officially designated as 104, even though it only has 94 actual stories.

Top Floor Designation

One World Trade Center has a footprint of 40,000 square feet, nearly identical to the original Twin Towers.

Footprint Size

The tower forms a perfect octagon near its middle, and then shifts into a glass parapet.

Unique Shape

Condé Nast Publications occupies a significant portion of the building, leasing over 1 million square feet of office space.

Major Tenant

Larry Silverstein, the developer, signed a 99-year lease for the World Trade Center site in 2001.

Lease Duration

One World Observatory

Perched atop the iconic One World Trade Center, One World Observatory offers an unparalleled perspective on New York City.  What sets this observatory apart is its breathtaking "SkyPod" elevator experience.  As you ascend 102 stories in a mere 47 seconds, LED technology transforms the elevator cabin into a captivating time-lapse, visually narrating the city's evolution from the 1600s to the present day.  Once you reach the top, prepare to be captivated by panoramic views that stretch up to 50 miles on a clear day.  Interactive kiosks called "City Pulse" allow you to explore specific neighborhoods and landmarks in detail, guided by knowledgeable "Global Ambassadors."  For a truly unique experience, venture to the 101st floor, home to ONE Dine, the highest restaurant in the Western Hemisphere, offering breathtaking views alongside its culinary delights.  The observation deck also features a mesmerizing art installation comprised of three shimmering spheres, each reflecting a distinct perspective of the city below.

Introduction

For travelers seeking an unparalleled perspective on New York City, One World Observatory offers more than just breathtaking views.  Ascend to the top in a mere 47 seconds via SkyPod elevators, where LED technology transforms the walls into a captivating time-lapse of the city's evolution.  Once 1,250 feet above ground, interactive exhibits and augmented reality experiences await, providing historical context and architectural insights into the iconic skyline before you.  Go beyond the typical souvenir photo and create a personalized digital memory with the help of the See Forever Theater's immersive technology.  For a truly unique experience, time your visit with sunset and witness the city transition from day to night, its glittering lights reflecting off the surrounding rivers.  Whether you choose to dine at ONE Dine with its seasonal menu and panoramic views, or enjoy a drink at ONE Mix, the Observatory promises an unforgettable sensory experience.  Don't miss the opportunity to purchase a piece of the sky at the Gallery at ONE WORLD, offering exclusive gifts and mementos inspired by the city's vibrant spirit.

Tourist Destination

One World Observatory, perched atop the soaring One World Trade Center, stands as a testament to innovative skyscraper architecture. Its iconic height, achieved through a robust concrete core and a diagrid system of interlaced steel beams, allows for expansive, column-free interior spaces that house the observatory. This structural system not only enables breathtaking panoramic views but also contributes to the building's exceptional stability, crucial in a skyscraper of its magnitude. The tower's facade, composed of over 2,000 high-performance glass panels, reflects the changing hues of the sky while maximizing natural light penetration, reducing energy consumption.  The placement and design of these panels were meticulously calculated to mitigate wind loads and enhance the building's overall energy efficiency.  The observatory itself, spanning three floors, showcases the building's architectural prowess through strategically placed viewing platforms that offer unparalleled perspectives of the cityscape below. The use of high-strength materials and advanced construction techniques in One World Observatory exemplifies the latest advancements in skyscraper architecture, pushing the boundaries of design and engineering.

Skyscraper Architecture

One World Observatory, standing tall where the Twin Towers once graced the New York City skyline, is not just a breathtaking observation deck but a symbol of resilience and renewal. Built on the hallowed ground of the World Trade Center complex, destroyed in the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the observatory represents the indomitable spirit of a city and a nation. Its very existence is a testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity, a beacon of hope rising from the ashes of tragedy. Each visit to the observatory is a poignant reminder of the past, offering a space for reflection and remembrance. The location itself holds deep historical significance, forever etched in the collective memory of the world.  The observatory's construction marks a new chapter in the narrative of Ground Zero, symbolizing hope, progress, and the unwavering belief in a brighter future. It stands as a powerful symbol of unity, reminding us of the importance of coming together in the face of challenges and emerging stronger on the other side.

Historical Significance

One World Observatory, beyond its breathtaking views, serves as a surprising yet compelling cultural hub, subtly weaving narratives of New York City's heritage and artistic spirit.  As visitors ascend, the SkyPod elevators transform into time capsules, showcasing a captivating visual history of New York's skyline from the 1500s to present day. This digital immersion sets the stage for a deeper appreciation of the city's cultural evolution.  Within the Observatory itself, the "See Forever Theater" presents a stunning film that highlights the city's vibrant tapestry of art, music, and human stories. This cinematic experience transcends typical tourist attractions, offering a poignant reflection of New York's soul.  Furthermore, the Observatory frequently partners with local artists, showcasing rotating exhibits that celebrate the city's diverse creative community. From photography exhibitions capturing the city's pulse to installations reflecting its multicultural heart, One World Observatory provides a platform for artistic expression that resonates with the city's cultural fabric. This dedication to showcasing New York's cultural richness elevates the Observatory beyond a mere observation point, transforming it into a dynamic space where visitors can connect with the city's vibrant spirit.

Cultural Hub

One World Observatory, standing atop the resilient One World Trade Center, is a testament to human ingenuity, a beacon of innovation in skyscraper design and engineering. Its very foundation rests on a 20-story concrete-and-steel bedrock platform, engineered to distribute the tower's immense weight and withstand extraordinary forces. The building's core, housing the elevator shafts and stairwells, is constructed from high-strength concrete, reaching an astounding thickness of 6.8 feet in certain areas. This robust core, combined with a perimeter of steel columns, forms the backbone of the structure, providing unparalleled stability and strength. A marvel of vertical transportation, the observatory features a trio of high-speed elevators, aptly named SkyPods. These state-of-the-art elevators ascend at a breathtaking speed of 23 miles per hour, whisking visitors to the 102nd floor in a mere 47 seconds. Adding to the engineering ingenuity is the building's innovative use of lightweight materials. The façade, composed of shimmering glass panels, not only offers breathtaking views but also contributes to the building's energy efficiency. These panels, along with the building's aerodynamic design, help reduce wind loads, a crucial factor in skyscraper construction.  One World Observatory is a symphony of architectural brilliance and engineering prowess, a symbol of resilience and a testament to the boundless possibilities of human endeavor.

Engineering Marvel

From 1,250 feet above iconic New York City streets, One World Observatory offers unparalleled urban panoramas.  Floor-to-ceiling windows reveal a breathtaking, real-time tapestry of urban life, stretching from the harbor's shimmering waters to the city's vast, gridded expanse. Watch as miniature yellow cabs weave through concrete canyons and distant bridges connect boroughs like delicate threads.  The observatory's unique three-level design provides varied perspectives: gaze upon the city's intricate street grid from above or marvel at the architectural grandeur of nearby skyscrapers at eye level. Interactive installations enhance the experience, allowing you to zoom in on specific neighborhoods or uncover hidden architectural gems. As day transitions to night, witness the city's energy transform, with twinkling lights replacing the afternoon sun, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of urban brilliance. This dynamic viewpoint, encompassing the entirety of New York City's urban fabric, offers a profound understanding of its scale, diversity, and ceaseless energy.

Urban Panoramic Views

One World Observatory, standing tall where the Twin Towers once graced the skyline, embodies the very essence of symbolic rebirth. It is more than just a skyscraper; it's a phoenix rising from the ashes, a testament to the indomitable spirit of New York City. The very act of ascending 102 floors, a journey mirroring the city's climb from adversity, speaks volumes. As visitors ascend, they're taken on a captivating journey through time, witnessing the city's evolution and resilience through multimedia installations. Reaching the top, the panoramic views become a powerful metaphor. Gazing upon the sprawling metropolis, with its scars healed and spirit unbroken, evokes a profound sense of hope and renewal. The bustling cityscape below stands as a testament to the city's ability to rebuild, reimagine, and emerge stronger.  One World Observatory, therefore, transcends its function as an observation deck; it serves as a beacon of resilience, a symbol of the city's unwavering spirit, forever etched against the canvas of the New York skyline.

One World Observatory

Did You Know?

Top Floor Designation

Footprint Size

Unique Shape

Major Tenant

Highlights from Reviews

Location