Top 5 Tips for Visiting the One World Observatory

Visit on a clear, sunny day to get the best views. If it’s a cloudy day with zero visibility, the observatory may issue a voucher for any unused tickets that can be redeemed within 14 days.

To score the best photos, visit at noon when the sun is at its peak—that way there’s equal exposure on all sides of the observatory. To see the sunset, book your timed ticket for at least one hour before to make it to the top in time. Note that you’ll need to go through TSA-style security, which can take a little while.

From video displays to interactive maps, the views and exhibits at One World Observatory are equally suitable for kids and adults. You can bring strollers, but you’ll need to fold them up in the elevator.

Rooftop bars have nothing on One World Observatory—head up after dark and sip a cocktail in the highest bar in the Western Hemisphere, or reserve a table at ONE Dine for fancy bites with sweeping city views.

One World Observatory is a very popular NYC attraction, so it really does pay to purchase tickets in advance—especially if you want to avoid long lines and sold-out time slots. You’ll need to select a date and time when booking, so it’s a good idea to plan the rest of your day around your visit. Upgrade your ticket to zip through the admission lanes and save up to two hours of waiting, depending on the crowds and time of year.