One World Observatory Tickets, Prices, Discounts, Features, Hours and More
Experience the thrilling sensation of standing atop the One World Observatory, the tallest building in the US and the fifth tallest in the world.
This observatory is located on the 100th, 101st and 102nd floors of the One World Trade Center in New York City, offering stunning views of the city’s iconic skyline.
Opened to the public in 2015, it offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of New York City and beyond from over 1,250 feet up in the air.
From the observatory, visitors can take in the sights and sounds of the city while learning more about its unique history and culture.
One World Observatory’s major highlights and attractions include the Sky Portal lift, floor-to-ceiling windows with interactive touchscreens and exhibits.
This article will discuss all the One World Observatory tickets, prices, hours, observatory deck, views, amenities and more.
A Quick Glance at One World Observatory
Opning Hours: 9 am to 8 pm
Last entry: 7.15 pm
Time needed: 1.5 to 2 hours
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon
Views:
Ticket cost: $43
Location: 117 West St, New York, NY 10006. Get Directions.
What to Expect at One World Observatory
At One World Observatory, visitors can experience an immersive journey through the history of the One World Trade Center.
Upon entering, visitors will see the Global Welcome Center with a large screen displaying the countries of origin for current visitors.
Following this, the Horizon Grid is a multimedia presentation of the construction of One World Trade Center, featuring 145 screens and a 14-minute highlight reel.
Guests then enter the Foundations Room to see the resemblance of the bedrock foundation on which One World Trade was built.
After this, the famous SkyPod Elevator will take visitors up 102 floors in just 47 seconds, with interactive screens on all sides.
Once on the 102nd floor, guests enter the See Forever Theater to experience a short presentation of NYC’s top landmarks and highlights.
As the presentation ends, the screen will rise to reveal the initial views of the observation deck.
Visitors can then use the One World Explorer station to pick up an iPad and use it as a guide to understanding the various buildings and structures they are viewing.
There is also a photography station to capture the moment and a dining level with various food and beverage options, including the One World Observatory Restaurant.
On the 100th floor, guests can enjoy 360-degree views of the NYC skyline and beyond and the Sky Portal, a 14-foot wide circular screen displaying a live view of the traffic.
In addition, visitors can participate in the City Pulse interactive technology experience every hour and find a gift shop and secondary bar.
Where To Buy One World Observatory Tickets
You can purchase tickets to the One World Observatory online or at the venue ticket counter.
We recommend buying your tickets online, which are more cost-effective than on-site ones.
Moreover, when you opt for online ticketing, you can skip the inconvenience of waiting in lengthy lines, which can be time-consuming, especially during peak seasons.
The ticket office has a limited supply of tickets that tend to sell out quickly, so there is a chance you won’t get tickets even after waiting an hour.
Buying your One World Observatory tickets online is the wisest choice to prevent last-minute disappointments.
One World Observatory tickets
Visitors to One World Observatory have three ticket options: Regular Skip The Line, Skip All the Lines and Flexible time & date.
Moreover, due to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum being situated nearby, there are various combinations of tickets available to explore.
Tickets for One World Observatory Entry Ticket
One World Observatory, located in the heart of Manhattan, offers amazing views of the city and its iconic skyline.
With this ticket, visitors can save time and money by pre-purchasing their tickets online.
This convenient service allows guests to bypass long lines at the box office and go straight to the elevators for direct access to the top of One World Trade Center.
Ticket includes:
- Entry to the Observatory
- Access to all three floors of One World Observatory (Levels 100, 101, 102)
- Arrival via The Sky Pod elevators
Ticket Prices:
The One World Observatory entry ticket costs $44 for visitors between 13 and 64 years.
Senior citizens over 65 get a $3 discount, while children between six and 12 get a $5 discount.
Infants below five years get free admission.
| Age | Ticket price |
|---|---|
| Adult ticket (13 to 64 years) | $44 |
| Senior Citizen ticket (65+ years) | $41 |
| Child ticket (6 to 12 years) | $39 |
| Infant ticket (0 to 5 years) | Free Entry |
Skip The Line One World Observatory Tickets
One World Observatory offers a skip-the-line ticket for those who want to avoid the queues and get to the top of the observation deck quickly.
This is the most convenient way to enjoy breathtaking views of NYC from the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
With this ticket, you can bypass the ticketing line and get directly to the elevators that will take you up to the top.
Ticket includes:
- Priority entry to the Observatory
- Access to all three floors of One World Observatory (Levels 100, 101, 102)
- Priority access to the Sky Pod elevators,
- One World Explorer – virtual guide iPad
Ticket Prices:
| Age | Ticket price |
|---|---|
| Adult ticket (13 to 64 years) | $64 |
| Child ticket (6 to 12 years) | $58 |
| Senior citizen ticket (65+ years) | $62 |
| Infant ticket (0 to 5 years) | Free entry |
Tickets for One World Observatory: All-Inclusive Flex Package
The One World Observatory All-Inclusive Flex Package is the perfect way to experience the city uniquely.
With the convenience of skipping the lines and gaining access to the exclusive Sky Portal experience.
Whether you’re a tourist or a local, this ticket offers the perfect combination of sightseeing and relaxation.
Ticket includes:
- Priority entry to the Observatory
- Access to all three floors of One World Observatory (Levels 100, 101, 102)
- Priority access to the Sky Pod elevators,
- $15 credit to be spent on food and beverages
Ticket Prices:
| Age | Ticket price |
|---|---|
| Adult ticket (13 to 64 years) | $75 |
| Child ticket (6 to 12 years) | $69 |
| Senior citizen ticket (65+ years) | $73 |
| Infant ticket (0 to 4 years) | Free entry |
One World Observatory Combo Tickets
You can visit the One World Observatory and another attraction in New York City on the same day with combo tickets.
Frequent travelers often prefer combination tickets for two reasons:
- The combo tickets are cheaper than individual entry tickets.
Since you are buying two tickets simultaneously, you can get up to a 10% discount. - There are many attractions near the One World Observatory that tourists want to visit on the same day.
This list includes the infamous Statue of Liberty!
If you plan your visit in advance and book your combo tours online, you can save time and money when visiting the attractions near the One World Observatory.
Here are our favorite One World Observatory combo tours:
One World Observatory With City Passes
You can also see the One World Observatory using a City Pass.
A City Pass is great if you want to visit many places in New York City.
These passes last a long time so that you can plan your visits.
The New York City Pass includes entry to 5 top places in New York City, including the One World Observatory.
It lasts up to 10 days and helps you skip lines at many attractions to use your time well.
And that’s not all; you can save up to 40% off the cost of admission for multiple attractions with this pass.
The NYC Pass lets you see the best of NYC, like the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
If you are traveling longer and wish to explore the city’s major attractions, purchase a Go City Explorer Pass.
This pass provides entry to 90+ attractions and
How to Reach the One World Observatory
One World Observatory is a famous landmark in New York City. It has become a part of the grand New York skyline.
It is in the One World Trade Centre, near the 9/11 Museum.
Address: 117 West St, New York, NY 10006. Get Directions.
By Subway
World Trade Center is the closest Subway Station, which can be reached on line E.
You can also reach Chambers Station on line A or C.
One World Observatory is a five-minute walk from the station.
If you are traveling from the East Side or Grand Central Station, take line 4 or 5 to reach Fulton Station.
The attraction is a 7-minute from there.
Visitors coming from West Side, Times Square, Broadway and Herald Square can take MTA Subway line R and W to reach Cortlandt Station.
The station is a 3-minute walk from the One World Observatory.
By Bus
If you are traveling from West Side, 7th Avenue, Columbus Circle, Times Square or Penn Station, take the M20 bus.
Get off at the Vesey St/North End Avenue Station.
On the other hand, visitors from 5th Avenue, NY Public Library and Flatiron can take M55 to Broadway Street or Bortlandt Street.
The closest bus station & their distance from the One World Observatory are listed below.
| Station Name | Distance |
|---|---|
| Church St / Barclay St | 3 min walk |
| Vesey St/West St | 3 min walk |
| Church St/Fulton St | 3 min walk |
| Warren St/Greenwich St | 4 min walk |
| Vesey St & North End Ave | 4 min walk |
| Church St/Vesey St | 4 min walk |
| Vesey St/North End Av | 4 min walk |
By Ferry
Visitors can take the Statue of Liberty Ferry from Battery Park to Liberty Island and then take the escalator or elevator to the Observatory.
By Taxi/ Car
You can take a taxi to reach One World Trace Centre. It is a famous landmark and no taxi drivers will refuse your trip!
You can also drive to reach One World Observatory if you don’t want to take a taxi. Use trusty Google Maps to provide you with directions!
You can park at the World Trade Center parking garage and take the escalator or elevator to the Observatory.
By Bike
You can also take your bicycles to the Observatory and use the bike racks provided onsite.
We suggest you purchase One World Observatory tickets online to avoid long queues and last-minute disappointments.
One World Observatory Opening Hours
The One World Observatory at One World Trade Center is open to visitors seven days a week, 365 days a year.
The One World Observatory is open at 10 am every day and closes at 7 pm, with the last ticket sold at 6.15 pm.
The opening hours change seasonally.
From 26 to 30 December 2023, One World Observatory is open from 10 am to 10 pm.
Best Time to Visit the One World Observatory
Early morning or late afternoon, around 9 am or 3 pm, is the best time to visit One World Observatory with less crowds.
If you want to see the city lights, visit in the evening when the sunset creates a magical skyline. Spring and fall are great seasons due to pleasant weather and clear skies.
Weekdays, especially Tuesday and Wednesday, are ideal for smaller crowds and shorter lines.
Winter can be less crowded, but be prepared for cold weather. Avoid summer if you dislike crowds and long wait times.
In summary, go on a weekday morning or late afternoon during spring or fall for the best experience, but check for updated information as times and crowd levels may change.
How long does it take at the One World Observatory?
One World Observatory is a three-level observation deck atop One World Trade Center in lower Manhattan.
It offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and beyond from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
The entire experience at One World Observatory takes approximately 1.5 to two hours.
This includes the time to get to the top of the observatory, take in the views and get back down to the lobby.
Things to do at the One World Observatory
Every year, hundreds of thousands of people visit the One World Observatory to take in the breathtaking views of New York City.
Here are six exciting things to do while you’re there.
The Oculus
The Oculus is positioned on the other side of the memorial plaza from One World Trade Center, a remarkable building housing a transportation hub and shopping mall.
It’s a convenient spot for a quick stop before visiting the observatory. You could take the time to get a bite to eat, explore the stores or just appreciate the eye-catching design.
SkyPod Elevators
Ride the SkyPod Elevators at One World Trade Center and experience a journey.
In just 47 seconds, be transported from the land of the past to the concrete jungle of the present—complete with an educational journey through the history of New York City.
The sides of the elevator are LED screens showing the city’s evolution from its original landscape to the bustling metropolis it is today.
Enjoy a fun, fast-paced and informative ride to the top of the tower.
The See Forever Theater
At the See Forever Theater, visitors are provided with a unique audio and visual experience that includes a two-minute montage of the Big Apple.
The culmination of this journey is the breathtaking view of the city skyline that awaits you.
One World Explorer
For a unique experience of the Big Apple, One World Observatory offers the One World Explorer.
A fully interactive guide that allows you to explore the city’s most iconic sites and restaurants virtually.
With the Skyview channel, you can scan the skyline and fly to 40 locations to learn more about them through accompanying videos.
The Restaurant channel then takes you on a virtual tour of 10 of the city’s most famous eateries.
Sky Portal
If you’re brave enough to step onto the Sky Portal, an enormous 14-foot-wide circle of glass, you can get a breathtaking view of the city 100 stories below.
The experience is made even more impressive by the real-time, high-definition footage of the street below displayed on the portal.
Dining at OWO
Visiting the 101st floor of OWO provides a unique opportunity to experience breathtaking views while dining on delicious food.
There are three restaurants to choose from: One Dine, One Cafe and One Mix.
At One Dine, guests can enjoy a seasonal menu of signature dishes and premium cuts of meat and seafood.
It is open daily from 11.30 am – to 8 pm and reservations are recommended.
One Cafe, also known as Savoy Illy Caffe & Gelateria, serves Italian coffee blends, tea, cold brew and small treats.
Lastly, One Mix is an elegant bar offering an expansive menu of cocktails. Seating at the bar is a walk-up only and offers beautiful views.
One World Observatory FAQs
1. How much is admission to One World Observatory?
The One World Observatory entry ticket costs $44 for visitors between 13 and 64 years.
Senior citizens over 65 get a $3 discount, while children between six and 12 get a $5 discount.
Infants below five years get free admission.
2. Should I buy One World Observatory tickets in advance?
Buying One World Observatory tickets in advance is recommended to guarantee entry and save time.
Buying tickets online is the best way to purchase tickets.
3. Where do you park for One World Observatory?
Public transportation is the best way to get to One World Observatory, as there is limited parking.
There are some parking garages near the Observatory, such as 10 Barclay St Garage.
• Icon Parking
• One World Observatory
• Ocean Parking
• Rector Garage
• Gateway Plaza Garage
• LAZ Parking Battery Parking
• SP+ Parking
4. How long does One World Observatory take?
Visiting the One World Observatory requires timed tickets, but there is no specific limit on how long you can stay.
During peak times, such as summer and school holidays, you should allow around two hours to explore the Observatory, while for the rest of the year, one hour should suffice.
To save time on busy days, you can buy the Standard One World Observatory ticket and avoid the ticket counter line or the Priority Access ticket to skip all the lines and be done in an hour.
To maximize your time in the city, you should also set aside two hours for the 9/11 museum and one hour for the memorial.
5. Is the One World Observatory better at night or day?
The One World Observatory is better at night. Beautiful city lights and a peaceful atmosphere make it special after sunset.
6. How long can you stay at the top of One World Observatory?
Once inside the One World Observatory, there is no time restriction on how long guests can remain; they can stay for as long as they desire.
7. Is the One World Observatory worth it?
The One World Observatory is an observation deck atop the One World Trade Center in New York City.
Its mission is to honor those who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks and to inspire people to strive for a better future.
The One World Observatory offers stunning views of New York City and the surrounding area and visitors can learn about the history of the World Trade Center and its surrounding area.
The observatory features a variety of interactive exhibits, including a virtual reality experience, an interactive digital map and a timeline of the World Trade Center’s history.
The One World Observatory is an incredible experience and it is definitely worth it.
8. Which is better, the Empire State Building or the One World Observatory?
The One World Observatory has a unique backstory due to its connection to the 9/11 attacks, although it is a relatively new structure.
The Empire State Building, however, is higher up in Manhattan and thus offers a better view of Central Park and the city’s renowned museums.
9. How much does it cost to eat at One World Observatory?
The amount you will spend at One Dine restaurant on One World Observatory will vary, depending on your chosen items.
The total cost of the meal can range from $31 to $50.
Featured Image: Oneworldobservatory.com