One World Observatory

Hundreds of thousands of tourists flock to the One World Observatory each year to take in the breathtaking panorama of the Big Apple. The observation deck at the summit of One World Trade Center provides visitors with unobstructed views of New York City from Manhattan to the East River to the Brooklyn Bridge and beyond, all without leaving the building.

Visiting the observatory is a simple addition to a trip to the World Trade Center site. The entrance to the observatory is conveniently located near the 9/11 Memorial Plaza, as the structure is a part of the World Trade Center. Spend a morning or day downtown checking out the memorial, museum, and observatory.

In addition to taking in some of the city’s most breathtaking panoramas, there are other fun things to do at this altitude. I’ve compiled a list of six activities that you can (and really should) do at the One World Observatory. First, though, I’ll fill you in on the backstory of 9/11 and the construction of the observatory atop One World Trade Center.

What can you see from One World Observatory?

A visit to the One World Observatory in New York City offers unparalleled views of Manhattan and beyond. The observatory, which resides at the top of the iconic One World Trade Center, allows visitors to experience the pinnacle of NYC skyline views that stretch from the Statue of Liberty all the way up to suburban New Jersey. Those lucky enough to make their way to the 102nd floor can also get a rare look into many iconic landmarks surrounding Lower Manhattan, such as The Woolworth Building and Freedom Tower. This unique opportunity grants guests an unparalleled and unforgettable bird’s eye view of one of the greatest cities in America.

Buy Tickets for One World Observatory in New York City

8 Things To Do at the One World Observatory

The One World Trade Center and Its 9/11 Connection

The observatory in One World Trade Center, located on floors 100 and 102, is strategically linked to the remainder of Ground Zero. It was finished in 2014 as part of the post-9/11 effort to revitalise the World Trade Center district.

As a symbol of New York City’s tenacity and America’s commitment to freedom and independence, the building is sometimes referred to as the Freedom Tower.

It’s neat that its height, 1,776 feet, is the same as the year America was founded.

With its height and grandeur, the One World Observatory complements the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, making for a truly unforgettable experience for guests. While the One World Trade Center observatory and the Freedom Tower honour the city’s perseverance and growth after 9/11, the museum focuses on the catastrophe.

They hope this brief overview of One World Trade Center will help you plan your trip to New York City.

1. The Oculus

The Oculus is a transportation hub and shopping centre located within one of New York’s most distinctive towers, and it is located just across the memorial plaza from One World Trade Center. The observatory is a short walk from the World Trade Center, so it’s a convenient place to stop on your way in. Food, shopping, and admiring the stunning architecture are all options.

If you’re curious about the Oculus and want to learn more, I’ve written a comprehensive guide that explains its history and unique features.

2. Global Welcome Center: Voices and Foundations

The Global Welcome Center, where you’ll be greeted in a variety of languages, is the first stop on your tour of the One World Observatory. The above clip provides a sneak peek. All the visitors’ unique cultures will be honoured through this exhibit.

The next stop is Voices, a film documentary about the people behind the creation of One World Trade Center. Hear their motivational accounts of the structure before you check it out for yourself.

Check out the Manhattan bedrock upon which New York City and the World Trade Center were constructed at the Foundations exhibit. It allowed for the construction of modern skyscrapers.

3. SkyPod Elevators

While taking the elevator is a necessary evil, that hardly dampens the experience. The SkyPod of One World Trade Center’s observation deck is the fastest in North America, while most skyscraper observation decks offer very speedy ascents to the top.

The OWO elevator trip doubles as a historical tour of New York City spanning hundreds of years. LED screens line the elevator’s walls. Inching upward, you go through the ages. The transformation of Manhattan from the verdant countryside that once surrounded it into a modern metropolis is played out before your eyes.

In just 47 seconds, you can travel from the wilderness to the bustling metropolis. Then suddenly you realise that you’ve gone through 102 floors and 300 years in a flash.

4. The See Forever Theater

Instead of being directed straight to the observation deck once you reach the top of One World Trade Center, you’ll be taken into the See Forever Theater. The first look of the cityscape follows an immersive audiovisual experience in a state-of-the-art theatre.

In this two-minute clip, we see a quick montage of New York City’s landmarks, sidewalks, and inhabitants. A visit to this observation deck is a great way to get your bearings before you begin your tour of the city.

5. One World Explorer

In place of a standard audio guide, the One World Observatory provides guests with the One World Explorer. Using this guide, you may take a virtual walk through some of New York’s most famous landmarks.

The explorer will get you up up and personal with what you see out there in the observatory. In order to learn about different locations, simply look at the skyline and click on them.

As an added bonus, you can take the memories with you when you leave by simply streaming them to your own device. There are two channels available on the One World Explorer, Skyview and Restaurant.

As you look out different windows, the cityscape is updated with labels thanks to the Skyview channel. Forty individual labels can be tapped to instantly transport you to that location for a closeup look. There will be a documentary that goes along with each, detailing the fascinating history of each location.
Ten of the best restaurants in the city are featured on the Restaurant channel. After visiting the observatory, you’ll have a greater grasp of the city’s culinary scene. A One World Explorer can greatly enhance your observatory visit for an additional $10 over the cost of a regular ticket.

6. Sky Portal

The diameter of the Sky Portal is 14 feet, making it an intimidating sight. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a step out onto it, and you’ll be able to see the city 100 floors below you.

Using real-time, high-definition footage of the street below, the gateway provides one of the most unforgettable and distinctive vantage points in the One World Trade Center observatory.

7. Dining at OWO

Those who have paid for entrance to the observatory level can only dine on the 101st floor. One Dine, One Cafe, and One Mix are the three dining options, each offering a unique menu and atmosphere.

• One Dine: This fine dining establishment offers both seasonal and distinctive menu items. Fresh fish and prime cuts of beef are available. The chef also offers a three-course prix-fixe menu. The restaurant is open every day from 11:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and reservations are highly encouraged (particularly for large parties).
• One Cafe: Savoy Illy Caffe & Gelateria, or just One Cafe, offers an original Italian coffee mix in addition to tea, cold brew, and a few tasty bites. If you’re in need of a fast pick-me-up, you’ve come to the right place.
• One Mix: This classy watering hole serves you a wide variety of beverages. A drink at the bar can be enjoyed in front of the stunning scenery, which can be accessed by anyone who walks in.

8. Souvenirs to Remember Your OWO Trip

Looking for a souvenir to remind you of your trip? The One World Observatory’s Gallery on the building’s 100th floor has you covered. Several of these items are exclusive to the observatory and can’t be purchased anyplace else.

There are also souvenir photographs for purchase. You can purchase photos as you leave the observatory at the photo area on the 101st floor.

Why People love to Choose One World Observatory?

People may choose to visit the One World Observatory for a myriad of reasons; foremost among them are the unparalleled, sweeping views it offers and the unrivaled convenience it provides. The 365-degree panoramic views of NYC atop the Western Hemisphere’s tallest building, the 102-story One World Trade Center, offer breathtaking experiences and lasting memories. Moreover, with its easy access from numerous transportation hubs and nearby attractions, travelers can take full advantage of their time in Manhattan without ever having to worry about venturing too far from home. Thus it is easy to see why tourists may flock to this iconic observation deck!