FAQs about One World

One World Observatory is an observation deck located on the 100th, 101st, and 102nd floors of the top of One World Trade Center in New York City. It is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, standing at 1,776 feet (541 meters) and offering fascinating views of the city. Besides the 360 degree views, the observatory offers a variety of experiences, including: Sky Pod Elevators, Global Welcome Center, Horizon Grid, Foundation Room, See Forever Theater, One World Explorer Station, and Sky Portal.

Being the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, One World Observatory provides stunning 360-degree views of New York City. From the decks, guests can see up to 45 miles (72 kms) including landmarks like the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and Statue of Liberty — making your visit absolutely worth it. Engaging attractions such as the Sky Portal, See Forever Theater, and One World Explorer Station enhance the experience, offering something exciting for all ages.

The entrance to One World Observatory is located on the West Plaza, on the corner of West and Vesey Streets in Lower Manhattan. In particular, the entrance is on the West Street side of One World Trade Center. It is a street-level entrance that provides direct access to the observatory.

One World Observatory is open from 9 am to 9 pm daily, with the last entry at 8 pm – an  hour before closing.

One World Observatory spans three floors – the 100th, 101st, and 102nd floors of One World Trade Center. The One World Trade Center building which is home to the observatory, has 104 floors.

The observation deck at One World Observatory is located at a height of 1,268 feet (386 meters), while the building itself stands at 1,776 feet (541 meters), making it the tallest in the Western Hemisphere.

One World Observatory offers breathtaking views during sunset as the city transforms under a golden glow. The 360-degree vantage point showcases vibrant hues of orange, pink, and blue across the skyline, providing a perfect backdrop for photos of iconic landmarks. While sunset times can get crowded, the stunning views make the experience well worth it.

It’s not possible to watch the sunrise from One World Observatory, as the attraction opens at 9 am, which is after sunrise. However, the Empire State Building, which is 3.5 miles (5.6 km), offers a Sunrise Experience in which guests can catch the sunrise from its observation deck.

One World Observatory is a family friendly attraction that welcomes visitors of all ages, however those under 17 years must be accompanied by an adult during their visit.

One World Observatory’s dress code requires guests to wear proper attire at all times, including shirts and shoes. Clothing with profane, obscene, or offensive language or graphics is prohibited. Guests may be asked to change or cover any inappropriate attire.
The One World Observatory doesn’t have a mandatory dress code. Since there is no outdoor deck in One World, you don’t need to dress up in layers. However, we suggest comfortable shoes because there will be a lot of walking and standing around.

Visiting One World Observatory during the day offers clear, high-quality views of New York’s skyline and landmarks. If you arrive right when it opens at 9 am, you can enjoy fewer crowds and better lighting. On the other hand, visiting at night provides a magical experience as the city lights up. Sunset visits allow you to witness the transformation from day to night, creating stunning views. However, sunset hours can be more crowded. For least crowded times, be on the deck at night.

Once you are inside, you can stay at One World Observatory for as long as you want.However, re-entry is not allowed – once you leave, you cannot return with the same ticket. Most visitors explore the observatory for about an hour.

One World Observatory’s elevators, known as Sky Pods, travel at approximately 23 mph (37 kph). They can take you from the ground floor to the 102nd floor in under 47 to 60 seconds.

No, outside food and beverages are not allowed inside One World Observatory. However, there are several dining options available, including ONE Dine, ONE Mix Bar, Illy Café, and grab-and-go bites, which you can access with your ticket. Food and drinks must be consumed in designated areas.

One World Observatory’s bag policy restricts bags, packages, and luggage to a maximum size of 25” high x 17” wide x 9” deep. Items larger than these dimensions, including luggage, are not allowed inside the observatory.
There are no lockers or storage facilities available at One World Observatory; the nearest luggage storage facilities are Bounce and LuggageHero.

Yes, restrooms are available on all three levels of One World Observatory. Additional restrooms can also be found in the exit lobby on the first floor after departing the elevators.

Photography at One World Observatory is allowed for personal use, but there are specific rules regarding equipment and activities. The use of professional equipment such as tripods, video cameras, recording devices, and lights is not permitted without prior approval. To use professional equipment, guests must contact the One World Observatory Marketing Department at least 4 weeks in advance to request permission.

The best places to take photos inside One World Observatory include the 100th-floor observation deck for 360-degree city views, the Sky Portal with its glass floor, and the See Forever Theater on the 102nd floor. The Sky Pod Elevators and various exhibits like the Global Welcome Center also offer great photo opportunities.

One World Observatory offers souvenir photos that can be purchased. These are taken by staff at a designated photo area on the 101st floor and can be purchased as you exit the Observatory.

No, One World Observatory does not have a weight limit for its visitors. However, there are restrictions on luggage, which must not exceed 25” high x 17” wide x 9” deep.

Yes, people with a fear of heights can visit One World Observatory. The observatory is entirely indoors, which may feel more comfortable compared to outdoor observation decks like the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock. Visitors can still enjoy city views, exhibitions, and dining without needing to engage with the see-through elements.

No, you cannot climb to the top of One World Observatory by stairs. The stairs are reserved for emergency use only, and all guests must access the observatory using the Sky Pod elevators.

Yes, you can bring your baby to One World Observatory, as it is a family-friendly attraction. Strollers are allowed, but you must remove your baby and fold the stroller when using elevators and escalators. Double-wide or non-foldable strollers are not permitted, in which case we recommend a baby carrier.

Yes, guests can bring strollers to One World Observatory. However, you must remove your child and fold the stroller when using elevators and escalators. Double-wide or non-foldable strollers are not permitted. For convenience, a baby carrier is recommended.

No, One World Observatory does not have lockers or luggage storage. There are several luggage storage services located near the World Trade Center, including LuggageHero and Bounce.

Yes, you can visit One World Observatory in the winter. The observation deck is covered and indoors, providing protection from the cold weather, making it a comfortable experience year-round.

The architect of One World Observatory is David Childs from the firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM). Childs designed the tower with a focus on efficiency and iconic importance, creating a symmetrical structure that tapers at the top. He collaborated with Daniel Libeskind early in the design process.

The closest station to One World Observatory is World Trade Center Station, just a 2-minute walk away, served by the PATH train. The closest subway station is WTC Cortlandt, a 3-minute walk away, served by the 1 train.

One World Observatory is located approximately 3.5 miles (5.6 km) from Times Square. By subway, Line 2 provides a direct route. Alternatively, the 1 train from Times Square to WTC Cortlandt takes around 18 minutes. By bus, the BxM18 travels from 5 Av/W 43 St to Broadway/Vesey St . A direct bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal to downtown NYC is also available.

One World Observatory’s phone number is (212) 602-4000.