The Most Unforgettable Way to Start the Day is Waiting for You at SUMMIT

There’s something magical about watching a city wake up. The quiet streets, the soft glow of dawn, and the first rays of sunlight painting the skyline in hues of gold and pink—it’s a moment of serenity in a city that never sleeps. And when it comes to experiencing the best sunrise view, as well as early morning, in NYC, there’s no better place than SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.

Why SUMMIT Is the Best Way to Start Your Morning in NYC

New York City is home to countless iconic viewpoints, but SUMMIT stands out as the ultimate spot to start your morning. With a serene atmosphere, it’s one of the best ways to experience NYC in the early morning hours for several reasons:

360-Degree Views
At over 1,100 feet above street level, SUMMIT offers a vantage point that few other locations can match. From this height, you’ll see the city stretch out in every direction—from the towering skyscrapers of Lower Manhattan to Queens and Spanish Harlem. Iconic sites like the New York Public Library and Bryant Park also come into view, offering a breathtaking perspective of the city in the crisp early morning light.

Unmatched Elevation
Unlike many other viewpoints, SUMMIT provides a full panoramic experience. Look east toward Queens and Brooklyn, north to the Bronx, or west across the Hudson River to New Jersey. No matter which direction you turn, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking perspective of the city as it comes to life in the early morning light.

A Refreshing Start to Your Day
While SUMMIT is always a sought-after destination, the early hours offer a uniquely energizing way to experience the city. With the morning light streaming in and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect time to take in the views and start your day on a high note.

Immersive Experience
SUMMIT isn’t just a viewing platform—it’s a multi-sensory journey. The mirrored floors, reflective walls, and interactive art installations across three floors add an extra layer of magic to your early morning experience in New York.

How to Plan Your Early Morning New York Visit

Perched high above Midtown Manhattan, SUMMIT offers unobstructed, 360-degree views of the city as it comes to life. Early risers, photography enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a thrilling new way to view NYC can all enjoy an unforgettable way to start the day.

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this breathtaking experience.

Step 1: Review Ticket Options

SUMMIT offers several ticket options to suit your needs:

General Admission. Perfect for early risers who want to experience SUMMIT at their own pace.

Premium Experience. For an even more elevated and informative experience, opt for the premium tour, which includes expedited entry and expert commentary by SUMMIT Tour Leads. This option is also perfect for small groups.

Sunrise Events. SUMMIT hosts special sunrise events, complete with complimentary coffee, pastries, and other special offerings. These events are perfect for anyone seeking unique ways to experience NYC in the early morning.

Be sure to book your tickets in advance for the best sunrise view in NYC, as they tend to sell out quickly.

Step 2: Choose the Best Spots for Early Morning Photography

If you’re a photography enthusiast, SUMMIT is a dream come true. Here are the best spots to capture the perfect shot:

Transcendence: Part of the AIR Installation by Kenzo Digital. The mirrored rooms create endless reflections of the crisp early morning sunshine, offering a unique and surreal perspective.

Levitation: Glass Skyboxes. Step out into the glass skyboxes for unobstructed views of the city and the shining morning sun. It’s the perfect spot for a dramatic silhouette shot.

East-Facing Windows. For stunning skyline views in the morning light, head to the east-facing windows. From here, you’ll see Queens and Brooklyn in the distance while the iconic Chrysler Building shines in the early daylight. Whether you’re admiring the view or capturing the perfect shot, this vantage point—available on all three floors—offers one of the most breathtaking perspectives in the city.

West-Facing Views. For a different perspective, don’t miss the west-facing glass skyboxes. Suspended high above Madison Avenue, these offer an exhilarating way to take in sweeping views of the Hudson River, New Jersey, and the city skyline—especially as the light shifts throughout the day.

Step 3: Plan Your Visit During Special Sunrise Events at SUMMIT

Throughout the year, SUMMIT hosts a handful of exclusive New York sunrise events that make the experience even more memorable. Here are a few highlights:

World Photography Day. Exclusive access to take pictures of the NYC skyline you can’t capture anywhere else.

“Beyond the Finish Line.” Morning celebration for runners, family, friends, and fans of the New York Road Runner’s Half Marathon.

These events are incredibly popular, so be sure to check SUMMIT’s event calendar and book your tickets early.

Tips for Your New York City Morning Visit

Whether you’re a local looking for a new way to experience your city or a visitor searching for early morning things to do in NYC, SUMMIT delivers an experience that’s as unforgettable as it is breathtaking.

Make the most of your early morning excursion with these simple tips:

Arrive Early. Give yourself plenty of time to get through security and take the elevator to the top.

Dress Warmly. Even in summer, mornings can be chilly at 1,100 feet. Bring a light jacket or sweater to stay comfortable.

Bring Your Camera. Whether you’re using a professional DSLR or your smartphone, you’ll want to capture the stunning views. Don’t forget extra batteries or a portable charger!

Stay for Breakfast. After your journey across the 91st and 92nd floors, head to Après, SUMMIT’s stylish lounge, for coffee and pastries as you watch the city come to life.

Plan Your Early Morning SUMMIT Adventure Today

Now that you know where to catch early mornings and watch the sunrise in NYC, it’s time to get tickets and plan your visit. There’s no New York morning experience more extraordinary than one spent at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.

Ready to rise and shine? Book your tickets now and experience the magic of a New York morning from SUMMIT One Vanderbilt