Observatories can be a treat for those interested in observing a place or a city from afar. If you want to make the most of your day in New York City, visit the One World Observatory at the World Trade Center.
This Observatory is located in the WTC, which has been remodeled after the old complex located in Lower Manhattan. It is also known as the Freedom Tower. The new building commemorates the old, dedicating the structure to lives lost on September 11th, 2001.
Here is a guide you will need if you are planning a trip to One World Observatory. Follow our tips and go through the popular activities to make sure you don’t miss out on the best attractions;
About the Observatory
The Observatory is located in the World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan. This building is home to office spaces that are dedicated to the provision of international trade services. To date, the center is the tallest building in the US and the 7th tallest in the world.
This Observatory is situated at the top of the Freedom Tower and has a breathtaking view of the entire city. Since it sits at the highest point in the city, it provides the best views NYC has to offer.
To visit the Observatory, you must locate floors 100-102 of the WTC. Simply take a subway to the WTC and take a lift to the top. This will get you access to the area, which starts with the general history of the building and proceeds to show you the views of the city. It also includes a small dining area where you can enjoy meals at the top of NYC.
Tickets go up to $73 depending on the pass you purchase, so make sure you book them in advance or come prepared!
Activities at One World Observatory
The activities at One World Observatory include the following;
1. The Entrance
At the One World Observatory, the most important activity you should dedicate most of your time to is viewing the skyline. Before entering the Observatory, you must pass a security checkpoint dedicated to ensuring your safety.
Your bags will be searched, and any items that are not allowed will be discarded. Make sure you read the rules before visiting to avoid issues. Don’t worry! If you bring a prohibited item to the building, you can leave it at the front desk and pick it up when you leave.
2. The Elevator
Riding the Observatory elevator is perhaps just as exciting as the skyline experience itself. You get to climb aboard the famous sky pod elevator, which takes you to the WTC Observatory. The elevator is interactive, so it will engage you the entire ride.
However, the ride is brief as it gets you to the 100th floor in 47 seconds. This is fascinating yet disappointing for some as the trip will get over in a shorter period. Pay close attention as you ride the elevator.
3. Before the Skyline
As the elevator comes to a halt, it shows you something that prepares and excites you for what is ahead. The pod displays a beautiful range of videos and photos that flash before your eyes, leaving behind some suspense for the skyline to follow.
4. The Skyline Itself
Here’s the part you have all been waiting for impatiently. There is nothing better than that first view of the Observatory skyline. You can view that breathtaking skyline from the 100-102 floors located at 125,000 square feet.
From the Observatory, you can see New York City, the Harbor, the Liberty Statue, the Hudson River, and much more! You might be able to spot many of the places you have visited all around New York.
5. The Exhibits
Once you are done exploring the skyline, you can move to the exhibits listed below;
(i) Welcome Center
The Welcome Center is situated right at the start of the 100th floor. The exhibit displays data regarding visitors who have come to the Observatory before.
(ii) The Electronic Guides
If you want to explore the sights, you can use the famous iPad guides the Observatory offers. These will help you understand the context behind what you see and its rich history.
(iii) Horizon Grid
The Horizon Grid is another beautiful exhibit made of 145 different digital screens which flash images to commemorate events and personalities behind the One World Observatory.
6. Food
Exploring the vast Observatory will leave you famished, which means you will be on the lookout for something to eat. This is the time to make your way to the famous Observatory restaurant stocked with seasonal food, fruit, and a great view.
It is essential to plan in advance as the Observatory restaurant gets numerous visitors during the day. If you show up unannounced, you might not get a spot. You can also access a café where you can get a coffee to sip on as you take in the views.
Final Thoughts
If you plan your next visit to New York City or live in the surrounding area, it may be time to visit the WTC and take a trip to One World Observatory. The location is family-friendly, and there’s much to do for both children and adults.
New York includes many of the USA’s most beautiful parks, gardens, and lakes. However, a history lesson is sometimes just the trip you need to recharge and prepare for the work week ahead. This Observatory is an excellent way to spend your weekend.
Ensure you make all your bookings in advance and find a parking space if you want to use personal transport to avoid any last-minute changes to the visit.