Struggling to find an NYC day trip worth the splurge? Still figuring out whether to visit Summit One or The Edge? I have crafted the best NYC itinerary, blending breathtaking views at Summit One Vanderbilt with exclusive dining at Amex’s Centurion New York. This detailed review explores why this morning-to-midday experience offers unmatched value for tourists and locals alike. Read on for insider tips, costs, and how to plan your unforgettable NYC adventure!
Table of Contents
Morning: Ascend to Summit One Vanderbilt
What to Expect at Summit One Vanderbilt
NYC’s premier Summit One Vanderbilt observation deck spans floors 91–93. This immersive experience rivals the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center, offering panoramic Manhattan views through four unique exhibits: Air, Levitation, Reflect, and the mesmerizing wrap around terrace.
Kicking off your journey at the Summit One Vanderbilt is a captivating intro video showcasing the origin of this building, becoming the fourth tallest in NYC, and its architectural legacy alongside other icons such as the Empire State Building soon after you are escorted into the elevator dubbed ‘The Rise’ which in just 42 seconds whisks you to the 91st floor’s Air exhibit—a mesmerizing, mirror-filled world reflecting jaw-dropping Manhattan views.
After snapping some selfies in Summit One Vanderbilt’s Air exhibit, step into the Reflect room, an intriguing Yayoi Kusama installation in NYC’s tallest Midtown tower. The shimmering, puddle-like sculptures create a surreal visual immersion.
Leaving the Reflect room, dive into Summit One Vanderbilt’s Levitation exhibit, where oversized silver balloons spark childlike joy. Toss them skyward while soaking in stunning Central Park views from NYC’s tallest Midtown tower.
Rode the escalator to Transcendence 2, the stunning finale of Summit One Vanderbilt’s Air exhibit, offering reflective views atop NYC’s tallest Midtown tower. For the last part of this experience, you can savor drinks or snacks at the café on the wrap-around terrace, boasting some of the best skyline views of NYC—a great way to end the morning and the first part of this NYC itinerary.
Summit One Vanderbilt Tips for the Best Experience
- You can purchase their bundle at Online City Pass, which includes access to the Central Park Zoo, the American Museum of Natural History, and the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
- The best time to go to Summit One Vanderbilt is during a weekday to avoid crowds and either during a bright sunny morning-midafternoon day or one to two hours before sunset, staying long enough to catch the golden hour.
- Summit One Vanderbilt parking can be found at Central Parking, 3 East 40th Street Parking, and Icon Parking near the Lunt-Fontanne Theater. Try checking out Parking.com for more information.
- You can book Summit One Vanderbilt tickets here.
Afternoon: Savor Exclusive American Express Centurion New York Fine Dining
Securing a lunch reservation at the American Express Centurion New York, an amex members-only gem within One Vanderbilt, a thrill for Platinum and Centurion cardholders whom seem to have an easier time getting in. Known as the Amex Black Card restaurant, this exclusive NYC dining spot, curated by Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud of famed Daniel restaurant, blends stunning Chrysler Building views with exquisite cuisine. As a Platinum cardholder, I booked a memorable lunch via the Amex concierge. Here’s why Centurion New York is the best way to elevate and cap your NYC day trip!
The Atmosphere at Amex Centurion New York
Steps from Summit One Vanderbilt, the Centurion New York offers an exclusive dining experience that feels like a James Bond mission. Check in at One Vanderbilt’s lobby with ID, then glide to the 55th floor elevator—no buttons needed. Greeted by the hostess, you’re immersed in stunning Chrysler Building views, complementing your NYC trip itinerary.
Service at the Centurion New York Restaurant
At Centurion New York, impeccable service meets Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud’s culinary mastery, perfect for an exclusive NYC dining experience. Sipping cocktails with Chrysler Building views, I savored a gourmet burger despite a slight wait.
What I Ate at the Amex Centurion NYC Restaurant
I enjoyed various dishes at Centurion New York, savoring Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud’s creations. The steak arrived slightly cooler than ideal, likely due to kitchen timing, but the vibrant flavors more than compensated.
Kick off your Centurion New York dining experience with the Wagyu Top Sirloin Tartare, a melt-in-your-mouth delight paired with in-house-made crispy potato chips for bold flavor. Outshining the Tuna Tartare, this Daniel Boulud creation is a must.
At Centurion New York, the Bangs Island Mussels offer a classic, briny flavor, but they do not stand out compared to other dishes here.
The DB Burger at Centurion New York was juicy, topped with rich melted cheddar, and delivers bold flavors worth the wait.
The Dry-Aged Hanger Steak at Centurion New York, crafted by Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud, boasts rich, savory flavors. Slightly cooler than ideal, it still shines alongside Chrysler Building views.
What I Drank at the Centurion New York Lounge
For drinks, I had one cocktail followed by one mocktail. The Wildfire cocktail is bright and juicy, with layers of exotic sweetness from the passion fruit, the botanical bite of Italicus, and a whisper of berry from the crème de mûre. At the same time, the Big Apple mocktail is crisp and sophisticated, tasting like a sparkling orchard in a glass.
Is the Amex Centurion New York Restaurant Worth It?
The Centurion New York is a great way to cap off an NYC day trip, being close to the Summit One Vanderbilt experience while offering a great dining experience from world-renowned chef Daniel Boulud. I highly recommend this place, with reservations being more easily obtained for lunch during the week. Please note that to dine at the Centurion New York restaurant, you must book a reservation and be either a Centurion cardholder or have a valid Amex credit card.
Here’s my Amex referral link for the Platinum and Gold Cards. Use it and we could both earn rewards if you apply and are approved (Disclosure: I may earn a commission or bonus rewards if you’re approved using my link, at no cost to you. Offers are subject to approval; see terms and conditions.). Check out the offers and Card benefits!
Must-Go rating 4.1 out 5 ⭐
For more information you can visit American Express’ Centurion New York general guide. Also, set the mood before you visit – check out our curated Spotify playlist inspired by Centurion New York.
Looking for more places to visit while in NYC, checkout our New York Cherry Blossom Guide-Where to See the Best Blooms This Spring. Don’t forget to read our latest review of Paradise Lost NYC Bar: East Village’s Hidden Cocktail Gem which is sure to be a great way to start or end your night.
