Look out world, the so-called Yankee Stadium of observation decks is opening in 2015!
That’s what the creators and sponsors of One World Observatory say about the space which will occupy the 100th, 101st and 102nd floors of One World Trade Center — formerly known as The Freedom Tower — as it soars proudly over New York City.
And what a place it will be. It offers us a view that hasn’t been seen since September 11, 2001.
I got a chance to go to the media preview back in April to see the plans for construction of this soon-to-be magnificent place to view New York City from a 360-degree radius. Not only that, you can see Jersey, the Ocean and…well, forever, or what seems like forever.
The perch offers spectacular and breathtaking views of the greatest city in the world. And that’s just what you get when you look out of the huge windows. (Unlike the Empire State Building, this observation deck will be fully enclosed.) Once completed, the three-floor “experience” (which should take at least an hour or two) as the Port Authority touts it, will be a multimedia interactive extravaganza from the second you walk up to the front door until the moment you leave. Everything from the views to the minute-long “Skypod” elevator rides, to the displays about the history of the building and of NYC to the theatrical program to the tour “ambassadors.”
There also will be restaurants and a gift shop and space for special events. Can you imagine having a wedding or party up there?
The Port Authority calls it “the one and only place to see all of New York.” In fact, Scott Rechler, the Vice Chairman of the Port Authority, calls One World Observatory the Yankee Stadium of observation decks. It can’t get much better than that!
On a clear day…you can see The Bronx!
Incidentally, the observatory will be run by Legends Hospitality, whose partners include the New York Yankees and the Dallas Cowboys and Checketts Partners Investment Fund.
Ticket prices haven’t been set yet, however we were told they’ll be in line with what similar attractions in the city charge.
100th Floor
As we made our way up to the 100th floor, I got a chance to glance around a bit at the construction going on inside the building. It really is remarkable. And it — the construction — continued through the press conference…in fact the Port Authority officials occasionally referred to the noise, reminding us of all the work that goes on in this building day and night. I don’t know about you, but I’m always fascinated by construction sites and this one surely doesn’t disappoint.
I’ve watched this spectacular building “grow up” from Ground Zero and it’s been a fascinating process to witness. You can see it from many points in the city as you look down the Avenues heading south. I run past it — in fact, last time I did, I had to stop and just gaze up and marvel at it.
Once completed, One World Trade Center will be the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. It’s already the tallest building in the Big Apple.
I remember when I was a kid, standing on top of the World Trade Center observation deck on the south tower and seeing NYC on high for the first time ever. It was spectacular. I remember the building gently swayed, a sensation and view I’ll never forget. I got to see that view again today for the first time in decades and I can’t wait to come back.
One World Trade Center rises up…currently at 105 floors.
Someone during the news conference referred to the building as “the most important building in the world.” David Checketts, the chairman and CEO of Legends Hospitality called it “the most significant destination in the world.” The press release referred to it as “a beacon of hope, a monumental icon of renewal and rebirth, an enduring testament to the resilience of the human spirit.”
I couldn’t agree more.
Stunning. Strong. Breathtaking. Soaring. Proud. New York.
My Life in New York 