One World Trade Center observatory opens to the public Friday

NEW YORK -- From the top of One World Trade Center, the nation's tallest building, it really does seem as if you can "see forever."

Those two words are the motto of the center's new observatory that opens to the public Friday, offering spectacular, wraparound views stretching 50 miles past the Manhattan skyline and Statue of Liberty to the Atlantic Ocean.

But even when the 1,776-foot building disappears into the clouds, as it did on a recent day, there are still plenty of high-tech videos and multimedia displays that reflect the hope and optimism of a building and a city that rose from the ruins of the nation's deadliest terror attack.

They came, they saw, but unfortunately they couldn't see that million dollar view at One World Observatory on Thursday.

"It's fantastic. The entry is fantastic. I need to come back though because it's all white so we will be back next week to enjoy the views," said Christopher Chwee, a visitor.

Taking you by elevator to the 102nd floor in just 47 seconds, you experience New York like never before, the entire city spreading out before your eyes.

"The elevator was cool. It was the best part. It shows like New York being built from the ground up. It's really cool," said Sydney McElwee, a visitor.

You will step out into the "See Forever" Theatre showing a video of the pulse of this city, with the walls then opening up to what is a majestic view looking north of the tower.

"If you would see the city behind it would be really awesome. But since you only see white, well?" said Fabian Trueck, a tourist.

But these early visitors took it all in including the Skyportal, looking down the side of the World Trade Center and the other visual attractions.

There are also three different food experiences to enjoy showcasing dishes from the five boroughs.

It's an experience that some said would bring them back to spend more time.

"I think the best part was the city pulse which gives an overall view of what New York City is and what's for tourists and New Yorkers," a tourist said.

"People will be coming in the building all day and a big celebration tonight and tomorrow morning we will cut the ribbon and be open," said Dave Checketts, the Chairman and CEO.

For more information please visit: https://oneworldobservatory.com/