New observation deck offers sky-high views of Philly [photos]

    • The journey to the observation deck at One Liberty Place begins on the second floor, where Ben Franklin's legs disappear into the ceiling.

      The journey to the observation deck at One Liberty Place begins on the second floor, where Ben Franklin's legs disappear into the ceiling. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    • On the 57th floor, Ben Franklin's head emerges.

      On the 57th floor, Ben Franklin's head emerges. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    • The view north, past the Comcast tower toward Temple University.

      The view north, past the Comcast tower toward Temple University. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    • The view west across the Schuylkill River toward University City.

      The view west across the Schuylkill River toward University City. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    • The view south toward Philadelphia's refineries and the Philadelphia International Airport.

      The view south toward Philadelphia's refineries and the Philadelphia International Airport. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    • The view east past City Hall and the Ben Franklin Bridge to New Jersey.

      The view east past City Hall and the Ben Franklin Bridge to New Jersey. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    • Window washers work from a hanging basket on neighboring Two Liberty Place.

      Window washers work from a hanging basket on neighboring Two Liberty Place. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    • A visitor takes in the view during a press preview. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

      A visitor takes in the view during a press preview. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    • The shadow of One Liberty Place falls across the Arch Street Presbyterian Church, soon to be sandwiched between the city's two tallest buildings, both owned by Comcast.

      The shadow of One Liberty Place falls across the Arch Street Presbyterian Church, soon to be sandwiched between the city's two tallest buildings, both owned by Comcast. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    • The view north is reflected in the glass of One Liberty Place.

      The view north is reflected in the glass of One Liberty Place. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    • An interactive guide helps visitors find landmarks.

      An interactive guide helps visitors find landmarks. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    • The space can accommodate up to 275 people.

      The space can accommodate up to 275 people. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    • Evan Evans, general manager of One Liberty Observation Deck, anticipates that the attraction will draw half a million visitors per year.

      Evan Evans, general manager of One Liberty Observation Deck, anticipates that the attraction will draw half a million visitors per year. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    • Exit through the gift shop.

      Exit through the gift shop. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

    The elevator ride to One Liberty Observation Deck takes 75 seconds. The change of altitude is such that it might make your ears pop.

    The space on the 57th floor of Philadelphia’s second tallest building provides 360 degree views of the city and beyond. It can accommodate up to 275 people and costs $19 for adults, $14 for children under 12.

    The attraction opens to the public on Saturday, Nov. 28 and General Manager Evan Evans said he expects half a million people will visit each year.

     

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