Ayala Tower One

Ayala Tower One Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Metro Manila Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Ayala Tower One is a premier landmark in the heart of Makati’s Central Business District (CBD), representing both the historical roots and modern economic dynamism of Metro Manila, Philippines. Developed by Ayala Land, Inc. during the early 1990s, the 35-story skyscraper is renowned for its sleek modernist design and its pivotal role in maintaining Makati as the country’s financial epicenter. Its masterful architecture, collaborative design by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP and Leandro V. Locsin & Partners, and proximity to green spaces like Ayala Triangle Gardens make it a destination that blends business, culture, and urban vibrancy (Wikiwand; Philippine Primer; KMC MAG Group; Tectonium).

This guide delivers comprehensive insights into Ayala Tower One’s history, architectural significance, visitor information, ongoing renovations, and the essential travel tips you need for a rewarding visit.

Historical Background
Architectural Significance
Visiting Ayala Tower One
Modern Developments and Renovations
Visitor Information: Location, Hours, Accessibility, and Tips
Economic & Cultural Impact and Nearby Historical Sites
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Plan Your Visit
References

Historical Background

Origins and Purpose

Ayala Tower One (also known as Tower One & Exchange Plaza) was conceived during a turning point in Philippine financial history. When the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) considered relocating to Ortigas Center, Ayala Land, Inc. acted swiftly to retain Makati’s preeminence by constructing a world-class skyscraper for the PSE and leading corporations (Wikiwand; Tectonium). Although the PSE ultimately operated dual trading floors, Ayala Tower One became the headquarters of Ayala Corporation and the main PSE trading floor until 2018, solidifying Makati’s reputation as the country’s financial hub.

Role in Makati’s Urban Evolution

Occupying a prime corner of Ayala Avenue and Paseo de Roxas, the tower anchors one of three points of the Ayala Triangle Gardens, transforming what was once the Nielson Airport into a vibrant commercial and cultural district (Philippine Primer). Its proximity to major institutions and green spaces highlights Ayala Corporation’s vision of an integrated, world-class business district.

Key Milestones

1993: Construction begins.
1996: Building completed; becomes Ayala Corporation HQ and PSE trading floor.
2018: PSE consolidates trading floors elsewhere.
2021: Ayala Corporation relocates HQ, but the tower remains a premier business address (Wikiwand).

Architectural Significance

Design Collaboration

Ayala Tower One is a collaboration between Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM), a firm celebrated for global skyscrapers, and Leandro V. Locsin & Partners, led by National Artist Leandro V. Locsin (KMC MAG Group; Tectonium). This partnership resulted in an iconic modernist structure that harmonizes with Makati’s urban landscape.

Features and Materials

Height: 160 meters, 35 floors
Structure: Reinforced concrete, designed for seismic resilience
Façade: Reflective glass panels maximize daylight and city views; granite at ground level
Floor Area: 53,000 sq.m. gross, with 41,870 sq.m. leasable space (Tectonium)

Urban Integration

Set within the Ayala Triangle, the tower’s Exchange Plaza serves as a semi-public forecourt for events and exhibitions, embodying Ayala Land’s commitment to mixed-use, community-driven spaces (KMC MAG Group).

Symbolism and Legacy

Ayala Tower One stands as a symbol of national economic ambition and progress, frequently featured in media and city branding, and remains a sought-after address for multinational corporations (Wikiwand).

Visiting Ayala Tower One

Visiting Hours & Accessibility

Lobby and Retail/Dining Areas: Open 8:00 AM–6:00 PM (weekdays); retail and dining spaces may open 10:00 AM–9:00 PM daily.
Exchange Plaza & Ayala Triangle Gardens: 6:00 AM–10:00 PM or 24/7 for the gardens.
Tickets: No entrance fee for public areas; office floors are restricted.

How to Get There

MRT-3: Ayala Station (5-minute walk via underpass).
One Ayala Terminal: Connects buses, P2P, UV Express, EDSA Carousel (Island Times).
Private Vehicle: Parking available in building and adjacent malls.

Accessibility

PWD-friendly: Elevators, ramps, tactile paving, accessible restrooms, and designated waiting areas (EDSA Carousel).
Pedestrian Connectivity: Wide sidewalks link the tower to malls, museums, and the transport terminal (Philippine Beaches).

Nearby Attractions

Ayala Triangle Gardens: Urban park with art, events, and al fresco dining (Travalour).
Ayala Museum: Filipino art and history (The Broke Backpacker).
Greenbelt & Glorietta Malls: Premier shopping and dining.

Special Events

Festival of Lights: Annual Christmas show at Ayala Triangle Gardens.
Art Fair Philippines/10 Days of Art: Installations and performances throughout the CBD (Esquire Magazine).

Photography Tips

Best vantage points are from Ayala Triangle Gardens; sunrise, sunset, and evening shots highlight the tower’s reflective façade.

Modern Developments and Renovations

Ayala Tower One is undergoing a major renovation led by Ayala Land to modernize its amenities and enhance wellness, sustainability, and accessibility (Tribune.net.ph).

Renovation Highlights

Wellness and Lifestyle Spaces: Fitness center, daycare, and vibrant public areas.
Sustainability: Energy-efficient systems, smart building tech, and eco-friendly transport integration (One Ayala EV Charging).
Dining and Retail: Enhanced options for tenants and visitors.

Strategic Role

Despite changing market conditions, Ayala Tower One remains a highly competitive business address, with low vacancy and strong demand due to its central location and amenities.

Visitor Information: Location, Hours, Accessibility, and Tips

Location

Address: 2/F PSE Plaza, Ayala Triangle, Ayala Avenue, Makati, Philippines (Trek Zone)

Public Transport Options

MRT-3 Ayala Station: Short walk.
One Ayala Terminal: All major city bus, P2P, UV Express, and EDSA Carousel routes (BusTickets.ph; More Fun With Juan).

Pedestrian and Vehicle Access

Pedestrian: Covered walkways link to malls and transport hubs.
Parking: Building and surrounding malls; 1 slot per 100 sqm office area (Ayala Land Offices).

Facilities

Elevators: Multiple high-, mid-, and low-rise lifts.
Backup Power: 100% generator backup.
Telecom: Robust, dual-line connectivity.
Security: 24/7 surveillance.

Dining and Retail

In-building: Shops and restaurants at ground and mezzanine levels.
Nearby: Ayala Triangle Gardens’ al fresco dining.

Hotels Nearby

Options: From Makati Diamond Residences to budget accommodations (MakeMyTrip).

Tips

Best Visit: December–May (dry season)
Dress: Business attire inside offices; casual for malls and parks.
Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi in public spaces.
ATMs: Abundant in and around the building.

Economic & Cultural Impact and Nearby Historical Sites

Economic Impact

Business Magnet: Attracts top firms, boosts property values, and supports job creation (Ayala Land’s Impact on PH Economy).
Urban Mobility: Enhanced by One Ayala Transport Hub and sustainable features.

Cultural Impact

Architectural Icon: Modern Filipino design, city symbol.
Arts Support: Near Ayala Museum; host to public art and events (Ayala Land’s Support for Ayala Museum).
Community: Open, inclusive spaces promote social connection.
Sustainability: Energy efficiency and green transport (One Ayala EV Charging).

Must-See Historical Sites Nearby

Ayala Museum
Poblacion Heritage Trail
Makati Park and Garden

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Ayala Tower One?
A: Lobby and retail/dining: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM (weekdays); retail/dining often 10:00 AM–9:00 PM. Gardens: 24/7.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No fee for public areas; office floors are restricted.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: No regular tours, but special arrangements or city walking tours may include the tower.

Q: Is Ayala Tower One PWD-accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, tactile paving, and accessible restrooms.

Q: How do I get there via public transport?
A: Via MRT-3 Ayala Station, EDSA Carousel, buses, P2P, UV Express, or jeepneys.

Plan Your Visit

Explore the best of Makati with a visit to Ayala Tower One. Discover its blend of business prestige, architectural excellence, and cultural vibrancy. For real-time updates, event information, and navigation, download the Audiala app and follow Makati’s official tourism channels.