Empire State Building

Address
350 5th Avenue
(between 33rd and 34th Streets)
New York, NY 10018

Website

www.esbnyc.com

New York's Tallest Building

Located in Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building soars well above any other building around, making it a famous landmark in New York City and one of the city's top tourist attractions.

This attraction is a must for anyone who loves to be up high and enjoys a great view.

The observation deck on the 86th floor gives an unparalleled view of the city. From 1050 feet in the air, the streets of New York are surprisingly serene. The taxi cabs and people below look like tiny pieces on a game board. On a clear day, you will see all of the New York City metro area and beyond.

View from Empire State Building Observation Deck

View from the 86th Floor Observation Deck

You can take in the view from behind glass windows in a temperature-controlled environment, but you’ll probably want to walk around the outdoor promenade that goes around the entire building. It might be windy, but it’s a view that is worth messing up your hairstyle for. There is no time limit for how long you can stay.

Lighting Schedule

The lights at the top of the Empire State Building illuminate the skyscraper against the dark sky every night. The colors change constantly to recognize holidays and other important occasions. For the lighting schedule, visit ESB Lighting Schedule. The lights go off at 2 a.m. every night.

Learn Empire Statue Building facts and history.

Visitor Tips

As with many things in New York that are great to see, visit early because the lines can get extremely long.
You will have to go through an airport-style security check. There is no coat check or storage facility so don’t bring large bags.
Aim for a clear day so you’ll be able to see for miles in every direction.
It is much windier and cooler on the 86th floor than at street level. Dress appropriately during the colder months.
Once on the 86th floor, you can choose to purchase tickets to the 102nd floor observatory if you wish. Most will find the view from the 86th floor spectacular enough.

Two Great Views

The Empire State Building and the Top of the Rock are both great options for seeing the city from above. If you're torn with indecision about which one to visit, read Empire State vs. The Rock to help yourself decide.

Essential Tourist Information

Ticket Prices

Adults (13-61): $20
Child (6-12): $14
Seniors (62 and up): $18
Military personnel in full uniform: Free
Children 5 and under: Free

Tickets can be purchased at the door.

Online Ticketing and Extras

To purchase tickets online go to: https://tickets.esbnyc.com

You will have to stand in three lines (security, ticket, then an elevator line) to get to the top. Purchasing a ticket online allows you to skip the ticket line, but you will still have to stand in the other two. This may be helpful during the busiest times.

An Express Pass can also be purchased online. At $45, it this is more than twice the cost of a regular ticket but you will automatically move to the front of every line.

Also available for purchase:

Audio Tour: $8
102nd Floor Observatory: $15 in addition to regular admission, can be purchased on arrival to the Empire State Building.

Observatory Hours

Open every day, 365 days a year
8 a.m. to 2 a.m., last elevator goes up at 1:15 a.m.

Approximate Time Commitment

3 to 4 hours, including lines

Directions

Because of the central location, almost any subway can get you close. Take the 1, 2, 3, A, C or E to 34th Street/Penn Station, or the B, D, F, N, Q, R to 34th Street/Herald Square Station, or the 6 to 33rd Street and Park.
Enter at the main entrance on Fifth Avenue between 33rd and 34th Streets (look for the line).