Yes, It’s Worth Visiting the Empire State Building—Here’s How to Do It

For many seasoned travelers, the ritual of concluding a trip with a panoramic view of a city’s skyline is an essential rite of passage, offering a unique perspective that solidifies memories and frames future explorations. From the intricate rooftops of Barcelona’s Casa Milà, a masterpiece by Gaudí, to the historic spiraling ascent of Copenhagen’s Round Tower, I’ve long cherished these elevated vantage points. They allow me to trace my footsteps from above, identify the vibrant districts I explored, acknowledge the corners I missed, and mentally catalogue reasons for a return. This aerial orientation fosters a profound connection to a place, transforming a once-foreign landscape into something intimately understood. Despite calling New York City home for five years, and residing just across the Hudson in New Jersey prior to that, a significant omission marred my personal tradition: I had never ascended the iconic Empire State Building. While my journey with this city is far from over, an undeniable curiosity persisted about the skyscraper I had admired from afar for so long.

This past autumn, on a particularly crisp and sunny September morning, I finally made my pilgrimage to 350 Fifth Avenue. My destination was the legendary observation deck, immortalized in countless films, perhaps most famously in the romantic classic Sleepless in Seattle. It’s a curious paradox that the primary allure of visiting the Empire State Building isn’t necessarily to admire its majestic exterior – for that, one might argue the unobstructed views from the Top of the Rock offer a superior perspective – but rather to revel in the breathtaking, 360-degree panorama it provides of everything around it. Yet, the experience is more than just the view. The building also hosts exceptional, recently renovated exhibits on its 2nd and 80th floors, meticulously detailing its rapid construction, innovative design, and enduring legacy. Imagine, this colossal structure was completed in a mere 13 months, a staggering feat of engineering for the 1930s!

Ready to embark on your own journey through this Art Deco marvel? This comprehensive guide will equip you with all the essential information needed to make the most of your visit to the Empire State Building, covering everything from ticket acquisition and pricing strategies to optimal visiting times and insider tips for maximizing your tourist dollar.

What is the Empire State Building?

The Empire State Building stands as a formidable 102-story Art Deco skyscraper, majestically located in Midtown Manhattan. Conceived by the architectural firm Shreve, Lamb & Harmon, its construction was an astonishing testament to human ambition and efficiency, taking place between March 1930 and May 1931. This translates to an average completion rate of approximately 4.5 stories per week, cementing its place as one of the fastest large-scale construction projects in history. Rising to an impressive height of 1,454 feet (including its spire), it proudly held the title of the world’s tallest building for nearly 40 years, a reign that lasted until the completion of the World Trade Center’s North Tower in 1970. Today, it remains a prominent fixture in the New York City skyline, ranking as the eighth tallest building in the metropolis, and serves as home to over 150 diverse office tenants, including global powerhouses like LinkedIn, Workday, and Expedia.

More than just a commercial hub, the Empire State Building is a global phenomenon, drawing over 2.5 million visitors annually. Alongside the Statue of Liberty, it stands as one of New York City’s most photographed and recognized icons, gracing the silver screen in more than 250 movies and television shows. Its most famous cinematic appearance is arguably in the 1933 classic King Kong, where the colossal ape famously scales its spire. The building’s vibrant lighting tradition began in 1976 when it was illuminated with red, white, and blue floodlights to commemorate the United States Bicentennial. This act inaugurated a cherished tradition of lighting the spire in various colors to honor holidays, seasonal events, and significant causes, transforming the building into a dynamic beacon across the city. In 2019, the Empire State Building completed a monumental four-year, $165 million renovation. This extensive modernization project not only revitalized the visitor experience with enhanced 2nd and 80th-floor exhibition spaces but also unveiled a reimagined, state-of-the-art 102nd-floor observatory, designed to offer unparalleled views. The renovation also focused heavily on sustainability, making the building a leader in energy efficiency and environmental responsibility, a commitment that goes beyond aesthetic upgrades.

Strategically positioned in the bustling heart of Manhattan, the Empire State Building is easily accessible from various transportation hubs. The dedicated visitor entrance is located at 20 West 34th Street, a short walk from Port Authority, Penn Station, and the PATH train, as well as a multitude of subway lines including the 1/2/3, A/C/E, N/Q/R/W, B/D/F/M, 4/5/6, and 7. While the original, opulent Art Deco lobby at 350 Fifth Avenue is exclusively reserved for building tenants, visitors will still have the opportunity to experience its grandeur as part of their exit route from the observatory. For those who prefer to purchase tickets on-site, a physical ticket office is conveniently located nearby at 12 West 34th Street.

How do you buy tickets for the Empire State Building?

The Empire State Building extends a warm welcome to visitors 365 days a year, come rain or shine. This means you can experience New York City’s most celebrated landmark even on major holidays, perhaps even catching a glimpse of the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade from its lofty heights. As previously noted, tickets can be conveniently purchased in advance online through the official website, esbnyc.com, or via reputable third-party booking platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide. All these channels generally offer tickets at comparable prices. Alternatively, tickets can be acquired in person at the dedicated office located at 12 West 34th Street. During my visit on a Monday morning in September, arriving around 10 a.m., I found numerous ticket slots available from the touchscreen kiosks for entry as early as 10:15 a.m. that very morning, indicating flexibility outside of peak periods.

When considering which ticket option best suits your preferences, the primary choice lies between access to just the 86th-floor observatory (priced at approximately $46) or a combined ticket that includes both the 86th and 102nd floors (around $81). Both options typically grant access to the engaging museum exhibits and often include the flexibility to reschedule your visit to any time on your selected date. For those deliberating between the two, the 102nd floor, while significantly pricier, offers a slightly more expansive and unobstructed view, particularly of Central Park. Crucially, it is an enclosed, climate-controlled space, making it an ideal choice on less-than-perfect weather days, such as rain, extreme cold, or high winds. However, if you are visiting on a clear, pleasant day, the open-air experience of the 86th floor is truly magnificent, and many visitors might find the additional cost for the 102nd floor better spent on a delightful lunch in the vibrant Koreatown neighborhood nearby. While "Flex" and "Express" options are available for rescheduling dates and fast-tracking through lines, my experience, coupled with generally shorter wait times post-COVID due to timed ticketing, suggests these add-ons may not be necessary for most visitors, especially if you plan your visit during off-peak hours.

For travelers embarking on an extensive tour of New York City’s myriad attractions, considering a bundled pass like the New York CityPass or the New York Pass by GoCity can be a shrewd financial decision. These passes often include access to the Empire State Building along with several other major NYC landmarks, offering a discounted, consolidated rate over a specified number of days, providing significant savings for comprehensive sightseeing.

Do you have to purchase tickets in advance?

In the post-COVID era, the Empire State Building, like many major attractions, has adopted a timed ticketing system. This strategic implementation has significantly improved the visitor experience by mitigating overcrowding at ticket kiosks and reducing lengthy queues for the observatories. Dan Rogoski, the senior vice president and observatory general manager, strongly advises, "We strongly recommend that guests purchase tickets in advance on our website to secure their preferred date and time, particularly during holidays and other peak periods, such as sunset." This recommendation is particularly pertinent for those with rigid itineraries or who wish to experience specific moments, like a sunset view, which are perennially popular. However, for visitors with flexible schedules, the likelihood of securing a same-day ticket remains high, especially outside of major holidays and peak hours. Given that the building operates 365 days a year, there are ample opportunities to find available slots, making spontaneous visits entirely feasible if you’re prepared for potential minor adjustments to your timing.

Are there guided tours to see the Empire State Building?

For visitors seeking a more exclusive and in-depth experience, the Empire State Building offers a selection of guided tours, though they represent a premium investment. The "Premium Experience," starting at $175 per person, caters to small groups of up to seven guests. This tour provides a personalized, guided journey through the building, coupled with the highly coveted skip-the-line entry, allowing for a seamless and efficient ascent without the typical waits. This option is ideal for those who value efficiency and a more intimate exploration with an expert guide.

For the ultimate VIP treatment, the "All Access Tour" can be booked for a substantial $500. This opulent package allows you and up to six additional guests to truly channel the celebrity experience, entering through a private VIP entrance. Guests are then welcomed into an exclusive celebrity green room, where complimentary snacks and beverages are served, providing a moment of relaxation before embarking on a private, bespoke tour of the landmark. This tour is designed for those who desire unparalleled luxury, privacy, and an unforgettable, behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most famous buildings, offering a level of access typically reserved for dignitaries and stars.

What can you expect from a trip to the Empire State Building?

Upon arrival at the dedicated visitor entrance on 20 West 34th Street, your journey begins with a security checkpoint, akin to airport screening, ensuring the safety of all guests. Once cleared, you’ll proceed to the second floor, where an immersive experience awaits. Here, a series of interactive museum exhibits meticulously chronicle the extraordinary saga of the Empire State Building’s construction. These exhibits delve into the challenges, innovations, and human endeavor that brought this colossal structure to life, featuring historical photographs, multimedia displays, and even authentic artifacts from the era. Following this captivating historical overview, an employee, often sporting a distinctive silver conductor hat, will guide you to a high-speed elevator. This elevator swiftly ascends to the 80th floor, offering your first tantalizing glimpse of the breathtaking views from within. On this floor, I was particularly captivated by the "NYC: Above and Beyond" artwork—a stunning mural of Manhattan’s intricate cityscape. This remarkable piece was created by the prodigious artist Stephen Wiltshire, who, after just a 45-minute helicopter ride over the city, painstakingly reconstructed the entire panorama from memory over five days, a true marvel of artistic genius.

From the 80th floor, another short elevator ride or a quick stair climb takes you to the heart of the experience: the 86th-floor observatory. This iconic outdoor deck is where the true 360-degree magic unfolds. Stepping out onto this legendary platform, you’re immediately enveloped by the vast expanse of New York City, sprawling beneath you. Protected by the building’s distinctive metal gates – and in colder months, warmed by strategically placed overhead heaters – you can leisurely survey the urban tapestry, identifying your favorite neighborhoods, recognizing famous landmarks, and absorbing the sheer scale of Manhattan Island. On a remarkably clear day, the visibility extends so far that you can actually discern six different states: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Delaware, a testament to the building’s unparalleled height and location.

For ticket holders who opted for access to the 102nd floor, an even more elevated perspective awaits. This observatory, an enclosed and climate-controlled room, offers enhanced, unobstructed views, providing a more intimate and serene experience, particularly beneficial on days with inclement weather or when seeking a quieter vantage point. Once you’ve reached your chosen observatory, there’s no strict time limit, allowing you to savor the views at your own pace, though most visitors find one to two hours sufficient to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

As your visit concludes, you’ll be directed through the obligatory, yet often charming, gift shop, where you can find an array of Empire State Building themed souvenirs, from miniature replicas to plush toys. The exit path then leads you through the building’s original Art Deco lobby on 350 Fifth Avenue, a space so architecturally significant it has been designated a historic landmark by the Landmarks Preservation Commission. This allows for a moment to appreciate the intricate design and grandeur that greet tenants daily. Should hunger strike after your sky-high adventure, the building offers several convenient dining options, including the sit-down State Grill and Bar, a Starbucks Reserve for a quick coffee and pastry, and a vibrant Tacombi for Mexican street food.

When is the best time to visit the Empire State Building?

The adage holds true for all great metropolises: they often reveal their most authentic and enjoyable character during the offseason. For the Empire State Building, strategically planning your visit during the spring or fall months offers a dual advantage. Not only will you experience New York City’s famously pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor observation decks, but you’ll also be treated to breathtaking natural backdrops—Central Park swarming with delicate cherry blossoms in spring or ablaze with vibrant autumnal foliage. That being said, New York City possesses an undeniable charm in every season. While a winter visit might place you amidst a festive sea of puffer jackets during the holiday season, there’s an undeniable magic to the twinkling city lights and crisp air from above.

Regarding the optimal time of day, both early mornings and sunset hours are consistently identified as peak times at the Empire State Building, drawing larger crowds eager to capture specific lighting conditions. It’s wise to factor this into your decision-making process, especially when considering whether to book tickets in advance or attempt a walk-in purchase. For the truly early risers, running through the end of October, the exclusive "Empire State Building Sunrise Experience" ticket offers a unique opportunity. This special access allows a limited number of guests to visit the building at dawn, before the general public arrives, providing unparalleled views of the sun majestically rising over the Chrysler Building, often accompanied by a complimentary Starbucks drink and pastry. Conversely, if your schedule permits, a little-known insider tip suggests that the period between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. is generally the least busy time, making it an ideal window for those seeking a more tranquil experience. For visitors who wish to witness the city’s transformation from day to night, the "AM/PM" ticket option is an excellent value, allowing you to visit during daylight hours and return again that same evening for a comprehensive and truly unforgettable dual perspective.

What should you bring to the Empire State Building?

To ensure an optimal and comfortable experience during your visit to the Empire State Building, a few key items and considerations can make a significant difference.

• Comfortable Footwear: You’ll be doing a fair amount of standing and walking, both through the exhibits and on the observatories. Comfortable shoes are paramount to fully enjoy the experience without discomfort.
• Layered Clothing: Even on a warm day, the higher altitudes of the observatories can be considerably windier and cooler than street level. Dressing in layers allows you to adjust to temperature fluctuations and stay comfortable, especially on the outdoor 86th-floor deck where heaters are present but not always sufficient for extreme cold.
• Camera or Smartphone: This is a given for capturing the incredible panoramic views. Consider whether you prefer the convenience of a smartphone or the professional quality of a dedicated digital camera. For a nostalgic touch, a compact film camera or even a keychain digital camera could add a unique aesthetic to your photos. Don’t forget to charge your devices fully!
• Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Even on partly cloudy days, the sun’s intensity at higher elevations can be strong. Sunglasses will protect your eyes and enhance visibility, while a travel-sized sunscreen stick is advisable to protect exposed skin, especially if you plan to spend a considerable amount of time on the outdoor observatory.
• Small Bag: While security is thorough, bringing only essential items in a small bag will expedite the screening process. Large backpacks and luggage are typically not permitted and may need to be checked or stored elsewhere.
• Binoculars: For an even more detailed exploration of the distant landmarks and intricate cityscapes, a pair of compact binoculars can significantly enhance your viewing experience, allowing you to spot specific buildings or features across the sprawling metropolis.
• Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is always a good idea, particularly if you spend a couple of hours exploring. While food and beverages are available for purchase, having your own water can be convenient.

By preparing thoughtfully for your ascent, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring experience of the Empire State Building, leaving with not just photographs, but truly unforgettable memories of New York City from the heavens.