Empire State Building 86th Floor (Main Deck) Ticket 2026
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About Empire State Building 86th Floor Ticket
Experience stunning views of New York City from the Empire State Building's 86th floor, one of the highest 360-degree observation decks in the city. Spot iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Brooklyn Bridge. Discover the history of this iconic skyscraper through interactive multimedia experiences that bring its story to life. Secure your ticket today and experience New York from a bird’s-eye perspective!
Take in panoramic views of New York City from the Empire State Building's 86th floor. Spot famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Center, and Central Park. Standing at 1,050 feet (320 meters), it's one of the tallest observation decks in the city. It features telescopes, and interactive touch screens to enhance your experience.
Unlike other observation decks in the city, the Empire State Building's 86th floor offers a unique experience with its fully open-air deck and 360° views. This will allow you to enjoy an uninterrupted panorama of the entire city.
Discover exhibits on the 2nd and 80th floors featuring interactive displays about the Empire State Building's famous moments. See step-by-step how the Empire State Building was built and watch how the Opening Day of the exhibit went with animated videos that transport you back in time.
As you enter the Empire State Building, you’ll pass through the stunning Art Deco Fifth Avenue lobby. Famous for its lavish style, this lobby is a true testament to the building’s timeless elegance. Don’t forget to look up at the golden ceiling featuring a celestial design to experience the 1930s glamour.
Secure your ticket now and pay closer to your visit date. If your plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund. Relax and enjoy your experience without the stress of unexpected changes.
You can’t visit New York without experiencing the Empire State Building. It was my first time, and I loved seeing Central Park from above! It looked so peaceful compared to the bustling streets below, filled with cars and people. I also spotted the Statue of Liberty in the distance! One of the highlights for me was walking through the Art Deco lobby - it truly felt like I stepped back in time. Definitely worth the visit!
Highly recommend getting this ticket! I really enjoyed being outside and looking at the "sea" of skyscrapers in front of me. It was a truly special feeling! I saw Times Square and the Brooklyn Bridge crossing the East River and I took so many cool photos that I can’t wait to share on my IG!!
DESCRIPTION
Empire State Building 86th Floor (Main Deck) Ticket
- General or Express skip-the-line entry (based on the selected option)
- Access to the 86th Floor Observation Deck, interactive exhibits, and a two-story architectural model of the building
- Art Deco Lobby
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the building
- Advanced air purification system ensuring optimal air quality
- Booking fees and sales tax included
SKY-HIGH VIEWS FROM THE TOP GLOBAL ATTRACTION
Take an elevator to the 86th floor of the Empire State Building and step out to one of the highest open-air observation decks in the city. At 1,050 feet (320 meters) above the ground, you’ll get some of the best views of the skyline. From up there, you can see famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Brooklyn Bridge. You’ll also see the Hudson River, East River, and a sea of cars, including the iconic yellow cabs that stand out against the city streets. Other landmarks include the Chrysler Building, the Edge, Times Square, and the One World Trade Center. On a clear day, you can even see as far as New Jersey.
DISCOVER THE EMPIRE STATE BUILDING’S HISTORY
The Empire State Building was completed in 1931 during the Great Depression, after only 13 months of construction. At the time, it was the tallest building in the world and held that title for 40 years before being surpassed by the World Trade Center. The unique vantage point on the 86th floor will give you a true sense of how the city has changed over time.
EXPLORE INTERACTIVE EXHIBITS
After admiring the views, take some time to explore a variety of interactive exhibits showcasing the building’s story and rich history. The Construction Exhibit features photos of the building's creation, including the famous photos taken by Lewis Hine. There's also the World’s Most Famous Building exhibit, featuring 600 clips from movies, TV shows, and comics. The Modern Marvel exhibit highlights the building’s efforts to promote sustainability, while the Otis Elevators exhibit celebrates the role of the elevators in the building’s design. Whether you're interested in the building’s history and architecture or simply looking for panoramic views, the Empire State Building offers something for everyone!
FREE CANCELLATION UP TO 24H IN ADVANCE!
Receive a complete refund if you cancel your booking 24 hours before the selected date!
A skyline from memory: Stephen Wiltshire's drawing
In 2009, the famous artist Stephen Wiltshire, known for his photographic memory, created a drawing of the New York City skyline entirely from memory. He was flown around Manhattan in a helicopter for 45 minutes, after which he returned to the 60th floor of the Empire State Building to begin his masterpiece.
He spent five days sketching a panoramic cityscape. His artwork captured landmarks such as the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and the Statue of Liberty in great detail. Nicknamed 'The Human Camera' due to his autism, Wiltshire can remember and replicate intricate visuals from memory. His extraordinary depiction of New York has been celebrated for capturing the city’s vibrant essence.
Want to learn more similar stories like this? Book your Empire State Building 86th Floor Ticket now!
GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
- All visitors must pass through airport-style security to enter the Observatory. Avoid bringing prohibited items such as glass objects, sports equipment, marking instruments (paint/markers), packages, or large bags and luggage.
- To avoid crowds and enjoy the best experience, it's recommended to visit about two hours after the building opens.
- The Empire State Building is fully ADA-compliant and wheelchair accessible. Both motorized and non-motorized wheelchairs are allowed, as well as service dogs.
- Children under the age of 6 can enter for free.
- Book with confidence – the majority of our Empire State Building tickets come with free 24-hour cancellation and a full refund.
- Cameras are allowed, but tripods and professional video equipment are prohibited.
- The Observatory is an outdoor space, so be prepared for varying weather conditions depending on the season.
Meeting Point
Enter through the exclusive Observatory Entrance at 20 West 34th St. After passing the Ticket Office, scan your barcoded ticket at the second-floor turnstiles.
RESERVE NOW & PAY LATER!
Keep your travel plans flexible - book your spot without any upfront payment!
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