VISIT EMPIRE STATE BUILDING 2025
Best time to visit Empire State Building | Where to buy tickets | Empire State Building Visiting Tips
Everything you need to know before visiting the Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is known for having amazing views of New York City from the 86th and the 102nd floors. Visitors can see Manhattan, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and, on a clear day, six states – Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. On the 86th floor, which is also known as the main deck, there is an outdoor observation deck. On the 102nd floor, or the top floor, there are floor-to-ceiling windows. It was the world’s tallest building until 1971, and it appeared in famous movies such as King Kong in 1933 and Sleepless in Seattle in 1993.
What is there to do at the Empire State Building?
At the Empire State Building, visitors can enjoy incredible views of New York City and explore the exhibitions.
The observation decks
The observation decks offer visitors Manhattan’s highest vantage points. The 86th floor is 1,050 ft (320 m) high, and the 102nd floor is 1,250 ft (381 m) high. Book your Empire State Building tickets now to admire the famous view of “the City that Never Sleeps”!
Exhibitions
Discover the history of the Empire State Building. See bronze sculptures (and take photos with them) of workers bringing the skyscraper’s construction to life. Models show the building during different points in its construction.
King Kong
King Kong sank his fingers inside the building and is trying to get in! Take a creative photo and look for planes circling the Empire State Building through the window.
Planning your visit to the Empire State Building
Best time to visit: If you want to avoid crowds, try not to visit the Empire State Building during the first two hours of the morning or the hour just after sunset.
Getting there: Enter the Empire State Building at the visitors’ center at 20 W. 34th St.
By subway: Take the 1, 2, 3, or A, C, E lines and get off at the 34th Street – Penn Station stop. From there, it is a brief five-minute walk to the entrance of the building. For those traveling on the N, Q, R, W, B, D, F, or M lines, exit at the 34th Street – Herald Square Station. The building is a five-minute walk from Herald Square. If you are coming via the 4, 5, 6, or 7 subway lines, get off at the Grand Central Terminal. It is about a 10-minute walk from Grand Central to the building entrance.
If you are driving, there is parking in a garage across the street.
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Empire State Building 86th Floor (Main Deck) Ticket
Enjoy panoramic views of New York City from the main deck of the Empire State Building! Take the elevator, see the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and six states, and learn from the helpful audio guide and the exhibitions. You can add skip-the-line access and 102nd-floor access for the ultimate experience!
Skip-the-line
Empire State Building 102nd Floor (Top Floor) Ticket
Skip the lines and head straight to the 102nd floor of New York City's most iconic landmark with an express ticket. Take in stunning views of New York City from the observation deck, spotting landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Central Park. Inside, explore the building’s rich history through interactive exhibits about its construction, Art Deco design, and role in New York’s culture.
FAQ - Visit the Empire State Building
Should I book my Empire State Building ticket in advance?
With more than 2.5 million visitors annually, the Empire State Building is one of the top New York attractions. We highly recommend booking your tickets in advance to secure your spot.How long do I need at the Empire State Building?
Plan to spend at least an hour at the Empire State Building or a bit more if you want to visit both observation decks. You can stay for as long as you’d like, though.Are there restrooms at the Empire State Building?
There are restrooms, including accessible ones, on the 86th floor.Can I use a tripod when visiting the Empire State Building?
No, tripods, other camera stands, and professional equipment are prohibited. There are also no facilities where you can store them.Is the Empire State Building wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Empire State Building is wheelchair accessible. Guests can use either motorized or non-motorized wheelchairs.Empire State Building DOs & DON’Ts
DO buy a souvenir
The gift shop is located on the 80th floor.
DON’T bring glass objects
Glass items, including bottles, are prohibited in the building.
DO explore more of New York City
Book the New York City Pass to go beyond just the Empire State Building and explore more of the city’s attractions.
DON’T bring alcohol into the building
Alcoholic beverages are not allowed during your visit.
DON’T bring large items
Large items such as suitcases and other luggage, large packages, and other parcels are prohibited.
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New York City Pass
Visit 5 top attractions with the New York City Pass! You can climb to the 86th floor of the Empire State Building, visit the American Museum of Natural History or the Guggenheim, take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty, or see the city on a cruise. Your pass is valid for 9 days, so you have enough time to explore the city with no rush.
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Manhattan Walking Tour with Empire State Building
See more than 20 famous locations in New York City, and admire the best views in town from the Empire State Building! An expert local guide will show you the Charging Bull and the Fearless Girl sculptures at the New York Stock Exchange, City Hall, the Brooklyn Bridge, Chinatown, Little Italy, and more. After your small-group tour, you can enjoy views on the 86th and the 102nd floors of the Empire State Building.