The Empire State Building is a 102-story Art Deco skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan, completed in 1931 and once the tallest building in the world. It remains one of the most recognizable symbols of New York City, immortalized in countless films and pop culture, and offers sweeping 360-degree views from its open-air 86th-floor observatory and its enclosed 102nd-floor observatory. A major renovation completed around 2020 added an immersive second-floor museum and rebuilt observatory experiences, turning a visit into a combined architecture-and-history tour. Both daytime skyline views and sunset-to-nighttime panoramas are stunning, so it's worth choosing your visiting hour deliberately.
The open-air 86th-floor observatory with 360-degree skyline views spanning the Chrysler Building, Central Park, and the Hudson River
The enclosed 102nd-floor observatory (about 381 m / 1,250 ft) reached by a glass elevator, with floor-to-ceiling windows
The immersive second-floor museum covering the building's construction, Art Deco design, and appearances in film and pop culture
The restored Art Deco lobby, including the ceiling mural and the building model, showcasing original 1931 design detail
The illuminated skyline at sunset and after dark - the building's tower lights also change color for different occasions
Good to know
RulesThe observatories operate on timed-entry reservations. Sunset slots, peak season, and weekends sell out early, so book ahead on the official site.
SafetyCrowded Midtown tourist areas and nearby subway stations attract pickpockets. Wear your bag in front and keep your phone and wallet out of back pockets.
CautionBeware of touts and resellers pushing 'skyride' or tour tickets near the building, and costumed characters who demand money for photos. Buy tickets only from official counters, the official website, or a legitimate CityPASS.
MannersTipping is customary in the US. The observatory itself requires no tip, but expect to tip 15-20% at nearby restaurants, cafes, and in taxis.
SeasonThe 86th floor is open-air, so it can feel bitterly cold and windy in winter and hot and humid in summer. Dress for the season, and note that cloudy or foggy days limit visibility - check the weather before you go.
SafetyYou'll pass through airport-style security, so large bags and tripods may be restricted and there may be no bag storage. Travel light for your visit.
Practical info
It's a 5-10 minute walk from 34th St-Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W) or 34th St-Penn Station, with the entrance at 350 Fifth Avenue. It's open 365 days a year from early morning until late night (with a separate last-elevator time), but exact opening hours, closures, and prices (86th-floor, 86th+102nd combined, and sunset/night tickets) change, so please confirm the latest details on the official site before visiting.
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