Folks, the Empire State Building built in 1931 in just over a year during the Depression, when America built fast and huge. Iconic, baby. I went up recently, and let me tell you, it's no One World Trade Center. One World? Smooth, modern, straight to the top no nonsense. Empire State? Lines, more lines, security gauntlet, then they dump you halfway into a gift shop full of overpriced junk. Total tourist trap gimmick! They're making a fortune, but come on let me see the view already! But then you hit the 86th floor deck, wind smacks you in the face, city noise roars up from a thousand feet below horns, life, energy. Tremendous! 360-degree views that make you feel like King Kong himself. Nostalgic as hell Art Deco soul, real history you can touch. Not some sterile glass tower; this is old-school New York grit. Sure, if you want quick and slick, skip to One World. But the Empire State? Pure character. Worth every hassle. Go early, grab the express pass if you're smart, soak it in. It's legendary, folks. Huge! Make New York great again one windy deck at a time. read more

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I hadn't visited the Empire State Building in probably 20 years, but I decided to visit with my husband last weekend. It's such a different experience now. 20 years ago, I remember just walking into the lobby, buying a ticket, and heading up to the observation deck. But today? You enter in a different spot, and it's a whole experience. There's a "museum" now and you can spend more time here than just taking in the views from the 86th floor. So why go? It was the world's tallest building when it was completed in 1931 and until the North Tower of the World Trade Center was completed in 1970. (Sad aside: It became NYC's tallest building again after 9/11 until was surpassed by One World Trade Center in 2012.) It features gorgeous art deco architecture and design. It's a cultural icon (one of my favorite parts of the museum experience was a room where you can see dozens of film clips which feature the Empire State Building). The new experience includes exhibits that explain the history, design, and construction of the building. What I learned about its construction was particularly interesting! The construction of the building involved more than 3,500 workers, many of who were Irish and Italian immigrants, and led to an unknown number of deaths of workers (official reports say 5, newspapers at the time reported higher numbers). While I felt this museum addition really added to the experience of visiting the Empire State Building, it has also certainly made visiting the building more expensive. So let's get down to the brass tacks. The base ticket (which gets you entry into everything up to the 86th floor) is $44 for adults, $42 for seniors, and $38 for children (plus a $5 booking charge for each transaction). If you want to visit the 102nd floor for that additional observation deck, it's $79 for adults, $77 for seniors, and $73 for children (plus the booking charge). Then there are ways to spend even more money: a Starbucks Reserve Sunrise ticket ($135 per person); an Express Pass (starting at $85/120 per person); a Premium Experience ($175 per person); and All-Access Tour ($500 per person)... I'm generally not into these expensive view experiences that have popped up all over NYC. But the Empire State Building is special. It's an icon and a view. But I still wasn't willing to pay $80 to visit, so we stuck with the base ticket that gets you access only to the 86th floor observatory. The 86th Floor Observatory contains an enclosed viewing gallery and open-air outdoor viewing area. It's the classic observatory you've seen in movies. And it was certainly enough for me - the museum and the 86th floor observatory! Don't miss/rush through the original main lobby as you leave the experience. Or - if you're not willing to pay for the experience to see the view - stop in at the lobby on its own - it's open to the public (follow the signs for the Starbucks Reserve which is entered through this lobby). The lobby is gorgeous - marble, terrazzo, a scale model of the building... But the highlight is that aluminum relief of the skyscraper as it was originally built (without the antenna). It's incredible. It's an icon for a reason, and it was fun to visit and to see it again after so many years. They've certainly made it more of an experience than it used to be (although now, you can't just pop by for the view on a pretty day, since it's prohibitively expensive for a quick visit), but I had a really good time. read more

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The Empire State Building is a 102-story, Art Deco-style supertall skyscraper that opened in Manhattan, New York in May 1931. It was designed by the Shreve, Lamb & Harmon architectural firm and construction took thirteen and a half months to complete. Its name is derived from "Empire State", the nickname of New York state. The building has a roof height of 1,250 feet and stands a total of 1,454 feet tall including its antenna. The Empire State Building was the world's tallest building until the completion of the World Trade Center's North Tower in 1970. Following the September 11 attacks in 2001, the Empire State Building was once again the tallest building in New York City until the completion of One World Trade Center in 2012. An international cultural icon, the Empire State Building has been featured in more than 250 televsion series and films. Arguably, its most famous appearance was in the classic 1933 film "King Kong" in which the title character climbs it during the film's climax. My family and I recently visited the Empire State Building. Although my wife has visited before, it was actually my first visit. Although I visit New York City pretty regularly, I just never got around to visiting the iconic building. This was also the first visit for our two sons. Our entry tickets took us through a museum which features a number of interesting exhibits related to the building, including the site before construction, the site during construction, the grand opening of the building, the history of Otis elevators, building tenants, and celebrity visitors. I really enjoyed an exhibit which focuses on all of the movies and TV shows that have featured the Empire State Building in its nearly 100 year history. My favorite exhibit was one that focused on the building's connection to King Kong. There's even a photo opportunity for visitors to pose next to Kong's hands as you feel vibrations and hear the sounds of him breathing and growling as airplanes whizz by. We ended our visit with a trip to the 86th floor observation deck in which we saw the most amazing views of New York City that we've ever seen in our lives. Whether you're a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor to NYC, we highly recommend a trip to the Empire State Building! read more

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We strolled around Manhattan and spied the Empire State Building at various points from our street level and it was lovely. Beautiful example of Art Deco architecture and I kept picturing King Kong in my imagination. Will plan to see it up close during my next visit to NY since we were time-limited this trip. read more

Empire State Building - Empire State Building in the distance - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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Loved the Art Deco style and the professionalism of all employees plus the building is immaculate. If you haven't been up to the 86 floor it's a must, the views of the city are 360 degrees and you can see for miles. It's so amazing just realizing how much the world has changed in the 90 years this building has been in existence. The 102 floor is another level to experience with unobstructed views also. read more

Empire State Building - New York City - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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It was a great trip to NY in 2023 and we stopped by the Empire State Building; the tickets are on the pricy side and it's gets busy, but it's a great bird eye view of NYC and has a lot of history. We spent a few hours here form lines to the tour and checking out the views. People were coughing up all over the place which was disappointing as it was way too crowded (again it's a touristy area). Overall a good experience for a must do item at least once while in NYC read more

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My company recently did a group tour of the Empire State Building and it was fantastic! I've lived in or near NYC for years, but have never done the tour and I highly recommend it. First off, Renita, our guide was incredible. She's been there for years and does her job unbelievably! You can really tell she loves her job and the people around her. She is warm, personable, & very knowledgeable. If I did not know any better, I would think she was there when it was built. We also met Hugo and he was amazing as well. I loved the tour so much, I would go back in the spring. If you're planning a trip to NYC, go see Renita and Hugo on this guided tour. You will love it! read more

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I personally thought this was overrated. The views were wonderful, once I finally got up to the top floor, but all the museum and walk through picture "opportunities" were too much for me. There was nobody here on a Sunday afternoon. No lines. Barely anyone on the rooftop. I was in and out of there in about 30 minutes. read more

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While we were in New York City we visited one of the most famous buildings in town, none other than The Empire State Building! What else can be said that hasn't already been said about this iconic landmark. The views are stunning regardless of whether you stay on the 80th floor or you venture up to the very top! I will say for the record that it's definitely worth the extra money to see the city from the top of the amazing skyscraper! read more

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Um, of COURSE the Empire State Building was Worth the visit. Amazing views. It is crowded up there, we took the stairs from floor 80-86. Not for the weak... I'll opt for the elevator next time haha. read more

Empire State Building - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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This is definitely a touristy thing to do. It has changed much over the last 20 years since I was first here. There could be a long wait if you're waiting for an elevator. They do have a stairs option which we took. It was only the last six floors to the observation deck. They have a lot of history now inside and things for you to look at. The ticket prices are quite expensive. Of course, if you never done this, this is the thing to do. Not sure we would be back for the price of the tickets. Try them for yourself. read more

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It's been over two decades since I took my last ride up the Empire State Building but my first that I went to floor 102...don't. Trust me you want the open air of 86, don't do both. 102 is the least impressive and it's closed in. If you want to say youve been that high right under the buildings antenna go for it but you'll regret spending the money for it. Overall this is a great one time thing to do, I did it this second time because my daughter has never been and she loved it. It's literally a journey, take your time in the museum and look at and through everything, you'll find a surprise or two. Enough said. read more

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They now have a Starbucks roastery which is awesome on the first flower But you go for the view or other side of manhattan Can get very windy up there but this iconic art deco building is a must tourist stop read more

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The Empire State Building located in New York is one of the most popular attractions to see in New York. I have been here during the night and daytime. I feel like it is a lot fewer people for the night but I love the city lights. During the daytime, especially in the morning, there are a ton of people enjoying the multiple places you can visit. I love all the history facts that are given here and I think it is worth seeing from young to old! read more

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Gorgeous views, iconic experience. So glad to have gone but SUPER duper expensive (especially to go up to floor 106) but when in NYC... Only note is you have to take 3 different elevators to go all the way up and the signage is not super clear, so my tip is save a little time and just ask someone - there are plenty of people working and they're super kind and helpful read more

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The OG observation deck in NYC located at the Empire State Building offers good views of the city. Bought tickets online a week ahead. Went here on a sunny afternoon. Before reaching the 86th floor, you'll pass by different exhibits. One of these is the time when it was being constructed. Statues of iron workers and masons are on display where you can take your pictures. Another is its opening day. There's an exhibit on King Kong, replica of Otis elevator, clips/montage of different films, comics, TV shows where the Empire State Building was featured. The observation deck on the 86th floor is open air. However, there's a fence that can obstruct the panoramic view. The observatory on the 102nd floor is glass encased (not open air) and requires a different ticket (it's more expensive to get there). I do not think it's worth going to the 102nd floor. There's a gift shop in this art deco building. Though Summit One Vanderbilt is my favorite, the Empire State Building definitely is worth visiting as it is an iconic building in NYC. read more

Empire State Building - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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We had great fun at the Empire State building in 2025! It was all dressed up for Christmas! I have been here previously, back in 1999. it looks much better now. The window replacement project is amazing. They've also done a lot of energy efficiencies. The tour was much better. This time around and the exhibits are modern. I recommend. Definitely pay for the speedy pass. It allows you to jump all the lines. read more

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My favorite observation deck in all of New York. My boyfriend purchased a New York Pass on Go City and the Empire State Building was one of the better value attractions to visit. I feel like they designed the experience really well to have added value. Great interactive exhibits on the history of building the Empire State Building, as well as references to it in famous movies and shows, and best of all for someone like me, photo opportunities! You go up to the 80th floor for the indoor view. There were many windows to look out, so even with it being crowded we didn't have a problem finding a spot at an empty window. They do a great job labeling the directions of where other landmarks are within the city. The views were so stunning and unobstructed. I actually preferred the inside view since the glass is clear and your view isn't blocked. Then you go up to the 86th floor for the outdoor 360 view. There is a fence build up to prevent falling or suicide so it's less of a clear view. The one thing I appreciate is that it was free to use those telescope things on their observation deck without additional charges, unlike other similar attractions nearby. There is also a 102nd floor you can visit with an upgrade but we didn't feel the need to do that. And then there's a gift shop back on first floor upon your exit. We had such a great time. From exploring the history to taking pictures with the bronze statues of workers on display. And of course posing with Godzilla! The views were also stunning and romantic. Oh and I need to shout out to my favorite show of all times - How I Met Your Mother. With Ted Mosby being an architect, this was one of his most beloved buildings. When Robin's sister came to visit NY, they took her here, and Ted kept giving fun facts about the building's history. And that episode of the Playbook where Barney would pick up women by telling them, "he's not coming." And when Ted planned on leaving the city, he said he had to stop here to say bye to Empy. Good stuff. A MUST SEE when visiting New York! read more

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Iconic! One of the most visited building and most recognized buildings in the world. Towering over the shopping and restaurant district in New York. For many it's a work destination each day. This is a must see visit for anyone visiting the Big Apple. read more

Empire State Building - Empire State Building - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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Favorite view in New York! Definitely a must visit in New York! Love to come here when I'm in New York read more

Empire State Building - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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This was on my husband's list of places he wanted to visit for his first trip to NYC. We risked the sunrise tour, booked 10 days in advance for a mid-October Saturday. It is more expensive but I love sunrises and the idea of smaller crowd was very appealing. We lucked out with great weather. The staff was so gracious as they greeted us, led everyone inside, and up to the top. It was such a relaxed and fun experience. We had two hours total to enjoy the views and the museum as we exited. The coffee and pastry (a croissant or a cinnamon roll) were okay, but we weren't here for the coffee. If you're lucky enough to have good weather, this is an amazing way to see the city views. read more

Empire State Building - Lookin southwest toward the Statue of Liberty and the Hudson River - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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We got the am/pm entry to the 86th floor with the city pass. For my first trip to NYC I thought it was well worth it. We had some great views in every direction around NYC. The museum was very cool to walk through too read more

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This is one our favorite tourist stops in NYC. Recently there have been other buildings that offer a 360 degree view of Manhattan but the views from Empire State Building is always special It is wonderful to revisit the history of this NYC icon and learn about the history behind the construction and the significance of this building in New York's history. The viewing decks are really nice and between the views from 86th and 102nd floors. The wait times to get to the elevators were reasonable and the the the display and information in Museum section was a good way to manage the crowd! And of course, who can pass up on a chance to get a picture with King Kong The views of Uptown and Downtown are spectacular and we were luck to have clear skies that made the trip worth our time and $$$ read more

Empire State Building - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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I may have choked a bit at the price -- $180 for one adult and one senior to access the 86th and 102nd floors after 9:30 PM on a Sunday night in April -- but as far as pricey attractions go, the Empire State Building puts a lot into it. The email instructions on getting to the entrance were pretty clear, and from the start, there is a lot to see, watch, read, and interact with before you're sent to the observatory floors. I am very much a history nerd and could have spent a long time exploring the different areas set up to learn about the history of the Empire State Building, including its major role in media and culture. I also quite enjoyed the multiple photo opportunities -- from sitting down with statues of workers to getting wrapped up in King Kong's hand. And I loved that these were areas where you could take your own photos rather than being an upsell for a paid image each time. I think we spent a good 30-45 minutes making our way through the different areas before making it to the 86th floor observatory itself, and again, I could have spent longer given unlimited time in my night. The views from the inside of the observation floor are great, but outside is where the real magic is. And in our case, outside is also where the whipping winds were! Which I obviously don't fault anyone for, and we knew what we were getting into, but we pretty much ran back inside once we hit our wind and cold tolerance. The views are stunning, though. It was worth it. We then navigated to the elevator up to the 102nd floor, which was really unique. This floor is entirely inside as well as being SMALL and dark; I wouldn't go at night if you struggle to see in dark environments, because I had a couple close encounters with some beams inside. However, it was also very quiet; we were up there with only a couple other folks, and the environment seemed to naturally instill a library-like whisper in all of us. It was absolutely beautiful and surprisingly peaceful (as long as you could tune out the building's obvious swaying at that height...which is meant to happen but a wild feeling for someone like me who isn't used to it). If it weren't for the fact that I'm 100% sure it wouldn't be allowed, I would have happily curled up with some blankets up there if I could have and just watched the world go by from above. After heading all the way back down, you -- of course -- exit through the gift shop. This shop was pretty large, well organized, and interesting. I'm not a huge souvenir person but picked up a couple things for loved ones. All in all, I am happy I got to see the iconic views from this iconic building, and I'm pleased with how much I got to see and learn on the way. I would recommend this to anyone who hasn't done it before, and I'd consider going again myself. read more

Empire State Building - A nighttime view from the 86th floor - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

Your trip to New York will Never be complete without visiting the iconic Empire State Building. Without hesitation, we walked the typical New York landscapes and entered the building, lots of children having their field trips and folks from outside the U.S. joined the mass exodus to see this architectural wonder. There were guards and security teams all over the building but what was obvious is the $40 access fees to climb the building bro the top of the world. Many of the children claimed that you can actually see NY on top of the building so we paid our dues and the elevator took us up to the very top. While living in Manhattan for the whole week and on top of the floor of our residence, there was significantly much difference except that you actually can see much of NY landscapes being here. You can actually take photos, enjoy the stratosphere and chat with folks who are doing the same. Air seems to be thinner which was not unusual and due to limited space you'll feel some claustrophobic while there after a little while. However, being a Californian, it's important for us to also experience the high towering landscapes and ultimately appreciate what we're used to in Los Angeles. Ciao! read more

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After watching one of my favorite movies, King Kong, I had to visit the Empire State Building. Empire State Building is a must place visit while in NYC. The entrance fee allows visitor to visit the 80th floor, giving access to history and iconic (or famous) folks that also toured the buildings along the walls. We also gained access and went up to the 86th floor and it had an amazing view (if you pay a little more you could go to the 103rd floor). We were all amazed by the view of both sides of manhattan and the statue of liberty. We recommend visiting all the historical displays and "telescopes" featured inside the buildings. Outside was beautiful (but freezing cold) but view was worth braving the cold winds. There was a section that faces a Ghirardelli so signage/banner to take a picture under the Ghirardelli banner. The staff were very professional and friendly directing us to sections that's we've missed. read more

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You have to check out the views from here. Very iconic. You can get discount tickets from some sites which are cheaper than other observation decks. You can take some good photos inside and even some with King Kong. You get to view outside from inside and then up higher, outside and you can walk around the whole thing to get a view of it all. The views are unreal. read more

Empire State Building - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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Always worth seeing this iconic building if you're in the city. Did not go inside on this trip, but still worth seeing. Always great for photos, but definitely worth visiting the observation deck if you have a chance. Highly recommend and will return. read more

Empire State Building - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

A much better experience than the last time I went. People were a lot friendlier too and there were less lines too which made things go a lot quicker. Some nice views but nothing spectacular. Overall, it was a fun experience. Still don't think it's worth the price, but fun nonetheless. read more

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Walked in and viewed the lobby. We've been here before years ago and went up to view the city. Beautiful building with a beautiful view of the city. read more

Empire State Building - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

Can not stop thinking of what a time it was to come to this historic building. It feels like a must stop here and it did not disappoint. I ended up getting the first time available in the morning to come visit. we got the VIP passes which was such an unique experience. We got to go first and get an extra stop in the building. All the workers were so kind and sweet to us. We stopped at every place we could to take pictures and just take in the building. it was such a great time to see the city from so high up. I loved that there was a museum that showed the construction of the building, and how many MANY times the empire state building was in iconic movies and shows. It was such a great experience and i would highly recommend the first time slot of the day and the VIP pass to anyone! read more

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Nice views from the ground level at all angles. There are several entrances but most of them are for business people so there is only one visitor entrance. The staff at all the doors are courteous to guide you to the proper visitor entrance. There's some decor inside worth looking at but otherwise not much beyond. If you're not a fan of heights and don't desire seeing the view at the top, getting the public ground floor view for free is quite nice. read more

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It's been a very long time since I went to the Empire State Building. I've always enjoyed it (one of my go-to things whenever I'm in NYC), but they've worked really hard to enhance the experience, and it is better than ever! The most notable difference since the last time I was there is the addition of a truly immersive museum experience. Entire walls are composed of digital screens that recreate the experience of building the skyscraper. Even the elevators have hidden digital screens that entertain you on your journey to and from the top. The exhibits are well thought out so it's easy to get through without taking too much time. And they also have an ode to movies/TV/comics/magazines that have featured the Empire State Building, culminating in an extremely entertaining meeting with King Kong (you pose in one of his hands as the great ape peers in through the digital windows). The upstairs lounge had live music (even at 10:30 PM), to entertain those taking a break from the observation deck. One other nice touch is that they have kiosks featuring interviews with employees that give you insight into what it's like working at the ESB. I love the ESB because it gives you an expansive view of the full breadth and scope of humankind's developments. Don't get me wrong, I also love natural views at the tops of mountains or cliffs, but I find what we've built to be equally as awe-inspiring. At night, the lights shine like hundreds of stars, and you never get bored looking out at the sights of the Big Apple. My only complaint is that I wish they would put mesh or something around the gates as SO MANY people foolishly stick their cell phone cameras through the bars to get a picture (meaning their phone is held precariously over the great abyss below). That makes me so nervous! In sum, an already great experience has gotten even better. Check it out! read more

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I realized I have traveled to many different parts of the world, and have experienced all of these touristy things;yet I haven't done right by my own city.I told myself to do better this year. I've decided to be touristy in my own city. On today's episode of touristy things up first was the Empire State building. It was everything I thought it would be. The observation deck was truly remarkable. You must experience this at least once. It is truly an experience. I love the build up to getting up there. Go book it, and do it. read more

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For all the talk of how "iconic" the building is, our visit to the building was a disappointment. Sure, the building is beautiful, but the experience is not one I want to repeat. First, as soon as you get through security, you've got to go through 20 minutes of puffery to even get to an elevator. Maybe it's the history of almost a century--the other observation towers are in newer buildings--but there's a lot to go through. The first elevator only takes you to the 80th floor, where there is a room with windows that have nice views, but it's not what I came for. You have to take a second elevator to get to the 86th floor, from where you can go to a narrow outside deck that was incredibly crowded. The views were lovely, but it seems designed for you to come, see the views, get some pictures and go. If you pay extra for a ticket to the 102nd floor, you have to take a third elevator to a deck that is entirely indoors and also designed for you to come, get pictures, and go. The views are lovely, but that's not unique to ESB. There are several observation decks in NYC where you can get lovely views in a less crowded setting, one designed for people's enjoyment. There is no seating and no place to relax and enjoy the view, which is the purpose of an observation deck. I'm now calling balderdash on every film with a romantic scene at ESB. One, who's going to pay $50 to get to the 86th floor; and two, lots of luck finding the person you're chasing amid the crowds. (Maybe it's different at night? We went at around 10:00 Saturday morning.) Then, when you're ready to leave, you have to take three separate elevators down from the 102nd floor, which is also annoying. I don't plan on coming back. read more

So gorgeous at night! We walked a couple blocks to get a closer look at the Empire State Building. And I'm glad we did! It was so pretty in person and up close! We didn't go all the way to the base though, because I wanted to see how tall it was etc. Plus we did a lot of walking already and my feet hurt lol It's super pretty at night! And the way it's all lit up is awesome. read more

Empire State Building - At night - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

Located on W. 34th St. near 5th Avenue, in Midtown Manhattan, close to Times Square. Our tickets were part of the City Pass, and we made our reservation in the evening hours. This was a perfect way to see NYC skyline. It features 86th & 102nd floor observatories that are open daily. The open-air observation deck around the building allows a 360° view of New York, Queens, Brooklyn, and beyond. It was very windy and cold during our visit, so we kept our coat & beanies on while on the open-air deck. We enjoyed its interactive exhibits and learned more about the building's details. Every single staff member we encountered was very welcoming and friendly, making our experience a great one. I'm very happy we got to visit this beautiful, historical building that was once the tallest. read more

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We came for the sunset and expected it to be packed which it wasn't on a Sunday night. However if it was packed these people are really organized and it would not have been a problem. They should be in charge of TSA lol. This was a great experience filled with history and art along the way. Looking over NYC and seeing all the building and lights was spectacular. What a great perspective. read more

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Once in a lifetime experience. One of the most iconic landmarks in NYU. Unique, historical educational and fun. The bird views were amazing. You take it all in from above -the good, bad and ugly. The sketch drawn by artist Steven Wiltshire in 5 days based on memory after a 45 min. helicopter ride was unthinkably marvelous! Friendly and polite staff. The gift shop cashier had a good humor and was funny and nice. Thoughtful packaging of merch for secured travel. What an incredible experience. We enjoyed our time in empire state building and will want to come back again. read more

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A fun, interactive experience for all ages. We bought the general admission tickets to the 86th floor and had a great time learning about the history of the Empire State Building as well as seeing the breathtaking 360 views of NYC. Would recommend going later on a weeknight, we went at 10 pm on a Tuesday and it wasn't crowded at all! read more

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