Empire State Building
Check this collection of Empire State Building tickets and tours to find the perfect way to experience one of New York City's most iconic landmarks. Standing majestically at 1,454 feet, the Empire State Building offers unparalleled panoramic views from its 86th and 102nd-floor observatories.
Bestseller
Free cancellation
Edge Observation Deck Tickets: Timed Entry
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
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$43.55Top Experiences
Landmarks
Empire State Building: General Admission TicketsInstant confirmation
Rated 4.45 out of 5.0 from 3806 ratings.
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$47.91
Observation Decks
Empire State Building: Skip-the-Line TicketsInstant confirmation
Rated 4.4 out of 5.0 from 15 ratings.
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$92.54
Combo
Combo (Save 5%): Empire State Building 86th Floor + Edge Observation Deck TicketsInstant confirmation
Rated 4.26 out of 5.0 from 7784 ratings.
from $91.46
$86.88Save up to 5%
Observation Decks
VIP Sunrise Experience: 86th Floor with Starbucks ReserveInstant confirmation
$146.98
Combo
Combo (Save 7%): Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) + Empire State Building 86th & 102nd Floor TicketsInstant confirmation
Rated 4.33 out of 5.0 from 3658 ratings.
$116.02
$108.32Save up to 7%
Free cancellation
City Cards
New York Explorer Pass by Go City: Choose 2 to 10 AttractionsInstant confirmation
Rated 4.47 out of 5.0 from 2057 ratings.
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$84
Combo
Combo (Save 5%): Empire State Building 86th Floor Tickets + 15-Min Standard NYC Helicopter TourInstant confirmation
Rated 4.48 out of 5.0 from 6503 ratings.
from $276.91
$263.06Save up to 5%
Pro tips to help you make a pick
1
Pre-book online to skip the lines: Save time and avoid long queues by purchasing your Empire State Building tickets online. With skip-the-line tickets, you can breeze through the entrance.
2
Choose the right time to go: Avoid crowds by visiting the Empire State Building during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening.
3
Consider combo tickets: Planning to visit multiple attractions in New York City? Save money by choosing combo tickets that include the Empire State Building.
4
Book special experiences: Want to enhance your Empire State Building visit? Look for sunrise or sunset tours, and soak in the views during the golden hours.
5
Familiarize yourself with the security guidelines: Avoid delays by ensuring you know the security guidelines and what you can and can't bring inside.
Headout's Top Recommendations
Landmarks
Empire State Building: General Admission TicketsInstant confirmation
Rated 4.45 out of 5.0 from 3806 ratings.
from
$47.91Free cancellation
Landmarks
Edge Observation Deck Tickets: Timed EntryInstant confirmation
Rated 4.12 out of 5.0 from 4516 ratings.
from
$43.55Observation Decks
Empire State Building: Skip-the-Line TicketsInstant confirmation
Rated 4.4 out of 5.0 from 15 ratings.
from
$92.54Select a Date
Duration
Flexible
Flexible
Flexible
Cancellation policy
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
About Empire State Building
No trip to New York is complete without a visit to the iconic Empire State Building. Its observation decks on the 80th, 86th, and 102nd floors offer views of the city like no other. The building’s name, derived from New York’s nickname, “Empire State”, cements its legacy in the heart of the city.
Address
20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001, USA
Year opened
1931
Visitor’s per year
4000000
Expected wait time - Standard
1-2 hours (Peak), 30-60 mins (Off Peak)
Did you know?
The Empire State Building has its zip code, 10118, covering the entire building and its 1,860,000 square feet of office space.
The building is so tall that lightning strikes it around 23 times annually! It's equipped with a lightning rod system to protect it.
At the top of the Empire State Building is a secret speakeasy-style bar called the "Cloud Club," -- a popular hangout for celebrities in the 1930s.
Built during the Great Depression, the Empire State Building used to have an indoor observatory golf course, which was eventually removed due to lack of demand.
The building has a tradition of using lights to honor various causes and events, such as rainbow colors to celebrate Pride or shining blue and gold for the New York Knicks.
Why visit Empire State Building?
Highlights
Art Deco-Styled Lobby
The Empire State Building’s lobby is one of the few interiors in New York to be designated a historic landmark by the Landmarks Preservation Commission. The lobby’s unique design is a testament to the Art Deco style of the 1930s.
Main Deck – 86th Floor Observatory
The 86th-floor observatory is the most popular attraction in the Empire State Building. It offers panoramic views that stretch up to 80 miles in every direction, allowing visitors to see many of New York City’s most distinguished landmarks.
Top Deck – 102nd Floor Observatory
The 102nd-floor observatory is located 1,250 feet above the Manhattan streets. It offers stunning views of the city and beyond. This observatory is completely enclosed and was fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows during the renovations of 2019.
Exhibits on the 2nd & 80th Floors
The Empire State Building offers a range of exhibits that explore its history and cultural significance, such as exhibits on the building’s construction, its opening day, and its appearances in popular media.
Interactive Exhibits
Delve deeper into the building's fascinating story with the interactive exhibits on the second floor. Explore the daring construction process, the innovative engineering marvels, and the building's enduring presence in pop culture.
Plan your visit
20 W. 34th St.
Observatory guests must use the visitors' center entrance at 20 W. 34th St. Entrances on Fifth Avenue, 34th, and 33rd Streets are exclusively for tenants and their visitors.
Toilets
Information desk
Audioguides
Dining outlets
Souvenir shop
Service animals allowed
Elevator access
Strollers allowed
Wheelchair accessible
Mobility vehicles
Tripods
Weapons
Glass bottles
Drones
Drugs
Knives
Outside food and drinks
Microphones
Scissors
Travel guides and tips
Browse by themes
Millions love heading out with us
Richard
The history given throughout the tour was educational. And the view from the 86th floor was like nothing I've ever imagined. I stayed for the sunset and was not disappointed!
Tamie
United States
It was fast and easy with the digital tickets. We went to see the sunset and although it was crowded as you see we got some great pictures.
Ashley
As suggested by the customer experts we took a weekday tour and it really wasnt that crowded. Thanks for the helpful suggestion
Alton
The first tallest building in the world, the most iconic statue kin the world and the grounds of a historical event that shaped the world, it was the perfect mix of places that define the greatest city in the world – New York. Would recommend this tour to all visitors to NY.
Jeannette
The tickets are worth the experience, and I decided to visit the place twice. The second time we visited late after midnight, it was surreal. It truly is a city that never sleeps!
Oscar
It was a relief to know that out ticket to the Empire State observatory was valid for one-year from ourdate of purchase.
Jose
United States
Love the info on all the structures from the beginning to the end of the Empire State Building.. love the view from the 80th and 86th floor
Twila
The Empire State Building is an iconic building and, always crowded. Therefore, it is advisable to go for the VIP passes.
Empire State Building Guide
Empire State Building Guide
There is no building more recognizable in New York than the towering Empire State Building. This iconic landmark features on the list of every globetrotter’s bucket list and is a top destination for tourists visiting New York, with its promising 360-degree views of the city. The 102-story building was completed in a record-breaking span of a year and 45 days and has featured in countless movies and pop culture moments. Here is all the information about the best Empire State Building tickets, timings, getting there, safety measures, and more.
All Your Empire State Building Tickets Options
All Your Empire State Building Tickets Options
Choose from a range of ticket options to have an unforgettable experience at the Empire State Building. You can head to the 86th floor with entry tickets, for a remarkable view of the city and learn about the building’s history through the interactive museum, or speed up your entry with direct access through handy skip-the-line tickets. Combo tickets are a great way to see more of New York with less hassle, and you can always opt for the NYC Pass for a vibrant visit filled with the city’s best attractions.
Entry Tickets
Skip-the-Line Tickets
Combo Tickets
City Pass
Entry tickets take you to the top of the Empire State Building and let you view the entire city of New York from all angles. If you’re interested in the story behind this iconic landmark, your experience includes a visit to the interactive museum.
Recommended experiences
Get entry into the Empire State Building and head up directly to the top for spectacular views of the city. Enjoy access to the observatory, interactive museum, and an audio guide with a 10% cashback on these tickets.
Don’t delay your visit to this legendary Art Deco skyscraper by waiting in long queues. If you’re looking to save time and bypass the lines, opt for these skip-the-line tickets. With these, get priority entry into this historic landmark.
Recommended experiences
These tickets will enable you to zoom past the waiting crowds at the entrance and head straight up to the famed observation deck of this legendary landmark. Access the audioguide, high-power binoculars on the 86th floor, the interactive Art Deco Lobby with a 10 % cashback on these tickets.
These tickets are your go-to solution if you just can’t get enough of New York and want to see all that this city is famous for. Club your visit to the iconic Empire State Building with some of the other famous landmarks that define this city, such as Top Of The Rock, Statue of Liberty cruise, and more.
Recommended experiences
This combo ticket gets you admission to the Top of the Rock in addition to the iconic Empire State Building. You also get access to the interactive multimedia to the Top of the Rock Observatory. This ticket is valid for up to a year allowing you the flexibility to visit whenever you find time once purchased.
Get skip-the-line access to the Empire State Building and cruise past the Statue of Liberty with this purchase along with access to the interactive media on the top of the Empire State Building.
The NYC City Pass is every traveler’s dream come true, with a host of citywide attractions in the palm of your hand. If you’re someone who loves touring cities in-depth, you’ll be grateful to be exempted from the stress of multiple bookings and payments. This is an especially smart choice if you prefer to explore attractions at your own pace and keep your itinerary flexible. Your pass will offer skip-the-line entry to multiple attractions and experiences in the city, allowing you to save time and money.
Recommended Experiences
This pass is valid for 30 days of your stay in New York and comes with the option of choosing 3 visits out of a list of 82 of the city’s attractions - including the Empire State Building, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Central Park. You also get skip-the-line access to the attractions and a 5% cashback on your purchase.
Enjoy one-time access to a range of 100 New York’s best attractions for one day. You also get skip-the-line access to make the most of your time for all attractions and a 5% cashback on your purchase. The savings you can garner with this pass are a dream come true for enthusiastic city explorers.
Plan Your Visit To The Empire State Building NYC
Plan Your Visit To The Empire State Building NYC
Opening Hours
Getting There
Guidelines/Facilities
What are Empire State Building’s hours?
The Empire State Building has been following updated operating hours since January 2022, as follows:
- 10 January to 11 February: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- 12 February: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- 13 February to 11 March: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- 12 March: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- 13 March: 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- 14 March to 31 March: 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- 14 March to 31 March (Saturdays only): 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
The last elevators will be accessible 15 minutes before closing.
When is the Empire State Building closed?
The Empire State Building is open 365 days a year and closes at 10:00 PM every day.
What is the best time to visit the Empire State Building?
The best time to visit the Empire State Building is during the early morning hours, or right before sunset for the best possible views. The winter months (December, January, February) may not offer the best views as the sky is less clear and the top floor could experience extreme winds; ideally, the best months would be September to November and March to May.
How long is an Empire State Building tour?
You should carve out around an hour for your visit to the Empire State Building. In case you’re planning on visiting the main deck and the top deck, it may take a bit longer than an hour if you take things at a relaxed pace.
Where is the Empire State Building located?
The Empire State Building is located in Midtown Manhattan. The visitors’ entrance can be accessed at 20 W. 34th St.
Google Map Directions.
Google Map Directions.
Can I take the subway/train to the Empire State Building?
You can get to the Empire State Building by subway. Deboard at the 34 St-Herald Square station since it is the closest to the Empire State Building.
Can I take the bus to the Empire State Building?
Yes, you can use transit lines BXM1, BXM4, M2, M34-SBS, M34A-SBS, Q32, QM10, QM18, QM20, or X37, to get to the Empire State Building by bus.
Is parking available at the Empire State Building?
Parking isn’t available at the Empire State Building. But in case you’re commuting by car, you can use the garage located between Fifth Avenue and Broadway, on 33rd Street.
Is the Empire State Building wheelchair accessible?
Yes, this famous landmark is indeed accessible to wheelchair users, completely equipped with lifts and ramps. The 86th Floor Observatory houses handicapped restrooms as well as lowered viewing walls and binoculars for ease of access for all visitors.
Is a storage facility available at the Empire State Building?
There are no storage facilities available at the Empire State Building. So we recommend traveling light or carrying a backpack for your belongings.
Is photography permitted at the Empire State Building?
The Empire State Building doesn’t permit tripods and professional photography equipment. So, like most visitors, you too can make use of your mobile phone to record special moments from your visit.
What to See in the Empire State Building New York City
What to See in the Empire State Building New York City
Before planning your trip to the Empire State Building that has come to define the essence of New York's architecture, acquaint yourself with its primary exhibits to make sure you don’t miss out on anything important.
Top Deck - 102nd Floor
Venture up the mast of the Empire State Building in a Glass Elevator and head to the Observation Deck on the 102nd floor for a breath-taking view of New York through special floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Keep your camera handy to capture the unparalleled panoramic sight of the city.
Main Deck - 86th Floor
The shining star of this attraction is the famed observation deck on the 86th floor of the building, which wraps around the spire to offer a splendid 360-degree view of the entire city. You’ll be able to explore this space that has been the iconic setting for many monumental pop culture moments in television history. Catch the sunset from this unbeatable vantage point for a breathtaking memory of your trip to New York.
Dare to Dream Exhibit
Located on the 80th floor of the building, this exhibit immortalizes the vision shared by the architects and engineers who dared to envision this prolific building when it was still merely blueprints on a page. Watch the journey of this world-renowned landmark fascinatingly unfold through enlarged photographs, architectural renderings, blueprints, journals, and construction notes - all preserved from the days of its inception.
Sustainability Exhibit
The Empire State building unveiled this novel exhibit in 2010 to showcase the implementation of the building-wide energy retrofit project, through a combination of artifacts and multimedia displays. This display seeks to educate visitors on the positive global impact of the building’s energy-efficient and sustainable practices, making use of impressive technology to integrate digital and sculptural elements in a state-of-the-art display.
Top Landmarks In NYC
Top Landmarks In NYC
The city that never sleeps is brimming with rich cultural experiences. Here are the top landmarks in New York City.
One World Observatory
Located on the 100th to 102nd floors of the One World Trade Centre, this dedicated Observatory offers a gleaming view of the surrounding cityscape along with a complete dining experience. Also known as the Freedom Tower, this towering skyscraper is the main segment of the rebuilt World Trade Center. As a distinct figure in the Lower Manhattan skyline, this is a must-visit for its magical view and indulgent dining options. Book One World Observatory tickets.
Top of the Rock
This ocean-liner-styled observation deck is perched atop the legendary Rockefeller Center and holds three levels of decks, both indoor and outdoor. Head here for a spectacular, unobstructed view of New York’s trademark skyline. Take to the deck’s east, west, south, and north-facing terraces to test your knowledge of the city’s neighborhoods by trying to spot the Upper East and West Sides - or do your best to pinpoint Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. Book Top Of The Rock tickets.
Intrepid Museum
Home to the USS Intrepid, the cruise missile submarine called USS Growler, a vast collection of museum ships - and many more fascinating exhibits, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a must-visit for any military history enthusiasts.The museum was founded in 1982 and is located on the West Side of Manhattan at Pier 86 on 46th Street. Head to the lower deck to view a skillful reproduction of a biplane from the first World War. Book Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum tickets.
9/11 Museum
In 2001, the world was shaken by the attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York. The 9/11 Museum is a tribute to the lives of those who perished in the attacks through a curation of personal stories from family members who lost loved ones, as well as survivors, and rescue and recovery workers from that fateful day. This is an important center to learn about the history of that day and to forever keep in our memory those who breathed their last. Book 9/11 Museum tickets.
Museum of Modern Art
Located in Midtown Manhattan, the Museum of Modern Art (often referred to as MoMA) is one of the largest and most influential modern art museums in the world. Over the years, this Museum has gained recognition for being home to some of the world’s greatest sculptures, avant-garde paintings, films, and diverse multi-media art. MoMA was established as a representative space for the dynamism of contemporary art, while also seeking to educate the public. Book Museum of Modern Art MOMA tickets.
Statue Of Liberty Cruises
When we say “The Statue of Liberty” -- you inevitably think “New York”. Such is the significance of this landmark monument, universally symbolic of the freedom and democracy of the modern world. Historically a gift of goodwill from France to the United States, this massive copper statue was designated a national monument in 1924. You certainly can’t visit New York without taking a cruise to sail past this prolific landmark. Book Statue of Liberty Cruises.
Empire State Building Tickets FAQs
Empire State Building Tickets FAQs
Are Empire State Building tickets available online now?
Yes, you can book tickets online to visit the Empire State Building. Guests are recommended to prebook their tickets online to get their preferred date and time of visit.
What are the different types of Empire State Building tickets?
You can choose from among 4 different types of tickets while visiting the Empire State Building. Opt for entry tickets to head to the 86-floor observation deck and the interactive museum with a single pass, or choose to bypass the long lines with skip-the-line tickets, heading directly into the landmark. You can also opt for combo tickets or the NYC Pass if you’d like to experience more of the city.
Do Empire State Building tickets include skip-the-line entry?
Yes, skip-the-line tickets offer priority entry into the Empire State Building, allowing you to bypass the queues and save time.
What are Empire State Building’s hours?
The Empire State Building has been following updated operating hours since January 2022, as follows:
- 10 January to 11 February: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- 12 February: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- 13 February to 11 March: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- 12 March: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- 13 March: 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- 14 March to 31 March: 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- 14 March to 31 March (Saturdays only): 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
The last elevators will be accessible 15 minutes before closing.
How do I get to the Empire State Building in NYC?
You can take public transport to commute to the Empire State Building, using the subway or the bus transit lines. Deboard subway at the 34 St-Herald Square station since it is the closest to the Empire State Building. You can use transit lines BXM1, BXM4, M2, M34-SBS, M34A-SBS, Q32, QM10, QM18, QM20, or X37, to get to the Empire State Building by bus or voice command “Empire State Building” to the GPS and follow directions if you are traveling by car.
What is the best time to visit the Empire State Building?
The best time to visit the Empire State Building is during the early morning hours, or right before sunset for the best possible views. The winter months (December, January, February) may not offer the best views as the sky is less clear and the top floor could experience extreme winds; ideally, the best months would be September to November and March to May.
Is the Empire State Building wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Empire State Building has facilities to make the visit accessible to wheelchair users.
Is photography allowed at the Empire State Building?
The Empire State Building does not permit carrying tripods or any professional camera or videography equipment.
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