Observation Decks

Empire State Building Skip-the-Line Express Tickets

Name: Empire State Building Skip-the-Line Express Tickets
Start: 2026-09-16T18:30:00
End: 2026-09-16T23:00:00
Location: Empire State Building

Skip the long lines and fast-track your way to the 86th Floor Observatory for breathtaking views of the New York City skyline.

Pick a time a slot of your choice to enter the building; access immersive exhibits on the 2nd and 80th floors.

Enjoy open-air unobstructed panoramic vistas of city landmarks like Central Park, Times Square, and One World Trade Center from above 1,000 feet.

Connect to the free high-speed Wi-Fi to download the complimentary multimedia app for information on surrounding landmarks.

Upgrade to combine a visit to the 102nd floor or enjoy VIP early access to catch the sunrise, with a cup of Starbucks and a side of pastry.

Timed entry to the Empire State Building

Skip-the-line access to 86th-floor observatory

Access to high-powered binoculars

Access to 2nd and 80th-floor immersive exhibits

Free Wi-Fi

Downloadable multimedia app

Skip-the-line access to 102nd-floor observatory (as per option selected)

VIP access at sunrise (as per option selected)

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

93 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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Guests from United Kingdom, Australia, Norway and over 11 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Anita D
Group
Verified booking
Last week
Still an iconic building amount growing high-rises. Enjoyable to learn how it was built and the view is stunning. Very fun experience
Maria G
Couple
Verified booking
2 days ago
I really liked the architecture of the building and the views, the best of the rooftops. Beautiful viewpoint.
Barry W
Family
Verified booking
Jun 2026
First, it was 100% as represented - red carpet treatment the whole way. My family and I were so pleasantly surprised and it is a beautiful experience
George N
Group
Verified booking
May 2026
Great experience and staff was very good
Yunhao C
Solo
Verified booking
Jan 2026
Visiting the Empire State Building was absolutely worth it. I purchased the Express ticket and it made a huge difference—everything felt smooth and efficient, from entry and security to getting up the elevators. I didn’t have to spend a long time waiting in lines, which let me enjoy the experience without feeling rushed or tired.

Skip the lines and soar straight to the top of New York City’s most iconic skyscraper with express access to the Empire State Building’s 86th Floor Observation Deck.

Getting started

Begin your visit at the Empire State Building’s main entrance, where you’ll enjoy priority access through security and ticket validation. With skip-the-line privileges, head directly to the elevators that will take you up to the 86th Floor Observation Deck.

What to expect

Empire State Building 86th Floor Observation Deck

Standing over 1,000 feet above Midtown Manhattan, the open-air 86th Floor Observation Deck offers unobstructed 360° views of the city skyline, the Hudson and East Rivers, and beyond.

Features

Skip-the-line entry: Enjoy a stress-free experience with priority access, skipping regular entry and elevator lines thus minimizing waiting time.

Open-air viewing decks: Experience the city from one of the world’s most famous open-air observation points, surrounded by unobstructed views in every direction.

High-powered binoculars: Use free-to-access high-powered binocular viewers located on the deck to get a closer look at city landmarks.

High-speed Wi-Fi: Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout your visit; use it download the multimedia app for a self-guided visit.

Multimedia app: Enhance your experience with the free downloadable Empire State Building app, offering multilingual audio guides.

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID that matches the name on your booking, as it may be checked at the entrance.

What’s not allowed

Weapons of any kind, including firearms and explosives, are strictly prohibited.

Glass bottles, containers, and marbles are not permitted anywhere on-site.

Large bags, suitcases, and carry-on luggage cannot be brought into the building.

Outside food is not allowed, and eating is prohibited inside the Observatory and on the outdoor deck.

Professional photography gear, tripods, and large equipment are not permitted.

Pets are not allowed; only trained service animals may enter.

Accessibility

The building is fully ADA compliant, offering ramps, lowered viewing areas, and accessible binoculars.

Accessible restrooms are available on the 86th floor.

Service dogs are welcome throughout all public areas.

Both motorized and non-motorized wheelchairs may be used inside the landmark.

Additional information

Reservations are required, and tickets are valid only for the date and time you select at purchase.

Children under six may enter for free when accompanied by a paying adult.

The attraction does not issue refunds due to weather, crowds, or wait times.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Please arrive at your scheduled time. Late arrivals may need to wait for the next available slot, subject to availability.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the redemption point.

Ticket redemption point

Show your ticket at the Empire State Building.

Address: 20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001, United States.

Get directions to the redemption point