Duration
Free cancellation
Guided tour
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
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Go on a 90-min English-guided walking tour of Midtown Manhattan, and get entry to the Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observatory.
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Walk past some of the tallest buildings, like the Chrysler Building, One Vanderbilt, Bryant Park, and the New York Public Library.
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Hear captivating stories of 1930s skyscraper rivalries, the visionaries who shaped New York’s skyline, the influence of Macy’s, and more.
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Enjoy panoramic city views from 1,050 feet up from the 86th floor of the Empire State Building, including those of Times Square and the Statue of Liberty.
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90-min guided walking tour of Midtown Manhattan
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Entry to the Empire State Building
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Access to the 86th-floor observatory
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English-speaking guide
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- Guided tour of the Empire State Building
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Walk past Midtown Manhattan’s architectural icons and ascend to the Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observatory on this 90-min guided tour.
Getting started
Meet your guide outside Épicerie Boulud at 1 Vanderbilt Avenue, easily spotted by their orange ExperienceFirst hat. After a brief introduction, your group will set off at a relaxed pace, covering about three-quarters of a mile through Midtown’s storied streets.
What to expect
Midtown walking tour
This walking tour explores the evolution of New York’s skyline, spotlighting the visionaries and rivalries that shaped Midtown’s most famous landmarks. Your guide shares stories behind each stop, from Art Deco masterpieces to modern skyscrapers.
Features:
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One Vanderbilt: See this modern skyscraper and learn how it frames views of the Chrysler Building, the world’s first supertall skyscraper.
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New York Public Library: Visit a Beaux-Arts landmark, home to marble lions and hidden stories, including underground tunnels.
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Bryant Park: Pause in this 9.6-acre green space, known as Midtown’s “town square,” with views of surrounding Art Deco architecture.
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Fifth Avenue & Herald Square: Discover the cultural impact of Macy’s and the role of these avenues in shaping New York’s identity.
Empire State Building
Your journey culminates at the Empire State Building. Learn how this marvel of Art Deco design rose during the Great Depression, born from a fierce construction rivalry. Hear behind-the-scenes stories of its rapid construction and enduring pop culture fame.
Features:
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Art Deco design: Discover the architectural elements that make this building a timeless masterpiece.
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Historical insight: Learn about the 1930s “race to the skies” and what made the Empire State Building a symbol of resilience and ambition.
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86th-floor Observatory access: End your tour with admission to the main observatory deck. Enjoy 360-degree views of New York City and, on a clear day, as far as Massachusetts.
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What's not allowed
- Outside food or drinks, large luggage, or weapons are not allowed on this experience.
Accessibility
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This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
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People with vertigo or a fear of heights are restricted from participating in this experience.
Additional information
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The tour covers three-quarters of a mile at a leisurely pace, suitable for most visitors.
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This experience is only available at 1:45pm from Wednesday to Sunday.
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Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
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Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.
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Please arrive at the meeting point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.
Meeting point
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Meet your guide outside Épicerie Boulud bakery.
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Address: 1 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017, United States.
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Guide identifier: Your guide will be standing on the forecourt, wearing an orange color "Experience First" hat.
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