Empire State Building 86th Floor Observatory & Museum Tickets New York
- Duration2 hours
- Open onEvery day of the year
- Meeting pointThe observatory entrance at 20 West 34th Street, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues
- Fair, honest prices
- Real people, not bots
- Confirm, then pay
- Secure payment
Overview
This ticket takes you up the Empire State Building, the Art Deco skyscraper at the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Your default option is the combination ticket for both the open-air 86th floor and the enclosed 102nd floor, and you also see the immersive museum galleries that tell the building's story. Other options in the booking panel include 86th-floor general admission, express tickets and a sunrise experience. It is self-guided and does not include hotel pickup.
Highlights
- Default combination ticket for the 86th and 102nd floor observatories
- Open-air 86th floor with 360-degree views of Manhattan
- Enclosed 102nd floor with floor-to-ceiling windows
- Immersive museum galleries and the historic Art Deco lobby
- Other options: 86th floor only, express entry or sunrise, depending on the option you choose
- Steps from Herald Square, Penn Station and Fifth Avenue
Full Description
The Empire State Building in Midtown Manhattan
The Empire State Building opened in 1931 and reaches about 1,450 feet to the tip of its antenna. For nearly forty years it was the tallest building in the world, and it remains one of the most recognisable symbols of New York. If you are searching for Empire State Building tickets, this page compares the choices for the observation decks in one place.
The entrance is on West 34th Street, a short walk from Penn Station, Herald Square and Fifth Avenue. How to get to the Empire State Building is simple by subway, bus or on foot. Opening hours change by season and by day, so check the time slots in the booking panel.
The 86th floor open-air observatory
The 86th floor is the main observatory and its outdoor deck wraps around the building, giving 360-degree views over Manhattan. You can pick out Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Hudson River and the Statue of Liberty in clear weather. It is open air, so bring a jacket on windy days.
Many visitors ask whether the Empire State Building is worth visiting. The answer is yes if you want the classic New York view, with the added advantage of seeing the skyline that includes other famous towers.
The 102nd floor and the museum galleries
Your default combination ticket also takes you to the 102nd floor, the highest public observatory in the building. It is enclosed and has floor-to-ceiling windows, which gives a sheltered and quieter view from an even greater height. On a clear day visibility can reach many miles.
Before you go up, immersive galleries tell how the building was designed and built in record time, its Art Deco features and its place in films and popular culture. The historic lobby is worth a look before you leave.
Express, sunrise and planning your visit
Other options in the booking panel include express tickets with priority access through entry, exhibits and lifts, and a sunrise experience for a quiet early visit. Choose the option that fits your day. The best time to visit is often around midday on a weekday, or at sunset if you want the lights.
Plan for about two hours in total. Security screening applies, and luggage, large bags and glass items are not allowed. Children have their own age categories in the booking panel, so check them before you pay.
Itinerary
- Arrive on West 34th StreetEnter the building at your chosen time and pass the security check.
- Museum galleriesWalk through the immersive exhibits on the building's construction and history.
- 86th floor observatoryTake the lift to the open-air deck for 360-degree views.
- 102nd floor observatoryWith the default ticket, continue to the enclosed upper deck.
- Art Deco lobbyLook at the lobby before leaving; allow about two hours in total.
What's included
- Entry to the 86th floor observation deck
- 12 immersive galleries: construction history, King Kong and more
- Art Deco lobby
- Free Wi-Fi in the building
Not included
- 102nd floor observatory
- Express fast-track entry
- Food and drinks
Is this right for you?
Great for
- Families with children — a child price for ages 6–12
- History and culture lovers
- A short visit — about 2 hours
- Travellers who want a proven choice — rated 4.7/5 by past travellers
Not suitable for
- Guests with a fear of heights
- Visitors carrying luggage, large bags or glass items
- Anyone who needs restrooms on every level (facilities are limited to certain floors)
Meeting point
There is no hotel pickup. Go to the Empire State Building at 20 West 34th Street in Midtown Manhattan, and use your ticket on your phone at your chosen time. Penn Station, Herald Square and several subway lines are within a short walk.
Important information
- Your default ticket covers the 86th and 102nd floor observatories; other options differ.
- Arrive close to your scheduled time; date and time changes can be arranged through your booking or the ticket office.
- All guests pass through security. Luggage, large bags and glass objects are not allowed.
- The 86th floor is open air; dress for the weather.
- The building is wheelchair accessible.
- Allow around two hours in total.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the Empire State Building ticket cost?
The price depends on the option and age category. The booking panel on this page shows the current price for adults and children for each option.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. Tickets are for entry only; you make your own way to West 34th Street.
How long does the visit take?
About two hours, including the galleries and both observatories.
Is the Empire State Building suitable for children?
Yes. Children usually enjoy the lifts, the views and the galleries. Age categories are shown in the booking panel.
What should I wear or bring?
Dress for the weather, since the 86th floor is open air, and wear comfortable shoes. Avoid large bags.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
Yes, when your date and time slot are available in the booking panel.
What is the difference between the options?
The default ticket covers the 86th and 102nd floors. Other options cover the 86th floor only, add express entry or offer a sunrise visit.
What is the difference between the 86th and 102nd floors?
The 86th floor is open air with 360-degree views. The 102nd floor is enclosed and higher, with floor-to-ceiling windows.
What is the best time to visit?
Around midday on a weekday for calmer visits, or sunset for city lights.
Is the Empire State Building worth visiting?
Yes, for the classic view of the Manhattan skyline and a landmark with real history.
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