How much are Empire State Building tickets?

Empire State Building tickets start around $44 for adults to the 86th floor main observation deck, with the 102nd floor top deck available as an upgrade for roughly $79. Prices vary by time of day, with sunset slots costing more. Tickets are timed-entry and should be booked in advance online, especially for sunset and weekends when they sell out.

How tall is the Empire State Building?

The Empire State Building stands 1,454 feet tall to the tip of its antenna, or 1,250 feet to the roof. It was the tallest building in the world from its completion in 1931 until 1970, and it has 102 floors. The 86th floor open-air observation deck sits at 1,050 feet, and the 102nd floor deck sits at 1,250 feet.

What is the best time to visit the Empire State Building?

Sunset is the most popular time to visit the Empire State Building, letting you see the city in daylight and lit up after dark on one ticket, but sunset slots sell out first and cost more. Early morning, right at the 8am opening, offers the shortest lines and clearest air. The observation deck stays open until 2am, so late-night visits are quiet and the city lights are at their most dramatic.

Empire State Building

Landmark

Midtown

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Landmark

Midtown

Manhattan

Book in advance

The Empire State Building is the definitive New York City skyscraper — a 1,454-foot Art Deco masterpiece that dominated the skyline as the world's tallest building for nearly 40 years and remains one of the most photographed structures on earth. Standing in the heart of Midtown at 34th Street and Fifth Avenue, it draws millions of visitors each year to its two observation decks: the open-air 86th floor deck and the enclosed 102nd floor top deck, each offering 360-degree views that stretch up to 80 miles on a clear day. Completed in 1931 in just 13 months during the Great Depression, the building has starred in over 250 films, from King Kong to Sleepless in Seattle. Whether you're booking Empire State Building tickets for sunset, catching the famous tower lights, or simply admiring it from the street, no first visit to New York is complete without it.

Insider Tip

Buy tickets online in advance and choose a time slot right at the 8am opening or after 10pm — both have the shortest lines and the clearest views. The 86th floor open-air deck is the classic experience and the one to prioritize; the 102nd floor upgrade is enclosed and worth it mainly on a crystal-clear day. Check the building's website to see what color the tower lights will be that night — they change for holidays, events, and causes.

About

The Empire State Building is one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world and a symbol of New York City’s architectural prowess.

Completed in 1931 during the height of the Great Depression, this Art Deco masterpiece stands at 1,454 feet (including its antenna) and was the tallest building in the world until 1971.

Designed by Shreve, Lamb & Harmon, the Empire State Building quickly became a cultural icon, featuring in numerous films, most famously in King Kong (1933).

The building’s exterior is adorned with limestone and stainless steel, giving it a timeless elegance, while its interior features intricate Art Deco details.

The Empire State Building is home to an observation deck, on the 86th and 102nd floors, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of New York City and beyond.

History & Facts

Height: The Empire State Building stands at 1,454 feet (443.2 meters) including its antenna, making it one of the tallest buildings in the United States.

Construction: The building was constructed in just 13 months, an impressive feat considering its size and the era in which it was built. It was completed ahead of schedule and under budget.

Art Deco Design: The Empire State Building is a prime example of Art Deco architecture, featuring sleek lines, geometric patterns, and lavish materials such as marble and aluminum in its lobby.

Lights: The building's tower lights change colors to celebrate various occasions and events, from national holidays to sports championships. These lights have become a significant part of New York City’s skyline.

Observation Decks: The Empire State Building has two observation decks, on the 86th and 102nd floors, which offer panoramic views of up to 80 miles on a clear day.

Films: The Empire State Building has been featured in over 250 films, including classics like King Kong (1933) and Sleepless in Seattle (1993), solidifying its status as a pop culture icon.

Elevators: The building has 73 elevators, and it takes less than a minute to reach the 86th-floor observatory, thanks to modern high-speed elevators.

Broadcasting Tower: The Empire State Building’s antenna serves as a broadcasting tower for numerous television and radio stations in New York City.

Annual Run-Up: The Empire State Building hosts an annual race known as the "Empire State Building Run-Up," where participants race up the 1,576 steps to the 86th-floor observation deck.

When to visit

The best time to visit the Empire State Building depends on what kind of experience you’re seeking.

Early mornings are perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a quieter, more serene visit. Arriving when the building opens at 8:00 AM allows you to take in the views with minimal wait times.

Late afternoon to early evening is another excellent time to visit, especially if you want to catch the sunset and watch as the city transitions from day to night. The changing light provides a stunning backdrop for photography.

Night visits offer a different experience altogether, with the city’s lights twinkling below you, creating a magical atmosphere.

The observation decks are open until 2:00 AM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views at your leisure.

Getting there

The Empire State Building is at 20 West 34th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues in Midtown Manhattan, one of the most accessible locations in the city. Nearly every subway line stops within a few blocks.

Take the B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, or W train to 34th Street–Herald Square, which is a two-minute walk to the entrance. The 1, 2, 3, A, C, and E trains stop at 34th Street–Penn Station, about a five-minute walk west. The 6 train stops at 33rd Street, a short walk east.

The observatory entrance is on West 34th Street. Use our interactive NYC subway guide to plan your exact route from any hotel or neighborhood before you arrive.