Very few buildings in the world are as instantly recognizable as the Empire State Building. This iconic building towers over Midtown Manhattan and has long been a symbol of New York City itself.
The Empire State Building has seen in countless movies, TV shows, and its image is everywhere. But with so many observation decks in NYC, long lines, and a steep ticket price, you might be wondering: is the Empire State Building really worth a visit?
My short answer? It depends! If you’re looking for a classic New York experience, unbeatable city views, and a little piece of history, the Empire State Building might just be a “must-do.”
But there are a few things to consider before heading up. In this post, I’ll break down the how to visit, with the pros, cons, to help you decide if it deserves a spot on your itinerary.
How to Visit the Empire State Building
Location: 20 West 34th Street
Open: 365 days per year from 8 a.m. – 2 a.m.
You’ll find the Empire State on 34th Street and 6th Avenue in midtown as you tour all the legendary landmarks in that part of town, such as the Chrysler Building, Herald Square, Grand Central Station, and more. An average visit to the Empire State Building lasts about two hours, but you can spend as much or as little time as you like!
Purchase your tickets for the 86th Floor which are a bit less expensive than the 102 Floor. If you’re looking for that golden hour photo, buy your ticket for late afternoon to see the sunset, where you can enjoy champagne and listen to music for the sunset experience.
Be prepared for wind! There are heating lamps and the famous viewing binoculars, but if it’s a cloudy day, see if there’s room in your trip to come back when the weather is clearer and you can get a better view of the city.
The 86th Floor or the 102nd?
Pros for the 86th Floor:
Open-Air Experience — The 86th Floor is an open-air deck that wraps around the building. It’s the iconic, main observation deck of the Empire State Building. Unlike the 102nd floor, it gives you the full outdoor experience, with wrap-around heaters. Feel the breeze, see the unobstructed views, and hear the sounds of the city below.
Panoramic Views — The 86th Floor deck is 1,050 feet above the street and not behind glass! So, you’ll catch 360 degree views of the Statue of Liberty, the Chrysler Building, Times Square, and Central Park.
The Full New York Vibe — The 86th Floor is the Empire State deck that you’ve seen in all the famous movies. It’s the most visited deck, with the classic, art deco, old-school NYC vibe.
Cons for the 86th Floor:
Crowds — The 86th Floor can get crowded since it’s the main deck, especially at sunsets and weekends. But my experience of the crowds hasn’t been a deterrent. There seems to be plenty of room for everyone.
Not the Highest Point — If you want to be as high up as possible, you should go to the 102nd Floor.
Pros for the 102nd Floor:
Higher Elevation — The 102nd floor is 1,250 feet above NYC, meaning you get an even more elevated perspective.
Temperature Controlled — The indoor viewing will be cozy and not windy.
Fewer Crowds — Since it’s a premium upgrade, fewer people make the trip up, so it’s quieter and less crowded.
More of the Skyline — Being higher up means you can see farther, including more of New Jersey, the Atlantic Ocean, and beyond. They say you can see six states on a clear day!
Cons for the 102nd Floor:
Fully Enclosed — The 102nd floor is indoors, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows. That means you don’t get an outdoor experience. Your photos may have window glare.
Additional Cost — The 102nd floor requires an additional ticket upgrade added to the standard admission. Personally, I don’t think it’s worth the extra cost.
86th Floor tickets: $44/adult, $38/child, and $42/senior.
102nd Floor tickets: $77/adult, $71/child. $75/senior.
What You Get When Visiting the Empire State Building
Visiting the historic Empire State Building is a fully immersive experience. The outside of the building is gorgeous, but entering the lobby is another level! I always marvel at the Art Deco style of these famous NYC buildings. You’ll be led to the interactive museum and exhibitions on the 2nd floor. There, you get to learn about the building, the historic fun facts, and even see King Kong (well a replica).
You’ll also enjoy the high speed elevator ride up to the 86th. Your ears might pop a little, so be aware of that if that’s a sensation that bothers you.
You can always Text CONNECT to 27416 to get updates about the daily lights and any other info about the exhibits.
Some Empire State Building Fun Facts
- The Empire State Building, built in 1931 by William Lamb, was the tallest building in the world at the time. Today it’s the 54th tallest building in the world.
- It was named for the motto of the state of New York.
- At 1,454 feet tall, it is a magnificent Art Deco era skyscraper that has been featured in more movies than you can count.
- Since 1976 the lights of the Empire State Building have changed daily for special occasions, holidays, and to commemorate all kinds of people and world events.
- This is where Frank Sinatra, Gene Kelly, and Jules Munshin have a hilarious scene in On the Town, and where Debra Kerr and Cary Grant agree to meet in An Affair to Remember, and of course where Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan finally meet in Sleepless in Seattle. Do I need to mention King Kong and Superman?
Best Places To Stay In New York City
I’ve done a lot of research so you don’t have to! Here are some safe NYC hotels with great reviews in great neighborhoods.
Best Midtown Spot
The Empire Hotel is a perfect spot across from Lincoln Center, steps away from Central Park. It’s considered the iconic “crown jewel” of Midtown.
Best Budget Spot
Arlo Soho is in the heart of Greenwich Village, has a rooftop bar, and views of the river. This spot can cost you $292 and up.
Best Mid-Range Spot
The Hotel Beacon is a historic building on the Upper West Side with apartment-style rooms near Central Park. This hotel can cost you $479 and up.
Best Luxury Spot
Lotte New York Palace was formerly the historic Villard Mansion on Madison Avenue. This grand, 5-star hotel costs $595 and up.
- 455 Madison Avenue, Midtown East
What To Pack for New York City
The time of year will obviously have a big impact on what to bring. Here is an outline for some basics. Remember that dressing for New York City should be about comfort and convenience. You’re likely to leave your hotel in the morning and not return again until bedtime, so one outfit a day with layers should suffice.
Winter/Spring
- Very comfortable waterproof shoes or boots and warm socks.
- Very warm waterproof coat or jacket.
- Hat, gloves, scarf.
- Casual outfits – pants, warm shirts, a sweater.
- One nicer outfit in case you want to dress up one evening for a show or nice restaurant.
- A lightweight day pack.
- A portable phone charger.
Summer/Fall
- Very comfortable walking shoes or sneakers, waterproof if expecting rain.
- A lightweight jacket.
- Casual outfits – pants, lightweight shirts, a sweater.
- One nicer outfit in case you want to dress up one evening for a show or nice restaurant.
- A lightweight day pack.
- A portable phone charger.
- Sunscreen.
Is Visiting the Empire State Building Worth It?
To answer the original question… yes! I love me an iconic NYC thing, so I say yes. Do it once in your life, at least. It’s especially exciting for first-time visitors to NYC.
Many New Yorkers haven’t done it and even frown upon some of these famous tourist activities. But for me, it’s like seeing a part of history. It’s a museum, not a gimmick. The exhibitions are really interesting and fun for all ages, and the opportunity to see the city from that angle is pretty epic!
There’s a reason it’s considered to be the #1 and most popular attraction!
