Empire State Building

Empire State Building showing a city
Rising regally above the city, the Empire State Building is the ultimate symbol of New York glitz and glamour.

When it was completed in 1931, the Empire State Building was the tallest in the world – a title it held for 40 years. An icon in the New York skyline, it is recognised the world over thanks to celebrated films such as King Kong and West Side Story. Rising to a remarkable 442 metres high, this instantly identifiable art-deco skyscraper has come to represent the city’s stature and ambition.

Taking in the view from one of the Empire State Building’s two observatories is a real must for any visitor to New York. Located on the 86th and 102nd floors, they provide a stunning outlook across the Midtown and Lower Manhattan area. It’s worth checking out both viewing platforms to get the best sights. On a clear day, you might be able to glimpse New Jersey in the distance. Looking out at night, you can see the bright lights of the city stretching out to the horizon. And in winter, the enclosed viewing area on the 102nd floor will protect you from the icy winds.

You can either climb your way up the 1,860 steps to the 102nd floor or ride to the 86th floor in the impressively fast elevators and walk the rest of the way to the top. Most people choose the elevator and this is recommended unless you really fancy a challenge!

The building is closely connected with romance. The static at the top is so strong that couples who kiss on the observatory may literally see sparks fly! People often bring their partners here to propose and on Valentine’s Day (14th February) each year weddings are held on the 80th floor. The bride and groom automatically become members of the Empire State Building Wedding Club, granting them free admission to the observatory on their wedding anniversary for the rest of their married life.

Situated in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building is open every day of the year and can easily be reached by bus, train or subway.

Reviews of Empire State Building

4.5
Top destination
5 - Excellent
726
" "5 - Excellent 59.265306122448976%
4 - Good
415
" "4 - Good 33.87755102040816%
3 - Okay
77
" "3 - Okay 6.285714285714286%
2 - Disappointing
4
" "2 - Disappointing 0.32653061224489793%
1 - Terrible
3
" "1 - Terrible 0.24489795918367346%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
24 Feb 2020

We paid the extra to go to the 102nd floor observation deck. Was worth it as there were less people there, as most stay at the 82nd floor, which can be crowded. Fantastic views, especially at night. But you need a clear night.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
26 Jan 2020

Book a regular ticket outside of peak hours (11-2pm) and it is half the price of the 'skip the line' ticket.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
22 Nov 2019

Both Top of the Rock and ESB offer excellent but similar views of the City. We mixed it up slightly and visited ESB at night for a different experience.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller
21 Nov 2019

get there early

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
13 Nov 2019

Great experience.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller
4 Nov 2019

Would have rated higher had we not had zero visability due to cloud

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