The Empire State Building, a symbol of New York City’s grandeur, has captivated generations with its iconic stature and cultural significance.
Immortalized by King Kong’s legendary climb, this architectural marvel stands at 443 meters (1,454 feet) and held the title of the world’s tallest building for 40 years.
Its towering presence inspires awe and admiration, making it a must-see attraction in one of the greatest cities in the world.
The article covers everything you must know before booking the Empire State Building tickets.
Top Tickets
It is better to buy your tickets online in advance to avoid last minute disappointment.
# Empire State Building General tickets
# Express Entry tickets
# Sunrise Experience tickets
Things to know before booking tickets
Empire State Building tickets are available online and at the attraction.
Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.
When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.
When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.
Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, they may sell out during peak days. Booking early also helps avoid last-minute disappointments.
To book, visit the ticket page and select the date, time slot, and the number of tickets..
Once you complete the bookings, tickets will be mailed to you.
You do not need to carry printouts.
You can show the e-ticket on your smartphone and walk in.
If you are supposed to assemble at a starting point for your guided tour, the details will be sent to you.
Please carry a valid ID.
Empire State Building tickets
There are different ways to explore this attraction. For an unforgettable visit, take a look at the Empire State Building tickets we recommend.
ESB General Admission Main Deck tickets
This is the cheapest option to visit the 86th-floor observation deck.
It includes access to the immersive exhibit on the second floor, an audio guide, and free high-speed WiFi.
Book this ticket and enjoy unobstructed 360° views of New York City’s skyline, from Central Park to the Statue of Liberty.
Ticket Prices
Adult (13 to 61 years): US$49
Senior (62+ years): US$47
Child (6 to 12 years): US$43
Infant: Free
Empire State Building Sunrise Experience tickets
This ticket grants you exclusive access to the 86th-floor observatory to watch the sunrise over New York City.
This special experience includes a Starbucks coffee, entry to second-floor immersive exhibits, free high-speed WiFi, and an audio guide.
Tickets are limited to 100 per day, with observatory access provided 30 minutes before sunrise.
Enjoy breathtaking views and a serene start to your day from one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Ticket Price: US$137
Buy This TicketEmpire State Building restaurants
Various dining options are available, ranging from casual to upscale.
State Grill and Bar
Situated on the ground floor, this fine dining establishment specializes in American cuisine.
Its menu offers a wide selection of food and cocktails, and its atmosphere is classic and sophisticated.
Tacombi
Situated on the second level, Tacombi offers a more laid-back option that serves tacos and Mexican street cuisine
Skyline Café
Located on the 86th floor, the Skyline Café offers light snacks and refreshments, allowing visitors to enjoy expansive city skyline views while grabbing a quick bite.
Opening hours
The opening and closing hours at the Empire State Building keep changing depending on the month and season.
The hours range from 8 am to 10 am, depending on the season.
The usual closing time is 1 am, and during certain periods, the closing hours might change to 10 pm, 11 pm, or 12 am.
Both the 86th and 102nd-floor observatories are open to tourists 365 days a year, regardless of the weather.
The last ascent to the top of the tower is granted 45 minutes before closing time.
How long does the tour take
If you visit the Empire State Building’s main deck (86th floor) and the top deck (102nd floor), your tour will take about 90 minutes.
If you wish to visit the building’s exhibitions, you must also budget 2 hours to visit the attraction.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the Empire State Building is before sunset. The breathtaking skyline bathed in light will gradually turn to a soothing wine-colored hue, and the Big Apple’s dazzling lights will come out.
The experience is a treat for the senses.
If you wish to beat the crowds and explore the landmark without the popular rush, the best time to visit is in the afternoon, between 1 pm and 3 pm.
Frequently asked questions
Here are a few questions visitors usually ask before planning a visit to the Empire State Building.
Please reach as close as possible to your scheduled time, and the building staff will do their best to accommodate you when you arrive.
You may need to change your reservation time at our 2nd-floor kiosks to the next available time slot after you arrive.
The stairs can be used only by participants in the annual Run-Up. They are closed to guests at all other times.
This is fully ADA-compliant.
It has wheelchair access and handicapped restrooms on the 86th Floor of the Observatory.
Viewing walls and binoculars have also been lowered.
Tourists can buy tickets online or at the venue on the day of their visit. For the best experience, we suggest booking your tickets online in advance.
No, the Empire State Building itself does not have any parking facilities.
The closest Parking garage is on 33rd Street between Fifth Avenue and Broadway, just across the street from the building.
No, tripods are prohibited at the building.
No, it does not provide storage facilities.
What to expect at Empire State Building
Stand next to the modern wonder and admire the fascinating, century-defining Art Deco style incorporated by visionary architect William F. Lamb into its construction.
Immerse yourself in the elegant Art Deco murals in the lobby, created by artist Allen Saalburg. They depict various scenes and elements of New York City during the 1930s.
Hop aboard the high-speed elevator and zoom to the pop-culture sanctuary, which is the Empire State observation deck, experiencing breathtaking speeds along the way.
Step out on the 86th-floor observation deck and watch breathtaking 360-degree views of iconic landmarks such as Central Park, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty.
Book a special tour and be part of a privileged few who can watch the sunrise from the 86th-floor observation deck with a Starbucks coffee.
Take the sunset tour to watch the iconic city transition from day to a wine-coloured wonder and witness the dazzling Manhattan city lights come out.
Soar to the heavens by ascending to the mind-boggling 102nd-story observation deck, where you can behold the New York skyline with a view fit for the gods.
Use the many viewfinders on the observation decks to spot your favorite city landmark.
Descend to the 80th floor and witness the “Dare To Dream” exhibition, which features vintage photographs, architectural sketches, and multimedia narratives detailing the challenges and triumphs the builders and workers faced during the Great Depression.
Learn about the sustainability and eco-friendly measures taken by the Empire State to reduce its environmental footprint by participating in the Sustainability Exhibit.
Explore the interactive museum exhibit on the 2nd floor, which features immersive exhibits, high-tech displays, and engaging multimedia presentations. You will also learn about the building’s architectural marvels and the stories of the people who built it.
Beware of the spot where King Kong’s fingers pierced through the building!
Explore the “Celebrity Hall of Fame,” which features the signatures of famous visitors, dignitaries, movie stars, and more.
Feel like a true celebrity by taking a private guided tour of the Empire State through a separate entrance, skipping all the lines, and accessing all the exhibits!
