Empire State Building: Visitors Guide
Empire State Building, one of the most iconic buildings in New York, provides its visitors with sweeping views of the city, which cannot be missed. Read our ultimate travel guide, including information on how to visit Empire State Building, tips on when to visit, how to buy tickets, and how to get the most of your time while overlooking New York from above.
It is no secret that New York has a large number of high buildings. Actually, it is one of the reasons why this destination is so popular.
The city is a metropolis in the true sense of the word, and when walking the streets of Manhattan, you will feel really small, because of the many skyscrapers towering around you.
One of the most iconic high buildings in New York is the Empire State Building.
Although it is not the tallest structure in the world, and it even does not have a somehow eccentric shape, there are probably not many people on the planet Earth who've never heard of New York's Empire State Building.
This structure attracts a large number of visitors every day, both international travelers and locals, who come here to enjoy one of the most spectacular views over the city.
Yes, there are so many things to see and do in New York, that it is hard to choose one top attraction, but the views from the observation deck from the top of the building for sure belonged among our top experiences we could enjoy in this bustling city.
We know that you might be thinking there are so many tall buildings in Big Apple, that it is hard to choose which observation deck is better, and from where you will have a better view. But believe us, visiting the Empire State Building is a no-brainer.
As you've come across this article, we believe you intend to visit New York anytime soon.
Well, then the Empire State Building must be on your sightseeing itinerary.
So without any further ado, let's dive into our ultimate travel guide focusing solely on the visit of this New York's top attractions.
We will share with you tips on how to get to the Empire State Building, how to buy tickets, when is the best time to get to the observation deck, what to pack, and where to stay in Manhattan, so you will be always near this renowned place.
In nutshell, after reading this post, you should be fully prepared for visiting the Empire State Building.
If we've missed anything or you have a question, drop us a line in the comment section under this post.
HOW TO GET TO EMPIRE STATE BUILDING
When walking in the center of New York, chances are, you will spot the Empire State Building even before it is on your itinerary.
Simply look up, and you will spot the iconic building. But when the day of your visit actually comes, you will for sure need more specific information.
The address of the Empire State Building is 20 W 34th St, and the good news is, that it is surrounded by other notable New York's top attractions, so you can easily incorporate it in your daily itinerary.
The Empire State Building is close to Times Square, Central Park, Grand Central Station, 5th Avenue or Madison Square Garden, but if you are not planning on walking, simply hop on the subway and get off on 34 Street - Penn Station, or 33 Street, 28 Street, or even 42 Street Grand Central.
From all of those stations, the Empire State Building is only a short walk.
When we were approaching the building, we were not sure from which side is the official entrance, but there were helpful staff and signs everywhere, which helped us a lot.
THE EXPERIENCE
Visiting New York and its iconic landmarks was always our dream, so when we were returning to the Czech Republic after one year living in Calgary and one year traveling around South America and Central America, we could not resist visiting the city for a couple of days on the way back.
And to be honest, it was the best way how to finish our travels, and how to adjust to a similar lifestyle of ours.
And what you can expect from visiting the Empire State Building?
Except for the views, you will have a chance to see a two-story building model, enjoy Dare To Dream Exhibit (featuring old photos and interesting facts about one of the tallest buildings in the world), be photographed with the famous building on a backdrop (the photo is not included in the ticket), or admire art deco ceiling murals.
And then, there is the elevator, which will in a very short time take you to the 86th floor where all the fun begins.
In case you want to have even more exclusive experience, consider paying a bit more, and get access to the 102nd floor. At the time of our visit, this floor was unfortunately under renovation, but it is open now!
Once we got to the observation platform, we felt like in another world.
High above New York, we could enjoy 360° views, and hadn't been it cold later in the evening we might have been standing there until now.
That's how breathtaking the visit of the Empire State Building is!
Read more about how to visit this New York's most prominent landmark, to make sure your trip is as smooth as possible.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT EMPIRE STATE BUILDING
First, you should know, that Empire State Building is open every day, even on holidays, from 8 AM till 2 AM (the last elevator goes up at 1:15 AM), which gives you plenty of time to visit it, and in case you want to have the place just for yourself, go as early or as late as possible.
We think it does not matter if you visit the attraction in summer or winter, both options are great and the views terrific, just take into account that you will be outside, and it can get really cold in New York in winter.
Of course, there is a slightly higher chance to enjoy nicer weather during summer months, but during this period you will share the deck with far more people. And of course, the sun goes down earlier in the winter.
When it comes to the time of the day, the most photogenic time is around sunrise or sunset, and then after dark, when the streets and skyscrapers are illuminated by artificial lights.
Again, sunset and sunrise are peak times, so arrive early to find a spot.
In case you do not mind the time of the day, you are not an enthusiastic photographer, and you simply want to have the experience of seeing New York from above, visiting the building in the afternoon might be just a good time to avoid crowds.
HOW TO BUY TICKETS FOR EMPIRE STATE BUILDING
Unlike Top of the Rock, you do not have to buy a ticket for a specific time, but we strongly advise you to buy your ticket online in advance as it will save you a lot of time, especially in the season.
You have several options here.
We bought New York City Pass for 132 USD, which allowed us to visit six major attractions in the city, and the Empire State Building was one of them. In case you plan on seeing the top places in New York such as Statue of Liberty or The Metropolitan Museum of Art, having this pass for sure pays off.
The truth is, that the tickets to the observation decks are pretty expensive, even for the US standards, but there is not much you can do about it.
Either close your eyes and buy it or enjoy the views of the building from the ground. The ticket for an adult to the 86th floor costs 42 USD. You can buy the Empire State Building Skip-the-Line Ticket here. In case you would like to go to the more exclusive 102nd floor, prepare to pay 72 USD.
There are even more options to choose from in case you are seeking something unusual, for more information, visit the official website.
For those of you who want to desperately visit the Empire State Building, there is a special offer to get there even twice in one day for a discounted price!
Please note, that the number of visitors for watching the sunrise from Empire State Building is limited, and the price is also higher, starting from 115 USD.
WHAT TO PACK FOR VISITING EMPIRE STATE BUILDING
Before we start with what to pack for visiting the Empire State Building, we should first mention what not to pack.
As you will go through a security check, you should not have with you any sharp objects, knives or weapons, as in that case, you would have to leave it by the entrance, or there is also the possibility the staff would not let you in.
You might find it a bit funny to mention something so obvious, but if you visit New York just for a day while carrying all your stuff, you might have things such as travel scissors with you.
On the other hand, what is a must-have when visiting the observation deck?
We cannot fail to mention a travel camera, even though most travelers take pictures with just a phone. And despite the fact that nowadays phones have quality camera, a mirrorless camera with a good lens will for sure do a better job here.
And bring tripod, in case you plan on staying longer. We brought our GorillaPod and it was great decision, as there are plenty spots to mount it.
Also, it can be windy and cold up there, so having a fleece jacket and windbreaker in a backpack is a good idea.
HOW MUCH TIME YOU NEED FOR VISITING EMPIRE STATE BUILDING
Well, this is a tough one. First, you must take into account the time of the day and season when you plan on visiting the Empire State Building.
In the peak times during sunrise and sunset, especially in the summer, count at least one extra hour which you will need only for getting from the ground floor to the observation deck because you will have to wait in a line for elevators and security check.
We visited New York in May, and it took us 45 minutes to get to the viewing platform. If you are a professional photographer, or you simply want to overlook the city at a specific time, plan your visit carefully, and rather arrive earlier.
Trust us, it is much better than wait later nervously in a queue like us, not knowing when our time will come.
Once you get to the observation deck, it is only up to you for how long you would like to stay.
Some people are ok with a quick look, and in twenty minutes are ready to go home, some people (like us) can spend on the top of the Empire State Building around two hours.
Why did we need that much time?
Well, we arrived around sunset, and as a keen photographer, Martin first wanted to see the changing colors reflecting on skyscrapers, and secondly, there is something beautiful about New York when it is pitch dark and millions of lights illuminate the city.
Long answer short, plan at least two hours for visiting the Empire State Building, but rather three, in case you love skyscrapers and perfect views.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
WHERE TO STAY IN MANHATTAN
There is probably not a better place where to stay in New York than Manhattan.
The center of the city offers a pulsing vibe, you will be surrounded by must-visit places, and we are not even talking about the large selection of restaurants and things to do.
The only downside about staying in Manhattan is the price, as rates for hotel rooms are pretty high, even though the quality (especially when it comes to budget accommodation) does not reflect it. But still, you can for sure discover a room according to your likings and budget, and hopefully, the next paragraph will help you to find it.
We've selected three best hotels in Manhattan for every budget to make your reservation process easier.
Unfortunately, the budget rooms start in New York around 50-60 USD for a double room, and the reviews are terrible, so we won't recommend you this time the real budget option here.
Cheap-ish Mid-range | Carlton Arms Hotel - Yes, the decor of this hotel is a bit quirky, but on the other hand, you will find here everything you need for a reasonable price. And this is what matters. Plus the location could not be better.
Mid-range | The Hotel at Fifth Avenue - The name of this hotel already says where you can find it, but that's not it. Comfortable, classically furnished rooms and friendly staff makes from this hotel a place to stay.
Luxury | Renaissance New York Midtown Hotel - Great, modernly-equipped hotel offers its guest touch of luxury and amazing views of New York. For the best experience, ask for a higher floor.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
