Overview
Mobile ticket
At the Empire State Building Observation Deck, voted the #1 Top Attraction in the U.S. in Tripadvisor’s 2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Things to Do, the skyline is not just what you see—it’s what you feel.
Start with immersive galleries that bring the building’s story to life, from innovative construction and Art Deco design to pop culture.
Then head to the 86th Floor Observation Deck, an open-air experience in the heart of Manhattan with sweeping 360° views. From Central Park to the Brooklyn Bridge, see New York’s most famous landmarks from a one-of-a-kind perspective.
Upgrade to 102nd Floor Observation Deck, reimagined with floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning views with visibility up to 80 miles on a clear day.
Short on time? Choose an Express Ticket for priority access the fastest way to the top.
Whether it is your first visit or your tenth, the Empire State Building connects you to the energy, history, and ambition that make New York City unforgettable.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
No refunds due to weather conditions, length of lines or wait times at the building
Infant tickets for children 0-5 years are free and can be picked up at the ticket office upon arrival
For the best experience, we recommend visiting two hours after opening time
What To Expect
Empire State Building
Experience the views at the center of it all. Set in the heart of Midtown Manhattan with unmatched vistas of New York City and a panorama that stretches across six states. Immerse yourself in the Empire State Building story on your way to the top. Located on the 2nd and 80th floors, exhibits are open to all ticket holders. You may proceed directly to the turnstile with your voucher.
Options
General Admission 86th Floor
Main Deck 86th Floor: General Admission to the 86th Floor Main Deck Observatory
General Admission 86th & 102nd
Top Deck 86th & 102nd: General Admission to the 86th Floor Main Deck + 102nd Floor Observation Deck
Express Pass 86 & 102 Top Deck
Skip-the Line Ticket 86 & 102: Skip-the-Line Admission down the red carpet all the way to the 86th Floor Main Deck + 102nd Floor Observation Deck
Express Pass 86th Main Deck
Skip-the Line Ticket 86th : Skip-the-Line Admission down the red carpet all the way to the 86th Floor Main Deck Observatory
What‘s Included
Free Wi-Fi on-site
From June 9 through July 19 - Limited time Classic Football Jersey Exhibit
Admission to the Empire State Building
Access to second floor immersive exhibits
Access to 86th Floor Observation Deck
Meeting points
Empire State Building
20 West 34th Street New York City United States
End points
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
7,231 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The Historic Empire State Building
Bruce B,Jun 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00While I am afraid of heights, my family thoroughly enjoyed this experience. The elevator ride up to the 80th floor was quick and painless! Up to the 86th floor to the observation deck was really cool and you can’t beat the views. Highly recommended!
Nyc
Richard B,Jun 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great but how do I use my credits? Apparently I have a bunch but do not know how to use them have another activity or 21 but n Niagara Falls Can they be applied?
Some of the staff was rude guiding to elevator.
PBRI1S,Jun 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
2.00We were only wanting a pic on observation deck bc had limo . We had premium ticket and they let general go ahead of us in security . What’s the purpose of premium price ? Couple of staff guiding to elevator on way down stopped us and made us wait , allowing others to go ahead of us purposely. Very rude . Didn’t enjoy it honestly .
Great sites to see
936nikkyd,Jun 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A great experience to see the city of NYC and beyond. Interesting facts on how the building was built. Neat elevator ride while going up.
ESB Experience
naijahd2026,Jun 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Loved it very much! 10/10 Will Recommend!
Amazing first timers
selinag744,Jun 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fabulous from start to finish and staff has been incredibly helpful and courteous. Loved the experience and so did my mom who came for the very first time!
Unbelievable Experience,...
Troy A,Jun 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Unbelievable Experience, would highly recommend going to the top to see the best view of your life. Will be going again
The best views in NYC
samig565,Jun 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00One of the more expensive viewing decks in new york but definitely one of the best views for sure! 86th floor is more than enough, the glass walls of the 102nd can interfere a bit and everything is just smaller so less detail to be seen. 360° views, wire security has been upgraded so it doesnt get in the camera shot as much anymore too! The only reason not to do the Empire State Building is if you want the Empire State Building in your photos.. for that, go to top of the rock or the summit.
The best view
I1144HFscottg,Jun 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was the most organized tourist activity I have ever seen. There were people at every turn and corner to insure you are in the correct location. Everybody was very nice, polite and helpful. Cannot praise them enough. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The weather was great and visibility was tremendous. What a view. The short little history notes were very impressive and interesting. I would do it again if in NYC.
Great team building
559hannas,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I took a group of 19 of my coworkers here for a visit after our workshop. It was a great way to celebrate. The staff was very helpful in getting us pre-booked for the experience via email. Sharon B was especially great in accommodating my group once we arrived-thank you! On top of the great views, we liked the museum like exhibit that walked us through the history of the building. Highly recommend for large groups wanting a classic NYC experience.
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