NYC Empire State Building Observation Deck Ticket

Overview

Mobile ticket

Soaring 1,454 feet above Midtown Manhattan from base to antenna, the Empire State Building (ESB) is the World’s Most Famous Building. Our 86th Floor Observation Deck, open daily, offers the highest 360 degree open-air vantage point in New York City and on a clear day, you can see up to six states–New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Connecticut and Massachusetts.

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.

Choose to upgrade to the Express ticket to make your way down the red carpet and skip all the lines on your way to the Main Deck. Experience the convenience of an expedited journey to the top of the building.

For the ultimate experience, upgrade to include the observatory on the 102nd Floor. Take your New York City experience higher. Our reimagined 102nd floor offers unmatched, floor-to-ceiling views stretching up to 80 miles on a clear day.

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

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Free Wi-Fi on-site

Access to second floor immersive exhibits

Access to 86th Floor Observatory

Admission to the Empire State Building

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting points

Empire State Building

20 West 34th Street New York City United States

End points

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

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.

Admission Included

Options

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

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

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

Reviews

4.41

6,758 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

4674

1105

409

230

340

Thanksgiving Day
Resort26173716130,
Nov 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We decided to do the observation deck on Thanksgiving morning. We went at 11:30. It was a little hard to get to the building because of the road closures for the Macy’s parade. It was not too crowded. We really enjoyed the historical exhibits they have as you wind your way through line. The 86 floor was gorgeous. We tried to upgrade to the 102 floor but they were already sold out. If you’re interested in going to the 102nd floor, it would be good to book that with your original ticket.
Brilliant!
GerardDukes,
Nov 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Brilliant, such an iconic New York City landmark. The exhibits within the tower leading up to the observation deck and so well set out and teach you a lot about the history of the building.
I love Empire State
Lan C,
Nov 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
The museum on the second floor has a rich collection, and the animations inside the elevators are quite innovative and engaging.
Tour with Renita
Tracy K,
Nov 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We booked the premium experience and Renita was our guide for the morning. She was fantastic. She gave us so many cool stories about the history of the building and the history of the city. It was a one of a kind experience.
Love it
Carla P,
Nov 24, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Typical self guided tour Quite of bit of walking Worth the experience Love overlooking the entire city
The best VIP tour
draileentrivedi,
Nov 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This was the best VIP tour and worth every penny. Renita made our experience exceptional. When you come in, you have to ask for her as your tour guide. She has also a gifted photographer. And her passion and love the Empire State building just shines through.
A dream since I was a kid!
Helen33andMichael,
Nov 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I have always wanted to go to the top of the Empire State! Loved it! The whole experience is magical,such a stunning and iconic building,the views were amazing. An absolute must for when you are in the city
Great activity
caroline e,
Nov 22, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Defiantly worth a visit. Staff so friendly and helpful. Great views of the city and beyond. We went early with fast track no holdups at all
Empire State Building tour-do it!!!
Stephanie B,
Nov 21, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Very well organized; fantastic & helpful staff. A lot of historical info & video clips from movies, etc. Very comprehensive presentation. Staff at all elevators & very flexible yo take photos. Gift shop has all price points & merchandise is displayed nicely. Fast check-out!
Gorgeous at night! The...
Brenda K,
Nov 20, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Gorgeous at night! The view was amazing and could see forever! The Christmas music had everyone in humming along!!