Empire State Building, New York City: Hours, Address, Empire State Building Reviews: 4.5/5
Empire State Building
Empire State Building
4.5
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Observation Decks & Towers
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10:00 - 00:00
Monday
10:00 - 00:00
Tuesday
10:00 - 00:00
Wednesday
10:00 - 00:00
Thursday
10:00 - 00:00
Friday
10:00 - 00:00
Saturday
10:00 - 00:00
Sunday
10:00 - 00:00
About
The Empire State Building is the World's Most Famous Building. It rises 1,454 ft from ground to antenna & features the only 360 degree open-air vantage point of Midtown. The 86th & 102nd Fl Observatories are open daily, 10AM-12AM. On a clear day you can see up to 6 states. The brand-new 2nd floor museum (included in all ticket options) offers guests 10,000 sq ft of interactive exhibits that invite visitors on a journey beginning from the building’s construction to its current place in pop culture. The 102nd Fl Obs features floor-to-ceiling windows and a glass elevator with sound & light experience. It is the jewel of NYC. All signage, audio & exhibits in the building are available in 9 languages. We offer free Wi-Fi. The 34th St Lobby entrance features a grand staircase with a 2-story architectural model of the bldg & a high-tech LED exhibit that celebrates lighting ceremonies performed by famous, celebrity guests. Express guests receive red carpet VIP treatment.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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from €46.76
All you need to step foot in the door.
Full view
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Top ways to experience Empire State Building
The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Midtown
This is the iconic New York that so many visitors imagine before they visit—spectacular skyscrapers like the Chrysler Building and Empire State Building, iconic public buildings like Grand Central Terminal and the New York Public Library, and the non-stop hustle and bustle of the city streets. Fifth Avenue is a shopper's heaven where you can find every kind of store imaginable, with fashion brands ranging from the affordable to the ultra-fancy. Visit the Rockefeller Center to experience towering Art Deco grandeur, and foodies will love the busy restaurants that stay open late in Koreatown. After dark, Midtown calms down a bit, but at any time of day or night it still feels 100% New York.
How to get there
- 34th St – Herald Square • 3 min walk
- 33rd St • 5 min walk
Best nearby
We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Restaurants
10,000 within 5 kms
Royal 35 Steakhouse
567
0.2 km€€€€ • American • Steakhouse • Gluten Free Options
Izakaya MEW
1,074
0.2 km€€ - €€€ • Japanese • Sushi • Asian
Her Name Is Han
291
0.3 km€€ - €€€ • Asian • Korean • Vegetarian Friendly
Stumptown Coffee Roasters
350
0.4 km€ • Quick Bites • Cafe
Keens Steakhouse
6,708
0.3 km€€€€ • American • Steakhouse • Gluten Free Options
Barn Joo 35
240
0.2 km€€ - €€€ • Asian • Korean • Gastropub
Hangawi
640
0.2 km€€€€ • Asian • Korean • Healthy
Pure & Fresh
248
0.2 km€ • American • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options
Ayza Wine & Chocolate Bar
576
0.2 km€€ - €€€ • Wine Bar • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options
STATE Grill and Bar
345
26 m€€ - €€€ • American • Grill • Vegetarian Friendly
Attractions
1,608 within 10 kms
Manhattan Skyline
21,387
8.3 mPoints of Interest & Landmarks
Fifth Avenue
8,551
91 mPoints of Interest & Landmarks
Koreatown
189
0.2 kmNeighbourhoods
Skinova Medspa New York
3
0.1 kmSports Camps & Clinics
Banana Republic
1
0.1 kmFactory Outlets
Greeley Square Park
103
0.2 kmParks
Herald Square
276
0.3 kmPoints of Interest & Landmarks
Urbanspace - Broadway Bites
33
0.2 kmFlea & Street Markets
The Morgan Library & Museum
2,071
0.4 kmSpeciality Museums • Libraries
Macy's Herald Square
4,839
0.3 kmDepartment Stores
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
92,835 reviews
Excellent
60,384
Very good
21,534
Average
7,031
Poor
2,301
Terrible
1,613
Sims_orange
1 contribution
such beautiful views, so many cool things were filmed there. enjoyed it at night was so pretty. staff took photos of us when asked. only thing is rhat its quite busy
Written 13 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Patricia J
Long Beach3 contributions
Family
Beautiful place, with beautiful views. A must to visit if you are in New York. Don’t forget to include dinner, super delicious and elegant.
Written 13 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Sukhy33
Gravesend, UK26 contributions
So we had our booking for the evening. Staff were friendly and the views were amazing, but then my family's experience dramatically dived!
We took an official group photo by the staff which you purchase at the end of the visit. However, when we got to pay we found that not all family members were not on the photo. There couldn't have been an issue of space as there was so much space left on on side, yet the photo was taken cutting 2 members out! We queried this and even asked if we could have another picture taken, as this was suggested by another member of staff. The staff member (female, petite, wearing glasses), refused and was rude telling us to 'pay or don't buy, that she needs to go home!' The actual gentleman who initially suggested maybe taking another photo, then changed his tune as the 2 were talking openly about my family and I, as it we weren't there, saying that, that was "a read", and the photo wasn't taken properly, and she won't agree to take it again so their not asking.
I was so disgusted! It felt like my family and I were an inconvenience, rather than paying for an experience - which I would've preferred not to.
Customer Service training is definitely required, for the staff dealing with the photos at least!
We took an official group photo by the staff which you purchase at the end of the visit. However, when we got to pay we found that not all family members were not on the photo. There couldn't have been an issue of space as there was so much space left on on side, yet the photo was taken cutting 2 members out! We queried this and even asked if we could have another picture taken, as this was suggested by another member of staff. The staff member (female, petite, wearing glasses), refused and was rude telling us to 'pay or don't buy, that she needs to go home!' The actual gentleman who initially suggested maybe taking another photo, then changed his tune as the 2 were talking openly about my family and I, as it we weren't there, saying that, that was "a read", and the photo wasn't taken properly, and she won't agree to take it again so their not asking.
I was so disgusted! It felt like my family and I were an inconvenience, rather than paying for an experience - which I would've preferred not to.
Customer Service training is definitely required, for the staff dealing with the photos at least!
Written 13 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
nicola a
8 contributions
Family
Such an iconic building that doesn't disappoint. The views are amazing tip: do the 102nd floor aswell you really are in the sky!!
Written 13 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
AdventuresofJules
1 contribution
Had the opportunity to visit the Empire State Building during a visit to NYC. Would recommend going earlier in the day to have more movement on the observation deck and the ability to space out for pictures. Can't wait to bring the family back. Staff was pleasant and friendly and the views were fantastic.
Written 13 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Avenger102
1 contribution
The view from the 86th floor was spectacular but the view from the 102nd floor was phenomenal. I definitely recommend going to the empire state building not just for the view but for the history of it. Get the fast pass. Definitely worth it.
Written 12 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
thicks2022
Auburn, AL1 contribution
Our first visit to New York and the Empire State Building was a must see on our list. It did not disappoint. Everything was well run and maintained and the staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. I would definitely recommend The Empire State Building to anyone.
Written 12 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
paulcrabb2014
Essex, UK1 contribution
Family
Far too many people up there could not stand and look over or the King Kong hands, need to give wristbands and allow a certain time slot
Written 12 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
748scott
Dubai, United Arab Emirates1 contribution
Family
I paid for a 400 dollar Premium gold service and I was screamed at by 2 members of staff at security. Most of the staff throughout were very rude with a few exceptions. I witnessed a few other guests/visitors being spoke to in a rude manner and tone. It ruined our experience, the staff should be more friendly and patient. Certainly wouldn’t recommend to anyone. I love NYC and had a great time but this was my least favourite experience unfortunately.
Written 12 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
etr0nc0s0
1 contribution
Everything was amazing, thank you so much, i was confused when i was walking trhow the observatory , no sing about going to the 86th Floor , i had to ask someone from the staff
Written 12 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ELKW
United States11,507 contributions
How long need to spend to see the exhibit in 2nd floor? and how long need to spend to tour on 80th floor? thanks.
vicur2022
Budapest, Hungary1 contribution
It took 10 minutes in the 2th floor.
We spent 15 minutes in the 80th floor (inside) and an other 15 minutes on the 86th floor outside.
We were lucky with the sunny weather.
ELKW
United States11,507 contributions
If I book the time slot 6:30-6:45pm, can I come earlier than 6:30pm or I must come between the time slot 6:30-6:45pm? also, as the sunset time is at about 8pm, can I tour the 2nd floor and 80th floor first before going up to 86th observation deck? (what is the closing time for 2nd and 80th floor, the same the 86th floor?) how long is the waiting time for the elevator going up to 86th floor near sunset hour? is there a particular elevator going to and from between 86th and 80th floor? thanks a lot.
Joost W
Nootdorp, The Netherlands2 contributions
We had the same experience: time slot is just a guideline, and you're fine to enter somewhat earlier. No lines at all, so don't waste money on the 'skip line' thing.
There was plenty of time to stroll through the great exhibitions. Then you just go with the flow, only in that strict order: elevator to 80, spend as much time as you want, then proceed to 86, again take your time. If you got the combo ticket that allows you to go to 102 (really worth the buck!!), then you proceed to that elevator and enjoy the view up there. Afterwards, same procedure going back down. You'll enjoy every minute of it!
We have no experience with sunset, didn't fit in our schedule having absolute priority to visit as many Broadway shows as we could ;-)
Potters-corner
5 contributions
Whst is the busiest time to avoid ?
How much time us needed to visit ?
Is the queue jump worth it?
Joanna M
1 contribution
I would go early. We went at 11.30 and was getting busy, however it was July. The short queue moved quickly. You could spend around 2 hours looking at all the history, taking pictures, and of course the shop on the way out! We didn’t have a queue jumping pass but didn’t need it.
I bought tickets the same day I was going and haven’t received email of my tickets, am I able to go in and show proof of my confirmation number?
Paul G
1 contribution
When I was there, I saw others with the same problem and they were allowed entry after checking on their computers. They do have an email address you could try my experience is they answer pretty quickly. Hope this helps.
Ju.Quetzal_Arjun
Dallas, TX15 contributions
Greeting travelers!
Question: How long long in the line at the Empire State Building with a Red Carpet Pass at sunset? If I book tickets at 8 p.m., will I be able to make it to sunset at 8:31 p.m.?
TIA
Mo
3 contributions
We went in the morning, and would have made it in the timescale. However it would mean you will have to walk through the museum floors and go directly to the lifts
Can we still purchase 102nd floor tickets on site, if you have a City pass that covers the 86th floor visit?
Victor S
6 contributions
I'm not sure, it was a last minute decision to visit the Empire State Building and then go up so we bought the 102nd floor ticket on site
Nelson T
Tampa, FL20 contributions
Do the names on the tickets have to match, or is it OK if they all match the purchaser's name?
The digital tickets I received for me and my partner via email both have my name on them.
Emily G
1 contribution
No it doesn't matter just as long as you have enough tickets for everyone with you!!!!! I had all tickets on my phone and I had to scan each one per person in my group!!!
Should I get the Express Pass for the Empire State Building?
This is the last thing I need to buy for my trip, and I have been heavily debating.
I will be there on a Saturday in very late July.
Will I really be fighting long lines this late in the day?
I will be eating at State Bar and Grill before I go (5:00 p.m. reservation) which is another reason I thought I should get the express pass if I want to make it up to the 86th floor for 8:00 p.m (sunset hour)?
-Regular ticket (Both floors). $103(tax included plus sunset)
-Express Pass (both floors, tax, plus sunset) $140
Or could I buy the regular ticket for 8:30 p.m. Both floors. This is the time after sunset. It’s the cheapest at $86.00(tax included)
However, if I showed up for the sunset view anyway (8:00) would I be allowed in?
One other option is to buy the 86-floor express ticket than buy the top-floor ticket at the kiosk? How much would that be if I did this?
J099
Derby, UK483 contributions
In my opinion the sunset view is not the best - the city is best seen at night when it is dark
I wouldn't pay the extra to go up to the 102 flr as the views from the 86th floor are superb
Express Pass again I wouldn't bother, queues move quickly so not worth the extra money in my opinion
Carl K
Wigan, UK
Does anyone know how to make an advance reservation using the New York Pass?
The ESB website says reservations are required but there is no way to do this using the NY Pass. I emailed ESB and they advised to make the reservation on the NY Pass website biut this doesn't appear to be possible. I have emailed NY Pass to ask the same question but got no reply.
J099
Derby, UK483 contributions
We went to the Empire State Building when we arrived in New York and booked ticekts direct at the attraction. We had Go Explorer passes which gave us free entry
Once at the venue just scan your barcode and it will give you the free tickets for time you want
Kwalls71
Hazel, KY89 contributions
What is the bag policy? Can I take my normal size NorthFace back pack? What about a small purse?
Cliff B
Sudbury, UK32 contributions
Hi, I am not sure what the policy is with bags but you will be ok with a small purse, I seem to remember that there were some lockers where you could leave bags and other stuff but we did not make use of these
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions about Empire State Building
- Empire State Building is open:
- Sun - Sat 10:00 - 00:00
- Empire State Building admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost €46.88, while a popular guided tour starts around €5.18 per person. See all 127 Empire State Building tickets and tours on Tripadvisor
- Empire State Building can be crowded, so we recommend booking e-tickets ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund. See all 127 Empire State Building tickets and tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Empire State Building:
- Empire State Building Ticket Optional Upgrade to Skip-the-Line and 102nd Deck (From €46.88)
- New York CityPASS (From €126.22)
- Go City: New York Explorer Pass - Choose 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 10 attractions (From €67.51)
- Big Bus New York Hop-On Hop-Off Open Top Tour (From €52.83)
- The New York Pass®: 100+ Attractions including Empire State Building (From €131.11)
- Hotels near Empire State Building:
- (0.19 km) Executive Hotel LeSoleil
- (0.18 km) Kixby hotel
- (0.16 km) U Hotel Fifth Avenue
- (0.10 km) The Hotel At Fifth Avenue
- (0.24 km) Arlo NoMad
- Restaurants near Empire State Building:
- (0.03 km) STATE Grill and Bar
- (0.03 km) Sushi-teria
- (0.03 km) Legends New York City
- (0.05 km) Sir John's Midtown
- (0.05 km) Dunkin'