Empire State Building
Empire State Building
4.5
Points of Interest & LandmarksArchitectural BuildingsObservation Decks & Towers
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
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, see esbnyc.com for hours. 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.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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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
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See what travellers are saying
- Paolo GLanzo Torinese, Italy129 contributionsThe most iconic of NYC skyscrapersThe most iconic of NYC's skyscrapers, it allows a view of the city from Central Manhattan. The initial rooms allow you to learn about its history and construction. The elevators don't make you feel like you go up 80 floors in half a minute. The climb to the 102nd floor is a supplement to the standard entrance ticket which allows the climb up to the 86th floor.Thank you for making the Empire State Building part of your stay in New York. We hope to see you next time you visit. Thank you for the review.Written 17 February 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Travelled with familyWritten 17 February 2024
- hc9694London, United Kingdom1 contributionExcellentThe ESB is impressive! Well worth a visit - ticket prices can be high for a family of 4 but it is a 1-2 hour experience you’ll never forget! Perfect views, interactive entertainment as you go along! Really interesting!Thank you so much for your review!Written 22 February 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Written 22 February 2024
- stephenwylie21 contributionEmpire StateThe views were incredible as we went around sunset. The daylight view was stunning and as it got darker the view became incredible. We spent a lot more time there than we realised. One ìssue though. There was a lack of direction from the staff in certain areas on the viewing floors eg the lift area as we were expected to know that this line was for exiting and the other line was for going further up. With no direction, signage or anyone to ask cause you had no idea where to go as people joined a queue only to be scolded that you were in the wrong queue. Maybe a big sign with Q here for exiting etc. However the beautiful building and views made up for the lack lustre approach of some of the staff. Other staff were helpful and diligent, and it is for those staff that I give top marks.Thank you for the wonderful review and nice words about our staff. We will be sure to pass your message along.Written 22 February 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Written 22 February 2024
- Reggie3 contributionsThe classy viewNo, the Empire State Building isn't the tallest view of the city, but it is the classiest and they've created the experience as if to own that perspective of NYC. First the 80th floor, with gorgeous views and museum of videos of the 30s and the creation of the building. Then the 86th floor, with the iconic balcony and heating lamps (thanks!) for a breathtaking view and free viewfinders to zoom onto the streets below. Everything about this visit is about the past - the people who guide you to elevators, the hallways, the videos, the artifacts, all remind us that this structure has SEEN it all and has BEEN in NY all along. Also an option to go to the 101st floor, but being outside was the best. After all, we just witnessed the view and the balcony visited by millions before. Doing the Empire State is a MUST while visiting NYC. You will not be disappointed by this part of history.Thank you for your review. We are happy to hear that you enjoyed our museum and gallery just as much as the view.Written 22 February 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Travelled with familyWritten 22 February 2024
- danlori1999Toms River, New Jersey1 contribution25th Anniversary Reproposal!Celebrated our 25th Wedding Anniversary with a trip to NYC and visit to the Empire State Building! Everything was perfect, beginning to end. We were so impressed with all of the interactive displays, videos and history of building on our way up to the 86th floor. Even the elevator had a video in the ceiling...very cool! The perfect day was topped off with a reproposal at the top, with a new ring and gorgeous views!Congratulations on your anniversary and thank you for celebrating with us. Thank you for the wonderful review.Written 22 February 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Written 22 February 2024
- vkerrodarNew York City, New York1 contributionWonderful experienceI took my daughter and we went all the way to the 102fl. It was completely worth it. First of all everything was very clean and orderly. The museum was very interesting and interactive. The different observation decks were very nice and the views were spectacular. Overall, we had a great time. It's a great way to spend a few hours.We are so happy you enjoyed the view. Thank you for choosing the Empire State Building!Written 24 February 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Travelled with familyWritten 23 February 2024
- 116christopherBrussels, Belgium417 contributionsMagnificent 360° viewThe tour includes interesting information about the construction of this building. The view is superb in all directions. Even if it is not essential, I can advise taking a ticket up to the 102nd floor. The feeling of height is different, the place is more intimate, sheltered and with a more instantaneous 360° view.Thank you for making the Empire State Building part of your stay in New York. We hope to see you next time you visit. Thank you for the review.Written 24 February 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 23 February 2024
- kayleesheldon2 contributionsAmazing!Stunning view, of course!! Nothing else like it. The Museum within the building is interesting and a great addition. Completes the experience quite nicely. It’s very cool to see the history of the building while making your way to the top. Staff and procedure are very well organized, which made for a smooth experience.So glad that the Empire State Building exceeded your expectations. Thank you for your review.Written 3 March 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Written 2 March 2024
- RommelBorjaMandaluyong, Philippines3 contributionsEmpire State Building - Tour Review (Feb.24, 2028)We purchased an express ticket , online, same afternoon (around 4pm) for a 6pm entry - to get an express red carpet entry. To our surprise, there were just a few tourists the time we went in.. Hahaha.. Anyway, we totally enjoyed the "climb" up the top since this is on the top of our must do's upon arrival in New York.. I would say we paid a price for the express lane but what the heck, it's a once in a lifetime experience, and yes it was indeed...We’re so happy to hear that you had a wonderful visit to the Empire State Building. Thank you for the review. Hope to be a part of your next visit to New York.Written 4 March 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Written 3 March 2024
- PeterHSwedenStockholm, Sweden17 contributionsFantastic view!Make sure you choose a day with sunny weather and you will not be disappointed. No queues, nice people working there and very well organized. Expensive, but if you choose one tourist attraction, choose Empire State Building. Fantastic view!Thank you for your wonderful review. Happy to hear you enjoyed the view.Written 5 March 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2024Travelled with familyWritten 5 March 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Marty Bielicki
Stuart, FL15,991 contributions
Jul 2024 • Couples
Our first tip is to “GO” if the weather is good. We waited over 60 years to make our first trip. It is so well worth the experience. Going up over 1200 feet and seeing everything will take well over an hour or two.
In 1931 when the Empire State building opened—named after the motto of NY State—it was the tallest building in the world. Today, it is the 54th tallest in the world, and 7th largest in NYC.
Originally this Midtown South Art Deco styled building cost $40 million dollars. In today’s monies, Empire State cost over 600 million to build. It is so large that the place has been assigned its own zip-code—10118.
I would recommend waiting until a few days before your sojourn to buy tickets on-line knowing the weather is going to be reasonably sunny and clear. On a good day, one can see 80 miles away—as far north as Massachusetts and as far south as Pennsylvania.
We didn’t know one could just buy tickets on-line. We just went and got-in-line. Luckily, as we were about to push “buy” for the tickets, a woman walked-up and gave us two free tickets. Apparently, two people did not show-up in her group—there are indeed very nice people in this world.
The ground floor is impressive. The unique architecture is part of the National Register of Historic Palaces. Take your time and enjoy the ambiance.
There are over 70 elevators. You will first be taken to the 86th floor. It takes less than a minute to climb. There are plenty of windows and exhibits. You may have to wait as 4 million people do visit the Empire State building yearly. There are plenty of wide spaces and it doesn’t feel crowded though.
Over 250 motion pictures have used the Empire State Building. Our favorite 2 movies are King Kong and Sleepless in Seattle. There is an King Kong sculpture one can have their picture from on the 86 floor.
To get to the 102nd floor where the open observation deck is located are dedicated elevators for them as you proceed on the 86th floor.
There are plenty of pictures and information guides to help you understand what you are seeing. Obviously, there is plenty of wire protection on the 102nd floor to prevent people from taking the quick way down.
On the ground floor when you leave is a fairly large souvenir shop. Prices are not too unreasonable.
If you found this review “helpful in any way” please click the “thumbs-up picture” to let me know.
In 1931 when the Empire State building opened—named after the motto of NY State—it was the tallest building in the world. Today, it is the 54th tallest in the world, and 7th largest in NYC.
Originally this Midtown South Art Deco styled building cost $40 million dollars. In today’s monies, Empire State cost over 600 million to build. It is so large that the place has been assigned its own zip-code—10118.
I would recommend waiting until a few days before your sojourn to buy tickets on-line knowing the weather is going to be reasonably sunny and clear. On a good day, one can see 80 miles away—as far north as Massachusetts and as far south as Pennsylvania.
We didn’t know one could just buy tickets on-line. We just went and got-in-line. Luckily, as we were about to push “buy” for the tickets, a woman walked-up and gave us two free tickets. Apparently, two people did not show-up in her group—there are indeed very nice people in this world.
The ground floor is impressive. The unique architecture is part of the National Register of Historic Palaces. Take your time and enjoy the ambiance.
There are over 70 elevators. You will first be taken to the 86th floor. It takes less than a minute to climb. There are plenty of windows and exhibits. You may have to wait as 4 million people do visit the Empire State building yearly. There are plenty of wide spaces and it doesn’t feel crowded though.
Over 250 motion pictures have used the Empire State Building. Our favorite 2 movies are King Kong and Sleepless in Seattle. There is an King Kong sculpture one can have their picture from on the 86 floor.
To get to the 102nd floor where the open observation deck is located are dedicated elevators for them as you proceed on the 86th floor.
There are plenty of pictures and information guides to help you understand what you are seeing. Obviously, there is plenty of wire protection on the 102nd floor to prevent people from taking the quick way down.
On the ground floor when you leave is a fairly large souvenir shop. Prices are not too unreasonable.
If you found this review “helpful in any way” please click the “thumbs-up picture” to let me know.
Written 9 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you, Marty! What an amazing and thorough review! We greatly appreciate this!! It seems that your 60-year wait was well worth it! We are so glad you got to check us off your bucket list! Have a very happy holiday season!
Written 9 November 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stephen Morrison
Yverdon-les-Bains, Switzerland1 contribution
Dec 2024 • Family
The Empire State Building tours starts with an exposition, which gives you an imformed history of the building.
I recommend that you purchase the ti kits for the 102nd floor as although it is expensive 77 USD per ticket, it is worth it.
First you take the express elevator , to the 80th floor, which tales around 25 seconds. This elevator has a film that runs while you ascend.
After spending time in the 80th floor, which has an enclosed 360 degree view, you take the next elevator to the 86th floor, which is open but securely fenced off with iron bars for security.You can also walk round this floor.
If you purchased the ticket to hhe 102nd floor, you take the third elevator and arrive in an enclosed floor, with glass windows all around. The view is spectacular
All in all this was an sharing experience but ensure that it is a clear day and not cloudy.
I recommend that you purchase the ti kits for the 102nd floor as although it is expensive 77 USD per ticket, it is worth it.
First you take the express elevator , to the 80th floor, which tales around 25 seconds. This elevator has a film that runs while you ascend.
After spending time in the 80th floor, which has an enclosed 360 degree view, you take the next elevator to the 86th floor, which is open but securely fenced off with iron bars for security.You can also walk round this floor.
If you purchased the ticket to hhe 102nd floor, you take the third elevator and arrive in an enclosed floor, with glass windows all around. The view is spectacular
All in all this was an sharing experience but ensure that it is a clear day and not cloudy.
Written 4 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for all of this great feedback, Stephen! We are so happy you came to see us and had a great experience! May 2025 be awesome for you!
Written 5 January 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Alessandra P
14 contributions
Aug 2024 • Friends
One of the most impressive moments of the city tour was the view that can be enjoyed climbing the Empire State Building.
We went up at sunset and waited for the evening to see the city lit up. We were speechless. The show is breathtaking, you have to try, it is very difficult to describe with words.
The organization to climb on, moreover, is perfect. The only problem, not insignificant, is that once up nobody has checked the time of our stay or that of the other visitors. As a result, many people before us had already climbed into the part where you could watch the sunset and remained there for a very long time preventing others from approaching the balustrade and being able to look. I state that sunset tickets cost more, but in the end there was no point in spending that money because only with a lot of effort we managed to carve out a corner to watch, and by then the sun had set. I would recommend being more precise in controlling people on the terrace.
We went up at sunset and waited for the evening to see the city lit up. We were speechless. The show is breathtaking, you have to try, it is very difficult to describe with words.
The organization to climb on, moreover, is perfect. The only problem, not insignificant, is that once up nobody has checked the time of our stay or that of the other visitors. As a result, many people before us had already climbed into the part where you could watch the sunset and remained there for a very long time preventing others from approaching the balustrade and being able to look. I state that sunset tickets cost more, but in the end there was no point in spending that money because only with a lot of effort we managed to carve out a corner to watch, and by then the sun had set. I would recommend being more precise in controlling people on the terrace.
Automatically translated
Written 22 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We thank you for your visit! We're sorry to hear that the deck was crowded during your visit. We're happy it didn't hurt your overall enjoyment of your visit.
Written 23 August 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
BLC22
England27 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
Disorganised and chaotic ticketing system. Mixed with rude staff. Shame for such an iconic NYC building and attraction. Newer viewing locations are much better organised and overall guest experience.
1 staff member selling tickets, long queues other booths closed, turnstile staff rude.
Booking at 8 queued from 7.45. Front of queue at 8.12 to be charged an additional sunset fee, which, after running through static displays we had missed by time we got up to 80th floor. Empire State may be iconic but customer service severely lacking and relying on the experience.
Would recommend other viewing platforms.
1 staff member selling tickets, long queues other booths closed, turnstile staff rude.
Booking at 8 queued from 7.45. Front of queue at 8.12 to be charged an additional sunset fee, which, after running through static displays we had missed by time we got up to 80th floor. Empire State may be iconic but customer service severely lacking and relying on the experience.
Would recommend other viewing platforms.
Written 19 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Good day to you, BLC.
First of all, we thank you for choosing us to be a part of your NYC experience. We are very grateful. We are sorry to hear that your experience with us was not the "best in class/best in the world" customer service and experience we strive to provide every day. As the #1 attraction in the world, our standards of service and experience are set very high. As such, your feedback is important to us, and we would like to learn more about your experience. Kindly contact us via email at "roomtoimprove@esbonyc.com" to share additional details, including the date and time of your visit, as well as your order confirmation number. We appreciate your valuable input and eagerly await your response. Thank you very much!
Written 20 August 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Danielle S
United Kingdom9 contributions
Apr 2024 • Solo
An iconic landmark, definitely worth a visit! It's not flawless: I found the 2nd floor museum a little underwhelming, the queuing/security area gets stuffy and noisy when it's busy, and the entrance for the observation deck isn't immediately obvious if you're approaching from 5th Ave. But the views from the 80th and 86th floors are amazing. Additionally, the staff were also genuinely lovely and very helpful, which really made a difference (particularly as I was there on my own). I appreciated that I wasn't rushed through the experience in any way.
I would definitely recommend going early in the day: I had an AM/PM ticket, and my first visit (09.15) involved basically no queue and no crowding, whereas my evening visit (21.10-ish) was much busier and it took me much longer to get through security/the queue in general.
I would also recommend the CityPASS if you're visiting the ESB and you're planning to do any of the other relevant attractions - ESB tickets are pretty expensive (AM/PM tickets are usually $60-70, if I'm not mistaken) and I'm not sure if I could've justified buying them outright, but the CityPASS is good value.
I would definitely recommend going early in the day: I had an AM/PM ticket, and my first visit (09.15) involved basically no queue and no crowding, whereas my evening visit (21.10-ish) was much busier and it took me much longer to get through security/the queue in general.
I would also recommend the CityPASS if you're visiting the ESB and you're planning to do any of the other relevant attractions - ESB tickets are pretty expensive (AM/PM tickets are usually $60-70, if I'm not mistaken) and I'm not sure if I could've justified buying them outright, but the CityPASS is good value.
Written 3 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for choosing the Empire State building. We are so happy you a had a memorable visit. Hope you’ll come back and see us soon.
Written 3 April 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tony D
Katy, TX2 contributions
Nov 2024 • Family
Absolutely incredible. There are other taller buildings now of course, but this building is by far the most iconic. They do an awesome job of not overcrowding it, and keeping you entertained while in line with the museum-like displays about the history, construction, and cultural influence. The outdoor observatory on the 86th floor is incredible. Being outside in the open air is breathtaking. Also highly recommend spending the extra money to go up into the spire for a totally different experience. It is pretty small up there and a totally different experience because in there you have floor to ceiling windows. Don't go to NYC without experiencing this. We went at 9 am to avoid longer lines, and it was WELL worth it. That was a great tip. Plus the views early in the morning were great.
Written 30 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting the World's Most Famous Building! We are so happy to hear that you enjoyed the experience! Have a Happy New Year and we hope to see you back again someday!
Written 30 December 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
swiftcloud14
1 contribution
Jan 2025 • Family
Highly recommend the ESB! It was so cool to see the museum-like beginning historical narrative of the ESB being built over the years, then it was even cooler to go up to the 86th and 102nd floors! The 86th floor is already super high and offers an amazing outdoor view, but I also recommend the 102nd floor because you can see even further and watch the beautiful skyline from above. Staff is very friendly and the journey through the ESB has many interactive moment (eg. King Kong pictures!), so it is worth your time to do it! The ONLY reason it's not a 5/5 stars is that it's quite pricey of an experience, but if you are willing to spend that extra bit of money then I recommend it!
Written 13 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We greatly appreciate all the compliments and we thank you for coming to see us!
We are sorry to see we didn't get five stars due to prices. Please note that our GA ticket price is right in line with the other observatories around the city. We do offer *optional* tiered-up pricing to add on to/enhance the GA ticket experience, but guests are not required to make any additional purchases if they believe it's out of their price range. We hope this clarifies our pricing for you.
Again, thank you for all the compliments! Have a wonderful day!
Written 16 January 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Marshall B
Ferney-Voltaire, France5,343 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
We visited in the evening, and it was a perfect time - city lights, moon, skyline.
Of course, it helped that the weather cooperated - I am not sure it would have been as enjoyable in rainy or overcast conditions, so that is a decision to make once you know the forecast for that day. We decided to pay extra for the visit to the 102nd floor observation area, although I was a bit concerned (based on some acrophobia) about being up that high, with just windows rather than a fence protecting you, but it turned out fine, and the views were worth it: you don't need to hug the window - you can stand back a couple of feet and still get the view. But after about 15 minutes I was able to squeeze a bit closer - it is like looking out of a window in an airplane, although a much much bigger window. Not many people are allowed on the 102nd floor at the same time, but if you want to spend 15 or so minutes there it does not appear to be a problem. Prior to getting onto the elevators at the start of the visit, there are some fun exhibits - the animated King Kong arm is a good one! Plus, there are some life-sized videos of construction workers at work - the videos - which take up a wall and are looped - are worth taking some time to appreciate. The only thing to remember is that if you come down from the top floors too late, these exhibits cannot be visited again - we were sort of disappointed about that because we wanted to see King Kong one more time. Well, at least the gift shop was still open.
Of course, it helped that the weather cooperated - I am not sure it would have been as enjoyable in rainy or overcast conditions, so that is a decision to make once you know the forecast for that day. We decided to pay extra for the visit to the 102nd floor observation area, although I was a bit concerned (based on some acrophobia) about being up that high, with just windows rather than a fence protecting you, but it turned out fine, and the views were worth it: you don't need to hug the window - you can stand back a couple of feet and still get the view. But after about 15 minutes I was able to squeeze a bit closer - it is like looking out of a window in an airplane, although a much much bigger window. Not many people are allowed on the 102nd floor at the same time, but if you want to spend 15 or so minutes there it does not appear to be a problem. Prior to getting onto the elevators at the start of the visit, there are some fun exhibits - the animated King Kong arm is a good one! Plus, there are some life-sized videos of construction workers at work - the videos - which take up a wall and are looped - are worth taking some time to appreciate. The only thing to remember is that if you come down from the top floors too late, these exhibits cannot be visited again - we were sort of disappointed about that because we wanted to see King Kong one more time. Well, at least the gift shop was still open.
Written 31 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your thorough review! We are pleased that you were able to enjoy all we have to offer during your visit. We hope you'll visit again. Kong will be waiting for you.
Written 31 August 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Avalon L
United States9 contributions
Feb 2023
My boyfriend and I wanted to see the sunset at the very top of the Empire State Building so we purchased the peak time slot (which is around $30 more) with the add on of going to the 102 floor as well. Unfortunately, the weather was not cooperating and we did not get to see the sunset. I understand there are no refunds but some kind of compensation (maybe a credit for the gift shop or a chance to reschedule to another date) would be nice. I would highly recommend not purchasing ahead of time for this reason...The entrance was hard to find as it didn't match the instructions on the ticket. There was a whole group of people down the street trying to figure out where to go. The reception was not kind and didn't explain the process at all. We had to show our tickets to about 4 different people before actually officially scanning to get into the first exhibit. No one was nice or welcoming and they all seemed genuinely unhappy to be there. There was little to no direction on how to move through the exhibits and floors. There are no refreshments offered for purchase. The top floor 102 wasnt worth the extra money... you get the same, if not better, views from the 86th floor without the glass obstructing pictures and the layout at 102 is super crammed so people were stepping all over each other. Of course seeing the city at night was incredible but not worth the nearly $200 spent. Overall, I recommend waiting to get your tickets until you know you'll have a clear view and not spending extra to go to 102.
Written 2 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank for choosing the Empire State Building. We are sorry to hear about the frustration that occurred during your visit with us. We would like to know more about your visit. Please email roomtoimprove@esbonyc.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
Written 3 March 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
HDM777
1 contribution
Apr 2024
It was our first time visiting the Empire State Building and I purchased the Express Pass 102nd & 86th Floor which was very pricey as there was an extra added sunset view charge. When we arrived the main lobby employee acknowledged that we had the tickets and told us to follow the "red carpet," so we can bypass the lines etc. but as we got to the area after you take photos right before the museum portion, no employees were in sight to let us bypass the museum (if we wanted) and go straight up to the express pass elevator to go see the views like we just wanted to do. We had to still walkthrough museum and join the regular line up the elevator. We missed the sunset views, crowds of people hogging areas not giving others a chance to see or take a picture, and when you do get a opportunity to take a picture someone walks right in the shot or squeezes in to get in front of you so you just don't get any an area view or good pics. Anyway overall the 102 floor had the best view out of the two viewing areas, however I do feel like I wasted money purchasing the express pass + sunset view as we didn't get to bypass what we wanted to do and see the sunset. Would I go back to the Empire State Building?, probably not. Hope everyone else had a better experience.
Written 30 April 2024
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We apologize that you were frustrated during your visit with us. we would like to make this right for you. Please email us at roomtoimprove@esbonyc.com with your confirmation number, date and time of visit. We look forward to hearing from you.
Written 4 May 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
HI, will the QR code on my tickets not work until the day of my ticket? I just confirmed reservation on your website but QR code just takes me to a google search
Written 17 December 2024
Youll be absolutely fine take your tickets on your selected day & time slot , if theres any issues theres Help to reprint your tickets, dont worry the attendents are very helpful & will get you up the empire state, also if theres no visibility you can reprint for another time slot on a clear dayđź‘Ť
Written 17 December 2024
Whats the difference between the regular ticket and Premium Experience? Premium states guided tour that include Lobby, Celebrity walk, and exhibits. Are these things you don't get to see besides exhibits?
Written 11 December 2024
Whats the difference between the regular ticket and Premium Experience? Premium states guided tour that include Lobby, Celebrity walk, and exhibits. Are these things you don't get to see besides exhibits?
Written 11 December 2024
If I buy a ticket for 4:30 and its more expensive due to sunset - is it guaranteed I will see the sunset? I hate to pay more and miss because of waiting in a line. Also - do they allow strollers?
Written 26 November 2024
4:30 is a bit late - it’s takes a little while to get to the top once you’re in the building
I had 3:45 tickets on 12 Nov - sunset was 4:45 that day. Arrived 3:35, was at the 86th floor at 4:10. Got to see the city in the daylight, then a spectacular sunset, then the city all lit up. Highly recommend doing it this way (but adjust times according to current sunset time)
Written 13 December 2024
Hey is it open at NYE? Can I see the fireworks or closed the ESB before midnight
Written 5 November 2024
Can I just turn up and pay for a ticket or book in advance x
Written 24 October 2024
Dear Traveller,
We think it is better to book the tickets in advance via homepage/internet.
So you are really sure that you can visit the ESB.
Nethertheless you can buy it there....
Anyway - you should plan and structure your NY visit. One World Trade C., MoMa, MET, American Natural Historical offers the tickets on their websites.
Kind regards
Nikolaus
Written 7 November 2024
Can I visit the museum part without buying the observation floor ticket?
Written 3 August 2024
Dear Traveller,
To be honest - I don't know exactly.
I think there is not really a museum. On the way from the entrance
to the elevator there a posters on the wall, a large model ot the ESB. But just have a look on the websites.
KR
Nikolaus
Written 7 November 2024
My parent, a Senior Citizen, wants to watch the sunset from the observation deck on the 86th floor. He doesn't have a walker or a wheelchair. But unfortunately, he can get light-headed if standing too long. Are the seats up there for him to relax a few minutes?
Written 10 June 2024
As a follow-up: the outdoor observation deck is narrow and doesn't have any seating, but there are seats inside on both the 80th and 86th floors. However, they are few in number and are always taken. My one kid sat on the floor and got told told by the guard to stand up. So if you are a senior citizen, or are having a dizzy spell and need to sit, you could be outta' luck until someone "moves along" and a seat opens up.
Written 14 August 2024
So, I will be in NY (and the states at all) for my first time and I got the New York City pass. My question is, do I have to wait in line even with the pass, or can I just pass by the line and go straight to the fastline (if there is any at all) ? And if I have reserved for 10am, should I be there earlier or is it no problem if I come, lets say, 10 minutes later than booked ?
Written 30 May 2024
is it worth buying the ticket that takes you to the 102 floor or would 86th floor is good enough? I am trying to figure out if it is worth the extra money to go to 102th floor....since i have 4 teenagers
Written 5 February 2024
In my opinion, the 86th floor is enough.
Written 7 February 2024
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