Is the Empire State Building Observatory worth visiting?

The Empire State Building Observatory is an iconic landmark offering breathtaking 360-degree views of New York City from its 86th and 102nd-floor observation decks. It was voted the #1 Attraction in the World by TripAdvisor in 2026, providing an iconic experience for visitors, complete with interactive exhibits on its history.

What are the best things to see and do at the Empire State Building Observatory?

Visitors can experience panoramic views of New York City from the 86th Floor open-air deck and the newly renovated 102nd Floor Observation Deck, which offers floor-to-ceiling glass views. The Observatory Experience also features revitalized 2nd and 80th-floor galleries detailing the building's history.

How much does it cost to go to the Empire State Building Observatory?

Admission to the Empire State Building Observatory starts from 44 USD. Please check the official site for current pricing and express pass options.

What are the opening hours at the Empire State Building Observatory?

Hours vary significantly by date. For specific dates, such as March 28 - April 12 (9:00 AM - 12:00 AM) or April 13 - May 13 (10:00 AM - 11:30 PM), hours can differ. It's best to check the official site for date-specific hours before your visit.

Is the Empire State Building Observatory suitable for young children, and what ages is it best for?

The Empire State Building Observatory is suitable for "All ages," making it a family-friendly destination.

Where is the Empire State Building Observatory located?

The Empire State Building Observatory is located in Manhattan, New York, at 20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001.

Empire State Building Observatory

Write a Review Manhattan, New York All ages Verified•Historic Site

Published October 2026. Editorial oversight by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards

Image credits

Photo by dzhingarov via Openverse, CC-BY-2.0

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About Empire State Building Observatory

Step onto an open-air deck 86 floors up for 360-degree views stretching as far as 80 miles.

Few skylines say New York like the one from the Empire State Building, a Midtown landmark with views that reach for miles.

What you'll see and do - Take in 360-degree vistas from the open-air 86th Floor Observatory - Go higher to the renovated 102nd Floor Observation Deck, with floor-to-ceiling glass and views up to 80 miles on a clear day - Walk through interactive 2nd and 80th-floor galleries on the building's history and pop-culture fame - Visit during seasonal celebrations with festive lightings and themed activities

Attraction Details

Facilities

Gift shop
Food court

Events at Empire State Building Observatory

ESB Celebrates Its 95th Anniversary
Throughout 2026
The Empire State Building will celebrate its 95th Anniversary with a year-long program of exciting events and pop-ups.
New Birthday Celebration Packages
To mark its 95th anniversary, the ESB is launching exclusive birthday party packages, offering private celebrations with activities and NYC views.
Ghirardelli Chocolate on 86th Floor Observatory
November 13 - end of holiday season
Ghirardelli Chocolate will offer classic and peppermint hot cocoa on the heated open-air 86th Floor Observatory.
Winter Wonderland Pop-up at Starbucks Reserve®
The Starbucks Reserve® Empire State Building store will feature a Winter Wonderland pop-up with a new Empire State Cocoa Cocktail and focus on the coffee journey.
Holiday Festivities (2024)
December 2024
The Empire State Building announces details for its fan-favorite holiday festivities with extravagant holiday décor, festive pop-ups, classic movie screenings, and special tower lightings.
Photos with Santa
November 30, December 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 20 (2024)
Santa Claus will spread holiday cheer and pose for photos with Observatory guests in his dedicated corner on the building’s 80th Floor.
Holiday Movie Screenings: Elf
December 2, 8, 10, 15, 17 (2024)
Guests can purchase tickets to view the holiday classic 'Elf' on the Observatory’s 80th Floor, including themed drinks and snacks.
Holiday Movie Screenings: Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
December 5, 11 (2024)
Guests can purchase tickets to view 'Home Alone 2: Lost in New York' on the Observatory’s 80th Floor, including themed drinks and snacks.
Holiday Movie Screenings: The Nightmare Before Christmas
December 13 (2024)
Guests can purchase tickets to view 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' on the Observatory’s 80th Floor, including themed drinks and snacks.
Tower Lightings for Thanksgiving (2024)
November 2024
The Empire State Building’s iconic tower lights will shine with dedicated lightings for Thanksgiving.
Tower Lightings for Chanukah (2024)
December 2024
The Empire State Building’s iconic tower lights will shine with dedicated lightings for Chanukah.
Tower Lightings for Christmas (2024)
December 2024
The Empire State Building’s iconic tower lights will shine with dedicated lightings for Christmas.

Plan Your Visit

Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Empire State Building Observatory.

Who it's for

All ages

Getting there

Empire State Building Observatory is at 20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001. Check the operator's site for parking and transit options.

Pro tip

Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.

Directions

Empire State Building Observatory

20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001

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Last updated 10/17/2026