What you'll see and do at the Empire State Building Observatory

The Empire State Building Observatory is a paid attraction on the 86th floor of the building at 350 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. You buy a ticket, ride an elevator up, and walk around an outdoor deck that wraps around the building. On clear days you can see into New Jersey, Brooklyn, and Queens. The deck is open year-round, though weather and visibility change what you'll actually see when you arrive.

The 86th floor is the main observation deck. Some ticket packages also include access to the 102nd floor, which is smaller, higher up, and less crowded. Both decks are outdoors, so you're exposed to wind and temperature. The building itself is a landmark from 1931, so the experience includes the architecture and the crowds as much as the view.

Key Takeaways

  • Tickets cost different amounts depending on whether you want just the 86th floor or both the 86th and 102nd floors, and prices vary by time of day and season.
  • You can buy tickets online in advance or at the ticket booth on the ground floor, and online tickets usually cost less.
  • The deck is outdoors, so bring a jacket even in summer — it's windy and colder at height than on the street.
  • Peak hours are late morning through early evening, so arriving early or after 7 p.m. means shorter lines and fewer people in your photos.
  • The building is accessible by subway (lines B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W) and by car, though parking nearby is expensive.

Ticket types and pricing

The Empire State Building sells two main ticket types. The Standard ticket covers the 86th floor only. The Express or All-Access ticket covers both the 86th and 102nd floors. Prices depend on when you visit — peak season (roughly May through September and around holidays) costs more than off-season. Time of day also matters: daytime tickets cost less than sunset or night tickets.

Buying online through the official Empire State Building website usually costs less than buying at the ticket booth. Online tickets are also faster — you skip the ticket line and go straight to security. If you buy at the booth, expect to wait 20 to 45 minutes during busy hours. Prices change frequently, so check the website for the current rate on the day you plan to visit.

How to get there and where to park

The Empire State Building is at 350 Fifth Avenue, between 33rd and 34th Streets in Midtown Manhattan. The closest subway stations are 34th Street–Herald Square (served by the B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, and W lines) and 33rd Street (served by the 6 line). From either station, the walk to the building is about 5 to 10 minutes.

If you drive, street parking in Midtown is scarce and metered. Parking garages near the building charge $20 to $50 per day depending on the garage and time of day. Public transportation is usually faster and cheaper than driving and parking. Taxis and ride-share services (Uber, Lyft) drop you at the building entrance on Fifth Avenue.

What to bring and wear

The observation deck is outdoors and exposed to wind. Even on a warm day, it feels cold at height. Bring a light jacket or sweater year-round. In winter, bring a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Sunscreen is useful on clear days because you're in direct sun with no shade.

Wear comfortable shoes — you'll be standing and walking around the deck for at least 30 to 60 minutes. The deck has railings and is safe, but it's crowded during peak hours, so you'll be moving slowly and stopping often. Avoid loose items like hats or scarves that wind can catch. Cameras and phones are allowed; tripods and selfie sticks are not.

Timing your visit to avoid crowds

The observation deck is busiest from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., especially on weekends and during peak season. If you want fewer people and clearer photos, arrive before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m. Weekday visits are less crowded than weekends. Rainy or overcast days also have fewer visitors, though visibility is poor.

Sunset visits are popular because the city lights come on as you're on the deck. This means longer waits and more crowded photos, but the view changes as you watch. If you buy a sunset ticket, plan to arrive 30 to 45 minutes before sunset so you see both daylight and night. Night tickets (after dark) have shorter lines but you see only the lit city, not the landscape beyond it.

What's included and what costs extra

Your ticket includes access to the deck, an elevator ride up and down, and a view. It does not include food, drinks, or souvenirs. There is a small café on the 86th floor that sells bottled water, coffee, and snacks at prices higher than street level. Bring your own water bottle if you want to save money.

The building offers photo packages and merchandise in the gift shop on the ground floor. These are optional. Some tour companies offer guided tours of the observation deck for an additional fee, but you don't need a guide to see the view — the deck is self-explanatory and signs point out major landmarks.

Accessibility and restrictions

The building has elevators and is accessible to people using wheelchairs. The observation deck itself is outdoors and has railings, so wheelchair users can move around it, though the space is crowded during peak hours. Service animals are allowed. Strollers are allowed but difficult to maneuver in crowds.

You cannot bring weapons, large bags, or outside food and drink. Security screening is required at the entrance, similar to airport security. The process is usually quick but adds 10 to 15 minutes to your visit during busy times. If you have questions about what you can bring, ask at the ticket booth before you buy your ticket.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I go back down and come back up on the same ticket?

No. Your ticket is valid for one visit up and one visit down. Once you leave the building, you need a new ticket to go back up. Plan to spend at least 45 minutes to an hour on the deck so you see what you came for.

Is the 102nd floor worth the extra cost?

The 102nd floor is smaller, higher, and less crowded. The view is similar but from a different angle. If you want a quieter experience and don't mind paying more, it's worth it. If you're on a budget or just want to see the city, the 86th floor is sufficient.

What if it's raining or foggy when I arrive?

Visibility is poor in rain or fog, so you won't see far. Some tickets are refundable or exchangeable if visibility is very low — ask at the ticket booth. You can also reschedule your visit if you buy online. If you're already there and the view is disappointing, the gift shop and café are still open.

Do I need to book in advance or can I just show up?

You can show up and buy a ticket at the booth, but you'll wait in line. Buying online in advance is faster and usually cheaper. During peak season and on weekends, online tickets often sell out, so booking a day or two ahead is wise if you have a specific time in mind.

How long does the whole visit take?

Plan for 2 to 3 hours total: 15 to 30 minutes for security and elevators, 45 minutes to an hour on the deck, and 15 to 30 minutes in the gift shop or café if you stop. If you arrive during peak hours, add another 30 to 60 minutes for waiting in line to buy a ticket.