What is the best time to go to Empire State Building?

To avoid the heavy crowds, you should go either right when the observatory opens at 8 a.m., around 3 p.m., or really late, around midnight — crowds tend to be thinnest at these times. It's also a good idea to avoid weekends.



People Also Ask

Is there a time limit? There are no time limits or specified visiting windows. Allow at least one hour for your visit, slightly more if you will be visiting both the main deck and the top deck.

MORE DETAILS

Allow at least one hour for your visit, slightly more if you will be visiting both the main deck and the top deck. During peak visiting hours, especially in the warmer months, there may be extended waits to buy tickets and enter the elevators.

MORE DETAILS

Purchase Tickets online or at the building Tickets are valid for the date you choose at checkout. For visitors looking to dodge the crowds, we recommend taking a trip to the top between 12pm and 2pm, as our daily morning rush is over by then.

MORE DETAILS

The Express Pass lets you 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.

MORE DETAILS

It depends on your budget: if you are on a budget, the normal ticket to the Empire State Building 86th-Floor Main Deck is enough, still offering unforgettable views. If you don't mind spending a little more, the 102nd Floor Observatory ticket really gives you a once-in-a-lifetime view.

MORE DETAILS

It's an unforgettable experience when the doors of the elevator open up on the 86th floor and you can admire the maze of skyscrapers at a vantage point of 1,250 feet. Many of you are wondering if it's worth paying extra to go to the 102nd floor and without taking away too much, I'd say YES.

MORE DETAILS

WINNER FOR THE BEST VIEW: Depends on what you want to see/ or have on your picture: The Top of the Rock has more impressive views of Central Park and the Empire State Building. The Empire State Building is higher and has better views of Manhattan and Statue of Liberty, and of other US states on the clearest days!

MORE DETAILS

Viewing the New York City skyline from the Empire State Building observation decks during sunset is an unforgettable experience. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is painted with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and red, creating a stunning backdrop for the city's iconic skyline.

MORE DETAILS

Security Checks: Cameras and camcorders are allowed, but no tripods. ONLY carry-on size and style bags, suitcases, backpacks, duffle bags, luggage, etc., are permitted. There is no coat check, package, baggage check or holding area available. For more information about the Observatory policies, visit www.esbnyc.com.

MORE DETAILS

It is approximately 2793 feet to get from Times Square to Empire State Building.

MORE DETAILS

One World Observatory is much newer but has a history of its own because of its ties to the terror attacks of 9/11. The Empire State Building offers views from further up in Manhattan, so you'll see more things like Central Park and the famous museums than you could from the One World Observatory.

MORE DETAILS

Best Empire State Building Viewpoints from Flatiron & NoMad
  1. The Flatiron Public Plazas, 23rd Street, Fifth Avenue & Broadway, (212) 741-2323. ...
  2. Madison Square Park, 11 Madison Avenue, (212) 520-7600. ...
  3. Royalton Park Avenue Rooftop, 420 Park Avenue South, (212)-602-3202, Reservations.


MORE DETAILS