Loading Page...

What time is the Empire State Building least crowded?

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.



People Also Ask

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.

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

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'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

Visitors reach the 86th Floor Observatory by elevator in less than one minute. New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Massachusetts. Weddings event was held in 1994.

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

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

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

For the best views from the Empire State Building, you must visit the 102nd floor. From up here, you'll be 1,224 feet high and able to see up to 80 miles into the distance. It's the ultimate panoramic view of New York's bridges, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and other iconic sights.

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

The Best Free Views of the NYC Skyline They are: Empire State, Top of the Rock and One World Observatory Although they have incredible views there are other places from which you can enjoy the beautiful skyline without having to pay.

MORE DETAILS

Entry to the Empire State Building's 86th-floor observatory is included for free with the purchase of the New York Sightseeing Pass, the New York Pass, and the New York Explorer Pass. It is also free twice with the purchase of a CityPass booklet, giving you the opportunity to come day and night.

MORE DETAILS