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New York City’s skyline is an endearing testament to architectural excellence and some of mankind’s most striking modern creations. Adorning the city’s skyline is the Empire State Building, an institution and landmark long hailed as a top attraction. A visit to the Empire State Building – voted the number one attraction in the United States in Tripadvisor’s 2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Things to Do – is best when planned. It deserves an itinerary of its own for its varied offerings of panoramic views, observation deck experiences, Art Deco interiors, photo opportunities, sunrise and sunset visits, exhibits, and galleries. Visit with your family, friends, or solo, and this dreamlike experience will make your travel memories last forever.
A Brief History
Built during the Great Depression and designed by William F. Lamb, the Empire State Building was the world’s tallest building in 1931 upon its completion. The “World’s Most Famous Building” is a symbol of American ambition and resilience and has been featured in films, television shows, and other media, symbolizing New York City’s status as a centre of commerce, culture, and innovation. The building’s unique Art Deco style and limestone and granite facade give it a timeless elegance. The building also hosts celebrities, athletes, and dignitaries for touring and participating in ceremonial gatherings such as ‘flip the switch’ that illuminate theiconic tower lights based on themes and events. The global popularity of the Empire State Building draws millions of visitors each year.
Things to Do
The Empire State Building is not just a majestic watchtower that captures the city’s skyline, but the observation decks, museum galleries, exhibits, and excellent interiors all provide an intimate experience through the building’s legacy. Book your tickets onlineand enter an enriching world of the landmark’s cultural legacy.
Observation Decks- The Empire State Building has two observation decks: the iconic outdoor 86th Floor Observation Deck and the exclusive 102nd Floor Observation Deck. The open-air deck on the 86th floor offers 360° views and New York City skyline symbols such as the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and more, while the 102nd Floor Observatory features sights that stretch up to 80 miles through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Preserve this precious memory in the backdrop of a gorgeous skyline by clicking a picture.
Exhibits and Museum Galleries– The different digital and tactile exhibits offer a rich insight into various informative subjects,ranging from history to sustainability. The Kong exhibit offers guests the chance to step right into the famous ape’s hand, while the Sustainability exhibit showcases the building’s industry-leading deep energy retrofit and eco-friendly initiatives.
More Experiences around the Empire State Building
When you visit the Empire State Building, always take time to explore the lively area around it.
Attractions and Landmarks- Many local landmarks are located inthe same area as the Empire State Building, including the Flatiron Building and the New York Public Library.
Shopping- Globally-renowned shopping street, Fifth Avenue, a mecca of luxury stores and boutiques, is right by the Empire State Building, taking care of all your New York City shopping goals.
Dining– From quick bites to fine dining, there are plenty of restaurants near and inside the Empire State Building. Enjoy diverse cuisines at renowned establishments from casual tacos and tequila at Tacombi to elevated American fare at STATE Grill and Bar, the Empire State Building’s signature restaurant.
Hotels– If you plan to stay overnight, there are several hotels near the Empire State Building. From luxury places like The Langham to budget-friendly options, you will find a variety of accommodationnearby to suit your needs.
Plan Your Visit
The Empire State Building can be visited any time of the day, from early in the morning to after sunset, each hour offering its unique perspective of the skyline.
During winter months, the building’s 86th Floor Observation Deck stays warm with wraparound outdoor heaters, while the indoor 102nd Floor Observation Deck is temperature-controlled, ideal for families with kids or older travellers, so that every visit can be enjoyed without any hindrance.
The length of your visit to the Empire State Building depends on how much time you want to spend on its observation decks and throughout the immersive museum. The average visit lasts between one and two hours, but it stays longer to identify all of New York City’s famous landmarks within the 360-degree views and see six states from the 102nd Floor Observation Deck.
