Empire State Building Observatory Admission Ticket

Until you see New York City from the top of the Empire State Building, you haven't really seen it! You'll remember your first visit to the Empire State Building and the amazing 360-degree panoramic views of Manhattan forever.

Your ticket takes you to the 86th-floor observatory, at 1,050 feet (320 meters). The glass-enclosed area is reached by high-speed automatic elevators, and is heated in winter and cooled in summer. You'll see spectacular views from the spacious outdoor promenades on all four sides of the building. High-powered binoculars are available for a minimal cost on the promenades.

You'll find souvenir counters at the 80th-floor observatory, which is also handicap accessible. While you gaze from horizon to horizon, you can listen to your tour guide, Tony, as he beguiles you with fascinating facts and stories on the audio tour (if option is selected).

There are three lines at the observatory: the security line (required for all visitors), the ticket line and the elevator line. You will be required to join the ticket line to exchange vouchers on arrival.

102nd-floor observatory
Admission tickets to the 102nd-floor observatory are sold at the observatory ticket office, on the 2nd floor of the building. Admission costs $15 in addition to regular admission tickets.

Insider Tip
When you see an Empire State Building Observatory employee, tell them you want to purchase the Express Ticket option for $26 per person. They will walk you to the front of each line, therefore making your wait no more than 20 minutes. This pass cannot be sold in advance and is only available on the day of your visit.

Schedule details

Empire State Building Observatory

Departure Dates:

Departure Point:

Empire State Building

Departure Time:

• 8:00am to 2:00am

Last elevators to the top are at 1:15am

Holiday Operating Hours:

• January 1: 11:00am - 2:00am
• December 24: 8:00am - 8:00pm
• December 25: 11:00am - 2:00am
• December 31: 8:00am - 8:00pm

Additional information

Empire State Building Observatory

Inclusions:

• Entrance fees
• Audio tour (if option selected at time of booking)

Exclusions:

• Gratuities (optional)
• Admission to the 102nd Observatory Deck
• Food and drinks

Additional Information:

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• No refunds due to weather conditions, length of lines or wait times at the building

Local Operator Information:

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.