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Empire State Building

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · NEW YORK

Empire State Building

The Art Deco skyscraper of 1931, with open-air observation decks on the 86th floor.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
1.5 hours
Entry
Paid
Best time
Sunset
Area
Midtown

The Art Deco icon, with open-air decks on the 86th floor and views across all five boroughs.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: 20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001

  • Subway: 34 St–Herald Sq, 5 minutes' walk.
  • Decks: 86th-floor open-air deck; 102nd-floor glass observatory for an extra fee.
  • Hours: Open late into the night.

The story of the Empire State Building

The Empire State Building was completed in 1931 in just over a year. At 381 metres (443 m with its antenna), it was the world's tallest building for nearly 40 years.

Its Art Deco lobby and spire are New York icons, and its top is lit in different colours for holidays and events.

Best time to visit

Best season

All year.

Best time of day

Sunset, then stay for the city lights.

Late night

Shorter queues after 10 pm.

Tips before you go

  • Go at sunset to see the city by day and by night.
  • Buy timed tickets online.
  • Go late at night for fewer crowds.

Best hotels near the Empire State Building

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

The Plaza

Legendary hotel on Central Park South.

See prices

The Langham, New York

Spacious rooms near the Empire State Building.

See prices

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

Waterfront hotel with Manhattan views.

See prices
All hotels near the Empire State Building

What's around the Empire State Building

  • Macy's Herald SquareDepartment store.
  • KoreatownRestaurants.
  • Bryant Park10 minutes' walk.
  • Madison Square ParkWith a view of the Flatiron.

Questions travellers ask

How tall is the Empire State Building?

381 metres (443 m with antenna).

Is the 86th floor outdoors?

Yes, an open-air deck.

When was it built?

Completed in 1931.

More in New York

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

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Central Park

Central Park

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Times Square

Times Square

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Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO

Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO

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Travel Plan · Empire State Building Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure