Perched 1,050 feet above the bustling streets of New York City, the 86th floor of the Empire State Building presents an open-air deck with staggering views of Manhattan's skyline. From here, you can trace the curves of the Hudson River and see landmarks like Central Park, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before you visit—from what to expect once you arrive to ticket information and the views to catch when you’re up there.

Essential information

Height: 1,050 feet (320 meters) above street level.
Type of observation deck: Outdoor open-air deck with an indoor climate-controlled gallery.
Opening hours: 9am to midnight (last elevator at 11:15pm)
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better photo lighting.
Weather conditions: Open year-round, with an indoor viewing option for shelter during bad weather.
Seating: Limited indoor seating available.
Restrooms: Plan accordingly as there are no restrooms on this level.
Safety features: Enclosed by safety railings and fencing to ensure visitor safety.
Photography: Handheld devices allowed; no tripods unless with special permission
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, including ramps and lowered viewing walls

Why visit the 86th floor

panaromic view from observation deck at 86th floor of empire state building

Outdoor, open-air deck: Unlike the 102nd floor, the 86th floor is an outdoor deck. You can step outside, feel the breeze, and experience the city without glass separating you from the skyline. While metal railings are in place for safety, they still allow for the best sensory experience of New York from above.
Perfect height for a bird’s eye view: At 1,050 feet (320 meters), the 86th floor sits at the ideal height for viewing New York’s major landmarks like the Chrysler Building, Central Park, and Times Square. This vantage point allows you to appreciate the dense, intricate layout of New York's iconic skyline.
Famous setting: This floor is where the Empire State Building has made its mark in history and pop culture, featuring in movies like Sleepless in Seattle and An Affair to Remember.
Larger and less time-consuming: The 86th floor deck is larger and can accommodate more visitors, even though it tends to be more crowded. However, it doesn’t require an extra queue like the 102nd floor, making it a more practical option for a quicker visit.
Stationed binoculars: The 86th floor deck offers high-powered binoculars to zoom in on specific landmarks, enhancing the overall experience with detailed views.

What’s on the 86th floor

Outdoor observation deck

The outdoor deck wraps around all four sides of the building, giving you an open-air experience with unobstructed views. It is surrounded by a safety fence, and there’s plenty of space to walk around and get different perspectives of the city. Binoculars are available to let you catch closer views of specific landmarks.

Indoor viewing gallery

This floor isn’t all about the outdoors. If the weather takes a turn or you prefer a sheltered experience, there’s an indoor gallery with large windows that still provide fantastic views of the city. The indoor space is climate-controlled, offering comfort without sacrificing the view.

exhibit at 86th floor of empire state building

Exhibits & history

Learn about the building’s construction, its history, and its role in shaping New York City through exhibits including the ‘Dare to Dream’ exhibit, which showcases original blueprints, photos, and stories from its construction during the Great Depression.

Frequently asked questions about the 86th floor of the Empire State Building

Is the 86th floor deck open year-round?

Yes, the 86th floor observation deck is open year-round, including during holidays and weekends. The outdoor deck is open to the elements, so dress appropriately for weather conditions, particularly in winter when it can get quite cold.

How long does it take to visit the 86th floor?

A typical visit lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours, including time spent in line, exploring exhibits, and enjoying the views from the observation deck. If you also visit the 102nd floor, plan for about 2 hours.

Are there any food or drinks available on the 86th floor?

While no food or drinks are sold directly on the 86th floor deck, there are dining options available inside the Empire State Building on lower floors. Outside food and drinks are not permitted on the observation deck itself to maintain cleanliness.

Can I bring a stroller or baby carrier to the 86th floor?

Yes, strollers are allowed, but may be folded and stored during elevator rides if space is tight. Baby carriers are permitted as well, and the observation deck is stroller-friendly.

What is the difference between the 86th and 102nd floors?

The 86th floor is an open-air deck offering 360-degree views, while the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building is enclosed with even higher elevation views.