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A Handy Guide to the Empire State Building Entrance

Wondering how to enter the Empire State Building and make your way to the observation deck and exhibits? We’ve got you covered! Stay on this page to find out where the entrance to the tower is located, how to get there, and other helpful information.

Where is the Empire State Building located?

The Empire State Building is located in New York City. It specifically stands in the borough of Manhattan at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and West 34th Street. 

Address: Empire State Building is 350 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10118 | Find on Maps

Where is the Empire State Building entrance?

The main entrance to the Empire State Building is located on Fifth Avenue between West 33rd Street and West 34th Street in Manhattan. You will notice giant glass panels with the word ‘Observatory’ on them. 

Once you enter the building, you will have to go through a security check and then proceed towards the ticketing lines, exhibits, and observation decks. There are clear signs and ample staff to guide you to the entrance of the attraction.

How to get to the Empire State Building entrance?

Empire state building entrance

This is the main entrance for all visitors. Guests with disabilities can also enter through here.

  • Location: Fifth Avenue, Manhattan
  • Getting there: You can get to the main entrance of the Empire State Building by subway, bus, or taxi. The closest subway station is at 34th Street-Herald Square and the closest bus stop is at West 34th Street & 5 Avenue.
  • Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM
  • Average wait time: 20-40 minutes
  • Facilities: Disabled access, skip line access, toilets, restuarants, gift shop.
  • Accessibility: Yes

Wheelchair access

Guests with motor disabilities can use the main entrance of the building on 20 West 34th Street. Ramps are present for both motorized and non-motorized wheelchairs to access the building.

If you require further assistance, please contact a staff member.

Queues at the entrance

Empire state building entrance

There are 3 main lines you will have to go through before heading to the observation deck. 

Security check: The first line is the security check which is mandatory for all. 

Ticket line: Next is the ticket line. To avoid wasting time here, book your tickets online. Additionally, there are two queues here - one for regular ticket holders and one for Express Pass holders. If you have an Express Pass, you can use the designated entrance to head right up to the observatory.

Elevator line: Once you’ve walked through all the exhibits, make your way to the elevator line to get to the observatory.




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Frequently asked questions about the Empire State Building entrance

Where is the Empire State Building entrance?

The Empire State Building entrance is located on Fifth Avenue between West 33rd Street and West 34th Street in Midtown Manhattan.

How do I get to the Empire State Building entrance?

To get to the Empire State Building entrance, you can use the NYC subway, buses, walk, or take a taxi. The nearest subway station is 34th Street-Herald Square.

How many Empire State Building entrances are there?

There is one main entrance to the Empire State Building for visitors, located on Fifth Avenue.

Is the Empire State Building entrance wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Empire State Building entrance is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators to accommodate visitors with mobility needs.

How many queues are at the Empire State Building entrance?

Once you’ve passed through the security check, you will notice 2 lines, one to purchase tickets and one for online reservations. Additionally, before entering the main exhibits, you’ll notice 2 ticket queues, one for regular ticket holders and one for Express Pass holders.

Where is the entrance to the observation deck?

To get to the observation deck, you will have to enter the building and then take an elevator to go up.