The grandeur of the building’s exterior is only matched by the outstanding design aesthetics of its interiors. Check out some of the building’s highlights below.
The 86th-floor observatory is what draws people to the Empire State Building the most. It is extremely spacious and offers panoramic views that stretch 80 miles in every direction. During your visit, you will be greeted by New York City’s most distinguished landmarks including the Rockefeller Center, the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, Central Park, the Chrysler Building, and many others. On a clear day, you can even discover states like New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Delaware on the horizon.
Empire State Building Observation DecksPrepare to get swept away by stunning views as the observatory hovers 1250 feet above the Manhattan streets. You will be making your way 16 floors higher in a state-of-the-art glass elevator, which is an enticing experience in itself. Although the observatory is completely enclosed, its exclusive appeal is a huge crowd-puller. During the renovations of 2019, the entire space was fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that enable visitors to better admire the city’s most-coveted views. However, the viewing experience comes at a steep price as you will have to purchase a brand-new ticket to gain access.
Visiting the Empire State Building is an out-and-out immersive experience as it brilliantly weaves an element of storytelling throughout the experience. The second floor’s sprawling 10,000-square-foot area pays homage to the building’s captivating history. Visitors will be introduced to the story of its construction which began in 1930, its opening in 1931, and its journey over the ensuing decades, through a series of exciting exhibitions. The building’s most memorable pop culture moments from films like King Kong and Elf are also honored spectacularly!
Empire State Building ExhibitsThe Empire State Building houses an assortment of restaurants that are fully prepared to satisfy all types of food cravings. The State Grill & Bar has a beautiful setting where you can enjoy New York staples like mac and cheese, caesar salad, the truffle chicken burger, and steak fries over lunch, dinner, and breakfast. If you crave an explosion of flavors, make your way to Tacombi, which is reputed for serving the city’s most mouth-watering tacos and other authentic Mexican delicacies.
Empire State Building RestaurantsLocated on the 2nd floor, the gift shop at the Empire State Building is a swanky place that houses a wide collection of impressive memorabilia. Among the items found here are t-shirts, holiday ornaments, and decorative souvenirs that celebrate the distinct design of the Empire State Building. Also included in the collection are some appealing King Kong merchandise, which are a huge hit among young fans. You can even purchase amazing gifts for your loved ones back home at the gift shop.
Empire State Building ShopThe grand Art Deco lobby, the 86th and 102nd-floor observation decks are the main highlights at Empire State Building.
You will start at the grand lobby and make your way through the exhibits, before heading up to the observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors for panoramic views.
Yes, photography is allowed inside the Empire State Building, and there are numerous spots for capturing this memorable experience. You will need to acquire special permission beforehand to take tripods and professional equipment with you.
You can enter the building’s lobby and admire its Art Deco aesthetics completely for free. However, you will need a ticket to visit the building’s observation decks and exhibits.
Yes, strollers and wheelchairs are allowed. The building is designed to accommodate visitors with mobility needs.
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, making it easy to share your experience at Empire State Building in real-time!
Outside food and beverages are not permitted, but there are dining options available in the building itself.
Yes, there are multiple gift shops where you can purchase souvenirs, including exclusive Empire State Building merchandise.