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Your guide to New Year at Empire State Building

The Empire State Building transforms into a beacon of celebration each New Year’s Eve, offering panoramic city views, festive lighting, and a front-row seat to New York’s midnight magic. Most New Year’s experiences require special tickets, with standard admission not always valid for late-night events.

What to expect at Empire State Building during New Year

Empire State Building interior with view of observatory entrance in New York.

Experience New York’s legendary New Year’s Eve from the Empire State Building, where the city’s lights and energy reach their peak.

  • Exclusive observatory access: Enjoy special late-night entry to the 86th and 102nd floor observatories, offering sweeping views of Manhattan and beyond as the city rings in the New Year.
  • Midnight light show: Watch the Empire State Building’s iconic LED tower lights put on a synchronized display to mark the countdown and midnight celebration.
  • Champagne toast: Many New Year’s Eve packages include a complimentary glass of champagne or sparkling cider to welcome the year in style.
  • Live entertainment: Past events have featured live DJs, festive music, and themed photo ops to keep the party atmosphere going.
  • Unmatched fireworks vantage point: While the Empire State Building does not host its own fireworks, you’ll have a unique perspective on displays across the city, including Central Park and beyond.
  • Festive décor: The lobby and observatory levels are decked out with seasonal decorations, adding to the celebratory mood.
Ring in the New Year above the city

Secure your spot for the Empire State Building’s exclusive New Year’s Eve observatory event- limited tickets, unforgettable skyline views, and a champagne toast at midnight.

Cheerful group toasting champagne glasses at a celebration event.

Empire State Building New Year events

Group enjoying drinks during a Seoul pub crawl.

New Year’s Eve observatory party

  • Dates: December 31, 2025 – January 1, 2026
  • Timings: 10pm–1am (last entry at 11:15pm)
  • Location: 86th & 102nd Floor Observatories
  • Included with admission: No (special ticket required)
  • Age restrictions: 21+ (ID required for alcohol)
  • Celebrate New Year’s Eve with exclusive access to the Empire State Building’s observatories, a midnight champagne toast, and a festive atmosphere high above Manhattan.
Fireworks display behind the Empire State Building in New York City.

Midnight LED light show

  • Dates: December 31, 2025 – January 1, 2026
  • Timings: Midnight (12am)
  • Location: Empire State Building exterior (visible citywide)
  • Included with admission: Yes (if inside), free to view from outside
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • The Empire State Building’s tower lights dazzle with a special New Year’s Eve show, visible across New York and broadcast online.
Empire State Building Art Deco lobby with golden ceiling and mural.

Lobby festive display

  • Dates: December 1, 2025 – January 5, 2026
  • Timings: 8am–2am (building hours)
  • Location: Main lobby
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • The art deco lobby features seasonal decorations and music, setting a festive tone for your visit.

Visitor information

Empire State Building Observatory view of New York City skyline with Hudson River.
  • Observatory regular hours: 9am–12am (last elevator up at 11:15pm)
  • New Year’s Eve special event: 10pm–1am (separate ticket required)
  • Lobby festive display: 8am–2am
  • Best time to visit: Arrive by 10pm for the New Year’s Eve event; for regular visits, early morning or late evening offers fewer crowds and stunning city lights.
Empire State Building timings

Located in Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building is easily accessible by subway, bus, and car.

  • Address: 20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001 | Find on Maps
  • By subway: B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W (34th St–Herald Sq, 2-min walk); 1, 2, 3 (34th St–Penn Station, 5-min walk)
  • By bus: M2, M3, M4, M5, M16, M34 (34th St stops)
  • By car: Use 5th Ave or 6th Ave; parking garages nearby (Icon Parking, GGMC Parking, approx. $25–$50 per night)
  • Parking: No on-site parking; multiple paid garages within a 2-block radius.
Empire State Building directions
Restroom sign with wheelchair access symbol on a concrete wall.
  • Restrooms: Available on the 86th floor observatory and main lobby.
  • Lockers: No public lockers; small bags permitted, large luggage not allowed.
  • Stroller/wheelchair rental: Wheelchairs available on request; strollers permitted but must be folded in elevators.
  • Wi-fi: Free Wi-Fi throughout observatory levels.
  • Gift shop: Empire State Building Store on the 80th floor and lobby, offering exclusive souvenirs and New Year’s memorabilia.
  • Water fountains: Located on observatory floors.
  • Dining options: Starbucks Reserve and STATE Grill & Bar in the lobby; light snacks available at the observatory.
Man in wheelchair with a black dog, highlighting accessibility.
  • Step-free access: Elevators and ramps throughout; accessible entrances on 34th St and 33rd St.
  • Wheelchair rentals: Available at guest services on a first-come basis.
  • Accessible restrooms: Located on observatory and lobby levels.
  • Service animals: Permitted throughout the building.
  • Hearing loops: Available at ticket counters and information desks.
  • Sensory-friendly: Quiet spaces not specifically designated, but staff can assist with accommodations.
  • New Year’s Eve event: Fully wheelchair accessible; notify staff in advance for assistance.
Couple viewing NYC skyline from Empire State Building exhibit.
  • New Year’s Eve event: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your ticketed time for security screening. No re-entry once inside.
  • Alcohol: Only guests 21+ with valid ID may consume champagne; non-alcoholic options available.
  • Bags: Large bags, suitcases, and backpacks are not permitted.
  • Photography: Personal photography encouraged; tripods and professional equipment require advance permission.
  • Food and drink: Outside food and beverages not allowed; concessions available inside.
  • General: Follow staff instructions, respect crowd flow, and keep noise to a reasonable level.
  • Payments: All major credit cards accepted; cashless payment preferred.
Wagyu steak served with grilled vegetables on a stone plate.
  • STATE Grill and Bar: Classic American cuisine with a modern twist, located in the lobby. Open for lunch and dinner; reservations recommended for New Year’s Eve. (~$25–$60 per meal)
  • Starbucks Reserve: Premium coffee, pastries, and light bites on the ground floor, open extended hours for New Year’s Eve.
  • Observatory snack bar: Light snacks and beverages available on the 86th floor during special events.
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Frequently asked questions about Empire State Building New Year events

Can I book tickets just for the New Year’s Eve event without a regular observatory ticket?

Yes, New Year’s Eve requires a special event ticket. Standard observatory tickets do not grant access to the midnight celebration.

Is there a capacity limit for the New Year’s Eve event?

Yes, tickets are strictly limited to ensure a comfortable experience. Advance booking is essential as the event typically sells out.

Are the New Year’s Eve events suitable for children?

The main observatory party is for guests 21+ due to alcohol service. Families can visit earlier in the evening for festive lobby displays and city views.

Will the events continue in poor weather?

The observatory and indoor celebrations proceed regardless of weather. Outdoor visibility may be affected by fog or rain, but the event is rarely canceled.

What happens if the event is canceled and I’ve already booked my ticket?

If the Empire State Building cancels the event, ticket holders will be notified and offered a refund or rescheduling option.

Can I see fireworks from the Empire State Building?

You’ll have panoramic views of New York, including fireworks displays in Central Park and beyond, though there are no fireworks launched from the building itself.

Is the Empire State Building open to regular visitors on New Year’s Eve?

The observatory is open during the day, but closes to regular ticket holders before the special event begins. Check official timings for last entry.

Are costumes or festive attire allowed?

Festive attire is welcome, but costumes that obscure the face or large props are not permitted for security reasons.