0 min walk (at the building)
Iconic open-air deck with sweeping city views
Cost: From $43
See more for less with a New York City Pass
Rising above Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building anchors the heart of New York City. Near the Empire State Building, you’ll find a mix of classic landmarks, renowned museums, and vibrant streets all within a 20-minute walk. Its central location makes it easy to explore Broadway, Bryant Park, and Fifth Avenue, offering a perfect starting point for your NYC adventure.
Unlock top attractions near the Empire State Building with a New York City Pass. Visit MoMA, Summit One Vanderbilt, and more, all within walking distance. Save up to 40% and skip ticket lines for a smoother Midtown experience.
Pair the Empire State Building with Summit One Vanderbilt and MoMA on a combo tour. Save money and time, and enjoy expert insights along the way.
Hop-on Hop-off buses stop near the Empire State Building and connect you to Bryant Park, Times Square, and Grand Central. Enjoy unlimited rides and flexible sightseeing with one ticket.
💡Tip: Koreatown is just minutes away and packed with late-night eateries - perfect if your visit runs longer than expected.
Yes, Midtown is well-lit and busy into the evening. Stick to main streets like Fifth Avenue and 34th Street for the safest experience.
Absolutely. The neighborhood is flat, with wide sidewalks and plenty of crosswalks. Most major attractions are within a 20-minute walk.
Keens Steakhouse, Koreatown’s food spots, and Bryant Park are beloved by locals for dining, relaxing, and people-watching.
Bryant Park is the top choice for a picnic, with open lawns, shaded tables, and food kiosks just a short walk away.
Top of the Rock, 33rd St and Fifth Avenue, and Herald Square all offer great angles for capturing the building’s iconic silhouette.
Enjoy Bryant Park, the New York Public Library, Macy’s window displays, and Greeley Square—all free and within a short walk.
STATE Grill and Bar, Keens Steakhouse, Friedman’s, and Koreatown’s eateries are all excellent options nearby.
Visit Bryant Park’s carousel, Madame Tussauds, and The Museum at FIT for family-friendly fun.
Explore The Morgan Library & Museum, MoMA, or catch a Broadway show for indoor entertainment.
Small lockers are available at the Empire State Building and Penn Station. For larger bags, use nearby luggage storage services.
34th St–Herald Sq is the closest, serving B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, and W lines.
Leashed dogs are welcome in Bryant Park and Madison Square Park, but not inside most buildings or observation decks.
Yes, the New York City Pass includes entry to the Empire State Building, MoMA, and other nearby attractions.
Fifth Avenue, Macy’s Herald Square, and the Bryant Park Winter Village are top shopping destinations close by.
Top of the Rock and Summit One Vanderbilt offer stunning night views of the Empire State Building and Midtown skyline.
The Morgan Library & Museum and the Whispering Gallery at Grand Central are lesser-known highlights worth visiting.
Early mornings before 10am or late evenings after 8pm are the quietest times for a visit.
Bryant Park Winter Village, Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, and Times Square New Year’s Eve are major seasonal highlights in Midtown.
8 min walk (650 m)
Lush green space for picnics, reading, and seasonal events
Cost: Free
5 min walk (400 m)
Flagship department store with historic wooden escalators
Cost: Free to browse
14 min walk (1.1 km)
Beaux-Arts train hall with celestial ceiling and gourmet food court
Cost: Free
A beloved Midtown oasis, Bryant Park offers tree-lined paths, open lawns, and seasonal activities like winter skating and summer movies.
Distance: 8 min walk (650 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Visit the Reading Room for free books and events in warmer months.
This Beaux-Arts landmark dazzles with its celestial ceiling, bustling concourse, and gourmet food market.
Distance: 14 min walk (1.1 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Whisper secrets in the Whispering Gallery near the Oyster Bar.
The world’s largest department store, Macy’s is a retail icon with historic wooden escalators and elaborate holiday windows.
Distance: 5 min walk (400 m)
Cost: Free to browse
Tip: Head to the 8th floor for the best city views and seasonal flower shows.
Famed for its marble lions and grand reading room, this library is a literary and architectural marvel.
Distance: 10 min walk (800 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Check out the Rose Main Reading Room for classic NYC ambiance.
The city’s neon heart, Times Square buzzes with lights, street performers, and Broadway theaters.
Distance: 15 min walk (1.2 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Visit just before sunset for the full effect of the lights.
An Art Deco masterpiece, the Chrysler Building’s gleaming spire is a Midtown icon.
Distance: 16 min walk (1.3 km)
Cost: Free (lobby access only)
Tip: Step inside during business hours to see the ornate lobby.
This triangular landmark is a favorite for photos and marks the start of Madison Square Park.
Distance: 18 min walk (1.5 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Snap photos from the north side for the classic angle.
A Neo-Gothic marvel, St. Patrick’s Cathedral offers soaring arches and stained glass in the heart of Midtown.
Distance: 20 min walk (1.6 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Visit early in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere.
A historic library turned museum, featuring rare manuscripts, art, and rotating exhibitions in a Gilded Age setting.
Distance: 7 min walk (550 m)
Cost: From $22
Tip: Free admission on Fridays from 5pm–7pm.
Home to works by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Warhol, MoMA is a must for art lovers.
Distance: 20 min walk (1.6 km)
Cost: From $25
Tip: Friday evenings are free, but expect crowds.
Explore the history and magic of Broadway through immersive exhibits and costumes.
Distance: 16 min walk (1.3 km)
Cost: From $39
Tip: Book timed entry to avoid waiting.
The Fashion Institute of Technology’s museum showcases innovative fashion and textiles.
Distance: 10 min walk (800 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Check for rotating designer exhibitions.
A contemporary photography museum in a historic building, featuring global artists and a stylish café.
Distance: 15 min walk (1.2 km)
Cost: From $26
Tip: Visit the top-floor bar for skyline views.
Pose with lifelike wax figures of celebrities and icons in Times Square.
Distance: 15 min walk (1.2 km)
Cost: From $50
Tip: Arrive early to avoid lines for photos.
Explore Himalayan art and culture in a tranquil, modern space.
Distance: 19 min walk (1.5 km)
Cost: From $19
Tip: Friday nights are pay-what-you-wish.
See rare books, manuscripts, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark setting.
Distance: 10 min walk (800 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Don’t miss the original Winnie-the-Pooh toys on display.
A multi-level observation deck with mirrored rooms, art installations, and dramatic city vistas.
Distance: 15 min walk (1.2 km)
Cost: From $44
Tip: Wear sunglasses for the mirrored rooms.
Enjoy unobstructed views of Central Park and the Empire State Building from this iconic rooftop.
Distance: 20 min walk (1.6 km)
Cost: From $43
Tip: Early morning slots have the shortest lines.
Soar to the top of One World Trade Center for sweeping views of lower Manhattan and beyond.
Distance: 30 min by subway (not walkable)
Cost: From $28
Tip: Combine with a visit to the 9/11 Memorial.
Step onto a glass floor and outdoor sky deck for a thrilling perspective over the city.
Distance: 25 min walk (2 km)
Cost: From $39
Tip: Try the City Climb for an outdoor ascent.
Located inside the Empire State Building, this Art Deco restaurant serves classic American fare in a sleek setting.
Distance: At the building
Cost: Mains from $25
Tip: Try the signature burger for a quick, satisfying meal.
A historic steakhouse known for its mutton chop and old New York ambiance.
Distance: 6 min walk (500 m)
Cost: Mains from $45
Tip: Reserve ahead for dinner, especially on weekends.
A popular spot for brunch and comfort food, with gluten-free options and a lively vibe.
Distance: 5 min walk (400 m)
Cost: Mains from $18
Tip: Go early for breakfast to avoid a wait.
Craft cocktails and upscale bar bites in a stylish, dimly lit space.
Distance: 8 min walk (650 m)
Cost: Cocktails from $18
Tip: Try the signature chicken burger.
A bustling strip of Korean BBQ, bakeries, and karaoke bars just steps from the Empire State Building.
Distance: 3 min walk (250 m)
Cost: Mains from $20
Tip: Visit late night for lively crowds and dessert cafés.
Modern Japanese cuisine and sushi in a chic, contemporary setting.
Distance: 12 min walk (950 m)
Cost: Mains from $35
Tip: Book ahead for dinner or weekend brunch.
A local favorite for classic New York bagels and sandwiches.
Distance: 4 min walk (350 m)
Cost: Bagels from $5
Tip: Grab your bagel to go and eat in nearby Greeley Square.
Enjoy free movies, yoga, and seasonal markets in this lively Midtown park.
Distance: 8 min walk (650 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Bring a blanket for summer movie nights.
Marvel at the architecture and explore free exhibitions in this historic building.
Distance: 10 min walk (800 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Free tours are offered daily at 11am and 2pm.
Browse the world’s largest store and catch seasonal window displays.
Distance: 5 min walk (400 m)
Cost: Free to browse
Tip: Visit during the holidays for festive decor.
A small, shaded park perfect for a quick break or people-watching.
Distance: 2 min walk (150 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Food trucks often park here at lunchtime.
Sample affordable eats and desserts in this vibrant neighborhood.
Distance: 3 min walk (250 m)
Cost: Meals from $10
Tip: Try a late-night bakery for sweet treats.
A bustling plaza with seating, seasonal plantings, and views of the Empire State Building.
Distance: 3 min walk (200 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Visit in spring for colorful tulip displays.
A leafy park with public art, playgrounds, and Shake Shack burgers.
Distance: 15 min walk (1.2 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Check for rotating art installations.
Fashion exhibits and galleries are always free to enter.
Distance: 10 min walk (800 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Check the website for current exhibitions.
A Midtown favorite, Bryant Park offers lawns, gardens, and seasonal activities from yoga to winter skating.
Distance: 8 min walk (650 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: The southwest corner has the best shade in summer.
A pocket park with tables, food kiosks, and a lively lunchtime crowd.
Distance: 2 min walk (150 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Arrive before noon for a quiet spot.
This plaza is a green respite with seating and Empire State Building views.
Distance: 3 min walk (200 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Visit in spring for the best flower displays.
A larger park with playgrounds, art, and the original Shake Shack.
Distance: 15 min walk (1.2 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Check for free concerts in summer.
A lively public plaza at the crossroads of Broadway and Sixth Avenue, perfect for people-watching and city views.
Distance: 3 min walk (200 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Visit during Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade for a front-row spot.
This bustling street is packed with restaurants, bakeries, and karaoke bars, offering a taste of Seoul in Midtown.
Distance: 3 min walk (250 m)
Cost: Free to browse
Tip: Visit after dark for neon lights and dessert cafés.
New York’s iconic shopping and sightseeing boulevard, lined with flagship stores and landmarks.
Distance: 2 min walk (150 m)
Cost: Free to browse
Tip: Early mornings are quietest for window shopping.
The city’s most famous crossroads, alive with lights, billboards, and street performers.
Distance: 15 min walk (1.2 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: For fewer crowds, visit before 10am.
Browse 10 floors of fashion, home goods, and gifts at the world’s largest store.
Distance: 5 min walk (400 m)
Cost: Free to browse
Tip: International visitors can get a discount card at the Visitor Center.
Flagship stores and luxury boutiques line this iconic shopping street.
Distance: 2 min walk (150 m)
Cost: Free to browse
Tip: Saks Fifth Avenue’s holiday windows are a must-see in December.
Find Korean beauty shops, bakeries, and specialty markets for unique gifts and snacks.
Distance: 3 min walk (250 m)
Cost: Free to browse
Tip: Visit late afternoon for fresh pastries.
Seasonal pop-up shops and flower markets add to the shopping buzz.
Distance: 3 min walk (200 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Look for local vendors during spring and summer.
Holiday market stalls offer artisan gifts and treats from November to January.
Distance: 8 min walk (650 m)
Cost: Free to browse
Tip: Try the hot chocolate stands for a winter treat.
Pick up unique fashion books, jewelry, and accessories inspired by current exhibitions.
Distance: 10 min walk (800 m)
Cost: Free to browse
Tip: Great for gifts for style lovers.
Path: Empire State Building → Greeley Square → Macy’s → quick coffee stop
Alternative: If lines are long, visit Bryant Park instead for a relaxing break.
Path: Empire State Building → Bryant Park → New York Public Library → Koreatown lunch
Alternative: Swap the library for The Morgan Library & Museum if you love art and history.
Path: Empire State Building → MoMA → Rockefeller Center → Times Square → Broadway show
Alternative: If you prefer shopping, spend more time on Fifth Avenue and Macy’s.
Path: Empire State Building sunset → 230 Fifth Rooftop → Times Square lights
Alternative: Catch a Broadway show instead of rooftop drinks for a classic NYC night.
Path: Empire State Building → Bryant Park carousel → Herald Square snack → Madame Tussauds
Alternative: Swap Madame Tussauds for The Museum at FIT for creative kids.
Path: Empire State Building sunset → dinner at Keens Steakhouse → Bryant Park stroll
Alternative: Try drinks at The NoMad Bar for a cozy end to your night.
Walking is the best way to explore Midtown’s highlights near the Empire State Building.
Nearby garages:
Street parking is limited and metered. EV charging available at select garages.
