Skip-the-line tickets to Edge NYC

What does “skip-the-line” mean when you visit Edge New York?

With your skip-the-line tickets, you get to skip the elevator line and get fast-track entry to the observation deck. You also get to bypass the lines at the ticketing counter. The Express Pass allows you to get priority access through the security lines as well, reducing your wait time significantly.

Quick overview: How to skip the lines at Edge NYC

Edge’s sunset slots draw some of the heaviest observation-deck crowds in NYC. In peak months, expect roughly 30–60 minutes in the ticket/check-in line plus 20–30 minutes for security and elevators at sunset, with some visits stretching close to 2 hours door-to-deck; weekday mornings and mid-afternoons are usually closer to 15–30 minutes total.

• Timed online tickets (From $40): The basic way to dodge on-site ticket machines and the slowest line. You pre-book a specific slot, go straight to Edge check-in and security, then join the elevator queue. Best value if you can stick to a time.

• Express / skip-the-line tickets (From $100): Priority access that bypasses the main ticket counter and moves you into much shorter security and elevator lines. Typically cuts waits to about 20–30 minutes even at busy times. Limited daily capacity and higher prices, so they sell out on peak dates.

• Flex / anytime entry tickets: Lets you arrive at any time during operating hours on your chosen day, avoiding the stress of missing a fixed slot. You still clear normal security and elevator lines, so this is about schedule freedom rather than a big queue shortcut.

• Combos with other attractions: Bundles pairing Edge with decks like SUMMIT or ESB, or with Statue of Liberty and museums. Most include timed or priority-style entry to Edge plus separate dated access to the other sight, and can save 5–10% versus booking everything alone.

• City passes including Edge: Multi-attraction passes where Edge counts as one of several included entries. These usually require making a separate time reservation for Edge; they do not automatically skip security but can be good value if you plan 3–5 major paid sights.

​See all your options to skip the queues at Edge NYC ↓

How long are the queues at Edge New York?

Edge is one of New York's most popular attractions, and during peak hours, wait times can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the line. Without a pre-booked ticket, you'll need to queue at the ticketing counter, followed by a security check and elevator lines before beginning your experience.

• Peak season: June to August, November & December
  
• Peak hours: 3:30pm to 7pm, weekends and holidays

If you want to skip all the queues and get priority access to the panoramic skyline views of Manhattan, you should consider purchasing the skip-the-line tickets.