Empire State Building Observatory

• Walk through the entrance and take in the grand staircase featuring a two-story, built-to-scale architectural model of the building, and get a glimpse of the high-tech LED exhibit that celebrates lighting ceremonies performed by famous celebrity guests.
• Don't miss the immersive exhibit galleries on the second floor. Watch the New York City streets of the late 1920s come to life in full color; see highlights of ESB’s starring role in pop culture through the decades; experience a close encounter with King Kong (you can even step into his hands!), and more.
• Take in panoramic views of up to six states from the 86th floor’s 360-degree open-air promenade (heated for comfort) or from climate-controlled viewing galleries; high-powered binoculars are available free of charge.
• Look out on New York City from 1,050 feet above the bustling streets and experience one-of-a-kind views of Central Park, the Hudson and East rivers, the Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and much more.
• Enjoy the revamped 80th floor, where the NYC: Above & Beyond exhibit, created in partnership with New York City Tourism + Conventions, encourages visitors to create a personalized trip itinerary from the top of the Empire State Building.
• Choose from eight in-building dining options, offering food and drink for every appetite and occasion.
• Round out your Empire State Building experience exiting via the historic and iconic Art Deco lobby on 5th Avenue.

Tips

• During busy times, you may encounter a line outside the front door. For comfort and security, there’s a limit on the number of people waiting inside at one time. Once inside, you may skip the regular Empire State Building ticket lines and proceed directly to the high speed elevator line.
• Visitors to the observatory can enjoy free wifi onsite.
• Please note that rainchecks are not available due to inclement weather once your CityPASS reservation barcode has been scanned. To check current views before visiting, click here.
• Learn more on the CityPASS Blog about what you'll experience at the Empire State Building Observatory.

Best Time to Visit

• The least busy time is usually the few hours before sunset.

Accessibility

• The Empire State Building is fully ADA compliant, with handicapped restrooms on the 86th Floor Observatory and lowered viewing walls and binoculars. Service dogs are allowed throughout the building. Motorized and non-motorized wheelchairs are permitted. The 86th floor has ramps to make getting around easier and lowered viewing walls so that visitors in chairs can still take in the view.

Parking/Transportation

• Get information on public transportation and directions.

Reservations Required.

Once you purchase your tickets, be sure to use our My CityPASS®️ app to plan your attraction visits and make reservations (if required). Go to my.citypass.com to download the app for iPhone or Android or to use our browser-based web app. You’ll find all of the information you need to reserve your times, plus attraction details such as hours and location, special offers, maps and more. We recommend making reservations as soon as possible for the best availability. To learn more before purchasing, click the link below.

See reservation and planning information.: New York CityPASS, New York C3 or New York C-All