Whether you’re visiting New York City for the first time, or you have visited it on a thousand and one different occasions, the Empire State Building is a landmark that will always make you stop for a second and be aware of the most amazing fact of all: you’re in NYC!
As if we didn’t already love the Empire State Building enough, it turns out that there are a lot of fun, and even wacky, facts about it. Read on to discover some things about this historical landmark that will make you look at it in a different light next time you visit.
10 Fun Facts – The Empire State Building
Here are some interesting trivia points about this iconic building, in no particular order…
1. It was originally supposed to be accessible by airship!
The current top observation deck (at 1,250 feet!) is enclosed and protected from the wind and weather. But, in the original plans, it was an outdoor platform where passengers loaded on and off transatlantic dirigibles, or airships, parked over midtown. Originally, the plan was to have a dirigible anchor and passenger gate at the the 17-story spire. However, after high winds nearly led to catastrophe, the plan was abandoned.
2. Doing the construction work was deadly!
According to official accounts, five workers died during the construction of the building. There are also plenty of stories surrounding the dangers of doing construction work on the building, as well as many unofficial accounts that point to higher numbers. Whatever the statistics, what we’re sure of is that it wasn’t a job for people with vertigo, or a fear of heights.
3. It has a Guinness World Record you won’t want to beat!
On July 28, 1945, a B-25 bomber that had become lost in thick fog slammed into the north wall of the 78th and 79th floors. Fourteen people tragically died (thankfully, it was a Saturday, so many offices were empty or the death toll could have been much higher!).
Elevator operator Betty Lou Oliver survived a plunge of 75 stories inside an elevator, the Guinness World Record for the longest (survived) elevator fall recorded. She went on to live a long and prosperous life.
There was no important structural damage to the building, which opened for business on the following Monday.
4. Someone jumped out, and was blown back into the 85th floor!
Over the years, more than 30 people have committed suicide by jumping from the top of the building. The fence around the observatory terrace was put up in 1947, after five people tried to jump during a three-week span. However, something surprising happened in 1979. A woman named Elvita Adams jumped from the 86th floor, only to be blown back onto the 85th floor. She suffered only a broken hip.
5. It has appeared as a prime location in many different films!
On a happier note, the Empire State Building has been the film location and setting for more than 250 films since it opened in 1931. From classic to contemporary, including An Affair to Remember, Sleepless in Seattle, and, of course, the climactic scene of King Kong (1933 and 2005).
Think about it. Even if you’re not from New York, many people have a familiar feeling because of its screen presence!
6. Over 4 million people visit the Empire State every year!
The Observation Deck attracts 4 million visitors a year and generates millions more in profits…while the owners made little, if any, money on the office space. Let’s just say, you won’t be the only person visiting the #1 U.S. attraction.
7. There’s an annual race inside the building!
The Empire State Building Run-Up was a foot race from ground level to the 86th floor observation deck held annually since 1978. There was a brief hiatus due to the pandemic, but in 2023 it made its return.
The race covers a vertical distance of 1,050 ft (320m) and takes 1,576 steps. The record time? Nine minutes and 33 seconds, achieved by Australian cyclist Paul Crake in 2003.
Are you feeling lucky? Train hard and that is a record that you can definitely try to beat. This prestigious race is, after all, the world’s first and most popular race to happen…well, within a building.
8. Lightning strikes the building 100+ times per year!
And that’s a sight worth seeing, no doubt. Of course, the building is ready for this and nothing too dangerous happens thanks to its safety measures. If you’re in NYC on a rainy day, make sure to look up or, even better, get yourself to a good, cozy location where you can enjoy the lightning show.
9. It’s a romantic spot all year round!
Every year, the building holds a Valentine’s Day Weddings contest in which they select 14 couples to get married on the observation deck.
Plus, it goes without saying that there are a multitude of wedding proposals at this prestigious location every year too. The Empire State Building is perhaps one of the most popular places in NYC to propose, alongside Central Park and the Top of The Rock!
10. The Empire State is a certified green building!
The Empire State Building is the tallest LEED-certified building in the United States. It has a gold LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental design) rating, granted in September 2011.
This means it’s a healthy, highly efficient, cost-saving green building and it’s constantly looking for ways to improve and contribute to the city it is such a fundamental part of.
_______________________
FAQs – Visiting the Empire State Building
What’s the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Early morning (right when it opens) or late at night are usually the best times to visit. Sunset is popular for the views and photo opportunities, but it’s also the busiest time, so there will be larger crowds.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes, we strongly recommend booking ahead. Tickets for the Empire State Building observation decks can sell out, especially during weekends and peak travel seasons, and pre-booking helps you skip long lines.
Which observation deck should I choose?
The 86th-floor deck is the most popular and offers an open-air experience with incredible views. The 102nd-floor deck is enclosed and quieter, but comes at a higher price, ideal if you’re looking for a more exclusive experience.
How long should I plan for my visit?
Most visits take between 1.5 to 2 hours, including security, elevators, and time to enjoy the views. If you’re visiting during peak times, allow extra time for queues.
After taking in the views from the iconic Empire State Building, why stop there?
New York City is packed with world-famous sights just waiting to be explored, from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park and beyond. If you want to make the most of your time in the city, joining an expert-led tour is one of the best ways to dive deeper into its history, culture, and hidden stories. With passionate local guides and carefully curated itineraries, you’ll experience NYC in a way that goes far beyond the guidebook.
Explore the full range of New York City tours on Take Walks and start planning an unforgettable adventure in the city that never sleeps.
