New York City’s skyline just wouldn’t be the same without the Empire State Building towering above it all. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong New Yorker, visiting the Empire State Building is a must-do experience that captures the magic and history of the city.
As the heroine of the classic film Love Affair (1939) says, gazing up in awe: “It’s the nearest place we have in New York to heaven.” If you’re planning on visiting the Empire State Building, here’s your ultimate guide—packed with fun facts, practical info, and handy tips to make your trip as memorable as possible.

How Tall is the Empire State Building?
Named for New York, the “Empire State,” the Empire State Building soars 102 stories—making it the world’s tallest building for an incredible 41 years after its completion! Including its 203-foot pinnacle, the building reaches a breathtaking 1,453 feet (443 meters).
It’s so massive, it even has its own zip code: 10118! The Empire State Building is primarily an office building, home to around 1,000 businesses and 20,000 employees. But for visitors, the highlights are the stunning three-story art deco marble lobby and the world-famous observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors. Visiting the Empire State Building means stepping into a true icon of New York.

What’s Up With the Lights on the Empire State Building?
One of the most magical parts of visiting the Empire State Building is seeing its top 30 stories light up the night sky. The building’s lights change colors to reflect the season, celebrate holidays (think red, white, and blue for the Fourth of July), support sports teams, or recognize worthy causes like Breast Cancer Awareness.
Want to know what color the Empire State Building will be tonight? Check out the official lighting schedule or download the Night Light NYC app for a 360-degree view.
Fun fact: The lights are turned off on foggy nights during spring and fall bird migration seasons to help protect migrating birds from becoming disoriented.

Who Built the Empire State Building—and How?
The Empire State Building was designed in the iconic Art Deco style by architect William F. Lamb, who sketched the plans in just two weeks! Construction began on January 22, 1930, on the site of the original Waldorf-Astoria Hotel.
More than 3,400 workers—many immigrants from Europe and Mohawk Native American ironworkers—helped raise the building at a jaw-dropping pace: sometimes a floor a day! The Empire State Building officially opened just 410 days later, on May 1, 1931, at a cost of $40,948,900.

During the Great Depression, the building struggled to find tenants and was nicknamed “The Empty State Building”—but today, it’s a thriving National Historic Landmark and was ranked America’s Favorite Architecture by the American Institute of Architects in 2007.
Visiting the Empire State Building: How to Plan Your Trip
Visiting the Empire State Building is easy and convenient—just a little planning goes a long way! The Observatories are open from 8am to 2am daily, with the last elevators going up at 1:15am. The main entrance for visitors is on Fifth Avenue, between 33rd and 34th Streets.
All guests must pass through a security check. Check the official guidelines for prohibited items (no glass containers, cans, large luggage, or professional camera gear). There are no storage facilities on site.

Ticket prices:
- 86th Floor Observatory: $32 adults, $29 seniors, $26 children (6-12; under 5 free)
- Additional charges apply for the 102nd Floor, audio tours, or express passes.
- Tickets can be purchased with cash, American-based traveler’s cheques, and all major credit cards except Diner’s Club.
Tip: Buy tickets in advance online here to avoid the ticket office lines!
Tips for Visiting the Empire State Building

Here are some tips to make visiting the Empire State Building even more enjoyable:
- Weather matters: On a clear day, you can see up to 80 miles—including five states!
- Crowds: The best times to avoid crowds are weekdays before noon or after midnight.
- Accessibility: The Empire State Building is fully ADA compliant, with handicapped restrooms on the 86th floor. The accessible entrance is on 34th Street between Bank of America and Starbucks (open Monday–Friday, until 6pm).
- Wait times: Want to know how long you’ll wait? Call (212) 736-3100 or (877) NYC-VIEW for up-to-the-minute info.

Make the Most of Your New York City Adventure!
Visiting the Empire State Building is just the start of your New York City adventure! If you’re looking to dive deeper into the city’s rich history and architectural wonders, don’t miss our Grand Central Terminal Tour. Unlock the secrets behind another iconic NYC landmark—book your spot today!