It has served as a backdrop in movies from “King Kong” to “Sleepless in Seattle;” appeared in thousands of TV shows; and has been the setting for countless marriage proposals. It’s the Empire State Building—one of the most visited attractions in the world.
The iconic landmark stands 102 stories above the streets of New York. It dominates Manhattan’s skyline and can be seen from vantage points throughout the city. Depending on the day of the year, the top of the tower illuminates the city sky in shades of blue, green, red, white, yellow—or a combination of these. For example, if you are in the Big Apple on Valentine’s Day, you can expect the tower to be glowing in red during the evenings. Likewise, if you are in town on St. Patrick’s Day the top of the tower will be illuminated in green.
To get to the Empire State Building you need to make your way to the intersection of 5th Avenue and West 34th Street. Admission to the 86th Floor Observatory costs $16 for adults and $14 for children ages 12 to 17 and for seniors. For children ages 6 to 11 the cost is $12. Admission is free for military personnel in uniform and children under the age of 6. If you want to venture beyond the 86th Floor to the 102nd Floor Observatory you will be paying an extra $14, and you must buy your tickets in person on the 2nd floor of the building. The Empire State Building’s hours are 8 a.m. until 2 a.m. daily. The last elevator goes up at 1:15 a.m.—with no exceptions.
If you ask some New Yorkers which building offers better views of the city — the Empire State Building or the Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center) –- some may try to steer you away from the Empire State Building. Personally, just for the sheer cultural value, I would recommend choosing the Empire State Building. Which is not to say the skyline views pale in comparison to the Top of the Rock (they don’t). Remember, the Empire State Building’s 86th Floor Observatory gives you famous views of the city from 1,050 feet up (1,224 feet if you ride up to the 102nd Floor)– a memorable experience either way. One Tip: Purchase your tickets in advance online so you can avoid having to stand in long lines the day of your visit.
Planning a trip to New York? Check out these other articles:
How To Eliminate Waiting in Long Lines For Lady Liberty
Little People in the Big Apple: Central Park Zoo and FAO Schwartz
Little People in the Big Apple: The Metropolitan Museum of Art