360-degree views of Manhattan from two elevated decks in a 1931 Art Deco landmark.
- Free cancellationFree cancellation up to 24 hours before visit via GetYourGuide.
- Duration1-3 hours depending on crowds and which decks
- Starting times8:00 AM to 2:00 AM daily (last entry 1:15 AM)
- LanguagesEnglish
Empire State Building observation deck tickets cost €23 (about $25 USD) for the 86th floor or €39 for both the 86th and 102nd floors. Most first-time visitors choose the 86th-floor ticket because the views capture all five boroughs of New York and the cost-to-experience ratio is highest. Tickets include access to indoor and outdoor viewing areas and exhibits.
Key facts
observation-deck- Duration
- 1-3 hours depending on crowds and which decks
- Starts
- 8:00 AM to 2:00 AM daily (last entry 1:15 AM)
- Meeting point
- At the venue entrance
- Price
- $39 per person
- Entry ticket included
- Yes
- Languages
- English
- Accessibility
- Fully accessible by elevator to both decks. Standing required on observation areas.
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before visit via GetYourGuide.
Included
- ✓ Access to 86th floor outdoor viewing area
- ✓ Access to 86th floor indoor viewing area
- ✓ Access to 102nd floor indoor viewing area
- ✓ Museum exhibits about building history and Art Deco architecture
Not included
- ✗ Photography services
- ✗ Dining
- ✗ Gift shop purchases
- ✗ Professional photography permits
Meeting point
See official website for exact location — Meet at the official entrance
The 86th Floor Observation Deck
The 86th floor (1,050 feet high) is open-air on three sides with both indoor and outdoor viewing areas. This floor captures the iconic Manhattan view with four states and the Atlantic visible on clear days. The open-air design means weather exposure: summer heat and winter wind chill should be considered when planning your visit.
The 102nd Floor Observation Deck
The 102nd floor (1,454 feet high) is mostly enclosed with indoor viewing areas and small outdoor balconies. This floor is quieter and less crowded than the 86th. The higher vantage point extends views to roughly 50 miles on clear days, though the street-level geography context that makes the 86th floor iconic is lost from this height.
Comparing Both Floors
Choose the 86th floor if you want the most iconic view, value street-level detail, and prefer open-air exposure. Choose the 102nd floor if you've visited before, want extreme altitude, prefer indoor climate control, or are visiting during harsh weather conditions.
What to Bring and Expect
Bring a photo ID. Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted. TSA PreCheck does not expedite entry. Most visitors spend 60-90 minutes total on the observation decks including security and entry time. Plan 2-3 hours total for a full visit with both floors.
How to book
Book through GetYourGuide for instant confirmation and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
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Frequently asked questions
Should I visit both floors or just the 86th?
Most first-timers find the 86th floor sufficient. The 102nd floor is worth it only if you have time and want the extreme altitude experience.
Which floor has better views?
The 86th floor has more interesting views with street-level detail visible. The 102nd floor offers higher altitude but removes immediate cityscape context.
Is one floor more crowded?
The 102nd floor is typically less crowded, but both get busy during peak season (April-October) and peak hours (11am-5pm).
Can I move between floors?
Yes, you can go back and forth between floors as many times as you want with a both-floors ticket.
How long should I spend on each floor?
Plan 20-45 minutes on the 86th floor depending on crowds. Add 15-30 minutes for the 102nd floor if visiting both.
Sources