Empire State Building Skip-the-Line Express Tickets at NYC Observation Decks
Book Empire State Building skip the line tickets. Express entry to 86th floor with 102nd floor upgrade option. Instant confirmation.
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Empire State Building Skip the Line Tickets
Skip the queues at New York's most famous observation deck with Empire State Building skip the line tickets. Your express entry includes a dedicated red carpet lane that bypasses standard ticket queues, getting you to the 86th floor observation deck faster during peak visiting hours. Standing 1,050 feet above street level, this open-air deck wraps around all four sides of the building, offering 360-degree views of New York City.
The Empire State Building stands 1,454 feet tall at 350 Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. This Art Deco masterpiece was the world's tallest building from 1931 to 1970 and attracts approximately 4 million visitors annually. Your ticket includes access to exhibits on the 2nd and 80th floors covering the building's construction history, plus the restored 1931 Art Deco lobby featuring ceiling murals depicting the building as the Eighth Wonder of the World.
On clear days, visibility extends up to 80 miles across six states. You'll spot Central Park to the north, the Statue of Liberty to the south, and the Hudson and East Rivers. High-powered binoculars are available on deck, and you can upgrade to the 102nd floor observation deck for indoor, climate-controlled viewing from 1,250 feet above street level.
Highlights
- 86th floor open-air observation deck with 360-degree views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond
- Interactive exhibits featuring original architectural drawings and construction photographs
- King Kong exhibit recreating the famous 1933 film scene
- Restored Art Deco lobby with ceiling murals and aluminum reliefs
- Audio guides available in 9 languages including English, Spanish, and Mandarin
- Optional 102nd floor upgrade for indoor viewing from the building's highest observation level
Plan Your Visit to Empire State Building
Empire State Building opening hours vary seasonally. Current hours run 10am-9pm with last entry at 8:15pm, extending to 11pm during peak periods. Early morning and late evening visits typically have smaller crowds, while sunset offers the chance to see the city transition from day to night. Midday is the busiest period.
Enter through the visitors' centre at 20 West 34th Street only. Take the subway to 34th Street-Herald Square station (B/D/F/M/N/Q/R/W lines) or the 6 train to 33rd Street. Allow 1-3 hours for your visit depending on crowds and whether you upgrade to the 102nd floor. The 86th floor is open-air, so dress appropriately for weather conditions.
While you're exploring Manhattan's observation decks, consider visiting the Top of the Rock observation deck for stunning Empire State Building views, or take a Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island ferry tour to see the landmarks you'll spot from above. These tickets cannot be cancelled or rescheduled, so plan your visit carefully.
Good to know
- Age suitability
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- Know before you go
Empire State Building Skip the Line: Know Before You Go
Entrance Location
Enter through the visitors' center at 20 West 34th Street. Do not use the entrances on Fifth Avenue or 33rd Street or 34th Street as these are reserved for building residents and their guests.
Getting There
Subway: B/D/F/M/N/Q/R/W to 34th Street-Herald Square (1 block west). 6 train to 33rd Street (2 blocks east). PATH train to 33rd Street. The building is located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and 34th Street.
Opening Hours
Hours vary seasonally. January 6 to February 13: 10am-9pm (last entry 8:15pm). February 14 to March 7: 10am-10pm (last entry 9:15pm). March 8 to March 31: 10am-11pm (last entry 10:15pm). Extended hours typically apply during summer and holiday periods.
Express Entry
Your skip the line ticket includes access to a dedicated red carpet lane that bypasses the standard ticket queue. You will still pass through security screening which is similar to airport security.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning and late evening typically have smaller crowds. Sunset offers the opportunity to see the city in daylight and at night. Midday is the busiest period.
Weather
The 86th floor observation deck is open-air and exposed to the elements. Dress appropriately for weather conditions. The deck remains open in rain but visibility may be reduced. The 102nd floor is fully enclosed.
Time on Deck
There is no time limit on the observation decks. Spend as long as you like enjoying the views. However re-entry is not permitted once you exit the building.
Accessibility
The Empire State Building is fully wheelchair accessible. High-speed elevators serve all observation levels. Wheelchairs are available on request.
Strollers and Luggage
Strollers are permitted but must be folded in elevators and on observation decks. Large bags and luggage are not permitted. There is no bag storage.
Photography
Personal cameras and phones are welcome. Tripods and professional photography equipment are not permitted. Digital photo services are available for purchase.
Food and Drink
Outside food and beverages are not permitted. There are no dining options inside the building. Restaurants and cafes are available nearby.
Restrooms
Restrooms are available on the 2nd and 86th floors.
Cancellation Policy
Empire State Building skip the line tickets cannot be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Visitor guidelines
Empire State Building: Visitor Guidelines
Enter through visitors' center at 20 W 34th Street only
Keep your ticket ready for multiple checkpoints
Security screening is required (similar to airport)
No re-entry after exiting the building
No outside food or beverages permitted
No smoking or e-cigarettes
Service animals only (no pets)
Strollers must be folded on observation decks
No large bags or luggage (no storage available)
No tripods or professional camera equipment
Dress for outdoor conditions (86th floor is open-air)
- Cancellation policy
These tickets cannot be cancelled or rescheduled.
Frequently asked
What is included with skip the line tickets?
Skip the line tickets include express entry via a dedicated red carpet lane and access to the 86th floor observation deck and the 2nd and 80th floor exhibits and the Art Deco lobby. Audio guides and Wi-Fi are complimentary. The 102nd floor is available as an upgrade.
How high is the 86th floor observation deck?
The 86th floor observation deck is 1050 feet (320 meters) above street level. It offers 360-degree open-air views of New York City.
How high is the 102nd floor observation deck?
The 102nd floor observation deck is 1250 feet (381 meters) above street level. It is an indoor observation deck with floor-to-ceiling windows.
How much time does skip the line save?
The Express Pass bypasses the standard ticket queue which can save 30 minutes or more during peak periods. You will still pass through security screening.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning and late evening typically have smaller crowds. Sunset offers views of the city transitioning from day to night. Midday is the busiest period.
Is the 86th floor deck outdoors?
Yes. The 86th floor observation deck is open-air and wraps around all four sides of the building. Dress appropriately for weather conditions.
Is the 102nd floor worth the upgrade?
The 102nd floor offers views from 200 feet higher than the 86th floor in an indoor climate-controlled environment. It is less crowded than the 86th floor. Whether it is worth the upgrade depends on your preference for height versus the open-air experience of the 86th floor.
How long can I stay on the observation decks?
There is no time limit. Stay as long as you like. However re-entry is not permitted once you exit the building.
What languages is the audio guide available in?
The audio guide is available in 9 languages: English and Spanish and French and German and Italian and Portuguese and Japanese and Korean and Mandarin.
Can I bring a stroller?
Yes. Strollers are permitted but must be folded in elevators and on observation decks.
Are large bags allowed?
No. Large bags and luggage are not permitted and there is no bag storage. Plan accordingly.
Is the Empire State Building wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The building is fully wheelchair accessible with high-speed elevators to all observation levels.
What if the weather is bad?
The observation decks are open in rain and poor weather but visibility may be limited. The 102nd floor is fully enclosed and climate-controlled.
Can I buy same-day Empire State Building tickets?
Same-day Empire State Building skip the line tickets are available on tickadoo subject to availability. Select today's date to check times.
How can I save money on Empire State Building tickets?
Save up to 15% on Empire State Building tickets and other NYC attractions with a free tickadoo+ membership. Members unlock exclusive discounts across New York observation decks and experiences.
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