The 102nd-Floor Observatory of the Empire State Building offers a breathtaking, glass-enclosed experience from 1,250 feet above Manhattan. Newly renovated with floor-to-ceiling windows, this observatory gives visitors a sky-high perspective of the city — perfect for thrill-seekers, photographers, and skyline lovers. 🌆📸🗽
📍 Where Is It?
The 102nd floor is located inside the Empire State Building, Midtown Manhattan
📍 350 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10118
🚇 Closest subway stops:
- 34th St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W)
- 33rd St (6 line)
- Penn Station (a 5-minute walk)
🌟 What’s Special About the 102nd Floor?
- Located at 1,250 feet above NYC
- Fully glass-enclosed viewing deck
- 360° panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows
- See up to 80 miles on a clear day
- Views of:
- 🗽 Statue of Liberty
- 🏙️ Lower Manhattan & One World Trade
- 🌉 Brooklyn & Manhattan Bridges
- 🏞️ Central Park
- ✈️ Even parts of NJ, PA, CT, and MA on clear days!
🕒 Hours & Access
🕘 Open daily from 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM
🕚 Last elevator ride up: 11:15 PM
🎟️ Access is available with a ticket upgrade to the 102nd Floor Observatory
💰 Admission Prices (Subject to Change)
- General Admission (86th floor only): ~$44–$50
- Top Deck (86th + 102nd Floor): ~$74–$79
🎫 Tickets available at esbnyc.com
🎟️ Choose the “Top Deck” experience when purchasing
🚀 What’s the Tour Like?
- Includes the Empire State Building Museum (2nd floor)
- Access to the 86th-Floor Open-Air Deck
- Special elevator to the 102nd floor — enjoy the quiet ride up to the top
- Time your visit for sunset or night for an unforgettable view
❓ 102nd-Floor Observatory FAQ
1️⃣ Is it indoors or outdoors?
🌆 The 102nd floor is indoors, completely glass-enclosed
Perfect for all weather and seasons
2️⃣ How is it different from the 86th floor?
| Feature | 86th Floor | 102nd Floor |
|---|---|---|
| Height | ~1,050 feet | ~1,250 feet |
| Environment | Open-air | Glass-enclosed |
| Visibility | Panoramic, outdoor feel | Wider, enclosed skyline |
| Cost | Included in base ticket | Extra ~$30 (upgrade) |
3️⃣ Do I need to book in advance?
✅ It’s highly recommended!
⏳ Time slots can fill up, especially at sunset or during holidays
4️⃣ How long does the tour take?
🕐 About 1.5 to 2 hours total, including museum exhibits, 86th floor, and 102nd floor
⌛ Allow extra time during peak hours
5️⃣ Is it wheelchair accessible?
♿ Yes – fully ADA compliant
Elevators and ramps available throughout
6️⃣ Can I take photos at the 102nd floor?
📸 Absolutely!
- Floor-to-ceiling windows are ideal for wide-angle skyline shots
- 🚫 Tripods and selfie sticks may be restricted for safety
✅ Bonus Tips
- 🧥 Bring a light jacket — the 86th floor can be breezy before you head higher
- 🕶️ Visit on a clear day for the longest visibility
- 🌇 Sunset and night views are spectacular from this height
- 📱 Use the Empire State Building app for an interactive audio tour
🎟 Want help booking your Top Deck experience or combining it with other NYC landmarks?
Let me know! I’ll help you plan the perfect NYC skyline tour with epic views, smart timing, and nearby highlights 🏙️🗽📷🌆
🏙️ 102nd-Floor Observatory Tour – FAQ
Planning a visit to the 102nd-Floor Observatory at the Empire State Building? This sky-high experience offers some of the most incredible views in NYC — and this FAQ covers everything you need to know before you go! 🌆📸🗽
1️⃣ What is the 102nd-Floor Observatory?
The 102nd floor is the highest public observation deck in the Empire State Building.
- 🌐 Fully glass-enclosed with floor-to-ceiling windows
- 🏙️ Located 1,250 feet above the ground
- Offers 360° panoramic views of New York and beyond
- On clear days, you can see up to 80 miles — including parts of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Massachusetts
2️⃣ Where is it and how do I get there?
📍 Empire State Building, 350 5th Avenue (between 33rd & 34th Streets), Midtown Manhattan
🚇 Closest subway stations:
- 34th St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W)
- 33rd St (6 train)
- Penn Station (Amtrak, LIRR, NJ Transit)
3️⃣ Is the 102nd floor included in general admission?
❌ No — it requires an upgrade
✅ Book a Top Deck ticket for access to:
- 86th-Floor Open-Air Deck
- 102nd-Floor Glass Observatory
💰 Top Deck ticket price: ~$74–$79
🎟️ Book online at esbnyc.com to reserve your time slot
4️⃣ Is the 102nd floor indoors or outdoors?
🌇 It is entirely indoors and climate-controlled, making it great for any season or weather
🪟 Surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass windows
5️⃣ What can I see from the 102nd floor?
🗽 Iconic landmarks in every direction, including:
- Statue of Liberty
- Central Park
- One World Trade Center
- Hudson River & East River
- Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and beyond
6️⃣ When is the best time to go?
| Time | Experience Highlights |
|---|---|
| 🌄 Morning | Clear skies, smaller crowds |
| 🌇 Sunset | Golden glow, romantic atmosphere |
| 🌃 Night | Sparkling city lights and skyline views |
📸 The 102nd floor is especially beautiful at sunset or after dark
7️⃣ How long does the visit take?
🕒 Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours, including:
- Museum exhibits (2nd floor)
- 86th-Floor Open-Air Deck
- Elevator ride up to the 102nd floor
⌛ Expect longer wait times on weekends and holidays
8️⃣ Is it wheelchair accessible?
♿ Yes!
The entire Empire State Building — including the 102nd floor — is ADA-compliant and accessible by elevator
9️⃣ Can I take photos on the 102nd floor?
📸 Absolutely!
- The floor-to-ceiling glass windows are perfect for photos
🚫 Tripods and selfie sticks are not allowed for safety reasons
🔟 Do I need a reservation?
✅ Yes – advance booking is highly recommended, especially for sunset time slots
🎟️ Choose the “Top Deck” option when purchasing tickets online
✅ Bonus Tips
- 🧥 Bring a jacket if visiting the 86th-floor outdoor deck too — it can get breezy
- 🗺️ Download the Empire State Building app for an interactive tour
- 📍 Nearby attractions: Bryant Park, Macy’s Herald Square, New York Public Library
- ☕ Grab a coffee or snack before your visit — food is not allowed on the observatory floors
🎟 Want help planning your Empire State Building experience or combining it with other Midtown sights?
Let me know! I can help you build the perfect NYC itinerary with top views, hidden gems, and unforgettable photo spots 🏙️🗽📷🌇
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