A visit to the 86th-Floor Observatory of the Empire State Building is a must for NYC visitors. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this open-air deck offers 360° panoramic views of the city skyline, the Hudson and East Rivers, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and more. Whether by day or at night, a tour of the 86th floor is unforgettable. 🗽🌆📸
📍 Where Is the Empire State Building?
📍 350 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10118
Between 33rd and 34th Streets, in Midtown Manhattan
🚇 Closest subways:
- 34th St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W)
- 33rd St (6 train)
- Penn Station (short walk)
🛗 What Is the 86th-Floor Observatory?
- An open-air observation deck on the 86th floor of the Empire State Building
- One of the most famous viewing platforms in the world
- Offers 360-degree outdoor views with high-powered binoculars
- See NYC landmarks like:
- 🗽 Statue of Liberty
- 🌳 Central Park
- 🏙️ One World Trade Center
- 🛤️ Brooklyn & Manhattan Bridges
- 🌉 Times Square, Hudson Yards, and more
🕒 Hours & Admission
🕘 Open daily:
- 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM (last entry at 11:15 PM)
💰 General Admission (includes 86th floor): - Adults: ~$44–$50
- Kids (6–12): ~$38
- Seniors (62+): ~$42
- Children under 6: Free
🎟️ Book online at esbnyc.com to reserve time slots
🚶 What’s Included in the Tour?
- Entry to the 86th-floor outdoor deck
- Access to 2nd-floor immersive museum exhibits (history, pop culture, and construction of the building)
- Elevator ride to 80th floor + transfer to 86th floor
- High-powered viewfinders & open-air photo ops
- Optional upgrade to 102nd-Floor Observatory (glass-enclosed)
❓ 86th-Floor Observatory FAQ
1️⃣ How long does the tour take?
🕒 Plan for 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on crowds
⌛ Peak wait times during sunset and weekends
2️⃣ Is it indoors or outdoors?
🌬️ The 86th floor is an open-air deck
✅ Enclosed areas are available on other floors if weather is poor
3️⃣ What’s the difference between the 86th and 102nd floors?
- 🏙️ 86th Floor: Open-air, iconic, better for photos
- 🔭 102nd Floor: Glass-enclosed, higher view, quieter
💰 102nd floor access is an additional ~$20–$30
4️⃣ Is it wheelchair/stroller accessible?
♿ Yes — fully accessible
Elevators and ramps are available
5️⃣ What time of day is best for visiting?
| Time | Why Go |
|---|---|
| 🌅 Morning | Fewer crowds, clear visibility |
| 🌇 Sunset | Magical golden light, romantic views |
| 🌃 Night | See the city lights sparkle |
📅 Clear days offer views up to 80 miles away!
6️⃣ Can I bring a camera or tripod?
📸 Cameras are welcome!
🚫 Tripods and large bags may be restricted — check security guidelines
7️⃣ Are there restrooms and food available?
🚻 Yes — restrooms available inside
🍽️ Grab snacks nearby at Herald Square or inside the building’s lower level (Starbucks, Chipotle, etc.)
✅ Bonus Tips
- 🎟️ Book online to skip long lines
- 📱 Download the Empire State Building app for audio tours and tips
- 🧥 Bring a light jacket — it’s breezy up there!
- 📸 Best photo spots: southern view toward Statue of Liberty or western view at sunset
🎟 Want help adding the Empire State Building to your NYC sightseeing day?
Let me know! I can help you create a perfect itinerary with iconic views, nearby attractions, and best timing for the ultimate skyline experience 🏙️🗽📷🌇
🏙️ 86th-Floor Observatory Tour – FAQ
Planning a visit to the 86th-Floor Observatory at the Empire State Building? This FAQ will help you navigate your experience and get the most out of one of NYC’s most breathtaking attractions. 🗽📸🌆
1️⃣ What is the 86th-Floor Observatory?
The 86th floor is the Empire State Building’s main open-air observation deck, offering 360° views of:
- 🗽 Statue of Liberty
- 🏙️ Manhattan skyline
- 🌉 Brooklyn & Manhattan Bridges
- 🌳 Central Park
- 🏞️ Hudson & East Rivers
It’s one of the most famous observatories in the world and a true NYC must-see.
2️⃣ Where is the Empire State Building located?
📍 350 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10118
Between 33rd & 34th Streets in Midtown Manhattan
🚇 Nearest subways:
- 34th St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W)
- 33rd St (6 train)
- Penn Station – just a short walk away
3️⃣ What are the hours of operation?
🕘 Open daily from 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM
🕚 Last elevator up: 11:15 PM
✅ Open 365 days a year — including holidays!
4️⃣ How much does it cost?
🎟️ General Admission (includes 86th floor):
- Adults: ~$44–$50
- Children (6–12): ~$38
- Seniors (62+): ~$42
- Kids under 6: Free
🎫 Upgrade to 102nd floor for an additional ~$20–$30
📱 Book online at esbnyc.com to choose your time slot
5️⃣ How long does the tour take?
🕐 Average visit: 1 to 1.5 hours
⌛ May take longer during peak hours (sunset, weekends, holidays)
6️⃣ Is it indoors or outdoors?
✅ The 86th floor is outdoors – open-air with protective fencing
🌬️ It can get windy, so dress accordingly
🚪 Indoor viewing areas available on lower floors
7️⃣ What’s the difference between the 86th and 102nd floors?
| Floor | Experience |
|---|---|
| 86th Floor | Open-air, iconic NYC experience, 360° views |
| 102nd Floor | Glass-enclosed, higher but smaller, panoramic feel |
💰 The 102nd floor is an optional upgrade
8️⃣ Is the Observatory accessible?
♿ Yes — fully ADA accessible
✅ Elevators and ramps available for wheelchairs and strollers
9️⃣ What’s the best time to visit?
| Time | Why Visit |
|---|---|
| 🌄 Morning | Fewer crowds, bright views |
| 🌇 Sunset | Golden hour photos, magical atmosphere |
| 🌃 Night | NYC skyline lit up — a whole different vibe |
🔟 Are cameras allowed?
📸 Yes — bring your camera or smartphone!
🚫 Tripods, selfie sticks, and large bags may be restricted for safety
✅ Bonus Info
- 🏛️ Admission includes museum-style exhibits on the 2nd and 80th floors
- 📱 Download the ESB app for an audio tour experience
- 🍴 Dining options: Nearby food courts, or dine at STATE Grill and Bar inside the building
- 🧥 Bring a jacket — it’s often breezy at the top!
🎟 Need help adding the 86th-Floor Observatory to your NYC itinerary?
Let me know! I’ll help you time your visit just right and combine it with nearby sights like Bryant Park, the New York Public Library, Times Square, or the High Line 🗽🌇📷
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