Empire State Building Tickets: What NYC Visitors Need to Know

The Empire State Building’s visitor entrance is at 20 West 34th Street, while on-site tickets are sold at 12 W 34th Street. The 102-story Art Deco landmark is open every day of the year, including holidays, and timed entry helps manage crowds. Tickets are available through esbnyc.com, Viator, GetYourGuide, or the physical ticket office.

Standard admission costs $46 for the 86th floor or $81 for both the 86th and 102nd floors. Either choice includes the museum exhibits and the ability to reschedule during the selected day. The higher observatory offers a somewhat stronger view toward Central Park and an indoor setting, which can be useful in wet weather. Flex and Express upgrades add date changes and faster lines, while bundled options from New York CityPass and New York Pass by GoCity include other attractions.

Visitors pass through security before reaching exhibits on the second floor, then take an elevator to the 80th floor for an indoor view. The building’s displays cover its construction and legacy; it was completed in 13 months during the 1930s and later received a four-year, $165 million renovation that refreshed the second- and 80th-floor exhibitions and redesigned the 102nd-floor observatory. For smaller groups, the Premium Experience starts at $175 for up to seven people, while the $500 All Access Tour includes private entry and a tour for up to seven guests.