Top 5 Tips for Visiting the Empire State Building

Built in 1931, this art deco skyscraper is a New York icon, with observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors.

1 min read•Dec 16, 2019•By Mandy Hegarty

Make the most of your trip to the Empire State Building.

Hi, I'm Mandy!

Mandy Hegarty is a writer who specializes in food and travel. Currently based in Dublin, Ireland, she’s previously lived in New York, London, and Montreal. She has written for the likes of Time Out New York, Air Canada, and Singapore Airlines.

1. Do day and night

Daytime and evening views from the Empire State Building are equally dazzling. Go up at dusk and wait for the city to light up, or book an AM/PM ticket, which grants you two entries: one during the day and the other at night.

2. Use the restroom beforehand

The Empire State Building has restrooms on the 86th floor but waits can be long in busy periods, so use the facilities before you head up.

3. Bring an extra layer

It’s much windier up at 1,050 feet (320 meters) than at street level, so bring a jacket and a hat to stay warm.

4. Enjoy a musical moment

Amp up the romance with a nighttime visit (Thursday through Saturday after 10pm) when a saxophonist plays at the 86th-floor observatory.

5. Linger in the lobby

Though the observation decks are the star attraction, the magnificent lobby is a close second. Admire the gold- and aluminum-leaf ceiling mural depicting stars and planets with industrial-inspired designs.