The Empire State Building is a 102-story Art Deco skyscraper on Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. Completed in 1931 on the site of the former Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, it was once the world's tallest building and remains a symbol of the city.
Why it is worth the trip
The Indiana limestone facade glows a signature blonde in the sun, and the lobby shows off geometric Art Deco craftsmanship. Ascending the tower, you can take in Manhattan from the 86th-floor outdoor observatory, the 102nd-floor deck inside the spire, or the indoor 80th-floor observatory. The setbacks at the 21st, 25th, 30th, 72nd, 81st, and 85th stories were designed to let sunlight reach the streets below. Standing that high above the grid gives you a real sense of the city's scale.
The best time to go
Late evening is quieter, with fewer crowds and the building open until 2 AM, so you can see the city lights. For the architecture itself, the later hours also let you study the lobby and facade without the rush.
How long to allow
Allow enough time to appreciate both the Art Deco details of the lobby and the views from the observation decks. A couple of hours is a sensible starting point.
Getting there
The building stands on the west side of Fifth Avenue at 350 Fifth Avenue. Nearby subway stations at 34th Street–Herald Square and 33rd Street at Park Avenue serve the neighborhood.
What to book ahead
Reserve observation deck admission in advance, and consider a multi-attraction pass covering sites like the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Statue of Liberty, which can include admission and line-skipping privileges.
Nearby
Macy's at Herald Square is a few blocks away, and the New York Public Library with its famous lion statues is close by.