Art Deco Architecture of the Empire State Building

Standing on the west side of Fifth Avenue, the Indiana limestone facade of the Empire State Building glows with a signature blonde hue under the New York sun. This Art Deco icon, designed by Shreve, Lamb & Harmon, rose from the site of the former Waldorf-Astoria Hotel to become a global cultural landmark. Its distinct silhouette, featuring a base, shaft, and capital structure similar to a classic column, has served as a standard reference for height and scale in the skyline since it first opened its doors in 1931.

Experience Art Deco Grandeur

When you enter the building, you are stepping into a masterpiece of pre-World War II architecture. The facade is defined by geometric details rather than narrative decorations, featuring over 6,500 windows framed by nickel-chrome steel and aluminum spandrels. The heavy stone piers and intricate masonry create a rhythmic pattern along its height. You can witness the craftsmanship in the grand Art Deco lobby at 350 Fifth Avenue or observe the "Empire State" lettering above the fifth-floor windows. The building's sheer scale is such that it was granted its own zip code, a distinction shared by only a handful of other structures in the city.

Ascend to the Clouds

The primary reason for visiting is the opportunity to reach the various observation decks that offer sweeping views of Manhattan and beyond. You can choose between different vantage points high above the streets:

• The 86th-floor observatory, a classic destination for taking in the city's scale.
• The 102nd-floor observatory, located within the spire section of the building.
• A dedicated indoor observatory on the 80th floor, which opened in 2019 to provide an alternative viewing experience.

Mastering Your Visit

To make the most of your time at this landmark, consider timing your visit strategically. To avoid the heavy crowds that often gather during peak tourist hours, you can visit late in the evening; the building remains open until 2:00 AM, offering a quieter atmosphere for viewing the city lights. If you prefer to see the interior and exterior details of the Art Deco architecture without the rush, aim for a visit during these later hours. You should allow yourself enough time to appreciate both the architectural nuances of the lobby and the expansive views from the observation decks. The pinnacle of your experience will be reaching the highest available deck to see the city's skyline from its most iconic vantage point.

Explore Midtown Manhattan

Once you descend from the heights, you are in the heart of Midtown South. You can walk a few blocks to find Macy's at Herald Square or explore the nearby Murray Hill neighborhood. For a different pace, you can head toward the Theater District or visit the nearby New York Public Library to see its famous lion statues. If you wish to continue your journey further out into the city, other notable sites include the Statue of Liberty, the American Museum of Natural History, the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, BAM Peter Jay Sharp Building, or the Bronx Zoo.