Empire State Building
16 expert reviews
“Remains one of the city's most beautiful—and popular—attractions, with thousands of people visiting every day.”
– Condé Nast Traveler
Fodor's
"The Empire State Building is an art deco monument to progress, a symbol for New York City, and a star in some great romantic scenes, on- and off-screen."
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Concierge
"With the tragic demise of the World Trade Center, this symbol of New York is again the city's most recognizable skyscraper and, at 1,050 feet, its tallest."
Lonely Planet
Top Choice
"The Empire State Building – actually a very glorified office building – is the most famous member of the New York skyline."
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i
Getting here very early or very late will help you avoid delays.
Frommer's
"There’s no better introduction to New York than a visit to the Empire State Building... the apex of the New York skyline."
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Not For Tourists
"View unlike any other (except maybe Top of the Rock)."
Michelin Guide
3 Stars
"Strength and grace combine to make the Empire State Building the most famous skyscraper in the world and the quintessential New York landmark."
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i
Views from the 86th-floor observatory (try to go early in the day to avoid long lines) extend 80 miles on a clear day,
Where
"Magnificent 360-degree views of New York from the 86th- and 102nd-floor observatories."
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Atlas Obscura
"A little known disaster that tested the Empire State Building's structural integrity. "
The Telegraph
"Get your bearings, and an idea of the sheer size of the city, from the 86th- or 102nd-floor observatory decks of the most recognisable building in the United States."
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Afar Magazine
"If walking through New York’s streets seems chaotic, try getting above it all—with a panoramic view from the top of the city’s most famous skyscraper."
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i
There are actually two observation decks to choose from: one on the 86th floor, which is grand enough for most; and another more vertiginous option, on the 102nd floor.