It was the tallest building in New York City until the construction of the World Trade Center in 1972. As the tallest building in New York City with 102 stories, the Empire State Building attracts millions of tourists every year from all over the world. It’s the third tallest skyscraper in the United States after Chicago’s Willis Tower and Trump International Hotel. The Empire State Building was built on its city block and has its zip code; 10118.
The Empire State Building is more than just remarkable architecture; it is a New York City institution. The top of the building is frequently bathed in floodlights to represent different events and national and international occasions, like red, white, and blue for Independence Day or green for St. Patrick’s Day. The Empire State Building was also prominently featured in the King Kong movie of 1933, and countless other films and TV shows since then.
Because of its height, the Empire State Building is often visited by those who want to experience a panoramic view of the Big Apple. The building’s observation deck on the 86th floor is the most popular outdoor observation room in the world with 110 million visitors. From here you can get spectacular views of New York City attractions such as the Chrysler Building, Central Park, and Brooklyn Bridge. You can also take incredible pictures. Those who can handle it can also visit the smaller observation room on the 102nd floor for $14 more.
Going to the Empire State Building’s observation deck while in New York City is an unforgettable experience, but prepared to wait. It can take hours to get to the top, and there are long lines everywhere. There’s a line on the street, a security line, and a line to get on the elevators. The best way to shorten the time you wait to get to the observation deck is to purchase your tickets in advance online. While you are waiting in line to get your tickets, you will be solicited to pay extra for a fast pass which takes you to the front of the line. If you want to pay extra, be sure that the people selling you are genuine attendants of the Empire State Building and not one of the people looking to rip you off. The Express Pass costs $45.
Many people who have visited the observation deck at the Empire State Building will tell you that it is best to see it when it’s clear out, during the day or night. The observation deck is open 365 days a year from 8 am to 2 am. Tickets are $22 for adults, $20 for senior citizens, $16 for children 6-12 and entry is free for active military personnel in uniform children under 5. The Empire State Building itself is beautiful, especially the lobby area, it also has so much history and has gone through many renovations and restorations to bring it back to its glory days. If you want to learn everything you need to know about the building, you should schedule a guided tour, or pay $8 for an audio tour.