New York Tickets Empire State Building Opening Hours

Empire State Building - Timings

Empire State Building Visiting Hours

Opening Hours: The Empire State Building is open 365 days a year. Hours shift with the season: the observatories generally open at 9 or 10 AM and close at 10 or 11 PM.

Last Entry: The entry doors close one hour before the observatories do. Arrive a little before your booked slot to leave time for security.

Best Times to Visit the Empire State Building:

Morning: The first slots of the day are usually the quietest, and the light is good for photos.
Late Afternoon to Sunset: The busiest stretch. You get daylight and the city lights in one visit, but expect bigger crowds and book early.

Special Hours at the Empire State Building:

Weekends and Holidays: Hours can change around holidays and special events, and weekend slots fill up fastest. The times on offer when you book reflect any changes.

5.0

(1)

Empire State Building General Admission: Main Deck

Highlights

Explore the historic Empire State Building, renowned as the world’s most famous skyscraper.

Enjoy sweeping 360-degree vistas from the 86th-floor open-air observatory.

Discover interactive museum exhibits on the 2nd floor that highlight the building’s construction and cinematic history.

Benefit from fast-track entry options available during checkout.

Access an audio guide app featuring multiple languages for a richer experience.

5.0

(2)

Empire State Building: Express Entry

Highlights

Avoid waiting lines with priority entrance.

Explore engaging exhibits about the building’s history and pop culture significance.

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic vistas from the 86th-floor outdoor observation deck.

Listen to a downloadable audio guide available in multiple languages.

Benefit from on-site amenities including free WiFi and wheelchair accessibility.

4.5

(2)

Empire State Building: 102nd Floor Top Deck & 86th Floor Observatory

Highlights

Explore interactive exhibits depicting the Empire State Building’s history and its cinematic significance.

Enjoy the 86th Floor Observatory offering panoramic 360-degree open-air views of New York City.

Ascend to the 102nd Floor Top Deck with floor-to-ceiling windows revealing expansive vistas across multiple states on clear days.

Discover the iconic Art Deco design in the Fifth Avenue lobby, welcoming visitors from around the globe.

Benefit from a downloadable audio guide available in nine languages to enrich your visit.

New York CityPASS: Save 40% on Admission to 5 Top Attractions

Highlights

Benefit from substantial savings on multiple top city attractions.

Visit iconic places such as the Empire State Building and the American Museum of Natural History.

Select three additional popular attractions to tailor your sightseeing.

Enjoy mobile ticket delivery for easy entry.

Use your pass over a span of nine consecutive days after the first visit.

Frequently Asked Questions about Empire State Building Timings

What time does the Empire State Building open and close?

Hours vary by season. The observatories usually open at 9 or 10 AM and close at 10 or 11 PM.

When is last entry?

Entry closes one hour before the observatories close for the night.

When is it least crowded?

Early morning, right after opening, is usually the quietest time to go.

Is sunset worth it?

Many visitors think so, since you see the city in daylight and lit up after dark. Sunset slots are the most popular, so book them well ahead.

Is it open when it rains or snows?

Yes. The building is open in all weather, and the 86th floor has heaters in winter. Views are best on a clear day, though.