The Empire State Building Experience in New York, NY

Is there a tour? An audio guide?
Yes, a free Multimedia handheld tour is included with every admission to the Empire State Building.

How long does a typical visit take? Is there a time limit?
There are no time limits or specified visiting windows. You should allow at least one hour for your visit. During peak visiting hours, especially in the warmer months, there may be extended waits to buy tickets and enter the elevators. 

Is there parking available?
Leave the car at home! Just in case, the closest garage is located on 33rd Street between Fifth Avenue and Broadway, across the street from the building. The Empire State Building is minutes by foot from all of midtown Manhattan.

Where is the entrance?
All Observatory visitors must enter on Fifth Avenue between 33rd & 34th Streets. Entrances on 34th and 33rd Streets are reserved for tenants and their visitors.

Can I use my ticket twice in one day?
All tickets are for one-time use only. Once you exit the Observatory you will need to buy another ticket to re-enter.

What accommodations are made for visitors with disabilities?
The Empire State Building is fully ADA compliant. We have handicapped restrooms on the 86th Floor Observatory and also have lowered viewing walls and binoculars. Service dogs are allowed throughout the building. Motorized and non-motorized wheelchairs are permitted. The 86th Floor has ramps to make getting around easier and lowered viewing walls so that visitors in chairs can still take in the view.

What items are prohibited?
The items listed are not permitted in the Empire State Building. Do not carry any of these items into the security screening area. Items that are confiscated may not be returned. Please note that this list is not exhaustive, so if you are unsure about an item, please do not bring it. Any questions and uncertainties should be referred to the Security Officers on duty. All weapons, including firearms, ammunition, knives, swords, scissors, mace, any dangerous items and any dual-use items that could be dangerous are strictly prohibited in the Empire State Building. Glass items, including bottles, glasses, marbles, etc. Alcoholic beverages, Cans, bottles, flasks, etc. Professional cameras, equipment and camera stands: mono-pods, bi-pods and tri-pods, Sports equipment such as skateboards, roller skates, golf clubs, baseball bats, hockey sticks, baseballs, footballs, tennis balls, etc. Marking instruments, including spray paint and markers. Musical instruments, large packages, suitcases, carry-on luggage and other such parcels.
Costumes and masks.
There are no locker storage facilities at the Empire State Building for personal belongings.

Can I bring a tripod for my camera?
No. Tripods are prohibited at the Observatory, and there are no storage facilities on site.

Can I bring a baby stroller?
Yes. Elevators are available for visitors with baby strollers. Strollers must be folded on observation decks.

What amenities are available at the top? Is there a restroom?
Restrooms are available on the 86th Floor only. We offer powerful binoculars to take in the unobstructed views in every direction.

Can I run or climb the stairs at the Empire State Building?
Only if you are participating in the annual Empire State Building Run-Up. The stairs are closed to all guests at all other times.

What is the best time to visit the Empire State Building?
The least crowded visiting hours are at 8AM or around 3PM, but peak visiting times vary by season. We are open 365 days a year from 8AM to 2AM regardless of weather conditions.

Can I visit the Empire State Building at night?
Yes. We are open until 2AM daily, with last elevators going up at 1:15 AM. Live music is available Thursdays through Saturdays, from 10PM to 1AM.