As a traveler, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the grandeur of New York City. And among the many iconic landmarks that dot the Manhattan skyline, none stands out quite like the Empire State Building. This Art Deco masterpiece has been an integral part of the city’s identity since its construction began in 1928, and it continues to awe visitors from around the world.
A Brief History of the Empire State Building
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of planning your visit, let’s take a quick look at the building’s fascinating history. The Empire State Building was constructed in just one year and 45 days, with construction beginning on March 17, 1930. It was officially inaugurated on May 1, 1931, and it quickly became an iconic symbol of New York City.
But the Empire State Building wasn’t always a symbol of success and prosperity. In fact, during the Great Depression, the building’s developers were so desperate to fill the observation decks that they would give away free tickets to anyone who climbed up just three flights of stairs. Talk about a publicity stunt!
Getting There
So, where exactly is the Empire State Building located? It sits proudly in Midtown Manhattan, at 20 W 34th St, between Fifth Avenue and West 34th Street. You can easily get there by bus (with a single ticket costing $3.00), on foot (or bike!), or by taking the subway to the Herald Square Subway Station or the 33 Street Station.
Hours and Prices
Now that we’ve covered logistics, let’s talk about hours and prices. The Empire State Building is open 365 days a year, with hours from 8:00 AM to 2:00 AM. Standard tickets allow you to reach the 86th floor observation deck or ascend to the 102nd floor, but be prepared for crowds! You can buy priority tickets online to skip the lines, and it’s also worth considering purchasing a City Pass or Go City Explorer pass if you want to visit other attractions in the city.
Tours and Exhibitions
But there’s more to the Empire State Building than just its observation decks. The building is home to several exhibitions that showcase its history and significance. You can learn about the construction process, see artifacts from past owners of the building, and even get a glimpse into the lives of the people who worked on the project.
The 86th Floor Observatory is the main attraction, with breathtaking views of the city from both inside and outside the building. But if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take in panoramic views from the outdoor terraces on the 102nd floor!
Useful Tips for Visiting the Attraction
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of planning your visit, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Buy priority tickets online to skip the lines!
- Consider purchasing a City Pass or Go City Explorer pass if you want to visit other attractions in the city.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera – there are plenty of photo opportunities throughout the building!
- Be mindful of restrictions, such as photography and tripods on the observation decks.
- Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated...
- Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary
- Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic's legendary travel writers, this fully...
Family Visits and Accessibility
The Empire State Building is a great destination for families, with special elevators that allow strollers for children. There are also dedicated bathrooms for people with disabilities, and service animals are welcome in the building.
Curiosities and Fun Facts
So, what else can you learn about this iconic landmark? Here are a few fun facts to get you started:
- The Empire State Building was built using over 60,000 tons of steel and holds more than 6 million pounds of steel.
- During World War II, the building served as the headquarters for the U.S. Army Air Forces.
- The building’s iconic art deco design was inspired by skyscrapers in Chicago and New York City.
Getting There: Directions and Public Transportation
So, how do you get to the Empire State Building? Here are a few options:
- Bus: Take the M7 or X17 bus from anywhere in Manhattan.
- Subway: Take the A, C, E, or 1 train to the Herald Square Subway Station, or the B, D, F, or M train to the 33 Street Station.
- Walking/Biking: The building is located at 20 W 34th St, between Fifth Avenue and West 34th Street.
FAQs
Q: What are the operating hours for the Empire State Building?
A: The Empire State Building is open 365 days a year, with hours from 8:00 AM to 2:00 AM.
Q: Can I buy priority tickets online?
A: Yes! Prioritize your visit by buying priority tickets online.
Q: Are there any restrictions on photography and tripods?
A: No, you’re allowed to take photos of the observation decks, but be respectful of other visitors!
Q: Is it possible to access the building with a disability?
A: Yes, the Empire State Building complies fully with the ADA law and has dedicated elevators for people with disabilities.
Q: Can I bring my service animal into the building?
A: Yes, service animals are welcome in the building.
Q: Are there any special exhibitions or events happening at the building?
A: Check out the official website for updates on exhibitions and events!
Q: How much does it cost to visit the Empire State Building?
A: Standard tickets start at $42.00 per person for access to the 86th floor observatory, while priority tickets start at $114.81 per person.
Q: Can I purchase a City Pass or Go City Explorer pass if I want to visit other attractions in the city?
A: Yes! These passes can save you money on multiple entries, including that of the Empire State Building.
Q: Is it possible to buy entry tickets twice in one day?
A: Yes, buying an entry ticket twice in one day allows you to visit twice in different hours, saving time and money on waiting lines at the ticket office.