Empire State Building
New York, NY 10118
Phone: (212) 736-3100
- Cross Street:
- 34th Street
- Directions:
- 6 at 33rd St; 1,2, 3, LIRR, NJ Transit at 34th St-Penn Station; B, D, F; Q, N, R, W at 34th St-Herald Sq; PATH at 33rd St
- Best of Citysearch:
- Proposal Spot 2008
- Hours:
- Daily 8am-1:15am
Editorial Review for Empire State Building – by Julia Lyon
The Background
The 1931 landmark was the result of a competition between the head of the Chrysler Corporation and General Motors to see who could build the tallest building. GM won, but the Chrysler building got the looks. The Empire State Building has changed hands several times since then, but the 86th-floor observatory has weathered it all.
The Experience
Cinematic, particularly at night, the city is never quite as beautiful as when it's awash in electric light. But night or day, the view from what is again NYC's tallest building is equally astounding--just make sure to go when the sky is clear. Shoot for warm-ish weather, as it can get cold, and expect hordes of tourists. An hour between getting your ticket and reaching the top is part of the deal.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
The ExtrasFantasizing about getting married at the top of the Empire State Building? You can do it. Every Valentine's Day, a select group of couples get hitched here. Check the website for details.
User Reviews for Empire State Building
06/16/2008 Posted by Traveller101
Great views can see 50 miles out on a clear day. Nice breeze on the observatory. Great for romantic moments as well as fun for the whole family.
Pros: Thumbs up
Cons: pricey
05/03/2008 Posted by juliannapham
going up when its a bit chilly and windy isn't a good idea! i felt like flying off after awhile but depending on which side of the building you are on, the wind isn't that bad and the view is actually super pretty! yess.. the lines are super long! but if you're going up with people you enjoy being with, talking to them during the wait won't be bad at all. after the first 10 mins or so, the line moves much quicker once you get closer to the metal detectors. past that, its mostly waiting for elevators. but that wasn't that bad either considering waiting for elevators should feel like forever with so many people in line! i will have to say though, that my friends and i were only up there for about 15 mins? it wasn't crowded but the windy weather and cold wasn't that great. still, it was nice up there! once in a lifetime experience : )
Pros: pretty view at night time!
Cons: super windy and chilling when i went..
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