Empire State Building

Rising high above Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building has been a defining feature of New York’s skyline for nearly a century. It’s one of those places that makes you look up and pause, whether you’re walking down Fifth Avenue or catching your first glimpse from a nearby street. From its history as a marvel of engineering to the breathtaking views it offers, the building is a spot that can easily be part of a day in the city. If you’re staying at a hotel near the Empire State Building, you’ll find it’s easy to include a visit while taking in the surrounding neighborhood.

20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001

Where to Explore

The 86th-Floor Observatory

The 86th-floor open-air terrace is the observation deck that made the building famous. From here, you can see the city stretch out in every direction, spotting landmarks like Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and even parts of neighboring states on a clear day. There’s a unique thrill to being above the rooftops, with the sounds of the streets far below and the city unfolding around you.

The 102nd-Floor Observatory

For a higher vantage point, the 102nd-floor observatory offers a quieter, more intimate experience. Floor-to-ceiling windows let you take in the skyline from nearly 1,250 feet above the street, giving a perspective few visitors ever get to see. The height makes even a brief visit feel like stepping into another world above the city.

The Art Deco Lobby

Don’t miss the historic Fifth Avenue lobby, which has been restored to reflect its 1930s design. Marble interiors, decorative lighting, and the ceiling mural celebrating the building’s rise to the sky make it a space worth lingering in, even if you’re just passing through. The lobby is a reminder of the Empire State Building’s place in the city’s architectural and cultural history.

Things to Do Near the Empire State Building

Explore Fifth Avenue

Just steps from the Empire State Building, Fifth Avenue is a bustling stretch of shops and flagship stores that offer something for every kind of shopper. From internationally known brands to smaller specialty boutiques, it’s easy to spend a little or a lot, wandering through the displays and window-shopping along one of New York’s most famous streets.

Visit Bryant Park

A short stroll from the building, Bryant Park is a quieter spot where you can pause and take in some greenery amid the Midtown energy. Depending on the season, you might find outdoor movie nights, ice skating in the winter, or pop-up markets. It’s an easy place to stop for a moment of calm or to enjoy a snack while watching city life go by.

Take in the High Line

For a different perspective on the city, head a few blocks west to the High Line. This elevated park runs along a former rail line and gives visitors views of the Hudson River, public art installations, and the unique architecture of the surrounding neighborhood. Walking along the High Line is a simple way to combine sightseeing, fresh air, and a little exercise all in one stop.

See Times Square

If you’re up for the bright lights and energy that define New York, Times Square is nearby and easy to reach. The area is always buzzing, with street performers, giant billboards, and plenty of spots to pause and take it all in. Even a short walk through the square gives a real sense of the city’s rhythm and excitement.

Dine & Drink

If you need a bite to eat while visiting the Empire State Building, STATE Grill and Bar is right inside the building and offers classic American dishes in a polished setting, perfect for a sit-down meal before or after heading to the observatories. For something quicker and more casual, Food Gallery 32 in the nearby food court has a wide range of options, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices, making it easy to grab a satisfying meal without taking too much time away from your sightseeing.

Plan Your Trip

The Empire State Building can get busy, especially during weekends and holidays, so visiting early in the day or later in the evening can make the experience more relaxed. Tickets for both observatories can be purchased ahead of time to avoid lines, and visiting at sunset adds a special glow to the cityscape below. Staying at a hotel near the Empire State Building, such as The Pearl, makes it easy to pop in for a quick visit or spend an extended afternoon taking in the views and the surrounding Midtown streets.

Visiting the Empire State Building is truly about feeling connected to nearly a century of New York history. From the observatories to the artful details of the lobby, each corner has a story. It is an easy addition to a day of sightseeing, shopping, or dining, and a landmark that never fails to leave an impression.