Empire State Building Tickets - 86th Floor, 102nd Floor & Skip-the-Line Compared
The Empire State Building is the classic Midtown observation deck, with the main decision between 86th-floor entry, 102nd-floor upgrade, and queue-saving ticket types.
Available
3 options
Avg. rating
4.7 - 10,091 reviews
From
$51 USD
Cancellation
Free up to 24h before
Empire State Building: what to know before booking
The Empire State Building is the classic Midtown observation deck, with the main decision between 86th-floor entry, 102nd-floor upgrade, and queue-saving ticket types.
- Availability
- 3 ticket options compared
- Starting price
- Tickets currently start around $51 USD before checkout fees.
- Rating signal
- Compared options average 4.7 stars across 10,091 traveler reviews.
- Location
- 20 W 34th Street, New York, NY 10001
- Best time
- Sunset for drama; morning for lower crowds and clearer photos
- Ticket note
- Timed-entry; premium upgrades and sunset slots can sell out first
Empire State Building in New York
Sorted by review signal, price, and availability. Tap any card to book through the provider checkout.
Everything you should know before you book
Empire State Building tickets are really about height, time, and nostalgia. The 86th floor is the classic open-air deck; the 102nd floor adds a higher enclosed view and a premium feel.
Book around light and queue tolerance. Daytime gives clearer skyline orientation, sunset is the highest-demand slot, and night entry is strong if you want city lights. Skip-the-line options matter most during peak travel weeks.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 102nd floor worth it?
Worth it for first-timers who want the highest Empire State Building view. Budget visitors can be happy with the 86th floor.
How long should I allow?
Plan 60 to 90 minutes, with more buffer for sunset or holiday dates.
Empire State Building or Top of the Rock?
Choose Empire State for the icon itself; choose Top of the Rock if you want the Empire State Building in your photos.