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Empire State Building

350 5th Ave
New York, NY 10118
Phone: (212) 736-3100
Empire State Building
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 Extras

Fantasizing 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

Citysearch (40), Trip Advisor (136 ), All (176)

5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

09/30/2008 Posted by zenjen

I've been living in the city for 10 years and I just went to the top of the Empire State Building because I was entertaining my 9 year old niece and my 11 year old nephew. We all loved it. They thought I was special because I purchased our tickets online which meant we bi-passed a gazillion people and saved us a least 45 minutes of standing in line.

Pros: Remarkable views

Cons: Lines and plenty of tourists

5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

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

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Editor's Review

One of this hemisphere's most magnificent vistas.  See the full editorial review.

Insider Tips

The Extras

Fantasizing 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.

More Insider Tips

Attraction Information for Empire State Building

Admission

  • $20
  • Seniors/youth 12-17 $18
  • Children (6-11) $14
  • Under 5 free

Smoking

  • No

Parking

  • Street

Hours

  • Daily 8am-1:15am

Payment Types

  • Visa
  • Discover
  • MasterCard
  • American Express

Recognition for Empire State Building

2008 Audience Winner - Proposal Spot

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