Empire State Building 86th Floor

• Open air observation deck on the 86th floor
• Panoramic 360 degree views of New York City
• Iconic Art Deco architecture and historic setting
• Views extend up to five states on clear days
• One of the most famous observation decks in the world

86th Floor Observatory delivers the definitive New York City skyline experience. Located high above Midtown Manhattan, the open air deck places visitors directly in the heart of the city’s rhythm, surrounded by history, architecture, and endless views.

Unlike fully enclosed observatories, the 86th floor features an outdoor terrace with classic metal railings, allowing visitors to feel the wind, hear the city below, and experience New York in a truly physical way. From every direction, landmarks emerge clearly against the skyline.

Whether visiting during the day, at sunset, or under glowing city lights, the observatory offers a timeless perspective that has defined New York for generations.

The best time to visit the Empire State Building 86th Floor Observatory is late afternoon or early evening, allowing visitors to experience daylight, sunset, and nighttime views in one visit.

Clear days offer the longest visibility, while weekday mornings tend to be less crowded. Spring and fall provide comfortable weather for the open air deck.

• The 86th floor is the building’s most famous observation level
• The deck has appeared in countless movies and television shows
• On clear days, visibility can reach up to five states
• The building’s lights change colors to mark events and holidays
• It was the tallest building in the world for nearly forty years

1 Day Ideal Visit Recommended

Morning:
Arrive early to enjoy clear views and lighter crowds. Walk the full perimeter of the deck to take in every direction of the skyline.

Afternoon:
Visit the indoor galleries and exhibits that share the building’s history and construction story.

Evening:
Return to the deck for sunset and nighttime views as the city lights come alive.

Short Visit Option

Visitors with limited time can complete the observatory experience comfortably in about ninety minutes.

• North facing views toward Central Park
• South facing views of Lower Manhattan
• East River and Queens skyline perspectives
• Sunset views with golden city light
• Night shots of illuminated skyscrapers

• Bring a light jacket for the open air deck
• Book sunset tickets well in advance
• Use a wide angle lens for skyline photos
• Visit on weekdays to avoid heavy crowds
• Walk the full deck to see every angle of the city

The Empire State Building was constructed during the Great Depression and officially opened in 1931. Built in just over one year, it stood as a symbol of ambition, resilience, and innovation during one of America’s most challenging economic periods.

From its opening, the building captured global attention as the tallest structure in the world, a title it held for nearly four decades. The 86th floor observatory quickly became a must visit attraction, offering unprecedented views of a rapidly growing city.

Over the decades, the Empire State Building has remained a cultural icon, appearing in films, literature, and historic moments. Today, the 86th Floor Observatory continues to welcome millions of visitors each year, preserving its legacy as one of New York City’s most enduring landmarks.