Empire State Building Visitors Guide

Everything you need to plan your visit to the Empire State Building

By Heather Cross

Updated 10/09/17

The Empire State Building celebrated its 80th Anniversary on May 1, 2011 -- it was officially opened on May 1, 1931 when President Hoover pressed a button in Washington, D.C. illuminating the top of the Empire State Building with its signature white lights.

More: New York City's Top Attractions Official Site: Empire State Building

  • 01 of 07

    Empire State Building Introduction and Directions

    Empire State Building (HDR)
    Eric Kilby @ekilby flickr.com Creative Commons License

    The Empire State Building is located on 34th Street and Fifth Avenue and is visible from many places in New York City. Here are directions and details for visiting the Empire State Building, as well as some interesting facts about the Empire State Building to help you plan your visit.

  • 02 of 07

    Empire State Building Tickets

    This Empire State Building Ticket Guide will help you understand the options for buying tickets in advance, the choices for ticket upgrades and more.

  • 03 of 07

    Empire State Building Photos

    Flatiron Building Rooftop from the Empire State Building 103rd Floor
    Flatiron Building Rooftop from the Empire State Building 103rd Floor. Heather Cross

    Check out these Empire State Building photo galleries, including photos from the 103rd Floor airship deck, the 102nd Floor Observatory, the 86th Floor Observatory and photos from the Empire State Building at night.

  • 04 of 07

    Empire State Building Visitor Tips

    Empire State Building 86th Floor Viewing Deck
    Empire State Building 86th Floor Viewing Deck. Heather Cross

    From buying tickets to security clearance, these tips will help you really enjoy your visit at the Empire State Building.

    Continue to 5 of 7 below.
  • 05 of 07

    Empire State Building History & Architecture

    Empire State Building
    Empire State Building. Dan Cross

    Curious about the history and architecture of the Empire State Building? Here are some helpful resources:

  • 06 of 07

    Empire State Building Neighborhood Map

    Murray Hill Neighborhood Map
    Murray Hill Neighborhood Map. Heather Cross

    This map of Manhattan's Murray Hill Neighborhood features streets and major landmarks and has a printable version of the Murray Hill neighborhood map available.

  • 07 of 07

    NY SKYRIDE

    NY SKYRIDE
    NY SKYRIDE.

    Also housed in the Empire State Building, NY SKYRIDE offers visitors a virtual tour of New York City.