The Empire State Building Experience in New York, NY

Where is the entrance?

Observatory visitors should enter through the visitors' center at 20 W. 34th St. Other entrances on Fifth Avenue, 34th and 33rd Streets are reserved for tenants and their visitors.

Is parking available?

We recommend you leave your car at home. If you can’t, the closest garage is located on 33rd Street between Fifth Avenue and Broadway, just across the street from the building.

What is the best time to visit?

Peak visiting times vary by season. The Empire State Building is open 365 days a year; for the safety of their guests they will be operating on an updated schedule following reopening.

Can I visit the Empire State Building at night?

Yes. For the safety of their guests they will be operating on an updated schedule following reopening, please check their website directly for detailed operating schedules.

Can I run or climb the stairs at the Empire State Building?

Only if you are participating in the annual Empire State Building Run-Up. The stairs are closed to guests at all other times.

How long does a typical visit take, and is there a time limit?

There are no time limits or specified visiting windows. Allow at least one hour for your visit, slightly more if you will be visiting both the main deck and the top deck.

During peak visiting hours, especially in the warmer months, there may be extended wait times. You can speed up your visit by buying your tickets online, which allows you to skip the ticket office and jump to the front of all other lines.

Do they provide an audio guide?

At this time, the audio guide is being updated and is not available. Please reference the translations in 9 languages featured throughout the observatory on your tour.

What amenities are available at the top? Is there a restroom?

Restrooms, including handicap-accessible restrooms, are available on the 86th Floor only. To limit high-touch surfaces, their powerful binoculars are currently not operable.

Can I bring a baby stroller?

Yes. Elevators are available for visitors with baby strollers. Strollers must be folded on observation decks.

Can I bring a tripod for my camera?

No. Tripods are prohibited at the Observatory, and there are no storage facilities on site.

I have a licensed firearm, can I bring it?

No. Your firearm will be seized, and you will be arrested unless you are a member of the following law enforcement agencies:

• New York City Police Department
• New York State Police
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• United States Secret Service
• United States Department of State

Are there any items I cannot bring into the building?

The following items listed are not permitted in the Empire State Building. Do not carry any of these items into the security screening area. Items that are confiscated may not be returned. Please note that this list is not exhaustive, so if you are unsure about an item, please do not bring it. Any questions and uncertainties should be referred to the Security Officers on duty.

• All weapons, including firearms, ammunition, knives, swords, scissors, mace, any dangerous items and any dual-use items that could be dangerous are strictly prohibited in the Empire State Building.
• Glass items, including bottles, glasses, marbles, etc.
• Alcoholic beverages
• Cans, bottles, flasks, etc.
• Professional cameras, equipment, and camera stands: mono-pods, bi-pods and tripods
• Sports equipment such as skateboards, roller skates, golf clubs, baseball bats, hockey sticks, baseballs, footballs, tennis balls, etc.
• Marking instruments, including spray paint and markers
• Musical instruments
• Large packages, suitcases, carry-on luggage, and other such parcels.
• Costumes and masks for non-PPE purposes
• There are no locker storage facilities at the Empire State Building for personal belongings.

What security precautions do they take?

There is active, 24/7 security at the Empire State Building. All you will notice is the primary security screening, similar to airport security procedure. Please keep in mind you will be monitored by cameras and other means throughout your entire visit.

Where can I buy souvenirs?

The Empire State Building sells a fantastic range of memorabilia on the 80th Floor Gift Shop, most of which is exclusive to their shop.

What accommodations are made for visitors with disabilities?

The Empire State Building is fully ADA compliant. They have handicapped restrooms on the 86th Floor Observatory and also have lowered viewing walls and binoculars. Service dogs are allowed throughout the building. Motorized and non-motorized wheelchairs are permitted. The 86th Floor has ramps to make getting around easier and lowered viewing walls so that visitors in chairs can still take in the view.