FAQ

Reservations are required for admission. We highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance on the website, but tickets can also be purchased onsite at the ticket office located at 12 W 34 Street, between 5th and 6th Avenue.

Tickets may be purchased online and all major credit cards are accepted. You can also pay with cash onsite at the ticket booth.

Tickets are valid for your chosen visit date and time.

No, unless you purchased via CityPASS or upgraded your ticket with a Night Pass.

Cardholders can enter the party details during checkout. For flexibility, a Flex Ticket provides access anytime on the selected day.

Arrive at the 34th Street entrance (20 West 34th Street) at your exact scheduled time. Early arrivals may be asked to return at the scheduled time.

Cardholders can enter their party's details during checkout. For added flexibility, ESB recommends the Flex Ticket, which provides access to the Observatory anytime on the selected day.

Arrive at the 34th Street entrance (20 West 34th Street) at your exact scheduled time. Early arrivals may be asked to return at the scheduled time.

For detailed directions, visit the Maps & Directions page.

It is recommended to leave your car at home. The closest garage is on 33rd Street between Fifth Avenue and Broadway, across the street from the building.

Peak times vary by season. It is usually busiest during the first two hours of operation and the hour directly after sunset.

Yes. Operating schedules vary by season.

Only during the annual Empire State Building Run-Up. Stairs are closed to guests at all other times.

There are no time limits or specified visiting windows. Allow at least one hour, and slightly more if visiting both the main deck and top deck. During peak periods there may be extended waits; express tickets can speed up the visit.

The audio tour has been replaced by QR codes throughout the experience for behind-the-scenes content.

Restrooms, including handicap-accessible restrooms, are available on the 86th Floor only.

No. Tripods are prohibited, and there are no storage facilities onsite.

Yes, you can modify your reservation through the Manage My Booking portal with the details from your confirmation email. You can update your visit date, time, ticket type, or add extras, though some changes (such as a sunset ticket upgrade) may result in an additional charge. Tickets are non-refundable and only valid for your selected date and time. 

Prohibited items include all weapons, glass items, alcohol, cans and bottles, professional camera equipment (including mono-pods, bi-pods, and tripods), sports equipment, spray paint and markers, musical instruments, and large luggage or parcels. Outside food is not allowed in the Observatory or on the outdoor deck. Items may be confiscated and may not be returned, and there are no locker storage facilities.

There is active 24/7 security. Primary screening is similar to airport security procedures, and visitors are monitored by cameras and other means throughout the visit.

Souvenirs are sold in the Second Floor Gift Shop, with many items exclusive to the shop. There is also an online shop.

The building is fully ADA compliant, with handicap-accessible restrooms on the 86th floor, lowered viewing walls and binoculars, ramps, and wheelchair access. Service dogs are allowed.

You can view and purchase your photos at showtimepictures.com.

Yes. Tag @empirestatebldg on Twitter or Instagram for a chance to be featured on ESB social media pages.

Tower lights change to recognize holidays and events throughout the year.

The tower lights are turned off daily at 2 a.m.

Lighting requests can be submitted through the Tower Lights page. Personal events, commercial events, political campaigns, and religious figures or events are not granted.

Private wedding ceremonies are not hosted. Proposals are available through the Happily Ever Empire package.

Yes. ESB offers a VIP proposal experience through the Happily Ever Empire package with priority access and dedicated proposal moments on the 86th Floor Observatory.

Travel agents do not receive discounts, but entry is granted as part of the CityPASS Trade Pass agreement.

The binoculars are made by Tower Optical Company.