Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is much more than a skyscraper in the heart of Manhattan: it is the quintessential icon of the New York skyline and a global symbol of ambition and ingenuity. 🏙️ Known for its distinctive Art Deco architecture and stunning views, this building represents the timeless spirit of New York.
Located on Fifth Avenue between 33rd and 34th Streets, the Empire State Building is a must-see stop for anyone visiting the city. Whether by day, admiring the panoramic views, or by night, marveling at its themed lights, its imposing presence makes it an unforgettable experience that combines history, architecture, and pure urban excitement.
Why Visit the Empire State Building?
Visiting the Empire State Building means ascending into the historical and architectural heart of New York. It’s a legendary place offering unparalleled views and a tangible connection to the city’s history. Here, the grandeur of Art Deco, the thrill of heights, and a cultural legacy that has captivated the entire world come together. 🤩
Its cultural significance is undeniable: it has starred in countless films, from classics like King Kong 🦍 to romances like Sleepless in Seattle. Its famous colored lights illuminating the spire change to commemorate events and holidays, turning it into a dynamic canvas in the city sky. ✨ Additionally, its renovated indoor exhibits offer a fascinating journey through its construction and impact.
The Empire State Building is also a symbol of resilience and progress. Built in record time during the Great Depression, it represented hope and human capability. Today, it not only offers spectacular views from its observatories but also a glimpse into innovation with its sustainability initiatives. If you want to feel the history and majesty of New York, this is the place.
How to Get to the Empire State Building by Subway?
Main Stations
The nearest subway stations providing easy access to the Empire State Building are 34 St–Herald Square and 33 St (on the Lexington Avenue Line). Both are just a few minutes’ walk from the building.
Subway Lines That Take You Near the Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is very well connected by the New York City subway. The lines stopping at nearby stations are:
- At 34 St–Herald Square: B, D, F, M (orange lines) and N, Q, R, W (yellow lines)
- At 33 St: 4, 6 (green lines)
- At 34 St–Penn Station (a short walk away): 1, 2, 3 (red lines) and A, C, E (blue lines)
How to Get to the Empire State Building From:
Central Park / Columbus Circle
If you are near Central Park or Columbus Circle, you can take the B, D, or F lines southbound (Downtown) from the 59 St–Columbus Circle station to 34 St–Herald Square.
Lower Manhattan (Wall Street / World Trade Center)
From the Wall Street or World Trade Center area, you can take the N, Q, or R lines northbound (Uptown) to 34 St–Herald Square. Another option is to take the 4 line northbound to 33 St.
Brooklyn (DUMBO / Williamsburg)
From DUMBO, take the F line towards Manhattan to 34 St–Herald Square. If coming from Williamsburg, you can take the L line to Union Square and transfer to the 4 or 6 lines (northbound) to 33 St, or to the N, Q, R, or W lines (northbound) to 34 St–Herald Square.
Queens (Long Island City / Flushing)
From Long Island City or Flushing, you can take the 7 line towards Manhattan to Grand Central–42 St and transfer there to the 4 or 6 lines (southbound) to 33 St. You can also take the N or W lines from Queensboro Plaza to 34 St–Herald Square.
Harlem
From the north, in Harlem, you can take the B or D lines southbound to 34 St–Herald Square, or the 4 or 6 lines southbound to 33 St.
Airports (JFK / LaGuardia / Newark)
From JFK Airport, take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and transfer to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Penn Station (near the ESB), or take the E line to 34 St–Penn Station. From LaGuardia, take the Q70-SBS bus to Jackson Hts–Roosevelt Av and transfer to the F or M lines to 34 St–Herald Square. If arriving at Newark (EWR), take NJ Transit or Amtrak to Penn Station in New York, from where you can easily walk to the Empire State Building. 🚆✈️
What to Do at the Empire State Building?
The Empire State Building offers much more than spectacular views. It’s an immersion into the history, architecture, and incomparable magic of New York. Get ready for a memorable experience! ✨🤩
Go Up to the Observatories
The main attraction! Visit the famous 86th Floor Observatory, with its iconic open-air deck, and consider going up to the 102nd Floor Observatory for an even higher and more intimate perspective, with floor-to-ceiling windows. The 360-degree views are unforgettable, both day and night. 🏙️🔭
Explore the Immersive Exhibits
Before reaching the top, take time to explore the recently redesigned interactive museum on the 2nd and 80th floors. Discover the fascinating history of its construction, its pioneering sustainability efforts, and its prominent place in popular culture (including an encounter with King Kong!). 🦍🎬
Admire the Art Deco Architecture
Don’t rush straight to the elevators! Take a moment to admire the stunning Art Deco lobby at the Fifth Avenue entrance, restored to its original 1930s splendor, with its ceiling murals and luxurious marble. It’s an architectural masterpiece. ✨🏛️
Enjoy the Night Lights
Check the lighting calendar! The Empire State Building’s tower lights change color to celebrate holidays, important events, and support various organizations. Seeing it illuminated against the night sky is a spectacle in itself. 🌈💡
Visit the Gift Shop
Find exclusive Empire State Building souvenirs, apparel, and collectibles in the official store, located on the second floor as you exit the observatories. It’s the perfect place to take home a piece of New York history. 🛍️🎁
Attractions Near the Empire State Building
Thanks to its prime location in Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building is surrounded by other iconic New York attractions, allowing you to easily combine your visit with other nearby points of interest.🚶♀️🚶♂️
Herald Square and Macy’s
Just one block west lies Herald Square, a vibrant shopping hub dominated by the flagship Macy’s store, one of the world’s largest department stores. Ideal for shopping enthusiasts. 🛍️👠
New York Public Library and Bryant Park
Walking a bit north, you’ll reach the majestic Stephen A. Schwarzman Building of the New York Public Library and the adjacent urban oasis, Bryant Park. A perfect place to relax, read, or enjoy seasonal activities like the ice skating rink in winter. 🌳📚⛸️
Madison Square Garden and Penn Station
Head southwest to find Madison Square Garden, the famous arena hosting top-tier sporting events and concerts, located above Pennsylvania Station (Penn Station), a major transportation hub. 🏟️🎤🚆
Koreatown
Right around the Empire State Building, especially on 32nd Street, you’ll find Koreatown (K-Town), known for its lively atmosphere, 24-hour restaurants serving delicious Korean food 🍜, karaoke bars 🎤, and unique shops.
Flatiron Building
Walk south on Fifth Avenue or Broadway to admire the distinctive triangular Flatiron Building, another New York architectural icon, located near Madison Square Park. A must-have photo! 📸📐
Grand Central Terminal
A little further east, discover the stunning architecture of Grand Central Terminal, another iconic train station known for its magnificent Main Concourse with the celestial ceiling and the curious Whispering Gallery. ✨🚆🤫
Tips for Visiting the Empire State Building
Planning your visit to the Empire State Building? Here are some helpful tips to make your experience as smooth and memorable as possible. 👍💯
Best Time of Day to Go
To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting early in the morning (right when they open) or late at night. Sunset 🌇 is a very popular time and therefore the busiest. Consider going on a weekday instead of the weekend. Buying tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time. 🎟️⏰
Buy Tickets in Advance
Avoid long lines by purchasing your tickets online directly from the official Empire State Building website. You can choose a specific date and time slot. Consider the different ticket options, such as standard access, the express pass (skip the lines), or special sunrise/sunset experiences. 💻🖱️
Security and Accessibility
Be prepared to go through airport-style security screening. Large bags, tripods, glass items, and professional camera equipment may be restricted. The building is fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility, with ramps and elevators to all observatory levels. ♿️✅
What to Bring and What Not to Bring
Don’t forget your camera or phone for photos! 📸 Wear comfortable shoes. Even in summer, it can be windy and chilly on the 86th floor outdoor deck, so bring a jacket or sweater. Binoculars are available at the observatory, but you can bring your own if they are compact. Leave large backpacks or luggage at your hotel. 🎒🚫🧥
