One of New York City's main tourist attractions, the Empire State Building, a National Historic Landmark, is located in the heart of Manhattan. On the 86th floor, the Observatory offers panoramic views. 3.5 million people visit the observation deck each year. Visitors can tour the Observatory 365 days per year, day and night, rain or shine for views of Manhattan and up to 80 miles, looking into New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York.
There are two restaurants, a sushi bar, three coffee shops, a drug store, a Hallmark card shop, a post office and two banks, in addition to the many restaurants and nightlife in the surrounding area. The 86th floor observatory is handicap accessible. Handicap Entrance - 34th St., the entrance between Bank of America and Hallmark Cards. Note: The 34th Street Handicap Entrance is only open Monday - Friday until 6pm. Please use the Main Entrance for all other times. The New York SKYRIDE, is a simulated helicopter ride and virtual-reality movie theater.
Hours: Open daily 365 days a year. 8:00am to 2:00am 7 days a week. Last elevators go up at 1:15am.
Directions: Directions by Subway: 1, 2, or 3 (Seventh Avenue Lines), A, C or E (Eighth Avenue Subway) to 34th Street/Penn Station. Also B, D, F, N, Q, R or Path to 34th Street/Avenue of the Americas.
Visitor Tips: Visitor Tip: Always call ahead before you visit and you can get information on visibility and wait times. Toll free 1.877.NYCVIEW (1.877.692.8439). There are also several art exhibits for all to view in the lobby, including the addition of items from Fay Wray's private collection of photographs, posters and "King Kong" memorabilia permanently displayed in two lobby showcase windows.
Empire State Building