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Empire State Building
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Landmark
The Empire State Building is an iconic 102-story Art Deco skyscraper located in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. Designed by the architectural firm Shreve, Lamb and Harmon, it was astonishingly constructed in just 410 days during the depths of the Great Depression, opening in 1931. The building instantly claimed the title of the tallest building in the world, holding that prestigious distinction for nearly 40 years until the completion of the World Trade Center in 1970. Renowned for its elegant terraced crown and majestic spire, the skyscraper has featured prominently in hundreds of films, most famously the 1933 classic 'King Kong'. It remains a brilliant symbol of American industrial might and architectural ambition. Geography K8 — skyscrapers and urban planning.
- Location: United States
- Top sights: Salmagundi Club · The Morgan Library & Museum · Museum of Sex
- Nearby: Hoboken (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 1 | 4 | 9 | 14 | 20 | 24 | 24 | 21 | 15 | 9 | 5 |
| Rain mm | 99 | 95 | 114 | 107 | 101 | 115 | 114 | 114 | 97 | 124 | 101 | 133 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Empire State Building is a publicly accessible observation deck; visitors can take elevators to the 86th and 102nd floors. Entry is through the ground floor; it is recommended to buy tickets online in advance to avoid queues. Security checks are mandatory.
Typical hours
The observation deck is typically open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., with last entry at 1:15 a.m. Hours may vary on holidays; it is worth checking the website before visiting.
Photography
Photography is allowed on the observation deck, but flash and tripods are not permitted to avoid disturbing other visitors. The panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline are impressive, especially at sunset or at night.
Time needed
A visit to the observation deck typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, including elevator ride and photo time. Allow extra time for security checks and ticket purchase.
Combine with
The Empire State Building is in Midtown Manhattan, near Times Square, Broadway, and Bryant Park. A walk along Fifth Avenue or a visit to the MoMA complements a full New York day.
Getting there
The Empire State Building is accessible by subway (34th Street-Herald Square station) or bus. The entrance is on Fifth Avenue between 33rd and 34th Streets; taxis and ride-sharing services are also convenient.
Insider tip
Visit the Empire State Building late in the evening to see the city lights and avoid long queues. Entry with a New York CityPASS can save time and money.
Geography
Facts
- The massive structure was remarkably built in just 410 days.
- President Herbert Hoover ceremonially opened the building on May 1, 1931.
- It held the title of the world's tallest building for exactly 39 years.
- The roof height is 1,250 feet, with the antenna pushing it to 1,454 feet.
- The building features exactly 73 elevators and 6,514 windows.
- The striking spire was originally designed to serve as a mooring mast for zeppelins.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Empire State Building (15)
Judson Memorial Church⛪ religious
Judson Memorial Church in New York City is known for its social activism.
🌐 judson.org🕒 Mo-Fr 10:30-18:00
Madison Square Park🌳 park
Madison Square Park is a park in New York, home to the first Shake Shack.
🌐 madisonsquarepark.org🕒 06:00-23:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Which floors can I visit?
The observation decks are on the 86th and 102nd floors.
Is it better at night?
Yes, the night view of the city lights is spectacular.
Are there long lines?
Yes, especially on weekends. Express tickets help.
How tall is the building?
It is about 443 meters tall with the antenna.
Is the building open year-round?
Yes, it is open daily until late at night.
Empire State Building: where is it located?
Empire State Building is located in United States.
Empire State Building: what is there to see?
Highlights include Salmagundi Club, The Morgan Library & Museum, Museum of Sex.
Empire State Building: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Empire State Building: why is it worth visiting?
The Empire State Building is an iconic 102-story Art Deco skyscraper located in Midtown Manhattan, New York City.
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