In this blog, we’ll show you how to purchase tickets for the Empire State Building online.
When you buy tickets in advance, you can skip the regular line and head directly inside. Without online booking, you’ll face long lines, as the Empire State Building is crowded every single day of the year. Trust me, standing in those lines can take hours.
If you choose the express entry option, you can bypass the crowds and head straight in as there is separate way for it. With this ticket, you’ll also go directly to the top. The website clearly mentions that you should book in advance to save time, so it's best not to buy your tickets on website.
Now, let’s go to the screen and walk through how to buy your tickets with online payment.
Alright, on the screen, you need to type https://www.esbnyc.com/ and that’s the Official Website to Get Tickets for the Empire State Building
To purchase tickets for the Empire State Building, your first stop should be the official website. Always check here first.
If tickets aren’t available on the official site, you can explore third-party options like GetYourGuide or Tiqets. These platforms also offer tickets, including guided tours, but they tend to be slightly more expensive. So, your first priority should always be the official website.
However, if tickets are sold out there, third-party sites are a good alternative. In most cases, tickets are available because they are released well in advance—often up to six months ahead—so securing one shouldn’t be difficult.
Now, scroll down on the screen. When you reach the bottom, you'll find the "Buy Tickets" option.
When purchasing tickets, you have several options to choose from. There are standard tickets, express entry tickets, premium tickets, and luxury tickets, among others. While ticket prices may be on the higher side, the variety of choices ensures you can pick the best option for your experience.
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Now, let's explore these ticket options one by one.
First, navigate to the "Buy Tickets" section. You can either click on "Buy Tickets" directly or scroll down to find the options. As you scroll, you'll come across the main deck, which is the 86th-floor NYC Observatory.
The ticket prices for this experience are as follows:
Adults: $44
Children: $38
For seniors, the ticket price is $42, with an additional booking fee. On top of that, sales tax is applied separately.
The $44 ticket allows access up to the 86th floor. To check availability, select "Buy Tickets."
After selecting, enter the number of adults, and the system will display available dates. You can choose dates according to your preference. For months like March, April, and June, all available options are shown.
Cheaper dates are highlighted. For example, while most dates cost $46,, you will see prices ranging from $49 to $48. Weekday tickets tend to be slightly cheaper, whereas weekends are more expensive.
If you want to visit during sunset, those tickets cost around $59, as sunset slots are priced higher.
Regular tickets are slightly cheaper. Watching at the standard time is a good experience, but the sunset view is even more stunning and enjoyable, especially from a high vantage point.
For fewer crowds, booking an early morning ticket is the best option. Evening tickets may also have fewer visitors, though not always significantly. With multiple time slots available, you can choose the one that suits you best.
Now, for example selecting the 9M time slot:
A child's ticket (ages 6–12) costs $42.
An adult ticket (ages 13–61) costs $48.
A senior ticket (ages 62 and above) costs $46.
A $5 booking fee applies per transaction.
Once you proceed with the booking, you'll gain access to the 86th floor. If you'd like to upgrade your experience, you can opt for the 86th floor plus museum access. The express upgrade to the 86th floor costs an additional $41.
If you want to visit the top deck on the 102nd floor and access the museum, there is an additional charge of $38.
If you're interested in the New York City Pass, it allows access to multiple locations in the city, including the Statue of Liberty. Opting for this pass will cost approximately $95 extra. However, upgrading is optional, and you can proceed without it if you prefer.
You also have the option to include lunch with a view. If you wish to do so, you can select it here; otherwise, you can continue without adding it.
To proceed with the booking, enter your first name, last name, email, mobile number, and ZIP code. After providing these details, agree to the terms and continue.
For one adult, the base ticket price is $49, with a $5 booking fee. The sales tax is $4.79, bringing the total amount to $58.79. Once you've reviewed the details, continue to complete your purchase.
If you continue, you'll need to make the payment via Credit card ,Ali Pay,or Paypal. You can simply download it and transfer it to your mobile. When you show it on your phone, they will scan it there.
Now, let's check which is the most popular ticket. The most common choice among tourists is the ticket for the 86th-floorand 102nd floor observation decks, I highly recommend you choose this one as well.
This ticket is priced at $80 for adults. After including booking fees and sales tax, the total cost will be around $90. It provides access to the 102nd floor, which is a smaller area, but from there, you can enjoy a 360-degree view. On a clear day, the view stretches up to 80 miles, allowing you to see as far as another state.
The 86th-floor observation deck offers a large open area with a full 360-degree view, making it an excellent spot for sightseeing. From this height, you can see all of Manhattan's iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and much more.
The best experience comes when the weather is clear on the day of your visit. Only then can you fully enjoy the expansive view.
You’ll be able to enjoy a breathtaking view that stretches up to 80 miles into the distance, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From a single vantage point, you can see far enough to take in the landscape for six states ahead—though you haven’t seen New York like this before once in a life time view.
If you want to experience this incredible view, I’d recommend taking this ticket. It is a bit expensive, but if it’s a one-time experience, it’s worth considering.
Now, if you’re planning to explore more places besides the Empire State Building, you might also want to visit the Statue of Liberty on the same day. After that, you could stop by the War Memorial, and if you have time, explore other attractions as well.
With the 86th Floor Open-Air Observation Deck Plus Bonus Same-Night Admission ticket, you can visit the Empire State Building two hours before closing and return the same evening for another breathtaking view.
If you choose the CityPASS, you can visit the Empire State Building in the morning to catch the sunrise and return in the evening for the sunset experience.
The CityPASS includes admission to four more iconic NYC attractions, including the American Museum of Natural History. Once you activate your CityPASS by visiting your first attraction, you have 9 consecutive days to visit the remaining attractions.
Additionally, the CityPASS is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, so you can plan your visit accordingly. Once you use your first ticket, you must complete all visits within the 9-day period.
If you’re considering multiple attractions, including the Empire State Building, compare ticket options. The CityPASS can help you save money while offering flexibility. If you're also planning to visit New York and the Empire State Building, the CityPASS might be the best value for you.
If you want to see the building as well, consider getting the "Save with City Pass." There's another option available too. If you're interested in the 102-second ride, that's a separate ticket with a different cost.
Alternatively, you can check out the Starbucks Reserve Sunrise Experience, which offers the best sunrise views in the city. If you want to enjoy the Sunrise Experience with a reserved stub, you'll need to purchase Ticket, which is a bit expensive. The cost is $135 for per person. If you're interested, you can go for it, but I personally wouldn't recommend it—it's your choice.
Another option is the Express Pass, which allows you to skip the line entirely. If you're short on time and want to go straight up without waiting, this is the best choice. The Express Pass includes access to the 86th and 102nd floors, with a dedicated route that lets you bypass all queues.
If you check the details, you'll see that this ticket provides red carpet access all the way to the top. However, there's an additional $5 booking charge. While the standard ticket costs around $44 per person, this special ticket is significantly higher which is $120, almost double the price. Make sure to review the details before making your decision.
If you choose the Express Pass, you do not need to make a reservation. However, all tickets are required and are strictly non-refundable.
With the Express Pass, all guests can skip the interactive exhibit leading up to the 86th-floor and 102nd floor observation deck, which takes approximately 60 seconds to reach. This ticket allows you to enjoy the ultimate Red Carpet experience, including priority access to skip the lines on your way to both the main and top decks.
The 102nd-floor observation deck offers unparalleled panoramic views of New York City and beyond. While the Express Pass is slightly more expensive, it helps save significant time.
The ticket price is $120, with an additional transaction fee and sales tax, bringing the total cost to around $130 per person. To purchase, visit the official ticket page and select the "Adult" option.
If you push your booking by a few days, you might get a slightly lower rate. For example, if you select next month instead of current month while your booking, the price may drop.
Now, let's look at the timing. The rate for peak timings may higher than off-peak slots. it comes to $84. The rates vary depending on the timing.
Even with an express pass, prices fluctuate. If you go further down on website, the express pass costs for 86th floor at $85 per person and for both the floors cost at $120.
Ticket rates depend on the timing, and if you check roughly, the price may go up or down. On average, expect it to be around $90, with different rates for adults, children, and seniors.
The base ticket is listed at $85 per person, but if you check inside, you’ll see more details. So, let’s go with the roughly value—right now, the express pass is $86. If you choose the $85 ticket, the final price will be close to $100.
Now, moving on to the next option—the premium experience. This includes a 90-minute guided tour, featuring:
The beautifully restored Art Deco lobby
The Fifth Avenue Celebrity Walk
Other exclusive areas
If you opt for this premium experience, you’ll have a guide with you for about 90 minutes, leading you through multiple locations. The cost for this is $175 per person, which is quite expensive. Considering peak timings and other factors, the total could go up to $200.
For the ultimate experience, there’s the ESB All Access Tour. This includes a guided tour with exclusive access to the Celebrity Green Room, offering a VIP-level service. The price for this premium package is $500 per person. If you check the details, you’ll see everything that comes with it. This is neither a regular All Access Tour nor just an upgraded ticket—it’s a star-level experience with ultimate ESB access.
Private Entrance to Our Celebrity Green Room:
Step into an exclusive space reserved for our most famous guests. With this experience, you’ll be treated like a celebrity, enjoying premium treatment with snacks and beverages. You’ll have the same luxurious service as our high-profile visitors.
Empire State Building's AM & PM Experience:
If you’d like to enjoy the views both in the morning and evening, opt for our AM & PM Experience ticket. Watch the sunrise in the morning and the sunset in the evening.
Ticket Details:
Adult Ticket: $64
Child Ticket: $54
Access: 86th floor with an open-air observatory offering breathtaking views.
Timing Details:
For sunrise views, visit in the morning.
For sunset views, you can come in the evening.
The entry times vary:
Wednesday, January 1st & Saturday, January 4th: Entry is available 3 hours before 9 PM.
Sunday, January 5th: Entry is available 3 hours before closing at 8 PM.
Ticket Purchase:
You can buy tickets directly from the website and secure your spot for this unforgettable experience.
There's another option available—one more proposal package at a top attraction in the United States. This exclusive experience, priced at $1,000 per couple, includes a guided tour, priority entry, and access to the 86th floor, along with a separate entry option to 86th and 102nd floor. It offers the most iconic way to witness celebrity love and make a proposal at the World's Most Romantic Building.
To purchase tickets, visit the official site and navigate to the "Buy Tickets" section. Since the package is for couples, select one ticket. The system confirms the price as $1,000, regardless of the date selected. For example, choosing the the date shows the same timing at 8:45 PM.
If you're considering other sightseeing options, there's also the CityPASS, which allows you to explore multiple attractions in New York, including the Empire State Building. The CityPASS offers up to 41% savings and includes admission to the 86th-floor observatory, plus a bonus same-night visit within three hours before closing.
If this deal interests you, check the details and proceed with your preferred ticket selection.
The adult ticket price is $154, and the child ticket is $128, but these prices may vary at the time of booking.
If you want to explore the city's top attractions, you can book this ticket.
For another ticket option, the cost is $144 for adults and $109 for children. With this pass, you get access to the Empire State Building, along with 115+ other attractions and experiences. From the 86th-floor view to hidden gems across New York, this all-in-one pass gives you access to multiple locations at a single price.
You can choose from various attractions, including the 9/11 Memorial, Big Bus Tour, a Hudson River cruise, and many more. If you want to purchase this ticket, simply click on ‘Buy Tickets’ on this page, and it will redirect you to the booking page where you can complete your purchase.
There are so many places to explore! Take a look at these options:
Empire State Building Observatory
The Edge
Top of the Rock Observation Deck
9/11 Memorial & Museum
One World Observatory
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
American Museum of Natural History
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
You can purchase tickets based on the attractions you want to visit. One convenient option is The New York Pass, which provides access to multiple attractions.
New York Pass Options:
1-day, 2-day, or 3-day pass – Choose based on how much you want to explore.
Adult Price: $144 (subject to change)
Alternatively, there’s The New York Sightseeing Pass, which offers access to 100+ attractions. Pricing varies:
Choose the pass that best suits your travel plans and enjoy exploring New York!
Regardless of which ticket you choose, all visitors have access to the second-floor exhibits and galleries. Please note that all tickets are non-refundable.
For those who wish to visit the 103rd floor, special arrangements are required. Access is limited to VIPs or celebrities, and tickets must be booked in advance. You can make a request via email, and the details, including the cost, will be provided to you. To book a 103rd-floor visit, check the "Celebrity Visit Request" page. Click on the ticket link from the contact section to proceed with your booking.
Regarding entry timings for the Empire State Building:
March 10 – April 11: 9 AM – 11 PM (Last entry at 10:15 PM)
April 12 – April 27: 9 AM – 12 AM (Last entry at 11:15 PM)
April 28 – May 15: 10 AM – 11:15 PM
May 16 – June 30: 9 AM – 12 AM
Additionally, the tower lights change daily. Be sure to check for any updates before your visit. Every day has a designated color, updated in the calendar accordingly.
Each year, there is a "Run-Up" event at the Empire State Building, where participants climb to the top via stairs. To join, you must apply in advance.
Tickets are available online, offering significant benefits to early buyers.
Booking your Empire State Building tickets online can save you a lot of time. The cost is the same whether you purchase them online or on-site, so there's no price advantage in waiting to buy at the venue. However, if you choose to buy on-site, you may have to wait in a long queue, especially during peak hours. By reserving your tickets online in advance, you can avoid the hassle and head straight inside, making your visit smoother and more convenient.
The Empire State Building attracts more tourists in the summer than in winter, as the clear weather provides stunning, far-reaching views of the city. Millions of visitors from around the world come to see this iconic landmark, making it a must-visit attraction in New York City. If you're planning a visit, I highly recommend booking your tickets online in advance to secure your preferred date and avoid price fluctuations during peak times.
If you have any questions, feel free to drop a comment, and I'll respond as soon as possible.
Empire State Building Secrets
Discover tips to skip lines at the Empire State Building for a seamless visit and unforgettable experience in New York City.
Location
20 West 34th Street, NYC
Hours
9 AM - 11 PM
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Who is High Peak Extreme's Rakesh Kumar?
Rakesh is a Businessman & Traveler, who enjoys exploring new places & documenting wild moments of adventures and mis adventures with the goal of motivating other travelers via social media.
Developed in 2021 by Rakesh and his family, High Peak Extreme is your road map for exploring the globe on an absolute quest.
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