What’s inside the Empire State Building?

Planning a trip to the Empire State Building and wondering what’s actually inside? 

The famous New York skyscraper isn’t just about great views—it’s packed with cool exhibits, photo ops, and even spots to grab a bite to eat.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what’s inside, floor by floor—from the historic Art Deco lobby and King Kong displays to the stunning observatories on the 86th and 102nd floors. 

Whether you’re here for the views, the history, or just to feel like you’re on top of the world, there’s something for everyone inside the Empire State Building. 

Visitor attractions inside the Empire State Building

Here’s a floor-by-floor guide to what’s inside the Empire State Building and what you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

2nd Floor – The lobby and welcome center

As soon as you enter the Empire State Building from 34th Street, you’ll be greeted by the stunning Art Deco lobby, which has been beautifully restored. 

If you’ve seen movies like King Kong or Sleepless in Seattle, you might recognize it from the big screen.

But there’s more here than just a pretty entrance. 

The Welcome Center on this floor provides an introduction to the building, offering helpful information and directions to the rest of your journey. 

You can also access the official Empire State Building app here for an audio tour.

Note: Visitors often get lost or confused about where to go next in the building.
Follow the signs to the ticket counters or the elevators, and don’t hesitate to ask staff for guidance. If you’re in a hurry, booking tickets online will save you time in line.

2nd Floor – Sustainability and construction exhibits

While you’re waiting for the elevators, take a moment to check out the informative exhibits dedicated to the building’s sustainability and history. 

The construction exhibit showcases how the Empire State Building was completed in just 13 months, a feat that’s still impressive today.

This floor also highlights the modern upgrades that make the building one of the most energy-efficient skyscrapers in the world.

Many people skip this floor because they assume it’s just for history buffs. Spend 10 minutes here. It’s quick, interesting, and gives you a deeper appreciation for the building before heading up to the observatories.

The Empire State Building was completed during the Great Depression, and 3,400 workers helped build it under tight deadlines

2nd Floor – Celebrity exhibits & pop culture

The second floor also features an interactive space dedicated to the Empire State Building’s place in pop culture. 

Here, you’ll find photos and memorabilia of celebrities who have visited the building, as well as iconic scenes from movies like King Kong.

You’ll even find giant replicas of King Kong’s hands smashing through the walls, offering a fun photo opportunity.

Some visitors feel this section is more for kids but this section is fun for all ages! Even if you’re not a fan of King Kong, the pop culture exhibit is a lighthearted way to engage with the building’s fame.

80th Floor – Interactive exhibits & skyline facts

After a quick ride in the express elevator, you’ll arrive at the 80th floor, where you’ll find several interactive exhibits. 

This floor features displays about the city’s landmarks and provides helpful info about what you’ll see from the observation decks. 

If you’re interested in New York’s skyline and its history, this is the floor for you.

Exhibits like “NYC: Above and Beyond” lets you design a custom tour of New York based on your interests.

You’ll also find 3D models and videos explaining the view from the top.

Some tourists rush to the 86th floor and miss this educational and interactive space. 

Take 10–15 minutes to explore this floor. It will make your visit to the observatory much more rewarding and fun.

86th floor observatory – Main deck

This is what most visitors come for: the 86th-floor outdoor observatory. 

At 1,050 feet above the ground, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, including famous landmarks like Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

What you’ll see:

• Central Park
• The Hudson and East Rivers
• Iconic NYC skyscrapers

Remember that the 86th floor tends to get quite crowded, especially around sunset. To avoid the rush, try visiting early in the morning or later at night when it’s usually quieter. 

If you’re short on time, consider getting an Express Pass, it lets you skip the regular line and save valuable minutes.

Pro Tip: Use the high-powered binoculars available to get an even better view of the city. They’re free to use, unlike in the past.

102nd floor observatory – Top deck (optional upgrade)

For a quieter, more exclusive experience, consider upgrading to the 102nd-floor observatory, located 1,250 feet above the ground. 

With fewer crowds, a peaceful atmosphere, and an enclosed space surrounded by glass windows, it offers a serene setting to take in the city views. 

While some visitors question if the upgrade is worth the extra cost, it’s a great choice for photography enthusiasts or anyone seeking a calmer vibe. 

That said, if you’re sticking to a budget, the 86th floor still delivers breathtaking views and a memorable experience.

Dining options Inside the Empire State Building

After all the sightseeing, you’ll likely get hungry. 

Fortunately, there are a few dining options inside the building that offer everything from a quick bite to a more formal meal.

• STATE Grill and Bar (Ground Floor): An upscale American restaurant serving steaks, seafood, and classic dishes.
• Tacombi (Ground Floor): A trendy, casual Mexican restaurant serving tacos and quick bites
• Dunkin’ (Concourse Level): If you’re in a rush, grab a coffee and donut before you head back out into the city.

Many visitors leave the building to eat elsewhere, missing out on convenient dining options inside the building itself.

Plan your visit around meals so you can enjoy one of these options while you’re inside. Whether you’re after a fine dining experience or just need a quick pick-me-up, there’s something for everyone.

Tickets are needed to access these attractions inside the Empire State Building

To enjoy all the attractions inside the Empire State Building, you’ll need to purchase a ticket. There are several options depending on how much of the building you want to see.

• Main Deck (86th Floor) Access Only: Starting at $48 for adults
  
• Main + Top Deck (86th + 102nd Floors): Starting at $91 for adults
  
• Express Pass: Starting at $87 for adults
  
• Sunrise Tickets: Slightly higher price during peak hours (From $137)

The variety of ticket options can be confusing, especially for first-time visitors. If you’re short on time, you should know that the Main Deck ticket is perfect for most people.