Guided Tour of Empire State Building

Getting the most out of your Empire State Building visit can be tough when you’re left to figure it all out on your own. 

A guided tour eliminates all the guesswork, offering fast entry, a personal guide, and fascinating stories about the building’s history. 

You’ll have more time to enjoy the views and less time spent in lines or wondering where to go next.

In this article, you will find all the answers to clear your doubts about buying a guided tour of the Empire State Building, with detailed information on what’s included, the benefits, and why it’s the best way to explore this iconic landmark.

Why is a guided tour of the Empire State Building worth it?

Booking a guided tour of the Empire State Building allows you to skip the long entry lines and explore the building at a relaxed pace with a professional guide. 

A small group setting ensures you get personalized attention, and your guide will lead you through the building’s history, pointing out hidden gems that you might miss on your own.

In bonus, the tour includes admission to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, giving you two iconic New York views for one price!

What’s included in the guided tour?

When you book the Empire State Guided Tour + TOTR Entry, you’ll enjoy:

• Skip-the-line entry to the Empire State Building
• A 2.5-hour guided tour with an expert English-speaking guide
• Access to the Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observatory
• Entry to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center
• Walking tour through Midtown Manhattan to landmarks like Bryant Park and the New York Public Library
• Stories and insights from your guide about the history of the Empire State Building and its significance in New York City’s skyline

Guided Tour vs. General Admission: What’s the Difference?

When comparing the Guided Tour to the General Admission entry, here’s what sets them apart:

Guided Tour

The Guided Tour offers a deeper, more curated experience, with a personal guide to explain the building’s history and show you key spots, as well as including an extra view from the Top of the Rock. 

• Group size: Up to 20 people
• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Includes: Skip-the-line access, 86th-floor observatory, walking tour of Midtown Manhattan, entry to Top of the Rock, English-speaking guide, and a more personalized experience
• Price: From $84 per adult
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

General Admission Ticket

The General Admission, while more affordable, provides a self-guided experience with an audio app but lacks the personalized insights, additional attractions, and faster entry that come with the guided tour.

• Group size: Individual (self-guided)
• Duration: Flexible visit time
• Includes: Admission to the Empire State Building, access to the 86th-floor observation deck, 2nd-floor immersive exhibits, downloadable audio guide app, and free Wi-Fi
• Price: From $48 per adult
• Cancellation: Non-refundable

What you’ll see and do

Once inside the Empire State Building, the tour takes you through:

• The 80th-floor Dare to Dream Exhibit: Learn about the building’s fascinating construction and the vision behind its creation.
• The 86th-floor Observatory: Take in panoramic 360° views of New York City’s skyline, including Central Park, Times Square, and the Hudson River.
• Midtown Manhattan Walking Tour: Your guide will take you on a scenic stroll through Midtown, with stops at landmarks like Bryant Park and the New York Public Library.
• Top of the Rock Observatory: Cap off your experience with entry to the Top of the Rock, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Central Park and the Empire State Building from another stunning perspective.

Practical Information: What you need to know