The Edge or the Empire State Building

Both The Edge and the Empire State Building offer incredible views of New York City but cater to different types of visitors.

In terms of price, The Edge is more affordable at $43, while the Empire State Building ranges from $47 to $57. The Edge is slightly taller at 1,131 feet (345 meters) than the Empire State Building’s 1,050 feet (320 meters).

Both observation decks have outdoor viewing areas, and it is best to visit them during the day for clear, panoramic views.

However, The Edge stands out with its thrill-inducing features, including a glass floor and angled glass walls, offering an exhilarating experience for visitors.

In contrast, the Empire State Building is a historic landmark with two observation decks, making it a must-visit for history buffs.

Both attractions require advance ticket purchases, so choosing between them depends on whether you prefer a modern, thrilling experience or an iconic piece of history.

Now, let’s get into these similarities and differences in detail.

Quick Summary

Enhance your Edge experience

Breathtaking views from The Edge
Experience New York’s night glow
Witness the sky painted at sunset
Sip a glass of Champagne at The Edge

Height of the Observation Deck

The Empire State Building’s top deck reaches 1,250 feet (381 meters), while The Edge is slightly lower at 1,100 feet (335 meters). 

Although the Empire State Building offers a higher elevation, both decks provide impressive, sky-high experiences.

Experience on the Deck

The Edge delivers a thrilling experience with its outdoor sky deck, featuring a glass floor and angled glass walls that create the sensation of floating above the city. 

The Empire State Building, with its open-air observation deck and Art Deco design, offers a more traditional but iconic experience rich in historical significance.

Enhance your ESB experience

Express Pass for faster access
Experience breathtaking heights at 102nd floor
Night at the Empire State
Witness magic as the sun sets
Begin your morning at ESB

Note: City Climb is an adrenaline-pumping experience that takes you above The Edge. It requires a separate ticket and is not included with general admission or the Express Pass.

View from the Observation Deck

The Edge offers panoramic views of the Hudson River, the Statue of Liberty, and the entire Manhattan skyline from the west side. 

The Empire State Building, centrally located, provides iconic views of Midtown Manhattan, including Central Park, the Chrysler Building, and beyond, offering a more comprehensive view of the city’s core.

Crowd to Expect

The Empire State Building, as a global icon, draws large crowds year-round, often leading to longer wait times. 

The Edge, while also popular, tends to be less crowded, particularly because it’s newer, allowing for a slightly more relaxed experience.

Compare The Edge with other NYC observation decks!
New York City boasts five observation decks, each providing a unique perspective of the skyline. You can compare The Edge with other iconic decks like the Summit One Vanderbilt and One World Observatory to determine which view and atmosphere best suit your visit.

Location of the Observation Deck

The Empire State Building is centrally located in Midtown Manhattan, making it highly accessible from all parts of the city. 

The Edge is located in the Hudson Yards development on the far west side of Manhattan, a vibrant but less central location that is still easily reachable by subway and bus.

Other Exhibits on Display

The Empire State Building features extensive historical exhibits, including a museum that details its construction and significance in American culture. 

The Edge focuses on the thrill of the sky deck itself, with fewer additional exhibits, making it more about the view and the experience than history.

Duration of Visit

A visit to The Edge is typically quicker, taking around 60-90 minutes, depending on how much time you spend on the outdoor deck. 

The Empire State Building visit can take longer, especially if you explore both the main and top decks, as well as the comprehensive historical exhibits, making it a more extended and in-depth experience.