The best time to visit the Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is open every day from 9 am to 12 am, with the last elevator going up at 11.15 pm.

Whether you want sunrise serenity, a mid-day photo opportunity, or city lights at night, timing your visit right can make all the difference.

So when’s the right time to go?

In this detailed guide, we help you choose the best hour, day, and even season to visit, so you’re not stuck in lines or missing out on the epic views this skyscraper promises.

Best time of day to visit the Empire State Building

Visiting the Empire State Building can feel totally different depending on what time you go. 

The light changes, the crowds shift, and the overall vibe transforms throughout the day. 

Here’s a breakdown of how each time slot plays out:

Morning (9 am – 12 pm)

Mornings are arguably the most relaxed time to visit. 

You’ll encounter fewer people at the ticket counters, breezier elevator rides, and a more personal experience once you’re up at the 86th-floor deck.

The air tends to be clearer in the morning, too, offering sharp views of the Hudson River, the Brooklyn Bridge, and even the distant hills of New Jersey. 

This time slot is ideal for travelers who prefer a calm atmosphere, including families with children, seniors, or anyone who wants to take their time without the pressure of crowds.

Heads-up: From Monday to Friday, it gets busier around 11.30 am. Arriving between 9 am and 10.15 am gives you the most peaceful experience.

Afternoon (12 pm – 4 pm)

This is the time when the building really fills up. It’s the go-to window for tourists who want to check off the Empire State Building from their list after a relaxed morning. 

The result? Bigger crowds, longer elevator wait times, and busy observation decks.

That said, the afternoon sun bathes the city in light, making landmarks like Times Square, One World Trade Center, and even parts of Central Park pop in your photos. 

If it’s your first time in NYC, the afternoon hours offer that postcard-perfect view, but you’ll need patience.

Crowd Watch: Expect a crowd swell Monday to Friday around 12 pm, with Saturdays peaking at 2 pm and Sundays hitting their high at 4 pm.

Try to enter before these times or closer to 3.30 pm to sidestep the peak traffic.

Sunset (Time varies seasonally)

As the sun dips toward the horizon, the Empire State Building takes on an entirely new energy. Sunset times

The buildings begin to glow in amber and gold, the Hudson reflects the sky, and the lights of NYC start to flicker on like fireflies.

Sunset is the most visually dramatic and emotionally moving time to be on the deck. 

The 360° views come alive with color, and this transition from day to night is something even locals return for.

Sunset slots often sell out days in advance, and the prices for these time slots may be slightly higher. Expect crowded corners and busy skydeck railings.

Pro tip: Arrive 45–60 minutes before sunset to allow time to explore the exhibits, adjust to the elevation, and then secure your preferred viewing spot before the golden hour arrives.

Night (After sunset until closing)

If you’re not chasing sunrays but want the Empire State Building at its most dramatic, consider visiting after dark. 

The observation decks take on a peaceful ambiance, with mood lighting inside and endless sparkles outside.

From up here, the city’s iconic bridges glow like threads of light, the Chrysler Building dazzles, and Times Square pulses from afar. 

It’s a photographer’s dream and an introvert’s escape, minus the jostling of the daytime crowd.

Evening Perks: After 9 pm, you’ll enjoy smaller crowds and less ambient noise. This quiet atmosphere also provides stunning long-exposure photo opportunities, perfect for capturing beautiful nighttime shots.

Just be mindful of visibility. If the night is foggy or rainy, your view could be reduced, but clear winter nights can deliver crisp, unforgettable skylines.

Best days to visit: Weekdays vs Weekends

Tourist Tip:
Always buy your ticket online and go for the skip-the-line option. This lets you breeze past the ticket counters and head straight to security.

Best season to visit the Empire State Building

Spring (March – May): Mild, clear, and crowd-friendly

Spring is one of the best seasons to visit. The weather is fresh, visibility is generally good, and the heavy summer crowds haven’t kicked in yet. April and early May are especially great if you want vibrant views without the intensity of high tourist season.

This is also the perfect time for golden hour views as the sky is often crisp and the air still cool.

Summer (June – August): More daylight, more people

The city buzzes in the summer, and so does the Empire State Building. Daylight stretches well past 8.30 pm, which gives you more flexibility with your visit.

July and August afternoons are particularly intense. Long elevator waits, packed observation decks, and ticket slots that vanish days in advance. If summer is your only option, go for an early morning weekday slot.

Fall (September – November): Best balance between views, comfort, and crowds

Fall is often described as the “sweet spot” for NYC sightseeing, and it’s true. Cooler air improves visibility, the city looks stunning in autumn colors, and the crowds are manageable.

October sunsets, especially during mid-week, are particularly spectacular from the top. Photographers and romantics alike will love this time of year.

Winter (December – February): Peaceful, atmospheric, but weather-dependent

Winter means short days and chilly winds, but also fewer tourists. You’ll often find open time slots and plenty of space to explore the exhibits and observation decks.

But it’s a bit of a gamble. Fog, snow, and overcast skies can hide much of the skyline. If you get lucky with a clear day after a snowfall, though, the view is postcard-perfect.

December evenings are extra magical with festive city lights below.

Weather and visibility tips

The Empire State Building rises above much of Manhattan, but it’s still at the mercy of the weather. For the best experience:

• Look for sunny or lightly cloudy days. These conditions make for the best skyline photos and allow you to spot key landmarks.
• Avoid foggy mornings or snowy days if you’re planning a daytime visit.
• Want moody photos? A thin layer of clouds at sunset can add depth and drama.
• Check live cam feeds or weather apps before buying your ticket if you’re aiming for visibility.