The Empire State Building, an iconic symbol of New York City, offers unparalleled views from its observation decks.
While the 86th-floor observatory is world-renowned, the 102nd floor, known as the Top Deck, provides an even more exclusive and breathtaking experience.
Let’s share everything you need to know before booking your tickets for the upper deck of the Empire State Building.
What’s ahead
What makes the 102nd floor special?
Perched 1,250 feet (381 meters) above the bustling streets of Manhattan, the 102nd-floor observatory offers a truly unique perspective of the city.
Encased in floor-to-ceiling glass windows, the Top Deck offers unobstructed, 360-degree panoramic views that stretch for up to 80 miles on a clear day.
This means you can see not only the iconic landmarks of New York City but also glimpses of neighboring states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.
Unlike the open-air design of the 86th floor, the 102nd floor is fully enclosed, offering a climate-controlled and comfortable viewing experience year-round.
This makes it ideal for visiting during inclement weather or colder months.
Additionally, as it is a higher and more expensive experience, the 102nd floor tends to be less crowded than the 86th-floor deck, making it a quieter, more intimate experience.
Book 102nd floor ticketsEnhance your Ebs experience
Breathtaking views from the 102nd floor
From this towering vantage point, you’ll have unrivaled views of iconic landmarks like:
- Central Park, a sprawling green oasis in the heart of the city
- The Statue of Liberty, a beacon of freedom, standing tall in the harbor
- The Chrysler Building, a masterpiece of Art Deco architecture
- Rockefeller Center, a complex of buildings known for its observation deck and ice skating rink
- One World Trade Center, a symbol of resilience and the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere
- Times Square, the dazzling heart of Broadway and a hub of entertainment
- The Hudson and East Rivers, defining the island of Manhattan
- And countless other skyscrapers that make up the iconic New York skyline
Compare The EBS with other NYC observation decks!
New York City boasts five observation decks, each providing a unique perspective of the skyline. You can compare The EBS with other iconic decks like The Edge, Summit One Vanderbilt, One World Observatory, and TOTR to determine which view and atmosphere best suit your visit.
How to access the 102nd Floor
Accessing the 102nd-floor observatory requires a separate ticket or an upgrade from a standard 86th-floor ticket.
There are three ways to go up to the ESB’s upper deck:
Purchase a combo ticket: The most straightforward way is to buy a ticket with access to the 86th and 102nd floors. This is often the most cost-effective option.
Upgrade your ticket: If you initially purchase a ticket for only the 86th floor, you can upgrade it to include the 102nd floor at the venue. However, during peak seasons, slots to upgrade may be limited.
Express pass: For the most convenient access, consider purchasing the Express Pass for the 86th & 102nd floors. This allows you to skip all lines on your way to both observation decks, including the lines for security, tickets, and elevators.
After passing through security, you will take a high-speed elevator to the 86th floor and then transfer to another elevator that will whisk you up to the 102nd floor.
The journey itself is an exciting part of the experience, providing a glimpse into the inner workings of this iconic building.
Visiting the Empire State Building comes with plenty of questions. Our detailed FAQs cover everything you need to know – from operating hours and best visiting times to hidden tips – ensuring a smooth and memorable experience at this iconic landmark.
Is the 102nd floor worth the upgrade?
The decision to upgrade to the 102nd floor comes down to your budget and priorities. Here’s a breakdown:
Advantage:
- The top floor offers a higher vantage point for unparalleled panoramic views. While the 86th floor is 1,050 feet (320 meters) tall, the 102nd floor is 1,250 feet (381 meters).
- Floor-to-ceiling glass windows for unobstructed views
- Climate-controlled, enclosed space for year-round comfort
- Smaller crowds for a more intimate and relaxed experience
Disadvantage:
- Higher ticket price than standard 86th-floor access
If you value unobstructed views, a quieter experience, and all-weather comfort and are willing to pay a premium, the Empire State Building’s upper deck on the 102nd floor is well worth the upgrade.
However, if you are on a tighter budget, the 86th-floor observatory still offers incredible views and is a worthwhile experience in its own right.
Insider tips for the best 102nd-floor experience
Book tickets in advance: The Empire State Building is the Number 1 tourist attraction in the USA, so it is always crowded. Get your tickets online in advance if you have a preferred time slot for your visit.
Visit during off-peak hours: To maximize your chances of smaller crowds, aim to visit during less busy times, such as weekdays or early mornings.
Check the weather forecast: Choose a day with good visibility for the clearest views. However, the views can be dramatic and atmospheric, even on a cloudy day.
Take your time: Don’t rush the experience. Allow yourself ample time to soak in the views, explore the different vantage points, and capture memorable photos.
Utilize the multimedia tour app: The free interactive audio guide in nine languages enhances your understanding of the building and surrounding landmarks.
