The Empire State Building, an iconic symbol of New York City, attracts millions of visitors each year eager to experience its breathtaking views.
With such high demand, long lines are inevitable, especially during peak seasons and hours.
To bypass these lengthy waits and enjoy a seamless VIP experience, the Empire State Building offers a special ticket option: the Express Pass.
But is this premium ticket worth the extra cost?
This article shares details of the Express Pass, exploring its benefits, cost, and whether it’s the right choice for your visit.
What’s ahead
What is the Empire State Building Express Pass?
The Express Pass is a premium ticket that allows you to skip all lines, including security, at the Empire State Building.
It grants you expedited access to the building’s observation decks, saving you precious time and ensuring a more enjoyable visit.
Buy Express PassBenefits of the Express Pass
Empire State Building’s Express Pass offers three advantages –
Skip all lines
The most significant advantage of the Express Pass is the ability to bypass all lines.
This includes the often lengthy security line at the entrance and the elevator queues for both ascending to and descending from the observation decks.
With a separate entrance and dedicated “Red Carpet” express lanes, Express Pass holders enjoy a swift journey to the top, minimizing wait times significantly.
Some tourists have reached the 86th floor using the Express Pass in less than 10 minutes.
Guaranteed access
During peak hours and popular seasons, general admission tickets for specific time slots may sell out, leaving you disappointed and potentially disrupting your itinerary.
Since the Express Pass is costlier, they don’t always sell out, and you can still enter the observation decks at your desired time.
VIP experience
The Express Pass provides a “red carpet experience,” treating you like a VIP throughout your visit.
You’ll enjoy priority access and expedited service from dedicated staff, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey from the moment you arrive.
Enhance your Ebs experience
How much does the Express Pass cost?
The Express Pass is more expensive than the general admission ticket.
For access to the 86th-floor observatory, the Empire State Building’s Express Pass costs $96 per person for visitors aged six and above.
If you want to visit both the 86th and 102nd floors, the price increases to $135 per person.
Children aged five and under can enter for free.
What’s included in the Express Pass
The Express Pass includes:
- Express skip-the-line ticket: This allows you to bypass all general admission lines.
- Access to the 86th Floor Observation Deck: Experience the iconic panoramic views from the Main Deck.
- Access to the 102nd Floor Observation Deck (depending on the option selected): Venture up to the Top Deck for an even higher perspective.
- Access to interactive, immersive galleries: Explore exhibits about the building’s history and construction. However, please note that with the Express Pass to both the 86th and 102nd floors, you will skip these exhibits on the way up and will need to revisit them on your way down.
- Access to a 2-story architectural model of the building: Admire a detailed model of this architectural marvel.
- Entry to the Art Deco Lobby: Experience the grandeur of the building’s historic lobby.
- Downloadable multimedia app featuring an audio guide in 9 languages: Enhance your understanding with insightful information about the Empire State Building.
- Free WiFi in the building: Stay connected and share your experience online.
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 does the Express Pass work?
Step 1: Purchase your Express Pass in advance online through the official Empire State Building website or authorized ticket vendors.
Step 2: Arrive at the designated Express Pass entrance located at 20 West 34th St., between 5th & 6th Avenues.
Step 3: Identify yourself as an Express Pass holder to the staff to ensure a smooth experience. Use the Express Entry with the ‘Red Carpet’ flooring located just before the Will Call Desk. Scan your barcoded Express tickets at the turnstile and proceed along the “Red Carpet.”
Step 4: Bypass the general security line and proceed through the dedicated Express Pass security check, similar to an expedited airport security process. Keep your barcoded tickets handy – you will need to scan them 4 times on your way to the top.
Step 5: Follow the “Red Carpet” flooring, which designates the Express Lanes for elevators.
Step 6: Enjoy priority boarding on the elevators and ascend to the observation decks with minimal wait times.
Is the Express Pass worth it?
Empire State Building’s Express Pass ticket is totally worth it if you are short on time, want a VIP experience, are visiting during the peak summer time, or are traveling with children and seniors.
Consider the Express Pass if:
- You value your time: Skipping the lines can save you hours, especially during peak times and seasons.
- You want a hassle-free, VIP experience: The Express Pass offers expedited service and minimal wait times.
- You are visiting during peak season or a busy time: The Express Pass guarantees access to the observation decks, eliminating the risk of sold-out time slots.
- You are traveling with children or seniors: The Express Pass minimizes waiting time and discomfort for everyone in your group.
The Express Pass might not be the best option if:
- You are on a tight budget: The Express Pass is significantly more expensive than the general admission ticket.
- You are interested in exploring the exhibits in detail: The Express Pass to the 86th and 102nd floors bypasses these exhibits on the way up.
Express Pass vs. General Admission
To help you make the best decision for your visit to the Empire State Building, let’s compare the Express Pass with the general admission ticket.
Cost of the tickets
The General Admission ticket is the most affordable option, starting at $49 for access to the 86th-floor Main Deck. For access to the 102nd floor as well, the price goes up to $87. Being a premium option, the Express Pass starts at $96 for access to the 86th floor and $135 for access to both the 86th and 102nd floors.
These prices are for non-peak hours. During sunset times, which are the peak hours of the day, both Standard and Express tickets cost slightly more.
Waiting times
With the general admission ticket, one can expect significant wait times, especially during peak seasons and hours. Average waiting times can range from 30-45 minutes with pre-purchased tickets to over an hour and a half if purchasing tickets on-site.
With the Empire State Building Express Pass, there is minimal to no wait times with expedited entry through a separate entrance and dedicated “Red Carpet” express lanes for elevators.
Access you get
When it comes to access to the observation decks, there is no difference between the two Empire State Building tickets.
Both the General Admission ticket and the Express Pass are available in two options – one providing access to only the 86th-floor Main Deck and the other granting entry to both the 86th and 102nd floors.
The experience you get
The General Admission ticket offers a standard experience with the potential for long waits in lines. In contrast, the Express Pass provides a VIP experience with priority access, expedited service, and minimal waiting, making for a seamless and enjoyable visit.
Visiting the Empire State Building comes with plenty of questions. Our detailed FAQs cover everything you need to know – from best visiting times to hidden tips – ensuring a smooth and memorable experience at this iconic landmark.
Conclusion: Is the Express Pass right for you?
Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Express Pass depends on your individual needs and preferences.
If you prioritize time, convenience, and a premium experience, the Express Pass is a worthwhile investment.
However, the general admission ticket remains a viable option if you’re on a budget or don’t mind waiting in lines.
