Entrance of the Empire State Building
Knowing where and how to enter
Many visitors arrive at the Empire State Building and find themselves circling it, unsure where to go in.
With multiple doors, heavy foot traffic, and towering height, it’s easy to miss the actual entrance.
Knowing where and how to enter can save time and start your visit stress-free.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about the Empire State Building entrance, including directions, timings, entry steps, and accessibility.
Where is the main entrance?
The Empire State Building has one official entrance for observatory visitors between Fifth Avenue and Sixth Avenue, in Midtown Manhattan:
Address: 20 W 34th Street, New York, NY 10001. Get Directions.
This entrance is specifically for access to the observatory and exhibits.
This is the only entrance used for all ticket types, including General Admission, Express Pass, and guided tours.
The doors on 5th Avenue or 33rd Street are either for offices or staff, so don’t be misled.
The 34th Street entrance is marked with signs, canopies, and often has attendants and a roped queue system.
How to get to the entrance
Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building is easy to reach. But in a city as fast-paced as New York, a few missteps can delay your schedule.
Here’s how you can reach its entrance with ease:
By Subway
This is the easiest and most cost-effective method. Here are your closest stations:
| Subway Line | Station | Walking Time |
| B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W | 34th St – Herald Square | 4 minutes |
| 1, 2, 3 | 34th St – Penn Station | 6 minutes |
| 6 | 33rd Street | 5 minutes |
On Foot
If you’re staying in Midtown, walking is often quicker than any transport. Use your phone’s map, and always enter from West 34th Street.
By Taxi or Rideshare
Always tell the driver: “Empire State Building, Observatory entrance on 34th Street between 5th and 6th Avenue.”
Otherwise, they may drop you on the 5th Avenue side, which wastes time.
Entrance timings
The Empire State Building welcomes visitors every single day, rain or shine, holiday or not.
The Empire State Building is open daily from 9 am to 12 am, with the last elevator going up at 11.15 pm.
That gives you a full 15 hours to plan your visit.
Most tourists prefer the sunset hours, but early mornings or late evenings are also great options for avoiding crowds.
If you book a sunset slot, arrive 30 to 40 minutes early. It gets packed!
Entry process: Step-by-step guide
Once you arrive at the entrance, the rest of your journey follows a clear path. But it’s important to be prepared for each stage so you’re not caught off guard.
1. Ticket check
Right after entering, the staff will scan your ticket.
- Online tickets (QR code) can be shown on your phone or printed.
- If you haven’t booked yet, you’ll be directed to the ticket counter.
Tourist Tip
Book online in advance to save money and skip the ticket counter. Express Pass is totally worth it on weekends or holidays.
2. Security check: Prohibited items at the entrance
Think airport security, only slightly more relaxed. Bags are scanned, and you’ll walk through metal detectors.
❌ Prohibited Items
- Knives or sharp objects
- Alcohol or glass bottles
- Markers, spray paint
- Tripods or large camera gear
- Food (including snacks or gum)
- Large strollers or luggage
✔️ Allowed Items
- Compact cameras
- Small bags or purses
- Foldable umbrellas
- Plastic water bottles
There is no cloakroom, so items not allowed must be thrown away or taken back. Travel light to avoid delays.
3. Exhibit areas & elevator access
Once you’re past security, the fun begins. Visitors are guided through the second-floor interactive museum before reaching the elevators.
Key Highlights in the Exhibit Area:
- Construction Gallery: Learn how the Empire State Building was built in 410 days in the 1930s.
- Kong vs. NYC: Pose for photos while King Kong’s hands burst through the walls.
- Celebrity Walk: See photos of stars who’ve visited the building.
- Pop Culture Moments: Displays from movies, TV shows, and music videos featuring the building.
It’s okay to take photos in most areas, just no flash photography or video recording in certain exhibits.
After that, it’s time for the elevator ride.
Elevator Ride to 86th Floor
You’ll take a high-speed elevator that whisks you up in less than a minute. If you’ve bought the ticket to the 102nd floor, a second elevator ride awaits from the 86th.
The elevator ceiling has a digital video during your ride. Look up!
Accessibility features at the entrance
The Empire State Building’s main entrance is designed to be fully accessible for all visitors, including those using wheelchairs, strollers, or needing extra assistance.
As you approach, you’ll find a step-free ramp leading to wide, automatic glass doors that stay open long enough for easy entry, even for those with mobility aids or small children.
Trained staff can assist guests with mobility challenges or accessibility needs, and support is offered in multiple languages. They can also provide printed guides or verbal directions for visually or hearing-impaired visitors.
Priority entry may be granted during busy periods for guests using wheelchairs or mobility aids.
Lightweight, collapsible strollers are allowed and recommended due to limited space.
Service animals are welcome throughout the building, including all the way to the observatory areas.Tip: If you’re planning ahead, you can notify the Empire State Building via their official website to request specific accommodations. This can make your visit smoother, especially during high-traffic hours.
