During the peak tourist season from 17 May to 18 July, the Empire State Building opens at 9 am and closes at midnight, while between July 19 and August 25, it stays open even later until 1 am.
As the summer winds down, operating hours gradually shorten. From August 26 to September 2, the observation deck remains open from 9 am until just before midnight, and throughout September, closing times shift to 11 pm.
The last elevator always ascends 45 minutes before closing time.
| Period | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Jan 1 – Feb 13 | 10 am – 9 pm |
| Feb 14 – Mar 7 | 10 am – 10 pm |
| Mar 8 – Mar 31 | 10 am – 11 pm |
| Apr 1 – Apr 7 | 9 am – 12 am |
| Apr 8 – May 16 | 10 am – 11.30 pm |
| May 17 – July 18 | 9 am – 12 am |
| July 19 – Aug 25 | 9 am – 1 am |
| Aug 26 – Sep 2 | 9 am – 12 am |
| Sep 3 – Sep 30 | 10 am – 11 pm |
| Nov 1 – Dec 31 | 10 am – 10 pm |
The Empire State Building is renowned for its accessibility, welcoming visitors 365 days a year, including holidays.
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The best time to visit
If you want to avoid the crowd, the best time to visit the Empire State Building is as soon as it opens at 10 am. By 11 am, the lines start getting longer.
If you can’t make it in the morning, the next best time is 3 pm to 5 pm before the crowd gathers to see the sunset views.
If you want the best views of New York’s skyline, sunset is the best time to be on the Empire State Building’s observation deck.
Romantic couples prefer to visit the decks around 10 pm after the crowd has left.
Enhance your Ebs experience
How long does it take?
Most visitors spend around 60 to 90 minutes at the 86th-floor observatory of the Empire State Building.
If you include the exhibits and the museum on the 2nd floor, you should allow at least two hours.
Purchasing an Express Pass can significantly reduce wait times for security and elevators, maximizing your time to enjoy the views.
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.
Timing for sunset visits
Sunset is undeniably a peak time at the Empire State Building, attracting large crowds eager to witness the sky’s transformation as the sun dips below the horizon.
To ensure you don’t miss this spectacle, meticulous planning is essential.
Consult sunset times: Check reliable sources for accurate sunset times on the day of your visit.
Express pass recommended: Given the crowds, an Express Pass is highly recommended for sunset visits, ensuring a smooth and efficient entry. This premium option will save you valuable time, allowing you to focus on capturing the perfect sunset views. Using the Express Pass, you can skip all lines, including security.
Consider an earlier time slot: If you’re on a budget and don’t want to purchase a dedicated sunset ticket, consider buying a general admission ticket for an earlier time slot and staying until sunset. This strategy allows you to enjoy the observatory during less crowded hours and witness the sunset without incurring the extra cost.
Timing for night visits
We highly recommend a nighttime visit to the Empire State Building for a different perspective on the city that never sleeps.
After 10 pm, the crowds typically thin out, and the city lights create a captivating display against the dark canvas of the night sky.
The twinkling cityscape provides a romantic backdrop, making it an ideal spot for couples seeking a memorable evening experience.
During the peak summer season, the Empire State Building is open until 1 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy other activities during the day and leave this breathtaking experience for the end of your day.
