View from the Empire State Building

Every tourist dreams of standing atop the Empire State Building, but is the view really as magical as they say? 

Yes, but only if you time your visit right. 

From picking the best floor to knowing how far you can actually see, your experience depends on a few smart choices. 

Here’s your complete guide to enjoying the most memorable view from the Empire State Building.

Do you need a ticket for the views?

Yes, you’ll need a ticket to access any of the Empire State Building’s observation decks. 

While entry to the building’s lobby is free and beautiful to see, the real magic happens at the top, and that requires a paid ticket.

There are different ticket types based on how high you want to go and how much time or crowd you want to deal with. 

The 86th Floor Observation Deck is open-air and iconic, while the 102nd Floor Deck is enclosed in glass and offers a quieter, higher vantage point.

If you’re visiting during peak hours or with limited time, the Express Pass can save you from frustratingly long queues. Weekends, holidays, and sunset slots often sell out, so pre-booking online is highly recommended.

What can you see from the Empire State Building?

Once you’re up there, the views are unforgettable. 

From either observation deck, you’ll get a 360-degree panorama of one of the most iconic skylines in the world. 

On a clear day, visibility can reach up to 80 miles, offering not just a sweeping look at New York City but distant horizons you may not expect.

• To the south, you’ll see Lower Manhattan’s skyline, including One World Trade Center and the Statue of Liberty standing proudly in the harbor. 
• To the north, the orderly green stretch of Central Park cuts through Midtown’s buildings like a calm among chaos. 
• On the east, you can spot the East River, Queens, and even JFK Airport.
• Look west, and you’ll see the Hudson River flowing toward New Jersey, with the hills of Pennsylvania far beyond on especially clear days.

There’s a certain thrill in watching life below shrink into miniature. The cars become dots, the pedestrians invisible, and the boats on the rivers leave gentle wakes behind them, like brushstrokes on a living canvas.

Can you see Five States from the Empire State Building?

It might sound like a tourist myth, but yes, on the clearest of days, you really can see five states from the Empire State Building:

• New York – Of course, you’re already in it. You’ll see all five boroughs from this height.
• New Jersey – Right across the Hudson River to the west, very easy to spot.
• Connecticut – Northeast of the Bronx and visible beyond the East River.
• Pennsylvania – Its mountains and hills can appear far on the western horizon.
• Massachusetts – Extremely rare, but possible on perfect visibility days in winter.

No, you won’t see state lines or billboards declaring you’re looking at Pennsylvania, but using the on-site telescopes or an augmented reality app can help identify key landmarks. It’s a fun trivia fact to share, and a real “wow” moment when you realize how far you’re seeing.

Which observation deck offers the best view?

This is a question many visitors ask, and the answer depends on what you’re looking for: open-air excitement or higher elevation comfort.

The 86th Floor Observation Deck is the most popular. It’s open-air, providing a more immersive experience! 

You’ll feel the breeze, hear the hum of the city below, and get better angles for photography without glass in the way. This is the classic deck featured in movies like King Kong and Sleepless in Seattle.

The 102nd Floor, on the other hand, is fully enclosed with floor-to-ceiling glass. It sits higher up at 1,250 feet and feels more exclusive and peaceful. It’s ideal if you’re visiting in winter or prefer a quieter space with fewer people around.

For many tourists, the 86th Floor is the better value. 

But if you’re visiting during extreme weather or want to “go all the way,” the 102nd Floor upgrade adds an extra layer of thrill.

When does one get the best views from the deck?

The best views from the Empire State Building depend on both timing and season. Mornings (8–11 am) offer clear skies and fewer crowds—perfect for sharp photos. Sunset (6–8 pm) delivers the most stunning views as the city shifts from golden hour to glittering night, though it’s also the busiest. Late nights after 9 pm are quieter and ideal for a romantic skyline experience.

Season matters too. Spring and fall provide pleasant weather and great visibility. Summer brings long days but also heat haze and heavy crowds. Winter often has the clearest skies, though it can be chilly on the open-air deck.

For the best experience, visit Tuesday to Thursday during spring or fall, either early in the morning or just before sunset. Book tickets in advance if you’re planning for peak hours.

Tips for Empire State Building Views

To make the most of your experience, here are some essential, practical tips tourists often overlook:

• Check the weather before booking. Cloudy skies mean no long-distance views. Sites like AccuWeather or Clear Outside can help.
• Bring a light jacket, even in summer. It’s surprisingly windy on the 86th floor.
• Skip the lines by booking tickets in advance. Express Entry is a game-changer if you hate waiting.
• Use the free Empire State Building app. It includes an audio guide and AR features that identify distant landmarks for you.
• Photography matters! If you’re serious about photography, consider visiting in the morning or during golden hour, when the lighting is at its best.
• Travel light: Bulky backpacks or strollers can slow you down and aren’t ideal on narrow decks.
• Arrive early for sunset. If that’s your goal, try to arrive 60–90 minutes before sunset. You’ll catch the golden hour and the sparkle of city lights.

Don’t rush! The view changes dramatically depending on time, light, and weather. Spend at least 30–60 minutes on deck; it’s not something to race through.