If you’re dreaming of seeing New York City’s skyline up close, a visit to the Empire State Building is often at the top of the list. A popular choice among travelers, this experience offers a chance to skip the long lines and head straight to the observation decks, where the views are nothing short of unforgettable. From the 86th Floor to the 102nd, you’ll get a panoramic perspective of the city that truly is iconic.

We love that this ticket offers a red carpet entry, making you feel a little like a celebrity for the day. Plus, with the option to upgrade to the 102nd Floor, the views become even more spectacular thanks to floor-to-ceiling glass windows. However, one thing to keep in mind is that it’s a fairly quick experience—just around 45 minutes—so if you’re looking for a deeper or longer exploration, this might not be the ticket for you. Still, it’s perfect for those who want a convenient, efficient visit to one of NYC’s most photographed landmarks.

This tour suits a broad range of travelers: families, couples, friends, or solo visitors who value time-saving options and stunning cityscape views. If you’re short on time but want to make the most of your visit, this is a solid choice. Just be aware that during busy periods, the skip-the-line feature really helps keep things moving smoothly.

Key Points

Skip the lines and enjoy priority access to the Empire State Building’s observation decks.
Experience 360° views of NYC from the 86th Floor, with an upgrade option to reach the 102nd Floor.
Family-friendly attraction loved by visitors of all ages, with accessible facilities.
Includes immersive exhibits about the building’s history and pop culture moments.
Quick 45-minute experience perfect for those with busy schedules.
Highly rated with a 4.6/5 across 360 reviews.

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The Insider Look at the Empire State Building Express Tickets

If you’re planning a trip to New York City, chances are you’ve come across the Empire State Building. It’s one of those must-see sights, not only for the views but for its place in pop culture—think King Kong or classic movies. The Express Tickets aim to make your visit smoother by bypassing long queues that can sometimes take hours during peak times.

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What’s Included and What You Can Expect

Your ticket grants you priority access via a special entrance at 20 West 34th Street, just between 5th and 6th Avenues. As you arrive, you’ll notice the “Red Carpet” flooring, which signals the start of your VIP experience. From there, you’ll scan your barcoded tickets at the turnstile and walk along the red carpet, which is a fun touch that makes the whole process feel more special.

Once inside, there’s no need to wait in the usual crowds. You’ll walk past the security check, which is similar to airport security—so no large bags or glass items, please. The staff here are generally helpful and professional, according to reviews, and the process is streamlined to get you up to the observation decks quickly.

Your tickets include access to the 86th Floor Observation Deck, which offers stunning panoramic views that stretch from Central Park to the Statue of Liberty. Many visitors have commented on how breathtaking these views are, whether they visit during the day or night. For a small extra fee, you can upgrade to the 102nd Floor, which has floor-to-ceiling windows and provides the highest vantage point in Manhattan, offering views of up to six states.

The Exhibits and the Experience

Before heading up, visitors can explore engaging exhibits about the building’s history, its construction, and pop culture moments. There’s also a two-story architectural model that showcases the building’s design, which is a hit with both history buffs and kids.

The downloadable multimedia app with an audio guide in nine languages adds value, providing context and fun facts that enrich the experience. Plus, free WiFi and a state-of-the-art air purification system ensure comfort and safety throughout your visit.

Authentic Feedback From Visitors

Many reviewers emphasize how organized and smooth the process was. For example, Andrew from the UK mentioned, “The general organisation inside the building was run very professionally. Glad I skipped the queues as it was very busy and we skipped right past it all.” Several praised the efficiency and helpfulness of staff.

The stunning view panoramas are consistently highlighted. Tracy from Australia calls it a “great experience heading to the top of an iconic building,” noting that the view is “pretty spectacular.” Others appreciated the convenience of the skip-the-line feature, especially during busy times, with Melanie from the UK sharing that the skip-line “gave us a lot of time to take in the stunning views.”

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The Cost and Its Value

At $93 per person, this experience isn’t cheap—yet many see it as worth the price given the convenience and the views. Some reviews note that the experience is costly but well worth it, especially for those wanting to maximize their sightseeing time without the hassle of long queues. The extra fee for the 102nd Floor is justified by the unparalleled views and the unique experience of being so high up with floor-to-ceiling windows.

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Accessibility and Practicalities

The Empire State Building is fully ADA compliant and wheelchair-accessible. Visitors with mobility needs can comfortably enjoy the views without concern. The security process is straightforward, and the building’s facilities are equipped to accommodate service animals and wheelchairs.

For families or visitors with small children, the experience is generally suitable. Children under 6 can enter for free, and many reviews mention that the attraction is family-friendly with engaging exhibits and manageable crowd levels.

How It Compares to Other Options

While there are many ways to see NYC from above, the skip-the-line tickets offer a clear advantage during busy seasons. Waiting in hours-long lines can detract from the overall experience, especially if your time is limited. The priority access combined with the immersive exhibits makes this a well-rounded option.

However, since some reviews note it might not be necessary to buy the skip-the-line tickets if you visit during quieter times, you might find that on certain days, the lines are manageable. Still, most visitors agree that paying the extra for the express entry saves time and stress—particularly during peak periods.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

If you’re eager to see NYC’s skyline in all its glory and want to skip the hassle of long queues, this ticket offers a convenient, efficient way to do so. The views from the 86th and 102nd floors are genuinely spectacular and will likely be some of your most memorable moments in New York City. The included exhibits add a layer of context that enhances the visit, making it not just about the view but about the building’s place in history and culture.

While the price is on the higher side, many reviewers feel it’s justified by the overall experience and time saved. Especially if you are traveling with family or want a quick, smooth visit, this is a reliable choice. On the other hand, if you’re budget-conscious or visiting during a less busy season, you might consider whether the lines are manageable without the skip-the-line option.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for visitors who value time efficiency and comfort. It’s ideal if you want to avoid long queues, enjoy a curated experience with engaging exhibits, and access the highest observation deck in Manhattan. If you’re traveling with family, the interactive elements and quick access make it a good, manageable activity. Conversely, if you have a flexible schedule and don’t mind waiting, you might save a few dollars by buying regular tickets.

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NYC: Empire State Building Express Tickets Skip the Line

4.6

(360)

FAQs

Do I need to arrive early?
It’s recommended to visit about two hours after opening to avoid larger crowds, but the express tickets are designed to keep wait times minimal regardless of when you arrive.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Empire State Building is fully ADA compliant, and wheelchair users can enjoy the observation decks comfortably.

Can I visit the 102nd Floor with this ticket?
Yes, if you select the upgraded option, you’ll have access to the 102nd Floor with its floor-to-ceiling windows and top-tier views.

How long does the visit last?
Typically, it takes around 45 minutes, making it suitable for those with tight schedules but still wanting a quality experience.

What should I bring?
Just your tickets, ID, and a camera. Security is similar to airport security, so avoid large bags or glass items.

Is it better to buy tickets in advance?
Yes, especially if you want to skip the lines and ensure availability during busy times. The booking fees and sales tax are included in the price.

If you’re after a slick, efficient way to enjoy the Empire State Building’s iconic views, this skip-the-line ticket is a solid pick. It balances convenience, quality, and a touch of luxury, making your NYC visit feel a little more special without the hassle of long waits. Just plan ahead, arrive prepared, and get ready to take in some of the most stunning cityscapes the world has to offer.