How to Get Empire State Building Tickets & Skip-the-Line in New York City

New York City is full of iconic landmarks that evoke the energy and spirit of the Big Apple, and the Empire State Building is one of the most iconic. One of the best ways to see the city from an incredible height and take in the spectacular views from the observatory decks is to head to the Empire State Building.

But what do you need to know if you want to get tickets and skip the lines to enter the Empire State Building? That’s exactly what this guide will help you out with. Read on for more details.

Step One: Check When the Empire State Building is Open

The first step is to check when the empire state building is open. Generally, the opening hours of the Empire State Building are 8am – 2am (last entry at 1:15am), but you should double check before you plan your visit in case there have been any changes.

Step Two: Buy Your Tickets

Once you’ve checked the opening times, it’s time to buy your tickets! I personally recommend buying tickets online for a few reasons. Firstly, it saves you time queueing on the day of your visit and secondly, there’s often special offers for online booking.

So, when it comes to getting your tickets online, you can book “skip the line” tickets through GetYourGuide which gives you an “express entrance’ ticket and ensures no waiting in line. Tickets bought on site will still give you entry to the observatory but may mean some queuing.

Step Three: Enjoy Your Visit!

Once you have your ticket and have entered the Empire State Building, you’ll be able to explore the two observation decks (the Main Observatory at 86th floor or the open-air 86th Floor Observatory). Both are incredible and offer stunning views over New York City.

Finishing Thoughts

Visiting the Empire State Building is a truly exhilarating experience and with GetYourGuide, you can do so with ease. You can avoid hefty queues and experience one of New York City’s most iconic attractions in style.

So, make sure you book your tickets through GetYourGuide today!

Insider’s Guide to New York City

New York City can be an overwhelming place for first-time visitors. The city is famously known as the ‘City That Never Sleeps’ and is home to endless possibilities and attractions. However, with careful planning and guidance, your trip to New York City can be an enjoyable and memorable experience. Below is an insider’s guide to New York City, including local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

When visiting New York City, you simply cannot miss the Empire State Building. This iconic landmark is 102 stories tall and is located in Midtown Manhattan. Visitors can buy tickets to the observatory deck and take in the panoramic views of the city. To avoid lines, you can purchase an Empire State Building Skip-the-Line ticket online. Other popular attractions include the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Times Square, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Dining Spots

New York City is a melting pot of cultures, and this is evident in its diverse food scene. From hot dogs to gourmet restaurants, the city has something to offer for every food lover. For classic New York pizza, visit Lombardi’s or Patsy’s Pizzeria. For a fine dining experience, book a table at Jean-Georges or Eleven Madison Park. If you’re looking for something casual, try Shake Shack or Halal Guys.

Cultural Experiences

New York City is home to some of the world’s most significant cultural institutions. The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art are must-visit institutions for art lovers. If you’re interested in history, visit the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration or the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. If you’re into theater, catch a Broadway show, or visit the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.

Local History

New York City has a rich history, and visitors can learn more by exploring its landmarks. Visit the National September 11 Memorial & Museum to pay tribute to victims of the 9/11 tragedy. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge and discover how it helped shape the city’s history. Take a walking tour of the Lower East Side to learn about the city’s immigrant history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to discover New York City’s hidden gems, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Head to the High Line, a unique public park built on a former elevated train track. Visit the Tenement Museum to learn about the city’s immigrant history. Take a walking tour of Greenwich Village’s street art, or explore the city’s street food scene with a food cart tour.

In conclusion, New York City is a vibrant city full of endless possibilities. With careful planning and the right guidance, you can experience the best that the city has to offer. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, New York City is truly a destination that deserves a spot on any traveler’s bucket list.