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Visiting the Empire State Building? Get Discount Deals and All the Facts First
When the Empire State Building was first constructed, it was known as the largest skyscraper in the world. Interestingly, its creation was actually the result of a competition between the heads of the Chrysler Corporation and General Motors, to see who could build the tallest building. The head of General Motors, Mr. Raskob, attracted a large group of investors, from a company called Empire State, Inc.
The Empire State building, a testament to the art deco style, took just 1 year and 45 days to complete. It is 1,454 feet
tall, with 102 floors and 6,500 windows.
It was officially opened on May 1, 1931. Although there are taller buildings in existence now, the Empire State Building continues to be recognized throughout the world as a symbol of New York City. Interestingly, it is built on the site of the former Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. It has been featured in more than 90 movies!
Ascend to the 86th and 102 floor observatories, where the panoramic views are truly breathtaking! Ah, New York, New York!!! My son still talks of our visit to this landmark. Of course, we HAD to buy a tiny replica of the building in the gift shop!
HOW TO GET TO THE EMPIRE STATE BUILDING
The Empire State Building is located at:
350 Fifth Avenue, Between West 33rd and West 34 Streets
By Subway:
Take the 1, 2, or 3 OR A, C or E to 34th Street/Penn Station. You can also take the B, D, F, N, Q, R or Path Train to 34th Street/Avenue of the Americas.
For information on subway fares, metrocards and more Click here!
By Bus:
From Northern Manhattan/Upper East Side: M4
From Upper West Side/Harlem: M10 South
From Downtown/West Side: M10-north
From other Manhattan locations: any north-south bus to 34th Street and transfer to M34 or M16. Disembark at Seventh Avenue. Use this bus map to help!
You can purchase tickets for the observation deck only, or
purchase a package deal that includes the Skyride and the observation deck.
I definitely recommend the Skyride! What is it? It's an audio-visual, aerial tour of New York City experienced through specially-equipped, motion-simulated, seats and large screen. It's a 3-dimensional virtual experience that you won't soon forget. You'll also get an education and historical overview of the big apple. Everyone will love it. It's my niece's favorite place to go!
Get There EARLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Observatory Tickets
Adults (13-61): $18.45
Student Discounts: available on-site only.
Children(6-12): $12.92
Senior (62+): $16.61
Military with ID: $16
Express Pass: $45.00. Want to get in and out in 20 minutes? In a rush? This might be a good investment for you. Skip the long lines (except the security line) with the Express Pass admission ticket.
Observatory AND Skyride Combo Package
Adults: $45.45
Children: $20.92
Senior: $37.61
MY SKYRIDE DISCOUNTS
The Entertainment Book offers a FREE children's ticket when accompanied by 1 adult.
To buy tickets in advance and on-line, Click here!
FASCINATING STORY ABOUT HOW IT WAS BUILT!
WHEN IS IT OPEN?
It's open daily, 365 days a year, from 8:00 am to 2:00 am. The last elevators go up at 1:15 am.
HAVE YOU HAD A COCKTAIL AT THE EMPIRE ROOM?
How about a cocktail? Welcome to The Empire Room, a massive, 1020s-inspired vintage cocktail lounge on the ground floor of the Empire State Building. Treat yourself to a drink and some fantastic snacks like Truffled Popcorn and Miniature Wellingtons!
This beauty is owned by the same man who built Grand Central's Campbell Apartment Bar. It's appointed in the art deco style with polished steel, crystal chandeliers, patterned carpets, and velvet chairs, to name a few.
The Empire Room is located in the Empire State Building at 350 Fifth Avenue (34th Street), 212-643-5400, and is open from 11:00 am to 3:00 am (one hour after the observation deck closes).
WHAT TO BRING
When you venture out for a day of sightseeing, be sure to pack the essentials. This will help to enhance your day! Be prepared by checking out my tips in the "what to place in your backpack" section of my packing list! You'll be glad you did!
TRAVELING WITH KIDS?
If you are traveling with children, check out my best tips for keeping crankiness to a minimum! I guarantee that there is AT LEAST one tip that will help you during your holiday. Click here and scroll down to the very bottom of the page.
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What Other Visitors Have Said
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Loved The Skyride!
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I took your advice and brought my two kids on the Skyride. We really did have a blast. It was like being on a ride! It was a good introduction to NYC ...
