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Empire State Building Ticket: 86th Floor Observation Deck

Empire State Building
4.8
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AI Customer Review Summary

Based on 30 reviews

The Empire State Building delivers a memorable observation deck experience that resonates strongly with first-time visitors and returning guests alike. The 86th floor viewing area draws consistent praise for panoramic city views, especially at sunset and night, with visitors describing the scenery as breathtaking and the atmosphere as romantic or awe-inspiring. The museum exhibits on the way up add historical context and interactive elements that enhance the journey. Staff members are frequently noted as kind, helpful, and patient, with at least one visitor specifically praising an employee named Sharon B for her attentiveness with photos. Groupon tickets offer genuine convenience and affordability, making the experience accessible to budget-conscious visitors. Though the regular admission price strikes some as steep, those who visit report the experience justifies the cost. A few operational friction points exist: GPS directions sometimes route visitors to the wrong entrance, and one guest encountered trouble redeeming a Groupon voucher at entry. The 102nd floor upgrade carries a significant surcharge that deters some visitors.
Panoramic city viewsMuseum exhibitsObservation deck experienceGroupon ticket convenienceStaff service qualityEntrance navigation difficultyPhoto opportunitiesPricing and value

Access to three floors including the 86th-floor heated outdoor deck.

Empire State Building Ticket Includes

  • 86th Floor Observatory Discount Ticket — 360° views with a heated outdoor deck
  • Multilingual Audio & Signage — Available in 9 languages
  • Upgrade Available — Add access to the 102nd Floor Observatory for a higher perspective (available onsite).

The Empire State Building is the #1 Attraction in the World in Tripadvisor's 2024 Travelers' Choice Awards: Best of the Best and #1 in the US for the 3rd consecutive year. Your ticket includes access to three floors of food, coffee, shopping, and workshops.

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Rising 1,454 feet (443 meters) to its antenna, the Empire State Building is more than a skyline icon—it's a world-famous experience! The building is the 4th tallest in NYC and among the most iconic structures in the world. With 103 floors and 73 elevators, it welcomes over 2.5 million visitors annually. A global landmark and the most photographed building according to a Cornell study, its antenna is struck by lightning 25 times a year, creating dazzling displays. On clear days, visitors can see across six states, and beyond tourism, the building houses top companies like LinkedIn, Shutterstock, and JCDecaux North America, with its very own ZIP code: 10118.

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Plan Your Visit

Ticket Options

  • General Admission Ticket: access to the 86th Floor Observatory | Children, Adults, Seniors and Military
  • Upgrade Available: Add access to the 102nd Floor Observatory for an even higher perspective.

    • How To Get There

  • Location point Where is the Empire State Building located?
  • The Empire State Building is located on 20 West 34th Street, in the heart of Manhattan.

  • Subway How to get there by subway?
  • From 1, 2, 3 or A, C, E lines, exit the train at 34nd Street – Penn Station. From Penn Station, it's a five-minute walk to the building entrance.
  • From the N, Q, R, W or B, D, F, M lines, exit the train at 34th Street – Herald Square Station. From Herald Square, it's a five-minute walk to the building entrance.
  • From the 4, 5, 6 or 7 lines, exit the train at Grand Central Terminal. From Grand Central, it's a ten-minute walk to the building entrance. The 6 train also stops at 33rd Street and is a five-minute walk to building entrance.

    • FAQs
    Best Time to Visit

    For fewer crowds, plan your visit between 12 PM and 2 PM.


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    FAQs

    How long does a visit take?

    Most visitors spend 45–60 minutes.


    When should I arrive?

    At the exact time on your ticket. Arriving early? You may be asked to return at your scheduled time.


    Is it wheelchair accessible?

    Yes! The Empire State Building is fully ADA-compliant with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.


    Are there food & shopping options inside?

    Yes! Enjoy coffee shops, restaurants & retail stores on-site.


    What is the best time to visit?

    Avoid crowds by coming in between 12-2pm. Sunset hours are the most popular.


    Can I visit the Empire State Building at night?

    Yes, please have a look at the operating schedules as they vary by season.


    Is the observatory open in winter?

    Absolutely! The 86th-floor deck is heated, and indoor exhibits keep you warm and comfortable year-round.

    How It Works

    • Green Check
      Book your discounted ticket online upon purchase.
    • Green Check
      Show your voucher and enjoy NYC's best views!

    Need To Know Info

    Promotional value expires Dec 31, 2026.

    Booking & Redemption:
  • This is a ticket and only valid for date and time chosen at checkout.
  • Military ticket purchases require valid documentation at time of redemption.
    • Inclusions & Exclusions:
  • NY sales tax due at checkout.

    • Merchant is solely responsible to purchasers for the care and quality of the advertised goods and services. Offer is not eligible for our promo codes or other discounts. Learn about Strike-Through Pricing and Savings

    About Empire State Building

    Customer Reviews

    4.8
    based on Groupon 2,187 reviews
    100% Verified Reviews
    All Groupon reviews are from people who have redeemed deals with this merchant. Review requests are sent by email to customers who purchased the deal.
    Reviewed on
    Sherrelle
    4 ratings|2 reviews
    We had a awesome time. I didn’t expect to be so informative and interactive. Definitely worth the experience.
    Lori
    Top Reviewer
    8 ratings|8 reviews
    It's like stepping back in time with elevator attendants
    Trim
    Top Reviewer
    11 ratings|7 reviews
    I can’t describe the feeling🥰, highly recommended to go visit.
    Julie
    4 ratings|2 reviews
    We got to spend as much time as we liked enjoying the exhibits on the way to the elevators. The views were amazing even with the yucky weather.
    Ida
    Helpful Reviewer
    4 ratings|4 reviews
    Beautiful panoramic views of the city. Sunset was beautiful along with night time view. Interesting museum and a musician was playing to add to the upbeat atmosphere. We loved the view and resulting picitures. Expensive, but worth it for a first time visitor.

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