86th Floor Observation Deck

Overview

Perched 1,050 feet (320 meters) above the bustling streets of Midtown Manhattan, the 86th Floor Observation Deck of the Empire State Building offers a quintessential New York City experience. This iconic deck provides breathtaking, unobstructed 360-degree views of the sprawling metropolis and beyond. From this vantage point, visitors can marvel at landmarks like Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, and the Hudson and East Rivers. The observation deck features both a glass-enclosed area, which is comfortably heated in winter and cooled in summer, and expansive outdoor promenades on all four sides of the building. On exceptionally clear days, the panoramic vista can extend to include parts of up to six states: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Delaware. It is also fully handicap accessible, ensuring that nearly everyone can enjoy this memorable experience.

History & Cultural Background

The Empire State Building itself is a monument to American ambition and perseverance, famously erected during the Great Depression in an astonishingly swift 410 days, opening on May 1, 1931. The 86th Floor Observation Deck, along with the 102nd Floor, has been an integral part of the building since its inauguration. During the economic hardships of the 1930s, when much of the building's office space remained unrented, revenue generated from observatory ticket sales proved crucial to its financial survival. Designed in the distinctive Art Deco style, the building was initially envisioned with a mooring mast atop its spire for airships, though this concept proved impractical due to high winds and other factors. The building's stature as a global icon was cemented early in its history with its starring role in the 1933 film 'King Kong,' forever linking it with cinematic legend.

What Makes It Special

The 86th Floor Observation Deck stands out as the world's most famous open-air observatory, offering an unparalleled sensory experience of New York City. Unlike fully enclosed decks, it provides visitors with the unique sensation of being truly immersed in the city's atmosphere, high above the streets. The deck's design allows for true 360-degree views, facilitating spectacular photography and unforgettable moments. To enhance the experience, free high-powered binoculars are available on the promenades, allowing for closer inspection of distant landmarks. For those visiting during colder months, outdoor heaters are strategically placed to ensure comfort. The deck's prominence in countless films and television shows has made it an iconic and 'can't-miss' New York City destination, consistently ranked as a top attraction.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The construction of the Empire State Building was a testament to human ingenuity. Completed in just over a year, it employed thousands of workers daily. Iconic photographer Lewis Hine documented this monumental effort, capturing poignant 'work portraits' of the ironworkers from a specially designed basket suspended 1,000 feet above Fifth Avenue. The building's nickname, the 'Empty State Building,' during its early years, highlights the vital role the observation decks played in generating revenue when office leases lagged due to the Depression. Beyond its architectural prowess, the Empire State Building has been a canvas for numerous human stories, from hosting countless marriage proposals with special packages available for romantic moments on the deck, to being recognized by the American Society of Civil Engineers in 1955 as one of the 'Seven Wonders of the Modern World.'

Visitor Perspective

A visit to the 86th Floor Observation Deck typically lasts at least one hour, though there is no time limit once you arrive, allowing guests to explore at their own pace. The journey to the deck includes access to engaging exhibits on the 2nd and 80th floors. These immersive galleries trace the building's remarkable history, its construction, and its cultural impact, preparing visitors for the grand views awaiting them. The 80th floor, in particular, offers interactive displays and clearly labeled views to help pinpoint iconic sights from above. The Empire State Building is open 365 days a year, with hours varying seasonally to optimize the visitor experience. To ensure a smooth visit, timed reservations are required. For those seeking to avoid the busiest crowds, midday (between 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm) or late evenings (after 9:00 pm) are often recommended, as sunset hours tend to be the most popular. Visitors should also be prepared for airport-style security screenings upon entry. While cameras are welcome, tripods, glass containers, and bottles are not permitted on the observatory.