Empire State Building: The Iconic Landmark of New York City

Introduction

The Empire State Building, located in Midtown Manhattan, New York City, is one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in the world. Standing tall at 1,454 feet (including its antenna), it was once the tallest building on Earth and remains a global symbol of architectural brilliance and American ambition. From its Art Deco design to breathtaking observation decks, the Empire State Building is not just an office tower—it’s a world-class tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors every year.

History of the Empire State Building

The construction of the Empire State Building began in 1930 and was completed in just 410 days, an extraordinary feat at the time. Officially opened on May 1, 1931, the building quickly became a symbol of New York’s resilience during the Great Depression.

Key historical facts:

Designed by Shreve, Lamb & Harmon in the Art Deco style.
Cost approximately $40 million to complete (around $600 million today).
Held the title of world’s tallest building from 1931 until 1970, when the World Trade Center was built.

Its rich history, combined with cultural significance in movies, art, and literature, has cemented its status as an American icon.

Architectural Significance

The Empire State Building is a masterpiece of Art Deco architecture, one of the most celebrated styles of the early 20th century.

Key Features:

Height: 1,250 feet (381 m) to the roof; 1,454 feet (443 m) including antenna.
Floors: 102 stories.
Materials: Indiana limestone, granite, steel, and aluminum.
Design Style: Streamlined Art Deco, characterized by clean lines and geometric shapes.

Its lighting system is another highlight. Today, the LED tower lights change colors to celebrate holidays, cultural events, and global causes, making it a living part of the New York skyline.

Empire State Building Observation Decks

One of the biggest attractions of the Empire State Building is its observation decks, offering unmatched 360-degree views of New York City.

Main Deck (86th Floor)
- Open-air observation deck.
- Panoramic views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and New Jersey.
- Accessible both day and night.
Top Deck (102nd Floor)
- Enclosed observation deck.
- Offers an even higher perspective, perfect for photographers and skyline enthusiasts.

Both decks are open year-round and attract millions of tourists, making the building one of the most visited paid attractions in the United States.

Things to Do at the Empire State Building

Exhibitions & Museum: Learn about the history, construction, and cultural significance of the building at the visitor center.
Skyride & Interactive Displays: Experience virtual simulations of New York from above.
Dining & Shopping: Visit restaurants and shops located in and around the building.
Special Events: Attend seasonal events such as Valentine’s Day, when couples can get engaged on the observation deck.

Best Time to Visit

The Empire State Building is open daily from 8 AM to 2 AM, with the last elevator going up at 1:15 AM.

Daytime: Clear views of Manhattan landmarks such as Central Park, Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn Bridge.
Sunset: The most popular time, offering golden-hour views and magical skyline colors.
Nighttime: The city lights make for a sparkling, unforgettable experience.

Location and How to Get There

The Empire State Building is located at:

Address: 350 5th Ave, New York, NY 10118, USA

Transportation Options:

By Subway: Nearest stations are 34th Street–Penn Station and 34th Street–Herald Square.
By Bus: Several bus lines stop near 34th Street.
On Foot: Located in Midtown Manhattan, the building is within walking distance of Times Square, Bryant Park, and Madison Square Garden.

Tickets and Entry Information

Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the building. Prices vary based on the observation deck experience.

86th Floor Main Deck: Standard ticket.
102nd Floor Top Deck: Premium ticket with higher views.
Express Pass: Skip the lines for faster entry.

Pro tip: Buy tickets online in advance to save time and avoid long queues.

Fun Facts About the Empire State Building

It was featured in over 250 movies, most famously in King Kong (1933).
On a clear day, visitors can see up to 80 miles away, covering five U.S. states.
The building has its own ZIP code: 10118.
The Empire State Building Run-Up is an annual race where participants sprint up all 1,576 steps.

Nearby Attractions

When visiting the Empire State Building, travelers can also explore nearby attractions in Midtown Manhattan:

Times Square – Just a 10-minute walk away.
Bryant Park – A relaxing green space with cafes.
Madison Square Garden – Iconic sports and concert venue.
Macy’s Herald Square – One of the largest department stores in the world.