Empire State Building

Located in Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building is the most recognizable feature of Manhattan’s skyline.  Construction began on St. Patrick’s Day 1930 and remarkably the building was completed just one year and forty five days later, opening on May 1, 1931.  The height to the top of the spire is 443.2m while the roof tops out at 381m.  The Empire State Building was the tallest structure in the world upon its completion, and remained the tallest skyscraper until the World Trade Center were built.  Its 102 floors are still fifth most in the world.

It takes 1,860 steps to get to the top of the Empire State Building.  The annual Empire State Run-Up is a race to the 86th floor observation deck.  In 2003, Paul Creke managed to complete the climb in 9:33.  There are 73 elevators and it takes less than one minute to get to the 86th floor.  Around 21,000 people work in the Empire State Building every day, second only to the Pentagon.  Originally the top of the building was meant to be a dirigible station, but the winds made it too dangerous.

While it can be a bit pricey, a trip to the observation deck offers unbeatable views of New York City.  There are observation decks on the 86th and 102nd levels.

Address: 350 Fifth Avenue at East 34th Street
Telephone: (212) 736 3100.
Website: www.esbnyc.com and www.skyride.com
Hours: Daily 08:00-02:00
Admissions (86th Floor only):
$21.00 Adult
$19.00 Senior (62+)
$15.00 Children (6-12)
Admissions (86th & 102nd Floors):
$36.00 Adult
$34.00 Senior
$30.00 Child