The centrepiece of the New York skyline since 1931, the Empire State Building is one of America's most visited landmarks. A cultural icon that's famous the world over, it was the world's tallest building for almost 40 years. There are two observation decks for 360-degree views over the city along with two exhibits on the history and sustainability of the building.
Rising 443 metres, the Empire State Building is the second tallest building in New York. The 86th floor Main Deck Observatory has both an indoor and outdoor promenade, while the 102nd Top Deck Observatory is the highest point that can be visited and requires an additional Top Deck ticket. Narrating the story of the building's construction, the Dare to Dream Exhibit is located on the 80th floor. An art deco lobby welcomes visitors while the sustainability exhibit is on the second floor.An extremely popular attraction, the Empire State Building is especially busy just before sunset when many people queue to see the city lights turn on from the observation deck. Only 100 daily tickets are available for those wishing to see the sunrise from the 102nd-floor observatory before the building has opened for the day. Also bear in mind that the 102nd floor is closed when the crowds are too big, which is common at sunset during the summer months.
Rising high above the city, the Empire State Building acts as a compass point for visitors. It's very difficult to miss, located on Fifth Avenue and 34th Street, with the closest subway stations being 33rd Street or 34th Street-Herald Square.
Most of the world had their first experience with the Empire State Building through the big screen. It has appeared in almost 100 films, the most famous being the 1933 King Kong, where the giant ape climbed the first building ever to have more than 100 storeys.