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Empire State Building
Some places never lose their magic, and the Empire State Building is one of them. You can spot it from all over the city, but nothing beats the feeling of standing right underneath it, looking up. Regardless of whether it’s your first trip to New York or your tenth, this 102-story legend still deserves a spot on your list.
It’s been around since 1931, and while the skyline has definitely gotten busier, the Empire State Building continues to stand out, not just because of its height, but because it’s such a big part of the city’s story.
Where to Explore Inside the Empire State Building
Those Views You Came For
Let’s start with the main event: the views. The 86th-floor observatory is open-air, breezy, and packed with that “wow” factor. You’ll get a full 360-degree view of Manhattan, Central Park, the Hudson River, bridges, skyscrapers, and even the Statue of Liberty on a clear day. And if you’re lucky with the weather, you might be able to see parts of five other states, too.
Looking for something a little quieter (and higher)? Head up to the 102nd floor. This one’s enclosed, glass-walled, and gives you a slightly surreal, float-above-the-city feeling. It’s a little more intimate, and you’ll likely find fewer people up there.
The Lobby Sets the Tone
It’s tempting to rush to the top, but the Art Deco lobby is a destination on its own. Between the marble walls, gold details, and glowing ceiling mural, it’s like stepping back in time. Even the depiction of the building behind the front desk has a kind of quiet drama to it. If you love old New York, this is your moment.
Exhibits Worth Seeing
The exhibits at the Empire State Building walk you through its past and present, from 1930s construction scenes and opening day footage to modern green upgrades and pop culture moments (yes, King Kong makes an appearance). It’s a fun, quick way to get the full story before or after the views.
Things to Do Near the Empire State Building
Once you’ve taken in the view and soaked up the history, don’t head back to your hotel just yet, you’re in the middle of Midtown, surrounded by good food, great local finds, and plenty to explore.
Take a Walk to Koreatown
Step outside and take a short walk to Koreatown, one of the most flavorful and energetic neighborhoods in Manhattan. The entire stretch is just a block long, but it’s packed with Korean barbecue joints, bubble tea spots, late-night dessert cafés, and even karaoke lounges if you’re feeling bold. It’s open late, always buzzing, and perfect for a post-observatory bite.
Head to Herald Square & Macy’s
A few blocks south, you’ll find Herald Square, home to the original Macy’s, the largest department store in the U.S. It’s historic, it’s massive, and it gets decked out for the holidays in a way that feels pure NYC. If you’re shopping or just passing through, it’s worth a stop.
Check out the Fifth Avenue Shopping Scene
Head east and you’re on Fifth Avenue, where high-end fashion meets iconic New York retail. Window-shop or wander into big names like Saks, or check out the newer, more curated shops popping up in the area. Even if you’re not buying, it’s fun to browse.
Catch a Broadway Show
If you’ve timed things right, you’re only about a 15-minute walk from Times Square and the Theater District. That means you can grab an early dinner nearby and still make it to a Broadway show without rushing. And yes, spontaneous tickets are still possible, check TKTS or lottery apps if you're feeling lucky.
Quick Tips for Visiting
- Buy your tickets online to skip the lines, trust us on this.
- Go early in the morning for fewer crowds or around sunset for the best lighting.
- Bundle up in colder months; that 86th-floor wind is no joke.
- Stay nearby so you can visit early, then wander through the neighborhood without feeling rushed.
Why Stay at a Hotel Near the Empire State Building?
There’s a reason so many travelers look for a hotel near the Empire State Building; you’re right in the middle of everything. Walkable to Penn Station. Steps from great restaurants. Surrounded by landmarks. Whether you’re heading uptown for museums, downtown for history, or just out for the night, Midtown makes getting around easy. Plus, there’s something about waking up, looking out your hotel window, and seeing the Empire State Building right there. It feels a little surreal, like you're part of the city now, not just visiting it.
It’s also a great area for first-timers. You’re central, connected, and close to big-ticket sights without needing to hop in a cab every time you head out. And at night? When the building lights up against the skyline, it’s just one of those “this is why I came to New York” moments.
Even with all the shiny new skyscrapers in town, the Empire State Building still holds its own. It’s iconic, but not in a stuffy way, more like a friendly giant keeping watch over the city. And seeing it up close, inside and out, is one of those New York experiences that actually lives up to the hype.
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