Tickets for the 102nd Floor of the Empire State Building
The 102nd floor of the Empire State Building houses an impressive observatory. Note that you need a separate ticket to access the 102nd floor.
Book Entry to the Empire State Building - 86th and 102nd floors
Official PartnerWhat you need to know about the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building
- The Empire State Building is more than just New York’s most iconic skyscraper. This famous building also houses an observation deck worth visiting during your time in New York. The Empire State Building’s observation deck has two levels: the main deck on the 86th floor and a smaller deck on the 102nd floor.
- The 102nd floor sits like a small capsule attached to the building’s spire. This space underwent a complete renovation in 2019. Today, the capsule is entirely enclosed in glass. The observation deck is surrounded by 24 floor-to-ceiling windows offering 360-degree views of New York.
- Another improvement from the renovation: the elevator connecting the 86th and 102nd floors has glass walls. You can see inside the building’s spire and watch the lighting system at work.
- “The 102nd floor observatory is the jewel of the Empire State Building,” says Anthony E. Malkin, CEO of Empire State Realty Trust, the company that manages the building. “We removed all obstructions so visitors can enjoy an unparalleled central view of New York,” he adds.
- Note that each floor requires a separate ticket. The 86th floor deck is accessible to all visitors with an Empire State Building ticket. To reach the 102nd floor, you must purchase a separate ticket for that level.
Book your tickets for the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building
- You need a specific ticket to access the observation deck in the Empire State Building’s spire. To book, use the ticket reservation module for the 102nd floor. Simply select your visit date and the number of tickets you need. You’ll receive your tickets by email once payment is complete.
- When booking, you can choose between general admission and the “Express Pass 86+102”. The Express Pass is a skip-the-line ticket that lets you access both observation decks without waiting at the elevators. This saves significant time during your visit.
- Your ticket includes access to the museum on the ground floor, the main observation deck on the 86th floor, and the observation deck on the 102nd floor.
- Good to know: you can return to the 86th floor after visiting the spire. You can manage your time as you wish.
- Important: since the 102nd floor deck is small, capacity is limited to just a few dozen people at a time. Book your tickets as early as possible to guarantee your visit.
- The 102nd floor is a favorite spot for celebrities, precisely because of its intimate, exclusive atmosphere. You might spot a star during your visit. You’ll certainly see photos of all the notable people who have visited this unique New York location.
Frequently asked questions
Can I visit both the 86th and 102nd floors on the same visit?
Yes, a ticket for the 102nd floor includes access to the main observation deck on the 86th floor. However, if you only have a ticket for the 86th floor, you cannot access the 102nd floor. You need a separate ticket, which you can book above.
Is the 102nd floor included in New York tourist passes?
No, New York tourist passes only include access to the main observation deck on the 86th floor. If you want to go higher, skip the Empire State Building on your pass and book your entry separately using the reservation module on this page. For example, with the New York Explorer Pass, don’t use a visit for the Empire State Building and choose another activity included in the pass instead.
Photos from the 102nd floor observation deck
