Empire State Building at Sunrise

What you need to know about visiting the Empire State Building at sunrise

• During your stay in New York, climb to the top of the Empire State Building, the iconic New York skyscraper. You’ll enjoy sweeping views over the city. The observatory is open daily from 8 am to 2 am, and admission is included in most New York tourist passes.
• But there’s something even more special: visit the Empire State Building before regular opening hours and watch the sunrise over New York. It’s an unforgettable experience.
• To experience this, you’ll need to book special sunrise tickets well in advance. You must arrive before sunrise—it’s early, but it’s worth it. Here are the entry times by season. Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time:
  • 5:00 am: May 25–26, June 1–July 14.
  • 5:15 am: July 20–August 4.
  • 5:30 am: August 10–18.
  • 5:45 am: August 24–September 8.
  • 6:00 am: April 6–7, September 14–15.
  • 6:15 am: March 30–31, September 21–October 6, November 23–24.
  • 6:30 am: October 12–13.
  • 6:45 am: October 19–27, December 21–22, 28–29.

How to book your sunrise tickets

• Book your tickets through the Empire State Building sunrise ticket reservation system. Only 100 people are admitted each day, so availability is limited. Book early to secure your spot.
• Tip: schedule your sunrise visit for the day after you arrive in New York. Jet lag works in your favor—you’ll already be awake early. When it’s 5 am in New York, your body may still feel like it’s midday, making an early start easier.
• Note that sunrise ticket reservations are non-refundable.