Visiting the Empire State Building is a must when you’re in New York City. This iconic skyscraper has stood tall for nearly a century, offering some of the most breathtaking views of the city that never sleeps.
But here’s the big question: Should you visit the 86th-floor observatory or splurge on the 102nd floor? Both are incredible, but they offer very different experiences in terms of views, atmosphere, and cost. So, if you’re debating which one is worth your time (and money), you’re in the right place. Let’s break it all down!
The Basics: What You Need to Know
Before we dive into which view is better, let’s go over what each observatory offers.
86th-Floor Observatory (The Classic Experience)
- The most famous and main observation deck
- Open-air with a 360-degree panoramic view
- Located 1,050 feet (320 meters) above the ground
- Offers iconic views of Central Park, Times Square, the Brooklyn Bridge, and beyond
- Has classic coin-operated binoculars for an up-close look at NYC
102nd-Floor Observatory (The VIP Experience)
- The highest observation deck in the Empire State Building
- Located 1,250 feet (381 meters) above ground
- Enclosed with floor-to-ceiling glass windows for a modern, sleek feel
- Offers an even further-reaching view (up to 80 miles on a clear day!)
- Smaller and more exclusive—fewer visitors, less crowding
Sounds amazing, right? But let’s see how these two really compare.
The View: How Do They Compare?
So, which one offers the better view? Well, it depends on what kind of experience you’re after.
86th Floor: The Open-Air Classic
- You get that true, open-air experience—feel the wind, hear the city below, and soak in the skyline.
- Fantastic for photography because there’s no glass to deal with.
- You still get iconic views of NYC’s major landmarks, including the Chrysler Building, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty.
- Best choice if you want a classic, New York rooftop experience.
102nd Floor: The Sky-High Luxury
- You’re 200 feet higher, so you can see even farther into New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut.
- The floor-to-ceiling windows make for a more modern, futuristic feel.
- But… you can’t feel the city air since it’s fully enclosed.
- Reflections on the glass may make photography trickier, especially at night.
Bottom Line? If you love that “top of the world” feeling with fresh air, go for the 86th floor. But if you want the highest possible view with a quieter, VIP-like vibe, the 102nd floor is the way to go.
The Experience: What to Expect at Each Observatory
86th Floor: Lively and Classic
- The most spacious observatory, so you have plenty of room to explore.
- Expect bigger crowds, especially around sunset.
- You can stay as long as you want—no time limits!
- Perfect for families, first-time visitors, and anyone who loves a lively atmosphere.
102nd Floor: Exclusive and Quiet
- Smaller and more intimate—perfect for special occasions.
- Less crowded than the 86th floor, so it’s easier to get unobstructed views.
- Feels more VIP and luxurious, making it a great choice for anniversaries, proposals, or a splurge-worthy NYC moment.
- Since it’s enclosed, weather doesn’t affect your visit—great for winter or rainy days.
The Price Tag: Is the 102nd Floor Upgrade Worth It?
Now, let’s talk about the cost.
💰 86th Floor Ticket Price: $44-$47 (standard admission)
💰 102nd Floor Upgrade: $30-$40 extra on top of your 86th-floor ticket
So, is the extra $30-$40 worth it? Well, here’s the breakdown:
- Stick with the 86th Floor if…
- You’re visiting NYC on a budget but still want an amazing view.
- You prefer the classic, open-air observatory experience.
- You want great photos without window reflections.
- Upgrade to the 102nd Floor if…
- You’re celebrating a special occasion (anniversary, proposal, bucket list trip).
- You want a quieter, more intimate atmosphere.
- You don’t mind spending extra for the highest view possible.
For many visitors, the 86th floor is enough. But if you’re looking for something extra special, the 102nd floor is definitely a treat.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Still not sure which one is right for you? Here’s a quick cheat sheet!
- Go for the 86th floor if…
- You want the classic NYC experience.
- You love open-air observation decks.
- You’re visiting on a budget.
- You’re all about taking Instagram-worthy photos.
- Go for the 102nd floor if…
- You want to see as far as possible (up to 80 miles!).
- You prefer a quieter, VIP experience.
- You’re celebrating a special occasion.
- You don’t mind paying extra for the ultimate view.
🚀 Our Recommendation? If this is your first time in NYC, start with the 86th floor—it’s iconic, immersive, and gives you everything you need. But if you want a once-in-a-lifetime luxury experience, the 102nd floor is worth it.
Final Thoughts: You Can’t Go Wrong!
No matter which observatory you choose, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s the open-air excitement of the 86th floor or the VIP luxury of the 102nd, the Empire State Building is a must-see in NYC.
