Empire State Building Visitors Guide: Tips, Views & The Most Thrilling Way to See It from the Water
Millions of visitors flock to the famous The Empire State Building every year, often earning it a must-see status in several New York City travel guides. The skyscraper’s breathtaking Art Deco style, sweeping city views, and interactive exhibits make it one of the best things to do in the Big Apple.
Its towering presence makes it a defining element in the Midtown Manhattan skyline. And you can visit its observation decks or simply admire it from the street below.
However, for something really special, you’ll want to check out this magnificent structure in a way most people don’t get to. And that’s by hopping on a jet ski with Sea the City and seeing it from the Hudson River. Imagine it: the wind rushing by and the full Manhattan skyline stretching out around you.
Our jet ski adventures offer an adrenaline-pumping and unforgettable way to take in New York’s most iconic landmark from a fresh and exciting vantage point.
This guide covers everything you need to know to plan your visit at Empire State Building NYC—whether you’re on land or in the water. From helpful tips to fantastic photo opportunities, here’s how to experience New York views in style.
Empire State Building Quick Facts
Before we get into how to visit, here are some fast facts to know about this legendary skyscraper:
- When it opened: The Empire State Building officially opened in May 1931, just one year and 45 days after construction began. It was an incredible pace for a project that size.
- Architectural style: Designed by the architectural firm Shreve, Lamb, and Harmon, the building features a chic Art Deco style that flourished in the 1920s and ‘30s and Modernism architecture styles.
- Building height: The building’s soaring height measures 1,250 ft to the 102nd floor—or 1,454 feet when you add in its spire and antennae.
- World record: This celebrated skyscraper held the title of the world’s tallest building for 42 years.
- Hollywood favorite: The skyscraper has lit up the silver screen in King Kong (1933 version), Sleepless in Seattle, Elf, an Affair to Remember, and dozens more.
- Observation decks: Located on the 86th and 102nd floors, the observation decks offer sweeping views of the New York City skyline.
- Elevator count: originally built with 64 elevators, the Empire State Building now operates 73 Otis elevators to move people and goods throughout the structure.
- Fun fact: The ESB’s iconic design, especially when it comes to its spire, was inspired by a pencil. That’s one tall pencil!
How to Visit the Empire State Building
Planning a visit to the ESB? Here’s everything you need to know—ticket options, idea times to go, what to bring and how to get there—according to the NYC Empire State Building Guide.
Tickets & Pricing
The Empire State Building offers several ticket tiers, depending on how much access you want and whether you want to skip the lines. Please note that ticket reservations are required and a $5 booking charge is added to most of these transactions.
Here’s a quick breakdown of tickets & pricing:
- Main Deck (86th Floor):
- Adult: $44
- Child (6-12): $38
- Senior (62+): $42
- Top Deck (86th and 102nd Floors):
- Adult: $79
- Child: $73
- Senior: $77
- Express Pass:
- Skip the line access to either the 86th floor or both decks
- Starting at $85 for the 86th floor and $120 for both levels
- Sunrise Experience:
- Price: $135 per person
- Includes early entry to the 86th floor and Starbucks Reserve® coffee
- Premium & All Access Tours
- Ranges from $175 to $500
- Includes guided tours and exclusive areas not open to the public.
- CityPass® Bundles:
- Adult $154 | Child $129
- Includes admission to five major NYC attractions
Booking online ahead of time is strongly recommended. See the Empire State Building Visitors Guide for the current hours of operation, up to date ticket prices, and more at esbnyc.com/
Best Times to Visit
The Empire State Building is one of the most-visited landmarks in the Big Apple, so timing your visit can make a big difference. Early morning—right when it opens—or late evening is your best bet for fewer crowds. During these times, you’ll have more space to explore the observation decks and a better shot at clear, unobstructed views.
Evenings after 9:00 pm offer another quiet window. The city lights sparkle, and the tower itself puts on a 5-minute light show at the top of every hour—from sunset until 2 am—casting a dazzling display across the night sky.
Sunset, while undeniably gorgeous, is also the busiest time of day at the ESB. If a golden-hour experience is your goal, plan to arrive early or get an Express Pass to skip the lines.
What to Bring
You don’t need much, but bringing the right things makes the experience better. Here are a few suggestions
- Valid photo ID (especially for online tickets)
- Camera or smartphone for those skyline shots and ESB lights
- Comfortable shoes—you’ll be standing and walking a lot
- Light jacket or layers—it can get chilly on the observation deck
Location
The Empire State Building is located in the heart of the city at 34th Street and 5th avenue in Midtown Manhattan. Also, if you’re looking for things to do near the Empire State Building, you’ll be happy to know it’s surrounded by shops, restaurants, and other famous NYC landmarks.
Getting There
New York’s public transit system makes it simple to get to the ESB—no matter where you’re coming from.
- Subway: Take the B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W, or 1, 2, 3 lines to 34th Street-Herald Square or Penn Station
- Train: Walk from Penn Station (Amtrak, LIRR, NJ Transit) or Grand Central (Metro-North)
- By Foot: It’s walkable from Times Square, Bryant Park, Koreatown, and Madison Square Garden
Best Views of the Empire State Building
You’d be hard-pressed to find a bad view in and around the Empire State Building. Here are a few of them that stand out that you can enjoy.
From Nearby Streets
Some of the most classic views can be found at street level. Walk along 5th Avenue between 33rd and 35th Street to get that coveted upward shot. The view is especially dramatic at night when the tower is lit up in vibrant colors.
From the Observation Decks
The reverse view—from the top of the Empire State Building—is equally iconic. The 86th floor open-air deck offers sweeping 360 degree views of New York City, including Central Park, Times Square and the bridges of the East River. Go all the way up to the 102nd floor for a bird’s-eye look at the city through glass panels.
From Rooftop Bars
Not looking to go inside the ESB? Why not sip a cocktail or a mocktail with it as your skyline backdrop? Rooftop bars like 230 Fifth and Refinery Rooftop offer relaxed vibes and incredible photo ops—especially at golden hour.
From the Hudson River – On a Jet Ski!
Here’s where things get exciting. Instead of gazing up from the street or peeking from a rooftop, why not see the Empire State Building the way few people do—from the open waters of the Hudson River?
Sea the City Jet Ski Tours offer unrivaled views of the Empire State Building in your background. Seeing the ESB and the NYC skyline from the water comes complete with wind-in-your-face thrills and camera-ready moments.
See the Empire State Building from a Jet Ski – A One-of-a-Kind NYC Experience
You can admire the Empire State Building from the sidewalk or take it in from a rooftop bar. However, nothing compares to the rush of seeing it from the Hudson River on a jet ski in NYC.
What makes the experience so unforgettable? To begin with, you’ll ride a jet ski in NYC with many of the most iconic landmarks towering in the distance. As you zip along the river, the Empire State Building rises behind the cityscape in a way most visitors never get to see.
Sea the City Jet Ski Tours near Manhattan, launching from Jersey City just minutes away. From there, you’ll follow a route designed to show off the best of the city.
The tours are fully guided and beginner-friendly, with no license or prior jet ski experience required. Safety gear and training are provided, so you can soak up the ride, the views and snapping jaw-dropping photos along the way.
That’s just one of the many highlights, and this high-energy ride takes you past some of New York City’s most iconic landmarks, offering angles and views you simply won’t get from land.
Book your Sea the City Jet Ski Tour now to experience the Empire State Building from a whole new perspective.
Other Landmarks You’ll See on the Jet Ski Tour
Sea the City’s route isn’t just about the Empire State Building—you’ll pass by several of New York’s iconic sights, all from a thrilling river-level point of view. Here’s what else you can expect to see along the way:
- Statue of Liberty: Get up close to Lady Liberty in a more exciting and personal way than the usual public ferry ride.
- One World Trade Center: Take in a dramatic cityscape moment as One WTC—the tallest building in the US—dominates the southern skyline.
- Brooklyn & Manhattan Bridges: Ride between both of these two architectural icons, catching epic glimpses of them from the unique angle of the river.
- Hudson Yards & The Vessel: Spot the shimmering skyline of Hudson Yards and see the Vessel’s shimmering honeycomb-like design from a riverfront angle.
- Midtown Manhattan Skyline: Glide along the Hudson with the Empire State Building as the centerpiece—it’s a spectacular view that pulls out all the stops.
Who Should Try a Jet Ski Tour in NYC?
Sea the City’s Jet Ski Tours are fast-paced, scenic, and packed with adrenaline—perfect for anyone craving something different in NYC. So, who should hop on a jet ski and go?
That would be:
- Tourists who love open-air freedom and waterfront views.
- Couples who want to turn an average date into an enjoyable bonding experience.
- Families with kids 12 and up looking to enjoy Hudson River activities and shared adventures.
- Long-time New Yorkers who want to rediscover the magic of NYC in a thrilling and refreshing way.
- Content creators and photographers looking for endless inspiration on the water.
Want to See the Empire State Building from the Water?
Whether you’re visiting the Big Apple for the first time or rediscovering it with fresh eyes, this is one ride you’ll never forget. Feel the rush of the Hudson and
Book your Sea the City Jet Ski Tour today!
Tickets go fast, so don’t miss out on experiencing one of the most unique ways to see NYC landmarks around.
See the Empire State Building Like Never Before
Seeing the Empire State Building from the Hudson is a bucket-list landmark, no question. But while millions visit its observation decks each year, those views—as spectacular as they are—stay within the confines of the building itself.
Now—imagine seeing it in full skyline glory—from the middle of the Hudson River. So, instead of just looking at the ESB from ground level or a crowded deck, add Sea the City NYC Jet Ski Tours to your itinerary for an adventure that will leave you breathless. We feature the best views of the Empire State Building hands down!
FAQs
Can you see the Empire State Building from a jet ski?
Yes! The Empire State Building rises prominently from Midtown, and you can see it from a Sea the City Jet Ski.
Is the Empire State Building open year-round?
Yes. The building is open to the public year-round, including all holidays. Its observation decks are available daily.
How long do jet ski tours last?
Tours typically last 2–2.5 hours, depending on the route you book.
Is it safe to ride a jet ski in New York City?
Absolutely. All tours are fully guided by professional instructors. Training and safety gear are also included.
Where do the tours launch from?
Our jumping off point is Liberty Landing Marina in New Jersey located on the Hudson River directly across from Battery Park (near the 9/11 Memorial). We are just 10 minutes from Manhattan by ferry. The launch location is easily accessible by ferry, PATH train, or car from Manhattan.