Spot the best hotels near Empire State Building

The Empire State Building serves as a friendly giant in the middle of Manhattan, offering a glimpse into the city's long history. This skyscraper reaches up to 1,454 feet, and you can head all the way to the 102nd floor for a view that stretches across several different states. It held the title of the world's tallest building for 40 years, and today it remains a place where you can spot tiny yellow taxis and river boats from high above the pavement. Choosing to visit means you get to stand on a piece of history while looking out over the landscape for 80 miles.

New York’s skyline is defined by this limestone giant, which offers a glimpse into the city's ambitious past. You can see across several states from its open-air platforms, making it a reliable choice for a high-altitude perspective of the streets below.

Getting inside and planning your visit

The main entrance for visitors is located on 20 West 34th Street, easily found between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. You should expect to spend at least 60 to 90 minutes exploring the different levels and exhibits. To avoid the busiest periods, try to arrive early in the morning or very late at night, as the building often remains open until 00:00 or 01:00.

An entry fee applies to access the observation decks, and it is a good idea to book your slot in advance to manage your schedule. The building is fully accessible, with ramps and lifts available for those using wheelchairs. Since schedules can change, please check the official website for current opening times and ticket availability.

What to see from the top

The journey begins on the ground floor, where you can admire the gold and aluminium leaf detailing in the lobby. As you move up, you will find a museum on the 2nd floor that details the construction of the tower. The most popular spot is the 86th-floor open-air observatory, which sits 1,050 feet above the pavement.

For an even higher perspective, you can head up to the 102nd floor, an indoor gallery with floor-to-ceiling windows. From here, you get a clear view of the city's grid for 80 miles on a sunny day. The binocular machines on the decks allow you to zoom in on other landmarks across the five boroughs.

A look at the history and design

Completed in 1931 after just 410 days of work, this structure was once the tallest in the world. It is a prime example of Art Deco style, known for its tiered shape and the large spire that was originally intended as a mooring mast for airships.

The building is also famous for its changing lights. The top sections are fitted with an LED system capable of displaying 16 million colours, which change frequently to mark holidays or local events. It has stood as a National Historic Landmark since 1986, representing the spirit of American industry during the early 20th century.

Finding your way around the Empire State Building is easy, as it sits right in the heart of the city. A vast array of hotels surrounds this iconic landmark, and the central location means you have multiple transit routes at your disposal.

Best areas for your stay

Staying in Midtown is a smart choice because you are often just a 5-minute walk from the main entrance. This part of the city is packed with large hotels that are perfect for families needing extra space or a 24-hour reception. If you want a more stylish stay, look at NoMad or Chelsea, where you can find smaller hotels with a more local feel. These spots are usually within 0.5 miles of the tower and offer plenty of quiet cafes away from the main crowds. You will find plenty of choices that include a fitness centre or free Wi-Fi to make your trip more comfortable.

Getting to the landmark

You can reach the building easily from Penn Station, which is a short 0.3-mile walk away. The 34th Street – Herald Square Station is even closer, sitting just 500 feet from the entrance and serving several major subway lines. If you are arriving at Grand Central Terminal, it takes roughly 15 minutes to walk over, or you can take a quick bus ride down Fifth Avenue.

Discovering the ideal accommodation near the Empire State Building is effortless with eDreams. Our intuitive search tools let you filter through local properties to find the amenities and prices that work for you. Pick your perfect hotel today and enjoy your New York trip.