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United States/Things to Do in New York, solo trip

Empire State Building (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is Empire State Building?

92%Solo-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 92% Solo-Friendly: The open-air 86th-floor deck, QR-code audio tour, and optional Express Pass give solos stunning views and efficient, independent exploration with minimal waiting or logistical hassle.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 120,662 reviews)
Empire State Building Tour in NEW YORK!
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Empire State Building Tour in NEW YORK!
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The BEST views of New York City, Empire State Building Tour | Indian in America | Aanam C
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The BEST views of New York City, Empire State Building Tour | Indian in America | Aanam C
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Empire State Building Adventure: Family Fun at 1,250 Feet! #empirestatebuilding #kids
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Positives:

  • Easy Access: Enter from 34th St station and use the dedicated elevator bank.
  • Solo-Friendly Audio: Use QR-code audio tour to guide yourself without a group.
  • Free Lobby Access: Admire the Art Deco lobby murals without buying a ticket.

Challenges:

  • Line Waits: Standard tickets can mean 45-minute queues at peak times.
  • Weather Exposure: Open-air deck can be cold or windy—check the forecast.
  • Elevator Delays: Busy afternoons may have longer waits for the observatory lift.
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🏖️ Explore Empire State Building with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Empire State Building. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Empire State Building?

  • An Art Deco–style skyscraper completed in 1931, standing 1,454 feet tall with a limestone and granite façade topped by a gleaming stainless-steel spire
  • A 102-story office tower originally built as multi-tenant commercial space, now hosting corporate offices, broadcast studios, and interpretive exhibitions on its upper floors
  • A National Historic Landmark that exemplifies pioneering steel-frame construction and rapid assembly—rising at a record pace of over four floors per week during its 13-month build

What is so special about Empire State Building for solo trip?

  1. Panoramic 360° views from the 86th and 102nd floors
  2. Immersive history exhibits with interactive displays
  3. Flexible ticket options tailored for solo visitors
  4. Special solo experiences like sunrise and live sax performances

Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours

Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to visit the observatories and exhibits without rushing.

(View Empire State Building on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in Empire State Building

86th Floor Observatory with QR-Code Tour:

Scan QR codes to unlock audio and video stories as you enjoy 360° city views.

Tip: Buy an express pass online to skip ticket and elevator lines.

Interactive Exhibits on 2nd and 80th Floors:

Explore life-size King Kong models and the construction gallery.

Tip: Spend 20–30 minutes here before heading up for photos.

Late-Night Live Sax:

Hear a saxophonist play on the 86th-floor deck under city lights.

Tip: Book a night-time observatory ticket for Thursday–Saturday.

Sunrise Experience:

Watch sunrise from the 86th floor in near-silence with 100 guests.

Tip: Reserve online weeks ahead and arrive 15 minutes early.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Empire State Building

  1. Book Timed Entry: Purchase a timed-entry ticket online to skip the ticketing line.
  2. Arrive at Opening: Visit at 8 a.m. for the smallest crowds and quickest access.
  3. Use the Official App: Check live elevator wait times and exhibit hours as you go.
🏖️ Tour Empire State Building like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Empire State Building. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Empire State Building

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Milind “Joe” Joshi

Milind “Joe” Joshi

Oct 2025

I visited Empire State Building after 25 years and thanks to a friend visited all the three levels as a special guest. Since my last visit, the experience has been further enhanced due to digitization. The panoramic view is fantastic. Though it is no more the tallest building in the world, it has history which is worth relishing.

Deepak Kumar

Deepak Kumar

Oct 2025

Visited the Empire State Building yesterday with CityPASS. We didn’t reserve a time and just went straight for sunset. The line was long but moved quickly, with smooth check-in and security. On the way up, there were some nice exhibits and photo spots. The 80th floor had great views all around, and then we went up to the 86th floor for the open-air observatory. The city lights were absolutely amaz...

Jacky Lam

Jacky Lam

Sep 2025

The Empire State Building is truly iconic and an absolute must-visit in New York City! From the moment you step inside, you feel the history and grandeur of this landmark. The observation decks offer breathtaking 360-degree views of Manhattan and beyond—it’s simply magical, especially at sunset or when the city lights up at night. The building itself is a masterpiece of Art Deco design, and the ex...

Muhammed Cimen

Muhammed Cimen

Sep 2025

Visiting the Empire State Building is definitely a must when you’re in New York City. Getting there is very easy since it’s right in the heart of Manhattan, surrounded by subway stations and bus stops. Once inside, however, be prepared for long lines, strict security checks, and lots of people—it’s not the easiest place to explore. That being said, the moment you reach the observation deck, all th...

Teodora Šujak

Teodora Šujak

Aug 2025

Honestly, visiting the Empire State Building was such a cool experience. You always see it in movies and pictures, but standing there in person feels completely different. The building is massive, and the lobby inside is beautiful. Everything is set up really well for tourists, so it doesn’t feel too confusing even though there are a lot of people. The museum on the way up was actually pretty fun...

When is the best time to visit Empire State Building (New York, United States)?

Winter mornings can be windy—wear a warm coat. In summer, aim for an hour before sunset to see day and night views.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to New York on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Classic 86th-floor ticketUSD 45
Express pass upgradeUSD 95
Souvenir or snackUSD 10
Total EstimatedUSD 150

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Empire State Building

Address: 20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001, USA

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About Empire State Building

Opening Hours

Monday:10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday:10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday:10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday:10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday:10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday:10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Average price

US$ 43.12
Book on GetYourGuide

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Average price

US$ 43.12
Book on GetYourGuide
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