Empire State Building

The building rises 1,454 feet (443 meters) across 102 floors with limestone cladding and steel framework, featuring an observation deck on the 86th floor and an additional observatory on the 102nd floor offering panoramic views across the entire metropolitan region.

Construction began in 1930 under architect William Lamb and was completed in just 410 days in 1931, initially serving primarily as an office building and retaining the title of world's tallest structure until 1970, undergoing several renovations and modernizations throughout the decades.

The structure shaped New York's skyline and became a universal symbol of American ambition and engineering innovation, immortalized in countless works of popular culture and continuing to draw millions of visitors from every continent.

The 73 elevators transport visitors to observation decks open daily from 8 AM to 2 AM, with early mornings or late evenings seeing fewer crowds. Tickets should be purchased online in advance to avoid waiting times. The building is accessible via multiple subway lines.

The building has its own ZIP code and became the site of several daring stunts, including parachute jumps and climbing attempts. The tower spire was originally designed as a docking station for airships but proved impractical and dangerous due to strong winds at that height.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: May 1, 1931

Architects: Shreve, Lamb & Harmon

Official opening: May 1, 1931

Architectural style: Art Deco architecture

Elevators: 73

Height: 453 m

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Made from material: steel, limestone, brick, cement

Part of: Seven Wonders of the Modern World

Address: 350 5th Avenue 10118 New York

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 08:00-02:00

Phone: +12127363100

Website: https://esbnyc.com

GPS coordinates: 40.74833,-73.98556

Latest update: November 27, 2025 18:44