The entrance fee for the Empire State Building varies depending on the ticket type, age, and experience level chosen. Standard admission tickets to the 86th-floor Observation Deck start at approximately $44.00 for adults, $38.00 for children, and $42.00 for seniors, with a $5 booking charge added per transaction[6]. General admission purchased via third-party platforms is typically around $47.91 per person[1]. Tickets that include access to the 102nd-floor observatory or express/skip-the-line privileges are available at higher prices[3].
Admission can also be bundled into multi-attraction passes. For example, the New York CityPASS includes entry to the Empire State Building—allowing two visits (one by day and one by night)—and costs from $116 for the pass, which covers additional attractions as well[2]. Other multi-attraction passes, such as The New York Pass or Go City: New York Explorer Pass, also provide admission to the Empire State Building as part of their packages, with prices ranging from $83 to over $160 depending on the pass and included attractions[2].
Ticket types and inclusions:
- Standard 86th Floor Observatory Ticket: from $44.00–$47.91
- Express Passes (skip-the-line): higher rates, varies by vendor[3]
- 102nd Floor Access: may cost an additional $20+ on top of base admission[4]
- City tourist cards and bundles: from $83 to $162, often covering several attractions[2]
Most ticket options provide access to the 86th-floor observatory and the exhibits on the second floor, with panoramic city views, interactive displays, and historical exhibits included in the experience. Some premium or express tickets include guided tours or expedited entry[6].
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