You’ve booked your New York City trip, and visiting the Empire State Building is high on your list. But here’s the dilemma: should you go to the 86th Floor or pay extra for the 102nd Floor?
Both decks offer spectacular views, but they’re very different experiences—and knowing what to expect can help you decide which one is right for your visit.
Let’s break it down: Empire State Building 86th Floor vs. 102nd Floor—what’s the real difference?
86th Floor Observatory: The Classic NYC Experience
The 86th Floor is the Empire State Building’s most famous and most visited observation deck. Located at 1,050 feet (320 meters), it’s an open-air deck that wraps around the building, offering 360° panoramic city views.
Highlights:
- Open-air experience with unobstructed skyline views
- Views of Central Park, Times Square, the Hudson River, Brooklyn Bridge, and beyond
- Telescopes and photo ops galore
- Ideal for photos, proposals, and romantic night visits
This deck featured in countless films (like Sleepless in Seattle) is often described as the “real Empire State Building experience.”
Price (Standard Ticket): ~$44–$47 for adults
102nd Floor Observatory: The Sky-High Upgrade
The 102nd Floor is a fully enclosed, floor-to-ceiling glass observatory located at 1,250 feet (381 meters)—making it one of the highest indoor viewing platforms in NYC.
Highlights:
- Enclosed glass windows for an uninterrupted bird’s-eye view
- It feels more intimate and exclusive
- Smaller, quieter, and usually less crowded
- View reaches up to 80 miles on a clear day (5 states!)
But here’s the thing—because it’s enclosed, you don’t get the open-air thrill of the 86th. It’s better for sightseeing on windy, cold, or rainy days but lacks the same “New York energy.”
Price (Top Deck Ticket): ~$79–$85 (includes 86th + 102nd floors)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | 86th Floor | 102nd Floor |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 1,050 ft | 1,250 ft |
| Experience | Open-air | Enclosed glass |
| Best For | Classic views, photos, atmosphere | Panoramic reach, weatherproof views |
| Accessibility | Larger space, more crowd-friendly | Smaller, quieter space |
| Ticket Price | ~$44 | ~$79 (with 86th included) |
Which One Should You Choose?
- Go for the 86th Floor if:
- You want the classic NYC skyline experience with open-air views, vibrant energy, and photo-friendly spots.
- Upgrade to the 102nd Floor if:
- You’re a serious view seeker, enjoy a quieter space, or want to say you’ve been to the very top.
First-time visitors often find the 86th Floor more satisfying for the price.
Pro Travel Tips
- Arrive early or go late to avoid long elevator waits.
- Sunset hours are most popular—and cost a bit more.
- Don’t skip the museum exhibits on the 2nd and 80th floors, included with both ticket types.
- Tickets are cheaper if booked online in advance via the official Empire State Building website.
Final Thought
When it comes to the Empire State Building’s 86th Floor vs 102nd Floor, it’s not just about the height but the kind of experience you want. For most, the 86th floor hits that perfect mix of thrill and value. But if you’re after next-level views and exclusivity, the 102nd Floor might be worth the splurge.
Either way, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories—1,000 feet above the most fantastic city in the world.