First Impressions

I didn’t think I’d get emotional in a skyscraper—but the moment I stepped onto the 86th floor observation deck, my breath caught. The wind, the hum of the city below, and that endless skyline… It was pure movie magic. You don’t just see New York from up there—you feel it.

Getting There

Located right in Midtown Manhattan (34th & 5th), it’s super easy to reach by subway or on foot if you’re staying nearby. I booked my ticket online (highly recommend to skip the line), and the staff made the whole experience smooth and surprisingly quick.

Tip: Go right before sunset for the most beautiful golden light turning into city lights.

My Experience

The exhibits inside are fun and interactive (lots of photo ops), but the real magic happens when the elevator doors open and the skyline hits you. I spent a good hour on the 86th floor, walking around the open-air deck, pointing out landmarks like Central Park, the Chrysler Building, and One World Trade.

I splurged on the 102nd floor upgrade—enclosed and higher up, it was quieter and felt more intimate. A great option if you’re solo or on a romantic trip.

Good to Know

• Open: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily

• Tickets: From $44 for 86th floor; $79 for both 86th + 102nd

• Duration: 1–1.5 hours total

• Booking: Online reservation highly recommended for popular time slots

Extras Nearby

Afterward, I treated myself to a rooftop cocktail at Refinery Rooftop (5 min walk)—perfect way to wind down. Plenty of cute cafes and bars in the area if you’re feeling spontaneous.

Personal Tips

• Dress in layers—it’s breezy on the observation deck

• Bring your phone or camera fully charged—you’ll take so many photos

• Sunset hours get busy, but so worth it

• Even if you’ve been to other towers, this one feels different—it’s classic New York

Why I Loved It

⭐ 4.8/5 — “The views are unforgettable, but it’s the feeling that stays with you. You walk away with a sense of awe—and maybe a stronger connection to the city.”

What You’ll Want to Capture

• The golden hour skyline stretching in every direction

• Close-ups of the Chrysler Building and One World Trade

• That candid, windswept moment on the outdoor deck

• A dreamy selfie with the city lights behind you