What: The Empire State Building
Where: 350 Fifth Avenue
New York, New York
Who: All ages
Our view: If you are interested in pretty city views from tall buildings, the Empire State Building is the place for you. The Empire State is currently the 2nd tallest building in New York City at 1,250 (One World Trade Center also known as the Freedom Tower is the tallest at 1,776 feet) and the 14th tallest building in the world. If you are interested in architecture, this is also the place for you. It was built in the 1930s, and it's Art Deco lobby has been completely restored. There are two observaton decks at the 80th and the 102nd floor. The 80th floor offers an indoor observation area for colder days. The 102nd floor is the highest observation area in New York City open to the public. If you want to see the greatest views of one of the greatest cities in the world, you definitely should visit here. However, I would recommend visiting on day when you are in the city for something else because beyond the observation decks and the gift shop, it is pretty much just an office building. The observation areas are open daily from 8:00 AM to 2:00 AM. The last elevator up is 1:15 AM. On New Year's Eve the last elevator up is 10:15 PM. Come early or late to avoid the crowds. Express passes are available for purchase which allows you to skip the lines.The other downside is that it is bit pricey. Tickets for the 86th floor observatory are $25.00 for adults, $22.00 for seniors, $19.00 for kids 6-12. Express tickets for the 86th floor only are $47.50 for all visitors. Tickets for both observation decks are $42.00 for adults, $39.00 for seniors, and $36.00 for kids 6-12. Express tickets for both tickets are $64.50 for all. Tickets for just the 102nd floor observation deck are not available.
For more information go to esbnyc.com.
Tune in tomorrow for another Talking Topic.
