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Two legends of the New York skyline experience, combined into one unforgettable day. Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center delivers the most photogenic observation deck view in the city — a direct frontal perspective of the Empire State Building framing the Central Park skyline. Then, from the Empire State Building itself, you see everything else: the full Manhattan panorama from the world's most famous skyscraper, where the open-air 86th floor observatory has been thrilling visitors since 1931 and the 102nd floor enclosed summit reaches 1,250 feet. Both are essential New York — and together they're the definitive midtown sky-high double.

Key Highlights

  • Explore Top of the Rock for the only direct, unobstructed frontal view of the Empire State Building in NYC.
  • Including the open-air 70th floor with full 360° skyline views.
  • Visit Empire State Building for its famous 86th-floor open-air observatory at 1,050 feet above Midtown.
  • Explore the Empire State Building for its interactive museum exhibits showcasing its history and cultural legacy.
  • Experience both decks together, located just 10 minutes apart, offering complementary Midtown skyline perspectives.

About Top of the Rock Observation Deck + Empire State Building

Empire State Building is New York’s most iconic skyscraper, completed in 1931 in just 14 months with over 3,400 workers. It was the world’s tallest building for nearly 40 years and remains one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world. Today, visitors can experience its famous 86th-floor open-air observatory, offering 360° views, along with free binoculars to spot distant landmarks.

For a more elevated experience, the 102nd-floor enclosed observatory sits at 1,250 feet and offers floor-to-ceiling windows with a more intimate viewing atmosphere. The building also features immersive museum galleries on the 2nd and 80th floors, showcasing its construction history, cultural impact, and appearances in over 250 films.

Just a short walk away, Top of the Rock offers a completely different perspective — the only view in New York where you can see the Empire State Building framed perfectly within the Midtown skyline, with Central Park stretching behind it. This contrast between standing on the landmark and viewing it from afar creates one of the most memorable skyline experiences in the city.

Grab your tickets through Thrillark!

Inclusions

  • Top of the Rock admission — three levels of observation decks (67th, 69th, and 70th floors)
  • Welcome Gallery, and multimedia exhibition on Rockefeller Center's history
  • Empire State Building admission — 86th floor open-air Observatory, 2nd and 80th floor museum galleries

Exclusions

  • Empire State Building 102nd floor (available as a separately priced upgrade at time of booking or on-site)
  • Skylift and The Beam Experience at Top of the Rock (available as separate upgrades)
  • Dining at either attraction (additional charge)
  • Personnel Expenses

Insiders' Tips

Do Top of the Rock first to see the Empire State Building from the best external viewpoint, then visit Empire State Building at sunset or night for the most dramatic skyline views. Go to Top of the Rock around midday for clearer photos and the Empire State Building later for golden hour or night views. Check the Empire State Building’s tower light schedule before your visit for special illuminations. Arrive 15–30 minutes early to allow time for security screening.

Additional Information

Operating Hours
  • Empire State Building
    • 9:00am - 11:00pm
  • Top of the Rock Observation Deck
    • 08:00am - 12:00am
Child Policy
  • Children under 6 years are free of charge.
Restrictions
  • Outside food and beverages are not permitted
  • Pets are not allowed

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations are non refundable

Top of the Rock Observation Deck + Empire State Building Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the Top of the Rock Observation Deck + Empire State Building experience?
This combo includes access to both Top of the Rock and Empire State Building observatories. At Top of the Rock, you get multi-level indoor and outdoor decks with panoramic Midtown views. At the Empire State Building, you can visit the 86th-floor open-air observatory and museum exhibits. Together, they offer two contrasting perspectives of New York’s skyline.
Why should I choose the Top of the Rock Observation Deck + Empire State Building combo?
This combo gives you both the iconic skyline view and the landmark experience in one ticket. Top of the Rock shows the Empire State Building framed within the city, while the Empire State Building offers views from its historic central position. You experience Midtown from two different vantage points. It is one of the most complete NYC sightseeing combinations.
How is the view different at Top of the Rock in this combo?
At Top of the Rock, you get the famous postcard view featuring the Empire State Building and Central Park. The open-air terraces provide clear 360° skyline visibility. It is the only place where you can see the Empire State Building as part of the composition. This makes it ideal for photography and sightseeing.
What can I expect at the Empire State Building in this combo?
At Empire State Building, you can explore the 86th-floor outdoor observatory with views in all directions. The experience includes museum galleries that showcase its construction history and cultural legacy. You can also upgrade to the 102nd-floor enclosed observatory for higher views. It offers both history and panoramic skyline perspectives.
Is the Top of the Rock Observation Deck + Empire State Building combo worth it?
Yes, it is one of the most popular NYC sightseeing combinations. You get both the framed Midtown skyline view and the central skyscraper experience. The contrast between the two makes it highly rewarding. It is especially recommended for first-time visitors.
What is the best time to visit Top of the Rock and the Empire State Building?
Sunset is the best time for both Top of the Rock and Empire State Building. It offers daylight, golden hour, and night views in one visit. Early morning is quieter with clearer visibility. Night visits showcase the fully lit NYC skyline.

Ratings & Reviews

Top of the Rock Observation Deck + Empire State Building

USD 99

Insiders’ Tips

Do Top of the Rock first to see the Empire State Building from the best external viewpoint, then visit Empire State Building at sunset or night for the most dramatic skyline views. Go to Top of the Rock around midday for clearer photos and the Empire State Building later for golden hour or night views. Check the Empire State Building’s tower light schedule before your visit for special illuminations. Arrive 15–30 minutes early to allow time for security screening.

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