NYC: Empire State Building & Optional Top of the Rock Tour

Experience the Best of New York’s Skyline with the Empire State Building & Optional Top of the Rock Tour

If you’re planning a trip to New York City, one of the must-do activities is taking in the city’s legendary skyline from its most famous observation decks. This tour offers early access to the Empire State Building, allowing you to skip long lines and enjoy panoramic views from the 86th-floor observatory. For those wanting to go even higher, there’s an optional extension to visit Rockefeller Center’s Top of the Rock. At just $79 per person and lasting around 2.5 hours, this guided experience balances informative commentary with breathtaking visuals.

What we love about this tour are two specific points: first, the opportunity to bypass crowds with early access, which makes the experience more relaxed and allows for better photo opportunities. Second, the small group size (no more than 20 people) means your guide can provide personalized insights and answer questions without feeling rushed. One potential downside is that some reviews mention the time at each site can feel hurried—especially if you’re eager to linger and take it all in. But overall, this tour suits visitors who want a structured, insightful way to see NYC’s skyline without sacrificing the chance for memorable views.

Travelers who enjoy learning about the landmarks they visit, as well as those who appreciate well-organized tours, will find this experience appealing. It’s especially ideal for first-timers or anyone with limited time who wants a comprehensive view of NYC’s most iconic buildings in just a few hours.

Key Points

• Skip-the-line Access: Enjoy early entry to the Empire State Building, avoiding long waits during peak hours.
• Expert Guided Commentary: Learn fascinating details about the buildings’ history and architecture from a knowledgeable guide.
• Unmatched Views: Take in 360-degree vistas from the 86th-floor observatory, and if upgraded, see Central Park, the Empire State Building, and beyond from Rockefeller’s Top of the Rock.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With no more than 20 travelers, expect a more personalized experience.
• Flexible Options: You can extend your tour with the Top of the Rock, offering a different perspective of the city skyline.
• Accessible Planning: Meet at a convenient location near 34th Street and 5th Avenue, with subway access.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins at a well-chosen meeting spot—in front of the Starbucks Reserve on 34th Street and 5th Avenue. The guide, easily recognizable in branded attire and carrying a flag, greets you and provides a quick overview of what’s ahead. From here, transportation logistics are straightforward, especially if you’re arriving by subway—lines N, W, 4, 5, 6, 2, and 3 all bring you close to the meeting point.

The price of $79 covers all admissions—early access to the Empire State Building, a guided tour, and, if selected, access to the Top of the Rock. Food and drinks are not included, so plan to grab a snack before or after.

The Empire State Building Experience

Once inside, the art-deco lobby immediately sets a tone of classic New York glamour. Your guide will lead you past the regular ticket lines through a separate entrance, saving precious minutes and reducing the wait. You’ll ascend to the 80th floor to see the Dare to Dream exhibit, which brings the building’s rapid construction to life through engaging displays and storytelling.

The highlight, of course, is the 86th-floor observatory, where you’ll be greeted by 360-degree views stretching across Manhattan, the boroughs, and as far as five different states. Here, your guide will point out landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Brooklyn Bridge, helping you identify what you’re seeing.

Learning and Sightseeing

According to reviews, the guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm enhance the experience. One guest mentioned Leo made it “very interesting” and shared “interesting facts” during the walk between the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center. Another appreciated the helpful tips provided after the tour, such as the best times to visit certain attractions or how to avoid future crowds.

However, some travelers felt the tour was rushed—with only about 20 minutes allocated at the top, it’s understandable they wished for more time to soak in the sights. One reviewer from the UK reflected, “We felt hurried to do this,” and suggested they’d prefer to explore on their own next time.

More Great Tours Nearby

Optional Top of the Rock Extension

For an added perspective, the tour continues with a visit to Rockefeller Center. From this vantage point, you’ll see a different angle of Central Park and the Empire State Building itself. The views from Top of the Rock are widely praised for being particularly stunning, especially at sunset or when the city lights glow. Many find this a perfect way to cap off their tour, offering a more relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the skyline.

Authenticity and Value

This guided tour offers a balanced blend of structured sightseeing and educational insight. The small group size means your guide can tailor the experience somewhat and answer questions, making it more engaging than wandering alone. The price remains reasonable given the skip-the-line advantage and expert commentary, especially considering the cost and popularity of NYC’s top observation decks.

Considerations

While the tour is well-organized, some reviews suggest that time constraints can make the experience feel hurried—particularly at the observatories. If you’re someone who loves to linger over views or explore exhibits more leisurely, consider supplementing this tour with extra time at the sites afterward. Also, guests with mobility issues should note that this tour isn’t suitable for those in wheelchairs or with certain impairments, as accommodations are limited.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a structured, informative way to see NYC’s most famous skyscrapers without the hassle of long lines. It suits first-time visitors eager to quickly grasp Manhattan’s layout and history, as well as those who value guided insights to enrich their visit. If you prefer to have a knowledgeable guide pointing out landmarks and sharing stories, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you’re someone who prefers to explore independently and take your time, you might find the rush between stops a bit frustrating. It’s also not suitable for travelers with mobility challenges or those needing wheelchair access.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour of the Empire State Building, with an optional extension to Top of the Rock, offers a solid value for travelers eager to see New York from above without the long lines. The early access and small group size make it easier to enjoy the experience comfortably, while the guide’s commentary adds context and stories that bring the city’s landmarks to life.

It’s best suited for visitors who want a convenient, educational overview of NYC’s skyline, especially if your time is limited. The views from both observation decks are genuinely spectacular and will leave you with lasting memories of the city’s iconic architecture.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, engaging way to take in the city’s famous vistas, this tour fits the bill. Just be prepared for a somewhat brisk pace and consider spending additional time at the sites if you want to explore more leisurely.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or babies?
This tour isn’t ideal for strollers or very young children, as the itinerary involves navigating crowds and some walking. It’s better suited for older children or teenagers who can keep up with the pace.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 2.5 hours, including the visit to the Empire State Building and optionally Rockefeller Center.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers admission to the Empire State Building and its observatory, a guided tour, and admission to Top of the Rock if you choose to upgrade. Food and drinks are not included.

Where do I meet the guide?
The guide will meet you in front of the Starbucks Reserve Restaurant & Bar at 34th Street and 5th Avenue, wearing branded attire and carrying a flag.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs or with impairments requiring special assistance, and no accommodations are available for strollers.

What if I want to spend more time at the observatories?
You might find the 20-minute time limit at the top somewhat rushed. To explore more leisurely, consider visiting the sites on your own afterward or booking additional time independently.

In summary, this guided experience offers a practical and insightful way to see two of NYC’s most famous skyline vantage points. It balances informative storytelling with breathtaking views, making it ideal for visitors who want a guided, efficient, and memorable cityscape tour.

You can check availability for your dates here: