Empire State Building, Midtown Tour with Optional Top of the Rock
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Empire State Building, Midtown Tour with Optional Top of the Rock

Active
(7 reviews)
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Get ready for the ultimate New York City adventure with our exclusive tour that takes you to the top of the city's two most iconic landmarks—Empire State Building and Top of the Rock (optional). Kick off with Early Access to the Empire State Building, where you'll skip the lines and zoom up to the 86th floor for mind-blowing 360-degree views. Your expert guide will share cool stories and secrets of NYC.

In between these must-see spots, your guide will show you the best of Midtown. Stroll past Macy’s, the world’s largest department store, and unwind in lively Bryant Park. You’ll also get the inside scoop on Rockefeller Center’s history before heading to Top of the Rock if selected. From the observation deck at 30 Rockefeller Center, you’ll enjoy epic views, including a perfect look at the Empire State Building. With open-air decks and unbeatable sights, this tour is your ticket to seeing NYC from the best vantage points. Book now and make your NYC adventure unforgettable!

Available options

Empire State Building Only

Empire State Building Tour: This option includes a guided visit of Empire State Building & Midtown but access to Top of the Rock is NOT included

Empire State Building & Top of the Rock Tour

With Top of the Rock Access: Choose this upgrade to finish your tour with a visit to Rockefeller Center's Top of the Rock Observation Deck.

What's included

Group of 20 people or less
General Admission Ticket to Top of the Rock Observatory [if option selected]
English Speaking Tour Guide
Early Access Ticket to Empire State Building Observatory [80th & 86th Floor]
Guided Tour of Midtown Manhattan

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The Empire State Building, an iconic symbol of New York City, stands 1,454 feet tall with its antenna and was the world’s tallest building when completed in 1931. Its Art Deco design, historic significance, and panoramic views make it a must-visit. From the 86th floor observatory, you can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. Visiting the Empire State Building offers a chance to experience a piece of architectural history while taking in some of the most spectacular vistas in the world. Your guide will bring alive the monument as well as the whole city of New York as you watch it from that exceptionnal view point.

2
Stop 2

Macy's Herald Square, the flagship store of Macy's, is an iconic shopping destination in New York City, known as the largest department store in the world. Located at 34th Street and Broadway, it boasts over a million square feet of retail space. Beyond shopping, it's a historic landmark, with stunning window displays and classic architecture.

One of the best reasons to visit Macy's is the unparalleled view it offers of the Empire State Building. From the store's outdoor, you can capture perfect, unobstructed photos of the Empire State Building, with its majestic Art Deco design framed against the city skyline.

3
Stop 3

Bryant Park, located in Midtown Manhattan, is a beloved green oasis in the heart of New York City. Known for its beautifully landscaped gardens, seasonal events, and iconic New York Public Library backdrop, the park offers a peaceful escape amidst the city's hustle. It's a popular spot for picnics, outdoor dining, and ice skating in the winter.

4
Stop 4

The New York Public Library’s main branch, officially known as the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, is an architectural masterpiece located next to Bryant Park in Midtown Manhattan. Opened in 1911, its Beaux-Arts design features grand marble staircases, ornate chandeliers, and the iconic stone lions, Patience and Fortitude, guarding its entrance. Inside, you'll find the magnificent Rose Main Reading Room, with its soaring ceilings and majestic windows. The library is not only a hub of knowledge and culture but also a stunning historic landmark, making it a must-see for visitors.

5

The Channel Gardens, located at Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan, is a picturesque, narrow walkway that connects Fifth Avenue to the iconic Rockefeller Plaza. Flanked by the French and British Empire Buildings, the gardens feature beautifully landscaped seasonal flowers, fountains, and art installations. The gardens are especially magical during the holiday season, when they are adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. With the towering Rockefeller Christmas Tree as a backdrop, the Channel Gardens offer a serene and scenic spot, perfect for a stroll or a photo opportunity.

6
Stop 6

30 Rockefeller Center [if upgrade selected], also known as the Comcast Building, is the centerpiece of Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan. This iconic Art Deco skyscraper stands 850 feet tall and is home to NBC studios and the legendary "Saturday Night Live." This is where you will be able to explore the Top of the Rock observation deck, offering stunning panoramic views of New York City, including Central Park and the Empire State Building. The building's sleek design, historic murals, and prime location make it a must-visit landmark, blending media history with breathtaking cityscapes.

7
Stop 7

If selected, Top of the Rock, the observation deck at 30 Rockefeller Center, is included. It offers one of the most spectacular views in New York City. Rising 70 stories above Midtown, it provides unobstructed 360-degree panoramas of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the Manhattan skyline. Unlike other observation decks, its multiple levels and open-air spaces create a unique, immersive experience. Visiting Top of the Rock is a must-do in NYC for its breathtaking vistas and iconic photo opportunities.

What's not included

Gratuities
Guided Tour of Top of the Rock

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 2.0
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Tripadvisor 5.0
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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Your guide, carrying a City Wonders flag, will meet you Outside Starbucks Reserve at the corner of 34th Street and 5th Avenue.

Arriving by Subway: Trains N, W, 4, 5,6, 2 and 3. Walk to the corner of 34th st and 5th avenue.

Important notes

• It is the responsibility of all visitors to be at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure. Guests arriving after departure cannot be accommodated. Missed tours or tickets cannot be refunded.
• Your guide will be carrying a City Wonders flag at the meeting point for easy recognition.

• This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.
• This tour ends at Top of the Rock. You can remain in the Top of the Rock at your leisure following the tour.
• Gratuities for your guide that provided excellent service are appreciated.

• Most venues/attractions in NYC have airport-like security and item restrictions apply.
• We do not recommend bringing bags bigger than a bag pack. City Wonders is not responsible for dismissal of items or refused entry due to illicit items.
• Visitors with strollers are welcome to visit the Empire State Building and Top of Rock. However, they must be able to fold up the strollers in the observatory areas.
• Empire State and Top of The Rock do not permit outside food or beverages. Weapons of any kind are also prohibited. This includes but is not limited to: glass bottles, lighters, flammable substances, and knives of any kind, including pen knives, pocket knives, Swiss army knives, and switchblades. Tripods are also not permitted.

• New York city tourist sites are among the most popular in the world, but please be aware that some locations may be unavoidably busy during standard hours.
• Photography is permitted throughout the tour.
• City Wonders reserves the right to refuse participation on its tours to any guest under the influence of drugs or alcohol or to any guest whose behavior is disorderly, or poses a threat to other guests or City Wonders staff.

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air
  • John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
  • LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown
By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls
650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.
370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia
150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

  • Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
  • Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
  • Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
  • Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-99
1
Childs
Age 4-12
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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