Find the perfect stay near Empire State Building

The Empire State Building stands as a classic symbol of the New York skyline, offering a glimpse into the city’s grand architectural history. Climbing to the observation decks on the 86th floor and 102nd floor lets you see the grid of Manhattan stretching out for miles in every direction. It is a place where Art Deco design meets endless views, making it a perfect spot to get your bearings and feel the energy of the city from 1,454 feet up.

Getting a clear view of the skyline often starts with a trip to the most recognisable skyscraper in the city. It is worth checking the weather forecast before you book, as low clouds can occasionally obscure the horizon from the top levels.

Planning your visit and getting inside

To reach the observation decks, you will need to book a specific time slot as an entry fee applies for all visitors. The building typically opens early in the morning and stays open until late at night, often until 00:00, though you should check the official landmark site for up-to-date information.

Security checks are mandatory for everyone entering the building, so allow extra time to pass through the scanners. The site is fully accessible with ADA-compliant ramps and lifts, ensuring that wheelchair users can reach both the 86th floor and the 102nd floor galleries without any trouble.

Exploring the decks and the view

The most famous part of the experience is the open-air observatory on the 86th floor, where you can walk around the entire perimeter of the spire. For a different perspective, you can take a second lift up to the 102nd floor, which features floor-to-ceiling windows for a completely enclosed view of the streets below.

Inside the building, there are several museum-quality galleries that you walk through before reaching the lifts. You can see a large scale model of the structure and an exhibit dedicated to the 1930s construction era. Keep an eye out for the shimmering gold leaf murals in the lobby, which are a classic example of the era's glamour.

Architecture and the race to the sky

Completed in just 410 days during the Great Depression, this steel-framed giant was once the tallest building in the world. It is designed in the Art Deco style, characterised by its tiered structure and the soaring mast that was originally intended to be a docking station for airships.

The building is famous for its changing lights, which illuminate the top sections in different colours to mark holidays or special events. While the tower has undergone a massive £128 million environmental retrofit recently, it still retains its historic charm and remains a symbol of the city's ambition.

Getting around the Empire State Building is straightforward because it sits right in the centre of the action. You will find a huge variety of places to stay nearby, ranging from high-rise suites to smaller hidden gems.

Where to stay nearby

Midtown South is the most convenient spot to base yourself if you want to be within a 5-minute walk of the Empire State Building. This area is packed with towering hotels that often provide views of the skyscraper right from your window. If you prefer something with a bit more character, look towards Nomad. It is just a few blocks away and is known for its stylish boutique hotels and trendy dining spots. Families might find the area around Bryant Park more relaxed, as it offers a bit of green space and is only 0.5 miles from the main entrance. For those on a tighter budget, staying a little further west towards Hell’s Kitchen can offer better value while still keeping you within a 15-minute walk of the landmark.

Getting to the landmark

The easiest way to arrive is by using the subway to 34 St - Herald Sq Station, which is just one block away. If you are coming from further afield, Penn Station is only 0.3 miles to the west, making it a quick 7-minute walk for those arriving via Amtrak or Long Island Rail Road. Grand Central Terminal is also close by, roughly 0.7 miles away, and you can reach the building in about 15 minutes on foot or by taking a short taxi ride. All these major hubs and the building itself offer step-free access and elevators for those with mobility requirements.

It takes just a few clicks to find the right hotels near the Empire State Building. Use Opodo to look at hotels that fit your style and grab the best deals available. Whether you want to stay 500 feet from the entrance or a 10-minute walk away, searching is simple and fast. Pick a hotel that suits your plans and start your New York adventure today. Booking the perfect spot feels great when everything clicks into place. Explore our list and choose your favourite hotel now.