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

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple, tackling its dizzying views is a must. A guided tour of the Empire State Building, with the option to include a visit to Top of the Rock, offers a fantastic way to see the city from above. From bypassing long lines to hearing fascinating stories from passionate guides, this tour promises an insider’s look at two of New York’s most celebrated observation decks.

What we like most? The chance to skip the crowds thanks to early access, plus the opportunity to compare two iconic views from two very different vantage points. One drawback? The tour’s somewhat brisk pace can make it feel rushed—especially if you’re keen on soaking in every detail. This experience suits travelers who want a solid overview with expert commentary but don’t mind a little hustle to maximize their sightseeing.

If you’re someone eager to tick off the city’s skyline highlights efficiently—without the hassle of long lines—this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for first-timers, those with limited time, or anyone who appreciates guided insights that bring the city’s towering landmarks to life.

Key Points

• Early Access: Bypass long queues at the Empire State Building for a smoother, more comfortable experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share interesting facts and stories, making the visit more meaningful.
• Two Great Views: Stand on the 86th-floor observatory and optionally visit Top of the Rock for different perspectives of NYC.
• Small Group Feel: Tours are limited to around 20 people, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Convenient Meeting Point: The guide meets you in front of a recognizable landmark on 34th Street, easy to find via subway.
• Value for Money: For $79, the tour includes admission, guided commentary, and optional top deck visits—particularly good value considering the cost of individual tickets.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Our review of this tour begins at the meeting point in front of the Starbucks Reserve on 34th Street and 5th Avenue. From here, your guide in branded attire will spot you easily, making check-in straightforward. The walking to the Empire State Building is brief, and from the start, the small group size (max 20) helps ensure you get personal attention.

The Empire State Building itself is an art-deco masterpiece, and as you step inside the lobby, you’re transported into a different era. The guided part begins with a quick ride up the elevator, after which you’re introduced to the Dare to Dream exhibit on the 80th floor. Here, the storytelling about the rapid construction and historical significance of the building makes the towering structure come alive with purpose and grit, not just height.

Once on the 86th-floor observatory, the views are spectacular. You’ll see sprawling Manhattan, the boroughs, and even reach across four or five states on a clear day. The guide points out landmarks, weaving in anecdotes that turn a panoramic view into a captivating story. The experience from the 86th-floor deck is about 20 to 30 minutes, which some reviews indicate might feel a bit rushed when the views are so expansive and the photo opportunities plentiful. One traveler reflected, “we were told we had just 20 minutes to take it all in,” highlighting the importance of making the most of that time.

What makes this experience stand out is the guide’s commentary. Reviewers consistently mention guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share insights. One said, “Leo was very good at his job, very informative and made it interesting,” illustrating how a passionate guide can enhance the visit immensely.

For those opting to extend their adventure, the tour continues to Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center. This part of the experience offers a different flavor of cityscape. From here, you get sweeping views of Central Park, the Empire State Building itself, and the city’s sprawling skyline. Many travelers find the Top of the Rock’s vantage point more open and less crowded than the Empire State, offering an excellent complement to the earlier visit.

The value of seeing both? It’s about perspective. The Empire State gives a classic, vertical skyline view, while Top of the Rock offers a broader, more horizontal sweep — each with its unique charm. One reviewer pointed out the “breathtaking vistas” from Rockefeller’s deck, making it a perfect finale.

A word of caution: some reviews mention feeling hurried through the Empire State visit, with limited time to truly absorb the sights. If you’re a photography enthusiast or someone who prefers a slower pace, you might consider spending more time at each location on your own later.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Meeting and Walk to the Empire State Building

The tour starts with a friendly meet-up at a well-known spot, making it easy to find. Walks are brief but provide a chance to chat with your guide about the city’s history and architecture, setting the tone for the experience.

Inside the Empire State Building

Upon entry, you skip the general lines—something many reviewers appreciate. The lobby’s art deco details immediately evoke the glamour of 1930s New York. The quick elevator ride up to the 80th floor is complemented by engaging commentary on the building’s construction, completion, and cultural significance.

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The Dare to Dream Exhibit

On the 80th floor, you’ll find the Dare to Dream exhibit, showcasing the building’s rapid rise and iconic status. This spot offers a chance to learn about the building’s design, engineering, and the stories behind its creation.

The 86th-Floor Observatory

The main event: panoramic views from the 86th-floor deck. Expect spectacular sights of Manhattan’s grid, bridges, and beyond. The guide will help identify landmarks, giving you context and making your photos more meaningful.

Optional Top of the Rock

If you choose to extend your tour, the visit to Rockefeller Center’s observation deck is a highlight. It offers a different perspective of the city, especially views of Central Park and the Empire State Building itself. The deck is less crowded, offering more space for selfies and photos.

Price and Value Analysis

At $79 per person, this tour packs a lot of value. Included are admission tickets to the Empire State Building and, if selected, Top of the Rock, plus the guided commentary. Buying tickets separately for each attraction would likely cost more and involve waiting in lines. The guided element also enriches the experience—transforming a quick visit into a memorable, informative event.

However, some critics mention the feeling of being rushed, especially if you want to linger and soak in every view or take photographs without feeling hurried. If you’re someone who prefers to explore at your own pace, you might want to consider visiting the buildings independently—though you’d lose the expert insights and skip-the-line convenience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors, busy travelers, or those who value guided storytelling. It suits travelers who want an efficient way to see the city’s skyline without long waits. It’s also good for those who enjoy a small-group setting, which fosters interaction and personalized attention. If you’re a history buff or keen on photography, be mindful of the time limitations.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Arrive promptly at the meeting point to maximize your time.
• The tour is approximately 2.5 hours, usually in the morning, so plan your day accordingly.
• Food and beverages are not included, so consider grabbing a coffee or snack beforehand.
• Note that baby strollers, wheelchairs, and wheelchairs with special needs are not accommodated.
• Security checks are similar to airport procedures, so pack light and be prepared for delays during busy times.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour of the Empire State Building, with an optional stop at Top of the Rock, offers a well-rounded, efficient way to experience two of New York’s most iconic vantage points. The early access feature is a significant perk, especially during peak tourist seasons when lines can become daunting.

While the tour’s pace might feel brisk for some, the insight from knowledgeable guides adds depth that purely self-guided visits may lack. The inclusion of stunning views, historical anecdotes, and the ability to compare different cityscapes makes it a solid choice for many travelers.

In essence, if you’re after a manageable, informative, and memorable skyline experience that balances convenience with authentic insight, this tour could be a great fit. Just be prepared to move at a pace that might be quicker than some prefer, and consider your own interest in lingering over views.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 2.5 hours, typically scheduled in the morning, giving you ample time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers admission to the Empire State Building, a guided tour with an expert English-speaking guide, and, if chosen, the ticket to Top of the Rock. Food and beverages are not included.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is in front of the Starbucks Reserve at the corner of 34th Street and 5th Avenue, a convenient spot accessible via multiple subway lines.

Can I choose to visit Top of the Rock?
Yes, it’s an optional extension. You can opt to include it during booking for additional views and a different city perspective.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchairs, and baby strollers are not allowed. It’s designed for able-bodied adults or children who can manage brief walking and standing.

What about security procedures?
Expect airport-like security checks at the venues, so pack light and follow instructions to ensure smooth entry.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical, engaging way to see New York’s skyline from two of its most legendary platforms. It balances expert guidance with the thrill of panoramic views and is especially valuable for travelers wanting to skip long lines and gain deeper insights into the city’s architectural marvels. For those eager to experience the city from above without the hassle and with a bit of storytelling, this tour is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby