NYC: Empire State Building Sunrise Experience Ticket

If you’ve ever dreamed of catching the sunrise from one of New York City’s most legendary landmarks, this Empire State Building Sunrise Experience might just be your ticket to a memorable morning. We haven’t personally done this experience ourselves, but after reviewing the details, it’s clear that this tour offers a rare chance to see the city wake up without the usual crowds and chaos.

What we love about this experience is the exclusive early access to the 86th Floor Observatory—imagine greeting the dawn at 1,054 feet above Manhattan, with the city’s skyline gradually coming to life. Plus, the inclusion of Starbucks Reserve coffee and Princi pastries adds a comforting touch to an adrenaline-pumping start. One potential drawback? It’s a Saturday morning only event, so it requires an early wake-up call and pre-planning.

This experience is perfect for early risers, photographers, families, and anyone who seeks a unique, quiet view of New York’s famed landmarks before the city gets busy. If you’re keen on avoiding crowds and want a more intimate encounter with the city’s skyline, this will appeal to you.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Exclusive early access offers a quiet, crowd-free environment at sunrise.
• Stunning 360° views from the open-air 86th Floor Observatory reveal NYC’s iconic sights.
• Includes premium coffee and pastries, making for a delightful start to the day.
• Museum galleries and interactive exhibits enrich the experience after sunrise.
• Accessible for families, solo travelers, and those with mobility needs.
• Great value for the price when compared to standard tickets, considering the added benefits and ambiance.

The Empire State Building Sunrise Experience sets itself apart by offering a rare chance to see New York City at dawn. This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill ticket bought online; it’s a VIP window into a quieter, more contemplative side of the city.

Early Access and Small Group Setting

You’ll meet a friendly Empire State Building Ambassador in the Art Deco lobby at 20 W 34th St. Before the doors open to the general public, you and a small group will ascend into the building’s upper reaches. The quiet of dawn makes this a peaceful moment—no honking cars, no bustling travelers, just the city waking up.

The 86th Floor Observation Deck

Once at the top, you’ll step onto the open-air 86th Floor Observatory—the highest outdoor viewing area in New York. We loved the way this platform offers panoramic views that stretch across Central Park, Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and beyond. The open-air aspect is especially appealing for photography and simply soaking in the expansive skyline.

The views at sunrise are described as “magical,” with some reviewers noting that they’ve seen “a beautiful sunrise, no crowds.” The lack of crowds is a significant perk, allowing for unobstructed photos and a more intimate experience.

Interactive Galleries & Additional Attractions

After the sunrise, your ticket grants access to the building’s immersive museum galleries, which showcase the construction, cultural impact, and pop-culture fame of the Empire State Building—from King Kong to recent celebrity visits. A two-story architectural model offers a detailed look at the building’s design and prominence in NYC’s skyline.

Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, and Chinese, further enhance your understanding of the landmark’s significance.

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Comfort and Convenience

Climate-controlled viewing galleries mean you won’t be uncomfortable, regardless of the weather outside. The air purification system ensures a fresher environment even during busy hours, though you’ll be visiting before the crowds arrive. To maintain safety, luggage, large bags, and glass objects are not allowed, and all guests pass through airport-style security—a good reminder to pack light.

At $147 per person, this experience might seem steep compared to general admission tickets. However, when you consider the exclusive early access, refreshments, and less crowded views, it becomes a compelling value. Travelers have raved about the stunning views, noting it as “a once-in-a-lifetime experience” and “a beautiful sunrise, no crowds, relaxing vibe.”

Given the small group size, the guided aspect, and the added benefits of interactive galleries and multimedia guides, this ticket offers more than just a view—it provides a comprehensive immersive experience.

• Timing is crucial—arrive early at 20 W 34th St, and be prepared for a short security check.
• Book in advance as this is a popular Saturday morning event.
• Bring a camera or smartphone—you’ll want to capture the sunrise and cityscape.
• Dress warmly if visiting in cooler months; outdoor observatories can be chilly at dawn.
• No large bags or glass objects—pack light to streamline security.
• The experience is wheelchair accessible and ADA compliant, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.
• WiFi is available inside the building, so you can share your photos immediately.

This tour is ideal for early risers who want an unforgettable view of New York without the crowds. It’s perfect for photographers seeking pristine sunrise shots, families looking for a memorable experience, or couples wanting a romantic start to their day. If you enjoy interactive exhibits and a deeper look into the building’s history, this experience satisfies both curiosity and adventure.

It’s less suited for those who prefer flexible schedules or afternoon visits, or who aren’t comfortable with early mornings. But if you value quiet, stunning vistas, and a touch of exclusivity, this morning tour could be a highlight of your NYC trip.

In the world of New York sightseeing, the Empire State Building Sunrise Experience offers a rare chance to see the city at its most peaceful and photogenic moment. The exclusive early access combined with panoramic views and added amenities create a memorable package that’s well worth considering.

Though the price isn’t cheap, it’s justified by the intimate setting, the stunning light of dawn, and the opportunity to photograph New York’s most famous landmarks with minimal crowds. It’s especially suited for travelers who crave a special, meaningful experience early in the day, with plenty of opportunities to reflect, photograph, and enjoy.

If you’re looking for a unique start to your NYC adventure, this sunrise tour is a solid choice—offering both beautiful scenery and a bit of that magic only early mornings can provide.

Is this experience available on weekdays?
No, the Empire State Building Sunrise Experience is exclusively available on Saturday mornings.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately a full day, beginning before sunrise and including access to galleries afterward.

Do I need to bring my ticket?
Yes, you can present either a mobile or printed ticket at the entrance.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for kids and adults alike, especially those interested in photography or NYC sights.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?
Yes, large bags, luggage, glass objects, and marking instruments are not allowed for security reasons.

Is there WiFi available?
Yes, free WiFi is accessible inside the building.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling policies aren’t specified but check the booking provider.

What languages are the audio guides available in?
They are available in English, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Is wheelchair access available?
Absolutely, the Empire State Building is fully ADA compliant and wheelchair accessible.

This carefully curated experience shines as an ideal choice for those who want to see New York’s skyline in a moment of calm and beauty—early in the morning, with breathtaking views and a touch of VIP treatment.