A captivating painting showcasing the Empire State Building's 86th and 102nd floors, capturing the contrasting heights and architectural beauty in a mesmerizing blend of colors and perspective.

Empire State Building 86Th Floor Vs 102Nd Floor: Which Observation Deck Is Better?

ByHulya Aksu Updated on

The Empire State Building is one of the most iconic skyscrapers in New York City. At 1,454 feet tall, it offers stunning 360-degree views of the city from its two observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors. But with tickets starting at $38, you may be wondering – which deck is better?

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The 102nd floor observatory is better than the 86th floor if you want the highest vantage point, don’t mind paying more, and aren’t afraid of heights.

The 86th floor is a better option if you want to save money, don’t need the highest view, or have a fear of heights.

Ticket Prices

86th Floor Tickets

When it comes to visiting the Empire State Building, one of the first things people consider is the ticket prices. The good news is that there are options available for different budgets. The ticket price for the 86th floor observation deck is more affordable compared to the 102nd floor.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of New York City from this iconic landmark without breaking the bank.

The current price for an adult ticket to the 86th floor observation deck is $38, while children aged 6-12 can get in for $32. Seniors aged 62 and above can enjoy a discounted ticket price of $36. It’s worth noting that these prices may vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the official Empire State Building website for the most up-to-date information.

102nd Floor Tickets

If you’re looking for a more exclusive experience and are willing to splurge, the 102nd floor observation deck might be the right choice for you. While the ticket price for this floor is higher compared to the 86th floor, it offers a unique opportunity to see the city from a higher vantage point.

The current price for an adult ticket to the 102nd floor observation deck is $58. Children aged 6-12 can visit this floor for $52, and seniors aged 62 and above can enjoy a discounted ticket price of $56.

Keep in mind that these prices are subject to change, so it’s best to check the official Empire State Building website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Regardless of which observation deck you choose, both offer incredible views of the city that will leave you in awe. The ticket price is a small investment for the unforgettable experience of seeing New York City from such an iconic landmark.

Views and Vantage Points

When it comes to experiencing the breathtaking views of New York City from the Empire State Building, visitors have the option of choosing between the 86th floor and the 102nd floor observation decks. Both offer unique perspectives of the city skyline, but each has its own distinct advantages.

Let’s take a closer look at what each floor has to offer.

86th Floor Views

The 86th floor observation deck of the Empire State Building is undoubtedly one of the most iconic spots to take in the panoramic views of Manhattan. Situated at a height of 1,050 feet (320 meters), this deck provides visitors with a stunning 360-degree view of the city.

From here, you can marvel at famous landmarks such as Central Park, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty. The outdoor promenade, encircled by a sturdy safety fence, allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the bustling cityscape.

One of the major advantages of the 86th floor is its accessibility. Visitors can easily reach this deck using the high-speed elevators that whisk them up to the top in just a matter of seconds. The deck is also equipped with high-powered binoculars, giving visitors the opportunity to zoom in on specific areas of interest.

Whether it’s day or night, the views from the 86th floor are truly awe-inspiring and offer a unique perspective of the city that never sleeps.

102nd Floor Views

If you’re looking for a more elevated experience, the 102nd floor observation deck is worth considering. Situated at a staggering height of 1,250 feet (381 meters), this deck offers an even more panoramic view of the city.

From this vantage point, visitors can see up to 80 miles (128 kilometers) on a clear day, extending beyond the city limits.

The 102nd floor deck is enclosed and features floor-to-ceiling windows, providing visitors with an unobstructed view of the city below. While the space is smaller compared to the 86th floor, it offers a more intimate setting and is often less crowded.

This allows visitors to take their time and truly soak in the mesmerizing views without feeling rushed. The higher elevation also means that the noise from the bustling city below is minimized, creating a more serene and peaceful atmosphere.

While the 102nd floor offers a truly remarkable experience, it’s important to note that admission to this deck is separate from the general admission ticket for the 86th floor. Visitors can choose to purchase a combination ticket or upgrade their ticket at the observatory entrance.

86th Floor 102nd Floor
360-degree view of the city Unobstructed view with floor-to-ceiling windows
Outdoor promenade experience Intimate and less crowded setting
Accessible and equipped with binoculars Elevated view up to 80 miles on a clear day

Ultimately, the choice between the 86th floor and the 102nd floor observation decks at the Empire State Building depends on personal preference. Whether you prefer the immersive outdoor experience and the 360-degree view of the 86th floor or the more elevated and serene atmosphere of the 102nd floor, both options guarantee an unforgettable experience and stunning views of the magnificent New York City skyline.

Amenities

86th Floor Amenities

The 86th floor observation deck at the Empire State Building offers a wide range of amenities to enhance your experience. One of the main highlights is the open-air promenade, which allows visitors to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of New York City from 1,050 feet above ground level.

The promenade is enclosed by a glass safety barrier, ensuring both safety and unobstructed views.

In addition to the stunning views, the 86th floor also features several amenities to make your visit more enjoyable. There are outdoor and indoor seating areas where you can relax and take in the sights.

You’ll also find a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia to commemorate your visit. The Empire State Building also offers free Wi-Fi on the 86th floor, allowing you to stay connected and share your experience with friends and family.

102nd Floor Amenities

The 102nd floor observation deck at the Empire State Building offers a more exclusive experience for visitors. While the 86th floor is open-air, the 102nd floor is enclosed with floor-to-ceiling windows, providing a 360-degree view of the city.

This unique vantage point allows you to see landmarks like Central Park, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty from a whole new perspective.

Although the 102nd floor does not have as many amenities as the 86th floor, it still offers a remarkable experience. The smaller and more intimate space provides a quieter and more serene atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a more peaceful visit.

The 102nd floor also has a dedicated elevator that offers a faster ride to the top, reducing wait times and allowing you to spend more time enjoying the view.

Both the 86th and 102nd floor observation decks offer unique amenities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the open-air experience of the 86th floor or the enclosed serenity of the 102nd floor, visiting either deck will undoubtedly provide an unforgettable experience of New York City’s iconic skyline.

Heights and Accessibility

86th Floor Height and Access

The 86th floor of the Empire State Building is the more popular observation deck, and for good reason. Standing at an impressive height of 1,050 feet (320 meters) above the bustling streets of New York City, it offers breathtaking views of the iconic skyline.

Access to the 86th floor is easy and convenient, with multiple elevators available to take visitors up to the observation deck. The deck itself is spacious, allowing visitors to move around freely and take in the panoramic views from all angles.

102nd Floor Height and Access

For those seeking an even more elevated experience, the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building is the place to be. This observation deck offers a staggering height of 1,250 feet (381 meters) above ground level, providing an unparalleled vantage point over the city.

However, it’s important to note that access to the 102nd floor is limited. Visitors must first reach the 86th floor and then take a separate elevator to reach the higher deck. The 102nd floor deck is smaller in size compared to the 86th floor, but it still offers magnificent views that will leave you in awe.

Both the 86th and 102nd floors of the Empire State Building provide visitors with unique and unforgettable experiences. Whether you choose to admire the cityscape from the slightly lower but more accessible 86th floor or venture to the higher and more exclusive 102nd floor, you are guaranteed to be amazed by the incredible views of New York City.

Conclusion

In the end, deciding between the 86th and 102nd floor observatories comes down to your priorities. If 360-degree open-air views and bragging rights for reaching the highest vantage point matter most, spring for the 102nd floor.

But if you want to save money and avoid extreme heights, the 86th floor observatory has excellent views too.

Hulya Aksu is the founder and editor-in-chief of Posh Seven Magazine, the leading lifestyle publication serving the affluent suburbs of Washington D.C. Born in Istanbul, Turkey, Hulya moved to the United States to pursue her passion for fashion. She worked for major fashion houses before recognizing a need for a magazine that spoke to successful women in D.C.'s prestigious neighborhoods.

In 2007, Hulya launched Posh Seven Magazine from her home while on maternity leave. The magazine quickly gained an avid following for its insider's perspective on upscale living in communities like McLean, Potomac, and Bethesda.

Over the past 15 years, Hulya has built Posh Seven into a multimedia brand with print, digital, social media, and experiential components. Her visionary leadership and hyper-local approach has made Posh Seven a go-to resource for over 100,000 readers.

As founder and editor-in-chief, Hulya lends the magazine her impeccable taste and insights into luxury living. She resides with her family in Ashburn, Virginia where the Posh Seven headquarters are located. Hulya is deeply committed to serving the vibrant community of successful women who call D.C.'s affluent suburbs home.

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