Empire State Building

The Empire State Building offers kids an unforgettable journey to one of the world's most iconic observation decks, standing 1,454 feet tall. Children will be amazed by the breathtaking 360-degree views of New York City from the 86th and 102nd floor observatories, while interactive exhibits bring the building's fascinating history to life in ways that captivate young minds.

• ✓86th floor open-air observation deck with panoramic views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond
• ✓102nd floor indoor observatory,the highest viewpoint at 1,250 feet above the street
• ✓Interactive exhibits showcasing the building's construction, including original construction photos
• ✓Spotting famous NYC landmarks like Central Park, Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn Bridge from above
• ✓Evening light shows when the building's famous tower lights illuminate in different colors

1. 1.Purchase skip-the-line tickets online in advance to avoid waiting up to 2 hours with restless kids during peak times
2. 2.Visit the 2nd floor exhibits first where kids can learn about the building's construction through interactive displays and even take virtual reality tours
3. 3.Bring a portable charger for phones and tablets,you'll want plenty of battery life for photos and using the building's free app that identifies landmarks
4. 4.Stop by the bathrooms on the 86th floor before heading up to the 102nd floor observatory to avoid the trek back down
5. 5.Visit at sunset for a magical experience, but arrive 45 minutes early to see both daylight and nighttime views

Early morning (8-9 AM) on weekdays offers the shortest lines and clearest views. Sunset visits are spectacular but expect larger crowds. Avoid weekends, holidays, and summer afternoons when wait times are longest.

General admission starts around $44 for adults and $38 for children (6-12), with express passes available for faster access. The building is stroller-accessible via elevators, though you'll need to fold strollers in crowded areas. A small café and gift shop are on-site, but full meal options are limited.

Open year-round with no seasonal closures. Clear fall and spring days offer the best visibility. Winter visits can be cold and windy on the open-air deck, so dress warmly. Summer brings the most crowds but also extended evening hours. The building lights up in special colors for holidays and events, which kids find exciting.

Junior's Restaurant (2 blocks away) is a family-friendly classic serving comfort food and famous cheesecake. Shake Shack in nearby Madison Square Park offers quick, kid-approved burgers and shakes in a casual setting.