NYC: Empire State Building Sunrise Experience Ticket

If you’re planning a trip to New York City and want to see the city wake up in a truly memorable way, the Empire State Building Sunrise Experience might just be your perfect morning adventure. This tour offers a rare chance to beat the crowds and watch the city come alive from one of its most iconic landmarks—the 86th Floor open-air observatory. While it’s a bit of a splurge at $147 per person, the combination of breathtaking views, exclusive access, and thoughtful extras makes it worth considering.

We particularly like the early access aspect—being among the first to see the sunrise over Manhattan is a special treat. The panoramic 360° views from the open-air deck are unmatched, giving you a truly immersive perspective. Plus, the included Starbucks Reserve coffee and Princi pastries add a delightful touch to this early morning outing. On the flip side, it is a limited Saturday-only experience, so if your schedule doesn’t align, you’ll need to look for other ways to catch sunrise views.

This experience is best suited for early risers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a quieter, more intimate visit to a famous NYC landmark. Families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate a combination of stunning scenery and a bit of luxury will find this tour particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Exclusive Early Access: Skip the crowds and experience the observatory before it opens to the public.
• Stunning Sunrise Views: Witness Manhattan awakening, with 360° panoramic sights from 1,054 feet.
• Comfort & Convenience: Climate-controlled galleries, WiFi, and an audio guide make the visit smooth.
• Thoughtful Extras: Premium coffee and freshly baked pastries enhance the morning.
• Educational & Fun: Explore interactive exhibits and a detailed architectural model.
• Limited Availability: Only offered on Saturday mornings, which makes it a unique, limited-time experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sunrise Experience

How the Itinerary Breaks Down

The experience starts precisely before the building’s regular opening hours. You meet your Empire State Building Greeting Host in the lobby at 20 W 34th St, where you’ll present your mobile or printed ticket. From there, it’s a short, smooth security process—think airport style—so leave large bags and glass items at home. The staff’s professionalism helps keep the atmosphere calm and exclusive.

Once inside, you’ll be guided to the 86th Floor Observation Deck—the highest open-air spot in NYC. Here’s where the magic begins. Because this is a small, intimate group, you won’t be fighting crowds or jostling for the perfect shot. Instead, you’ll enjoy a peaceful dawn as the city gradually lights up.

The views from this deck are simply spectacular. We loved the way the city’s landmarks—Central Park, Times Square, the Statue of Liberty—appear in the early morning light. The open-air setting makes for a more authentic and immersive experience than the usual crowded indoor galleries. Remember, this is only available on Saturday mornings, giving you a rare chance to witness Manhattan’s skyline without travelers.

The Experience Beyond Sunrise

After the sunrise, your ticket grants access to the Empire State Building’s museums and galleries. These include interactive exhibits about the tower’s construction, its pop-culture fame (hello, King Kong!), and its role as an icon for world leaders and celebrities. You can explore the two-story architectural model, which offers an intricate look at how the building was designed and built.

The climate-controlled galleries provide comfort year-round, whether it’s a chilly winter morning or a hot summer day. The audio guide, available in multiple languages, enriches your understanding of the building’s history and cultural significance. Plus, free WiFi throughout the building lets you share your photos or check out more info about the sights you’re seeing.

The Extras That Make It Special

What sets this tour apart are the thoughtful touches. The Starbucks Reserve micro-blend coffee and freshly baked Princi pastries are included with your ticket, giving you a cozy start to your day. It’s a surprisingly well-considered detail that makes the experience feel more like a luxurious morning ritual than just a sightseeing ticket.

The views and photos here are highly praised. One traveler from Austria called it a “great experience, a must-do,” while an Australian reviewer appreciated the “beautiful sunrise” and the “relaxing vibe,” especially due to the lack of crowds. The ability to capture clear, unobstructed photos in such a setting is a real perk for photography lovers.

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Practical Details and What to Expect

Timing and Group Size

The experience is scheduled for Saturday mornings, starting early enough to catch the sunrise. Because it’s limited to small groups, you’ll enjoy a more personal and less chaotic atmosphere. This can be a significant advantage over regular public visits, especially if you’re seeking a peaceful moment at a busy landmark.

Price and Value

At $147, the ticket is a bit on the higher side, but it includes several valuable extras—early access, coffee, pastries, and access to immersive exhibits. Travelers who love iconic sights and are keen on photography will find the price justified. It’s a unique opportunity to see New York in a way most travelers don’t get.

Accessibility and Restrictions

The tour is fully ADA compliant and wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors. Security is similar to airport screening—a necessary step that might delay or inconvenience some guests. Glass objects and large bags are not allowed, which is standard for high-security venues.

What to Keep in Mind

Because the experience is only available on Saturdays, it requires some advance planning. Morning weather can vary, so dress warmly during cooler months, especially since part of the tour is outdoors. The experience is designed to be family-friendly, so kids and seniors should be comfortable as long as they’re prepared for the early hour.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviews emphasize the stunning views and the knowledgeable guides. One traveler from Austria described the experience as “great,” highlighting the rarity of the moment. Another from Australia loved the “relaxing vibe” and the ability to enjoy the museum afterward. These comments underscore how this experience offers more than just views—it’s about creating a memorable, immersive moment in the city’s early morning quiet.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re someone who values unique, tranquil moments with legendary views, this tour offers a top-tier way to start your day in New York City. It’s perfect for photographers, culture buffs, and early risers who want to beat the crowds and enjoy a more contemplative experience of the city’s skyline. The inclusive extras like coffee, pastries, and interactive exhibits add to the feeling of a special treat rather than just another sightseeing ticket.

This experience is well worth the investment if you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic, and memorable way to see Manhattan wake up. It’s especially valuable for those who appreciate a blend of history, culture, and panoramic views—all in one morning.

FAQs

Is this experience available on days other than Saturday?
No, the sunrise experience is exclusively offered on Saturday mornings.

How early do I need to arrive?
You should meet your guide at 20 W 34th St before sunrise, which varies depending on the season, but typically well before 6:00 am.

Does the ticket include access to the entire Empire State Building?
Yes, your ticket provides access to the museum galleries, interactive exhibits, and the observation deck.

Is the outdoor observation deck safe and suitable for kids?
Yes, and it’s family-friendly. Children should be supervised, but the open-air deck is designed for visitors of all ages.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Absolutely, and the building is ADA compliant.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly if visiting during colder months, and bring your mobile device or camera for photos. Luggage and large bags are not permitted.

Are there any language options for the guide?
Yes, the audio guide is available in Chinese, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, and Spanish.

How crowded does it get after sunrise?
Once the tour ends and the building opens to the public, expect crowds to increase, but your early start helps avoid the main rush.

Is this a good value compared to regular tickets?
While more expensive, the early access, exclusive views, and extra amenities make it a worthwhile splurge for a special NYC experience.

This sunrise tour from the Empire State Building combines exclusive access, stunning visuals, and thoughtful touches, making it a standout option for those eager to see Manhattan in a new light. It’s an experience that promises not just photos, but a memory of the city’s quiet, majestic morning beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: