Make room for
a little wonder.

Opening times

All times are local to New York.

86th Floor Observation Deck

Usually 10:00–22:00 · Every day, all yearEntry doors close at 21:00. Hours vary by season and some days open at 09:00

Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.

Finding the observatory

The observatory entrance is at 20 West 34th Street, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues in Midtown Manhattan. Some listings give the building’s other address, 350 Fifth Avenue.

• By subway: 34th Street–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W) and 34th Street–Penn Station (1, 2, 3, A, C, E) are each about five minutes’ walk away; Grand Central is about ten.
• On foot: look for the observatory entrance on West 34th Street, not the Fifth Avenue lobby.
• Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.

Useful stops along the way

Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:

• Accessible restrooms on the 86th floor.
• An indoor gallery beside the open-air deck.
• Heaters on the outdoor deck in winter.
• Exhibits on the 2nd and 80th floors on the way up.

Travel light: there are no lockers, and large luggage is not permitted. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.

A visit that works for you

There is step-free access from the street entrance to the observation decks, with elevators all the way up. Manual and motorised wheelchairs are permitted, and there are lowered viewing walls and accessible restrooms on the 86th floor.

• Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
• Strollers are welcome, but must be folded in the observation deck areas.
• Service dogs are welcome throughout the building; ask observatory staff for assistance during your visit.

Enjoy the observatory thoughtfully

• Weapons, glass items, alcohol, cans and bottles, and outside food are not permitted.
• Professional camera stands, sports equipment, musical instruments and large luggage are not permitted.
• Costumes and masks, other than personal protective equipment, are not permitted.
• There are no lockers for personal belongings.
• Supervise children and follow staff guidance on the decks.

A little care keeps the observatory comfortable for everyone.

Make time for a pause

The streets of Midtown around the building have cafés and restaurants for a meal before or after your visit.

• Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
• Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
• Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.

Outside food is not permitted inside the building.

A few details worth planning

• Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
• Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
• Start in the right place: use the observatory entrance at 20 West 34th Street and follow your ticket’s instructions.
• Dress for the deck: the 86th floor is open-air, so a warm layer and a charged phone make the visit easier.
• Leave space to linger: most visits take at least an hour, and there is no time limit once you reach the top.