Why is Empire State Building famous?

Opened in 1931, the Empire State Building is the world's most famous office building, a historical landmark, and was named "America's Favorite Architecture" in a poll conducted by the American Institute of Architects. It's no surprise that visiting this amazing building is one of the top places to visit in New York.

How many people died building the Empire State?

The Empire State Building was eventually finished ahead of schedule and under budget, but it also came with a human cost: at least five workers were killed during the construction process.

What is the Empire State building used for now?

During World War II, the Empire State Building became a major radio station for sending messages back home during war times. Today, the building is still used for broadcasting but only from small local stations. Its main purpose now is simply as a billboard advertising space.

Do people live in the Empire State building?

No, the Empire State Building isn't a residential building. It's a commercial building and landmark where no one lives. There are thousands of offices in the 1,454 feet tall building with a fitness center and seven restaurants. There are also three observatories on the 80th, 86th, and 102nd floors.

Why is it called Empire State?

While the precise origin of the nickname “Empire State” is unknown, one of its oldest documented sources is a letter written by George Washington in 1785 in which he expresses admiration for New York's strength during the American Revolution and deems the state “the Seat of the Empire.

Is the Empire State building an American symbol?

Since its construction, the Empire State Building has symbolized the technological prowess and economic strength of the United States.

Why is Empire State Building Blue?

In honor of those who died in the 9/11 attacks, the Empire State Building tower lights will be lit up in blue colors tonight.

Is the lunch on a skyscraper photo real?

Labor Day: “Lunch atop a Skyscraper,” was a staged photo of New York iron workers during the Depression - The Washington Post.

Empire State Building 86th vs 102nd floor: What’s the difference?

Even though it's been outstripped in height, the Empire State Building's charm is timeless. It's like a dear old friend to New Yorkers, standing tall through the city's countless transformations. When it comes to soaking in the Big Apple from above, you've got two stellar vantage points at this iconic skyscraper: the 86th floor and the 102nd floor.

Now, if you ask a fellow New Yorker which floor is a must-visit, they'll likely tell you that it’s all the same. However, as a tourist, you ought to know the difference. Keep reading as we dive into the unique experience each floor offers.

What’s special about the Empire State Building?

The Empire State Building, an impressive feat of engineering, was built in just 20 months during the Great Depression. It reigned as the tallest building until 1970. When you visit, you'll learn about its construction and the hard work that went behind it. As an Art Deco masterpiece with its spire and perfect geometry, it has appeared in over 250 films and TV shows. Sleepless in Seattle, Ready Player One, Elf and Gossip Girl to name a few. Notably, the building has been more than just King Kong's climbing frame — daredevil skydivers have also jumped from its peak, resulting in their arrests.

Recommended tickets to Empire State Building

Empire State Building 86th floor vs 102 floor

86th Floor	Feature	102nd Floor
Main deck	Name	Top deck
1050 ft (320 m)	Height	1,250 feet (381m)
360-degree open air	Type	360-degree enclosed by floor-to-ceiling glass
On clearest days views go as far as 80 miles and 6 neighboring states: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Delaware.	How far can you see?	Far enough to see the curvature of the Earth
Minimum 2 lifts	Lifts till top	Minimum 3 lifts
Previously coin-operated telescopes, are now free	Telescope	No
A front-row seat to the heartbeats of the Big Apple	What’s the feeling on top like?	Top of the world!
20 - 30 minute	Waiting time to get to the top	30 - 40 minute
Metal bars obstructing the full view.	Issues	Window glare

Something you need to know about the two floors

You’ll be amazed to know that the 86th floor of the Empire State Building is known for heartfelt marriage proposals and romantic moments. There’s a saxophonist who plays here from Thursday to Saturday, post-10 pm, setting the mood under the twinkling stars. So, if you’re planning to propose, this experience can be the cherry on top of a magical evening. Make sure you plan your evening in advance!

Above the 102nd floor lies a hidden level originally intended as a docking station for airships. However, this concept was scrapped because of strong winds and safety issues. Now featuring an open-air balcony, this exclusive area is reserved for VIPs and celebrities, with Taylor Swift being among the few.

Summary

Empire State Building 86th vs 102nd floor

What to expect on the 86th and 102nd floor of the Empire State Building

What’s special about the Empire State Building?

Recommended tickets to Empire State Building

Empire State Building 86th floor vs 102 floor

86th Floor

Feature

102nd Floor

Something you need to know about the two floors

Rohit Jadhav