#nyctours

[witwickyphotojournal]

Circle Line Boat Tour, Signs

[septembergold]

nyctourism

[jewsingermany]

The Empire State Building: New York’s Crown Jewel

The Empire State Building stands as one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Rising majestically over the New York City skyline, this architectural masterpiece has been a symbol of ambition, resilience, and innovation since its completion in 1931. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a first-time visitor to the Big Apple, the Empire State Building offers an unforgettable experience.

A Tower Built on Dreams

The story of the Empire State Building is one of vision and determination. In the late 1920s, New York City was in the middle of a skyscraper race. Developers were eager to create the world's tallest building, and a competition began between the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building.

Designed by architects Shreve, Lamb & Harmon, the construction of the Empire State Building was completed in just 410 days, a remarkable feat at the time. Over 3,000 workers labored tirelessly, and despite the challenges of the Great Depression, the building was officially opened on May 1, 1931. At the time, it stood as the tallest building in the world, a title it held until the World Trade Center was completed in 1970.

Architectural Marvel and Design

The Empire State Building is a masterpiece of Art Deco architecture, a style characterized by sleek lines, geometric patterns, and luxurious materials. Standing at 1,454 feet (443.2 meters), including its antenna, the tower has 102 floors and boasts 6,514 windows.

One of the most striking features is its lobby, adorned with gold and aluminum leaf murals, showcasing the era’s artistic brilliance. The building’s limestone and stainless steel façade adds to its timeless elegance, making it one of the most photographed buildings in the world.

The Observation Decks: A View Like No Other

A visit to the Empire State Building is incomplete without experiencing its world-famous observation decks. Located on the 86th and 102nd floors, these decks offer breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of New York City and beyond.

From the top, you can spot famous landmarks like:

Central Park – The city’s green oasis, stretching over 843 acres.

Statue of Liberty – The symbol of freedom and democracy.

Brooklyn Bridge – An engineering marvel connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn.

One World Trade Center – The tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

On a clear day, visibility extends up to 80 miles, allowing visitors to see five states—New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.

The Empire State Building in Pop Culture

Few buildings in the world have made as many appearances in pop culture as the Empire State Building. It has been featured in over 250 movies and TV shows, making it one of the most recognizable structures on the planet.

Perhaps its most famous cinematic moment was in King Kong (1933), where the giant ape climbs to the top, swatting at airplanes. The building has also been central to films like Sleepless in Seattle (1993) and An Affair to Remember (1957), reinforcing its status as a romantic landmark.

The Empire State Building at Night

One of the most spectacular aspects of the Empire State Building is its LED lighting system, which illuminates the tower in stunning colors every night. The colors change to honor holidays, events, and important causes.

Some notable light displays include:

Red, White & Blue – For Independence Day and patriotic celebrations.

Green – To celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Pink – For Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Rainbow Colors – For Pride Month.

Watching the Empire State Building light up the night sky is a breathtaking experience, adding to the magic of New York City.

Inside the Empire State Building: More Than Just an Office

While the observation decks draw millions of visitors annually, the Empire State Building is also a fully functional office building. It houses corporate offices, media companies, and even a dedicated sustainability program that has made it one of the most energy-efficient skyscrapers in the world.

In recent years, the building has undergone major renovations, including the Empire State Building Experience, an interactive exhibit that takes visitors on a journey through its history, construction, and impact on the world.

Interesting Facts About the Empire State Building

Lightning Strikes It Often – The Empire State Building is hit by lightning around 25 times per year.

A Race to the Top – Each year, the Empire State Building Run-Up challenges runners to climb 1,576 steps to the 86th floor.

A Wedding Destination – Couples can actually get married on Valentine’s Day at the top of the building.

It Was Once a Hub for Airships – The original design included a mooring mast for dirigibles (airships), but the idea was scrapped due to strong winds.

A Must-Visit Landmark in NYC

Visiting the Empire State Building is an experience unlike any other. Whether you’re taking in the breathtaking views from the top, admiring its historic Art Deco design, or simply gazing at its illuminated beauty from the streets below, the building embodies the very essence of New York City.

If you’re planning a trip to NYC, make sure to add the Empire State Building to your itinerary—it’s a symbol of dreams, innovation, and the limitless possibilities that define the Big Apple.

[travelerwiz]

I would love to visit New York one day with my kids ❤️

[actiontourguide]

Exploring the heart of NYC with the Battery Park Tour Map! 🗽🌿 Discover historical landmarks, breathtaking waterfront views, and hidden gems all in one place. Perfect day for a stroll through history! 🌊🗺️

[travelarii]

Taking in the breathtaking views from the top of the Empire State Building! 🏙️ Have you been able to visit this iconic landmark yet?

[chuckhipolitho]

10 places you should visit on your first trip to New York City. It is an...

Embarking on your first adventure in the concrete jungle? Check out these 10 iconic NYC attractions that will make your trip unforgettable.

[mothscrossing]

Top 25 FREE Things to Do in New York City - Southern Savers :: Southern Savers

Craving an unforgettable adventure in the city that never sleeps? Look no further. Our curated list of the top 25 FREE things to do in NYC will empower you to conquer the concrete jungle with style and confidence.

[laibak]

Walking New York City Chelsea | NYC Tours 2024 | 4K

[mewshuji]

50 Cool Things To Do In New York City Explore the Big Apple like a local with our ultimate guide to the 50 coolest things to do in New York City.

[goingplacesfarandnear]

Photo Highlights: Walking Tour of New York City's Holiday Lights Wonderland

Skating at Rockefeller Center beneath the Christmas tree © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com The famous Christmas tree is alight at Rockefeller Center. Saks Fifth Avenue has its sound-and-light show and decorated windows. Macy’s anchors the Miracle on 34th Street, and Bergdorf Goodman once again stuns with its decorated…

[sarahnara-sauce]

The complete guide to free awesome and fun things to do in New York Calling all adventure seekers. Unleash your inner explorer with our curated list of free, amazing, and entertaining things to do in the heart of New York City.

[bikingnyc]

Private Bike Tours - Guided Bike Tours Highlights & Must-see places.

Bike tours departs on demand Avail. All Day - Booking Required!

Central Park Private - VIP Bike Tours

[trascapades]

🎭 #ArtIsAWeapon Discount and 2-for-1 ticket offers to see "Jaja's African Hair Braiding," a new play by Jocelyn Bioh @jjbioh, directed by Whitney White @naptural85, presented by Manhattan Theatre Club @mtc_nyc , Madison Wells Live @heymadisonwells, LaChanze @mslachanze, and Taraji P. Henson @tarajiphenson

Limited Engagement - Broadway previews begin September 12, 2023

Samuel J. Friedman Theatre • 261 W. 47th Street • New York, NY 10036

Reposted from @mtc_nyc Welcome to Jaja’s, a bustling hair braiding shop in Harlem where every day, a group of West African immigrant hair braiders are creating masterpieces on the heads of neighborhood women. Over the course of one sweltering summer day, love will blossom, dreams will flourish, secrets will be revealed, and the uncertainty of their circumstances will force this tight-knit community to confront what it means to be an outsider on the edge of the place they call home.

✅️DISCOUNT TICKET OFFER FROM @walktallgirl - Get $49 tickets with code MTCWTG*

"Join us for Black Theater Night

Wednesday, September 20 • 7:00 pm

Post-performance discussion with JAJA producing partners LaChanze and Taraji P. Henson!

To Purchase Tickets:

Online: www.telecharge.com | Call: 212.947.8844 | In-Person: Visit the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre Box Office, 261 W. 47th St, NYC | Save on ticketing fees - Buy in person."

▪︎▪︎▪︎

✅️#NYCBroadwayWeek, September 4-17, 2-for-1 ticket offer from @nyctourism: You can book 2-for-1 tickets now at 20+ participating shows. Browse and book now at nyctourism.com/broadway-week (link in bio). ⁠

⁠

#JajaBroadway #JocelynBioh #BlackPlaywrights #BlackTheater #BlackTheaterNight #DiscountTickets #BlackGirlTheaterGeeks ⁠#Broadway #NYCBroadway #NYCTourism