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Up to 24 hours before the experience starts
Walk past Midtown Manhattan’s architectural icons and ascend to the Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observatory on this 90-min guided tour.
Meet your guide outside Épicerie Boulud at 1 Vanderbilt Avenue, easily spotted by their orange ExperienceFirst hat. After a brief introduction, your group will set off at a relaxed pace, covering about three-quarters of a mile through Midtown’s storied streets.
This walking tour explores the evolution of New York’s skyline, spotlighting the visionaries and rivalries that shaped Midtown’s most famous landmarks. Your guide shares stories behind each stop, from Art Deco masterpieces to modern skyscrapers.
Features:
One Vanderbilt: See this modern skyscraper and learn how it frames views of the Chrysler Building, the world’s first supertall skyscraper.
New York Public Library: Visit a Beaux-Arts landmark, home to marble lions and hidden stories, including underground tunnels.
Bryant Park: Pause in this 9.6-acre green space, known as Midtown’s “town square,” with views of surrounding Art Deco architecture.
Fifth Avenue & Herald Square: Discover the cultural impact of Macy’s and the role of these avenues in shaping New York’s identity.
Your journey culminates at the Empire State Building. Learn how this marvel of Art Deco design rose during the Great Depression, born from a fierce construction rivalry. Hear behind-the-scenes stories of its rapid construction and enduring pop culture fame.
Features:
Art Deco design: Discover the architectural elements that make this building a timeless masterpiece.
Historical insight: Learn about the 1930s “race to the skies” and what made the Empire State Building a symbol of resilience and ambition.
86th-floor Observatory access: End your tour with admission to the main observatory deck. Enjoy 360-degree views of New York City and, on a clear day, as far as Massachusetts.
This product offers multiple ticket options. Some items above (like transfers or fast-track access) may only apply to specific options — confirm what's included when you select yours.
Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.
Please arrive at the meeting point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.
Meet your guide outside Épicerie Boulud bakery.
Address: 1 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017, United States.
Guide identifier: Your guide will be standing on the forecourt, wearing an orange color "Experience First" hat.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Clear answers to the most common questions travelers ask before booking this experience.