User Reviews for Empire State Building

Research User Reviews for Empire State Building (1-3 of 3)

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Apr 4, 2009 by Beth from Michigan
Overall Rating: 5

• Beautiful view.
• Crowds, long time in line, expensive, tourist-trap feel.

“This is the quintessential tourist trap. It's worth doing once in a lifetime, but so much money just to stand in line and fight a huge crowd! After purchasing $20 tickets (each) we moved along quickly and up into the 1st elevator ride only to find a long, long, slow-moving line. We seriously stood in line for 45 minutes just to get into the 2nd elevator which went to the 102nd floor. Once on the observation deck, there was a huge crowd which made it difficult to get to the front and really look out over the city. Then we were told one elevator was broken, so all who looked healthy were sent down 6 flights of steps until we could catch a working down-elevator. The scary part was that there were a lot more of those chain-and-post line assemblies, so we weren't even there at a peak traffic time!”

3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

Mar 1, 2006 by Joe from Pewaukee WI
Overall Rating: 10

• Best view in the world.
• Always very crowded.

“The view from the observation deck is, without a doubt, the most impressive in the world. And now, since November 2005, you can also get into the 102nd story observation deck, which had been closed for many years. Tickets for 102 must be purchased in person (not on-line) and cost $10 over the normal admission. There is no secret to avoiding crowds. It is always crowded, but the earlier you get there the better. Also, the new ticketing area on the second floor seems to handle crowds better than the old lower level arrangement. Do not forget to linger a bit in the lobby and admire the wonderful art deco style decoration.”

8 of 9 people found this review helpful.

Oct 12, 2005 by JOE_A (See all reviews by JOE_A)
Overall Rating: 7

• Symbol of New York
• Long lines like any other NY tourist site

“The Empire State building offers a beautiful view of Manhattan. With the sad departure of the World Trade Center, the Empire State building symbolizes New York City. It's definitely a tourist trap, and many locals have never been to the top - but if you want to say you have done it - go when the kids are at school.”

14 of 18 people found this review helpful.