Welcome back! I hope you had a great weekend! I’m back this week to continue sharing our trip to New York City. Today is all about one of the city’s most popular landmarks, The Empire State Building. This was my second visit to the ESB, but it was still just as beautiful!

Aside from the stunning skyline, the Art Deco era design is the most spectacular part of the building. Built in the 1930s, it was the prime time for Art Deco, and I love that the look is still around! Another modern marvel of its time, the Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world at the time it was built, and still remains one of the tallest today. 

Entering the building, you are greeted by a well-dressed doorman, and spectacular terrazzo and marble work. You’re immediately taken back in time to the ’30s, or transported to feel like Meg Ryan or Tom Hanks in Sleepless in Seattle, of course let us not forget An Affair to Remember. The building has been featured in countless TV shows and films, and is a true testament to its significance to New York and classic beauty! 

After departing the lobby, we were escorted up escalators to begin our journey to the top. We went through the proper security before exploring exhibits to learn about the history and construction of the building, taking in views out the windows along the way. Finally, we made our way to the 86th floor of the 102 story building to the Empire State Building Observation Deck. 

The views of the cities are stunning! Catch views of the surrounding rivers and boroughs, the new One World Trade Center, Flat Iron Building, Chrysler Building, and even the Statue of Liberty. Even in the cold winter months, it is a treat to visit the observation deck to catch fresh views of the city. It helps you stay grounded, ironically enough, even in a sea of concrete.  

The Empire State Building truly is a New York City must, even if only to take in the Art Deco architecture & design. You’ll want to visit as early as possible to avoid long lines. The further along in the day, the longer the lines. And in my opinion, for night views of the city, hop over to the Top of the Rock. I’ll share more about those views soon. I hope you enjoyed seeing and hearing about my venture to the ESB, and hope you’ll add it to you NYC itinerary. See you back tomorrow!

If you would like to see an itinerary for New York City with additional sites to explore check out some of my other posts here.