Things to Do Near the Empire State Building
One of the iconic destinations for travelers is a trip to the Empire State Building (ESB), a historic landmark in the city. Make the most of your time at this NYC landmark by adding some of these things to do near the Empire State Building to your itinerary before and after your visit. The building itself is close to some other terrific attractions that you can visit with the New York Pass to help you make the most of your trip whether it's for a week or a weekend. If visiting New York and looking for other fun things to do near the Empire State Building, be sure to check out these other landmarks and attractions located nearby. They include:
- Central Park
- Rockefeller Center
- Madame Tussauds
- Times Square
- Greenwich Village
- and more!
Free Entry with The New York Pass®
Free entry to many of these popular New York attractions and activities are included on The New York Pass®. Used by over 3.5 million travelers, the New York Pass is the ultimate sightseeing pass, which includes admission to 90+ attractions, Fast Track Entry at select attractions, a free guidebook, & much more. Learn more about the New York Pass benefits & how to save up to 70% off attractions.
Here's a closer look at attractions near the Empire State Building and why you may want to include them on your trip to New York City.
Empire State Building
Of course, if you're looking for things to do near the Empire State Building, visiting the Empire State Building itself should be at the top of your list. Taking in the views from the building's 86th floor observation deck is an iconic New York City experience. You'll get 360-degree views of the surrounding cityscape from 1,050 feet above ground and learn all about the buildings history and significance as you make your way to the top and pass through the exhibits on disply. Admission: Empire State Building tickets are included with the New York Pass.
Rockefeller Center
A trip to “The Top of the Rock” at Rockefeller Center provides stunning views of the New York City skyline, Manhattan Island, and Central Park. The art deco style building soars 800 feet above ground level and offers an amazing three stories of indoor and outdoor observatory space. Even the ride to the top is a light-show filled adventure that the kids will love. A trip to Rockefeller Center should also include a visit through the building and the exceptional neighborhood surrounding it. Admission: Top of the Rock observation deck tickets and guided Rockefeller Center Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass.
Central Park
Activities in the 843 acre Central Park can keep you busy for days! Rent some bicycles and take a bike tour in the park. Alternatively, you can visit the Central Park Zoo, and see sites where famous TV shows and movies were filmed. Partake in a walking tour or hop on an unforgettable horse and buggy or pedicab ride. No trip to New York City would be complete without at least a stroll through Central Park. Admission: Central Park is free and open to the public; certain activities and things to do within the park such as guided Central Park Bike Rentals and Tour tickets, or if you prefer to explore by foot the Central Park Sightseeing Walking Tour tickets, or if you want to get to know the Central Park you recognize from blockbuster hits the Central Park TV & Movie Sites Walking Tour tickets are all included with The New York Pass.
Museum of Modern Art (MoMa)
A visit to the Museum of Modern Art gives you an opportunity to see works by Van Gogh, Claude Monet, Andy Warhol, and Pablo Picasso up close and personal. Impressive works of art abound around every corner and MoMA visitors are welcome to stop in the museum's garden to relax while you take in the world-class art that is on display here. Admission: Museum of Modern Art tickets are included with The New York Pass.
St. Patrick's Cathedral
A visit to New York's St. Patrick's Cathedral is an awe-inspiring experience that celebrates the human spirit. It is also an incredible example of Neo-Gothic architecture. The cornerstone for the cathedral was laid in 1858 but it didn't open its doors until 21 years later in 1879. Today, the ornate structure stands proudly among soaring skyscrapers, providing an almost surreal setting for the structure. Admission: guided public tours are offered depending on volunteer availability - check availability online - and though not required, a donation of $5 is requested to support "America's Parish Church."
Times Square
If your only reference to Times Square is New Year's Eve on television, you have yet to really appreciate what this area of Manhattan has to offer. A visit to Times Square is one of the most exciting things to do near the Empire State Building - the energy from the crowds is palpable and its larger-than-life billboards are a NYC landmark. One of the best ways to see Times Square is through a variety of bus and walking tours that are available. Of course, if you want to be dazzled, visit Times Square after dark. Admission: admission to Times Square is free and open to the public; some activities and attractions, like Madame Tussauds Times Square tickets or the NFL Experience tickets are available with The New York Pass.
Greenwich Village
To get a real feel of what New York City is about, take a trip to Greenwich Village (you can read about a fun, guided walking tour of the neighborhood here), home of the lively Washington Square Park. Here, you'll find some of New York's best dining and entertainment options. This is the home of New York's cultural revolution in the 1960's and of New York University. This is the artistic capital of the Big Apple and serves as a Bohemian Capital that is always interesting. Discover the area on your own or take advantage of one of the area's organized tours. Admission: admission to Greenwich Village and Washington Square Park is free; guided Greenwich Village Walking Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass.
Madame Tussauds Times Square
Located in the heart of Times Square, get up close and personal with wax figures of the most famous people on the planet. You'll find figures ranging from the world of entertainment, sports, and politics. Madame Tussauds is the ultimate “selfie” destination and you'll want to share every one! Pose next to Lady Gaga, Morgan Freeman, and more. You'll be amazed at the detail of the figures inside. Especially once you know that each takes about six months to create using over 2,000 lbs of wax. Enjoy the Marvel 4D and Ghostbusters Experience, Kong: Skull Island, and more! Admission: Madame Tussauds Times Square tickets are included with The New York Pass.
Remember to Save on Attraction Admission
Plus, the Empire State Building is surrounded by many of NYC's greatest landmarks. There is so much to see and do and you know friends and family will want to know what you saw. That's why you'll want to make the most of each of your adventures while in the Big Apple. If you're interested in visiting the Empire State Building during your trip to NYC then get your New York Pass today! The pass will allow grant you access to over 90 of New York's most popular attractions and guided tours. Click here for more information.