NYC Private Midtown Tour Plus Empire State Building Observatory
At a glance
NYC Private Midtown Tour Plus Empire State Building Observatory is a 1h 30m private experience in New York City, United States, operated by ExperienceFirst. Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 26 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $270 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: 90-minute walking tour, Experienced local tour guide, Ticket to Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observatory.
Highlights
- Private experience — just you and your group
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
- 5 stops in one well-planned itinerary
- Wheelchair accessible
Quick facts
- Duration
- 1h 30m
- Group
- Private tour — only your group
- Languages
- English
- Pickup
- Meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
Experience the magic of Midtown Manhattan on this walking tour blending history, architecture, and NYC’s vibrant spirit. Marvel at icons like the Chrysler Building, American Radiator Building, Macy’s, and One Vanderbilt as your guide shares stories of the changing NYC skyline.
Midtown NYC is a surprising mix of architectural styles, ranging from Beaux-Arts to Art Deco. Your guide will point out the details of each and even share some of the symbolism and what's hidden inside (like underground tunnels and Winnie the Pooh, as in the case of one turn-of-the-century National Historic Landmark).
Relax in Bryant Park, and stroll Fifth Avenue, as you hear how the "race to the sky" transformed America. The tour ends at the Empire State Building, where your included ticket takes you to the 86th-floor observatory for breathtaking views, a perfect finale to your Midtown NYC adventure.
What's included
What's included
- 90-minute walking tour
- Experienced local tour guide
- Ticket to Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observatory
Not included
- Gratuities
- Guided tour inside the Empire State Building
Itinerary
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Stop 1 · 20m
Learn about the feud that changed Manhattan’s skyline forever. From here, you can also admire the magnificent Chrysler Building as your guide points out its finer details.
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Stop 2 · 25m
Hear about the history of the Beaux-Arts style and its role in shaping NYC as you admire one of the city’s most beautiful examples. Your guide will also share secrets of the library that might surprise you. (25 minutes)
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Stop 3 · 15m
Enjoy the bustle and beauty of this 9.6-acre greenspace, affectionately known as the town square of Midtown Manhattan, as you learn about unique architecture nearby, including the American Radiator Building, and its influence on artists.
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Stop 4 · 15m
Learn about the cultural significance of Macy’s department store and its impact not just on New York but America as a whole.
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Stop 5 · 15m
Capture the perfect photo of the iconic building as you hear stories of its creation and unique challenges. Afterward, your guide will direct you to the entrance for the observatory
Meeting point
Meet your guide outside the Épicerie Boulud bakery at 1 Vanderbilt Avenue. Your guide will be wearing an orange ExperienceFirst hat and standing on the forecourt. The address is 1 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017.
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the NYC Private Midtown Tour Plus Empire State Building Observatory take?
The experience lasts about 1h 30m.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $270 per person. The final price depends on the date, time and number of travellers, and is confirmed on Viator before you pay.
What's included?
90-minute walking tour; Experienced local tour guide; Ticket to Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observatory.
Where does it start?
Meet your guide outside the Épicerie Boulud bakery at 1 Vanderbilt Avenue. Your guide will be wearing an orange ExperienceFirst hat and standing on the forecourt. The address is 1 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017.
Can I cancel?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is guided in English.
Is it worth it?
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 26 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in New York City.
