NYC Private Midtown Tour Plus Empire State Building Observatory

5.0 (27 reviews) New York City, USA
Duration1h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate

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

  • 90-minute walking tour
  • Experienced local tour guide
  • Ticket to Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observatory
  • Gratuities
  • Guided tour inside the Empire State Building

What to expect

  1. One Vanderbilt
    20m · Admission ticket not included
    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.
  2. New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
    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)
  3. Bryant Park
    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.
  4. Macy's Herald Square
    15m
    Learn about the cultural significance of Macy’s department store and its impact not just on New York but America as a whole.
  5. Empire State Building
    15m · Admission ticket included
    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 and pickup

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.

End point

This tour ends outside Macy’s, a half block from the Empire State Building.

Additional information

  • 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.

Reviews

5.0 (27)
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$270.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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