New York City guide
Best Observation Deck Tickets in New York City
Here's our pick of the best Observation Deck Tickets in New York City, ranked by traveler rating. No sponsored spots, just what's actually worth booking.
Honest prices and ratings, never a sponsored spot
Checked against live availability and pricing, last updated October 7, 2026.
How we build thisThis guide includes real bookable activities from our booking partners. Travinora may earn a commission if you book through a link here, at no extra cost to you.
Our top pick for a observation deck ticket in New York City is NYC Private Midtown Tour Plus Empire State Building Observatory. Travelers rate it 5.0★, and it's the highest-rated option right now. Watching your budget? Grand Central Terminal Tour with Optional Empire State Access is a lovely, well-rated option from just $32. Want it just for your group? Express Pass VIP Private Tour of the Empire State Building is a private tour, so you can go at your own pace.
Our picks
What to check before you book
- Ticket included
- Some tours require you to buy admission separately, so check before booking.
- Skip-the-line access
- Worth paying more for during peak season; less critical off-season.
- Guided duration
- A 1-hour highlights tour and a 3-hour deep dive suit different travelers.
- Group size
- Smaller groups get closer to the guide and move faster through crowded areas.
- Language
- Confirm the tour runs in your language, not just that a guide is available.
- Restricted areas
- Some sections require a separate, higher-tier ticket.
- Cancellation terms
- Free cancellation matters most for weather-dependent or outdoor sites.
Compare every option
| Tour | Rating | Duration | Format | Price from |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ★ 5.0 | 1.5 hr | Private | $270 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 2.5 hr | Shared | $109 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 2.8 hr | Private | $489 | |
| ★ 4.9 | 2.5 hr | Shared | $32 | |
| ★ 4.9 | 2.5 hr | Shared | $79 | |
| ★ 4.8 | 2 hr | Shared | $99 | |
| ★ 4.8 | 45 min | Private | $140 | |
| ★ 4.5 | 1.1 hr | Skip-the-line | $147 | |
| ★ 4.5 | 1.1 hr | Shared | $50 | |
| ★ 4.3 | 1 hr | Shared | $46 |
What you'll pay
Budget
$40
average · 3 options
Mid-range
$107
average · 9 options
Premium
$379
average · 2 options
Practical advice
- Free cancellation on all of these, so it's safe to book now and adjust your plans later.
- Plan for anywhere from 45 min to 2.8 hr, depending which one you pick, and factor that into the rest of your day.
See every real, bookable experience in New York City in one place.
Browse New York City experiencesFrequently asked questions
What's the best observation deck ticket in New York City?
NYC Private Midtown Tour Plus Empire State Building Observatory is our top pick. Travelers love it, rating it 5.0★.
How much does a observation deck ticket cost in New York City?
Prices here range from $32 to $489 per person, depending on the operator and what's included. You'll see the exact total when you book.
Is the entry ticket included?
It varies by tour, since some bundle admission and others require you to buy it separately. Check each listing's inclusions.
Are there more Observation Deck Tickets in New York City than just these?
Yep, we found 14 in New York City in total. We're showing you our top 14, ranked by traveler rating.
