Empire State Building Skip-the-Line Tickets: How Entry Really Works

Laatst bijgewerkt: January 26, 2026

The Empire State Building is one of the most visited attractions in New York. Lines are common, security is mandatory, and ticket types are often misunderstood. This guide explains exactly what skip-the-line tickets mean here, what you actually skip, how entry works step by step, and which ticket is worth booking.

What skip-the-line means at the Empire State Building

Skip-the-line tickets at the Empire State Building allow you to bypass the general ticket purchase line and, depending on the ticket, some interior queues. They do niet allow you to skip security screening.

• ✔️ Skip the standard ticket line
• ✔️ Faster access to elevators (priority tickets only)
• ❌ Security screening is never skipped

All visitors must pass airport-style security checks.

Heb je echt skip-the-line kaartjes nodig?

In most cases, yes.

• Peak season (April–December): Sterk aanbevolen
• Weekends and evenings: Very busy
• Sunset time slots: Always crowded
• Early weekday mornings: Soms beheersbaar zonder prioriteit

If you visit during popular hours, skip-the-line tickets can save 45–90 minutes.

Hoe de invoer stap voor stap werkt

1. Arrive at the main entrance on Fifth Avenue
2. Veiligheidsonderzoek
3. Ticket scannen of kopen
4. Elevator queue
5. Observatory access

Express tickets use a separate, significantly faster elevator line.

Hoe lang duurt een bezoek?

• Main observatory visit: 60-90 minuten
• Sunset visits: 90-120 minuten
• Exhibits only: Around 30 minutes

Ticketopties uitgelegd

• Algemene toegang: Standard entry, longest waits
• Skip-the-line ticket: Skip ticket line, standard elevator
• Express ticket: Skip ticket and elevator lines
• Sunset ticket: Timed sunset entry, premium price
• Combo-tickets: Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as MoMA, Eén Wereld Observatorium, or the Vrijheidsbeeld

Vergelijking van tickets

Type ticket	De rij voor kaartjes overslaan	Skip elevator line	Tijdelijke invoer
Algemene toegang	Geen	Geen	Ja
Ga naar	Ja	Geen	Ja
Express	Ja	Ja	Ja

Typische wachttijden

• General admission: 60–120 minutes
• Skip-the-line: 30–60 minutes
• Express ticket: 10–20 minutes

Veelvoorkomende fouten die je moet vermijden

• Assuming skip-the-line skips security
• Te laat komen voor een tijdslot
• Booking sunset tickets without planning for crowds
• Expecting elevator priority with standard tickets

FAQ

Can I skip security with any ticket?

No. Security screening is mandatory for everyone.

Is the Express ticket worth it?

Yes, especially during peak hours or if you have limited time.

Zijn de kaartjes uitverkocht?

Yes. Sunset and evening slots often sell out days in advance.

Is there a dress code?

No formal dress code applies, but security restrictions are enforced.

Laatste advies

If you want predictable timing and minimal waiting, skip-the-line tickets are the safest choice. For maximum time savings, the Express ticket is the only option that significantly reduces elevator queues. Plan carefully if visiting at sunset, and always factor in security checks.