New York City Attractions

Empire State Building

One of the enduring symbols of New York, and once again the city’s tallest structure, the Empire State Building stands 436ft (145m) high. Completed in 1931, this Art Deco behemoth remains one of the most impressive engineering feats of all time; it was built in just 410 days and remains the fastest rising major skyscraper ever built. The building has been immortalised in many films – most famously the classic King Kong. The observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors offer magnificent views of the city.

Address: 350 Fifth Avenue, between 33rd and 34th Streets, Manhattan; Website: www.esbnyc.com; Telephone: (212) 736 3100; Transport: Subway B, D or F to 34th Street; Opening time: Observatory: daily 8am to 2am; last elevator at 1.15am; Admission: $20 (adults), $14 (children 6-11), other concessions available.