NYC Private Midtown Tour Plus Empire State Building Observatory

5.0 (26 reviews) 1 h 30 min Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

26 reviews

5.0

NYC Private Midtown Tour Plus Empire State Building Observatory — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

NYC Private Midtown Tour Plus Empire State Building Observatory, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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.

Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Architecture Tours Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours New Product Short term availability

At a glance

Duration: 1 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: ExperienceFirst

Ages: Adults (0–100 years)

What is included

Included

Included: 90-minute walking tour
Included: Experienced local tour guide
Included: Ticket to Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observatory

Not included

Not included: Gratuities
Not included: Guided tour inside the Empire State Building

Itinerary

One Vanderbilt

20 min Admission 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.
New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

25 min

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)
Bryant Park

15 min

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.
Macy's Herald Square

15 min

Learn about the cultural significance of Macy’s department store and its impact not just on New York but America as a whole.
Empire State Building

15 min Admission 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 point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

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.