Race to the Sky: Midtown NYC Walking Tour With Empire State Building
Discover the magic of NYC’s iconic skyline up-close
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Local experts
Personal stories and insider travel tips -
Top-rated
Thousands of reviews averaging 4.9 stars -
Worry-free booking
Flexible scheduling and refunds
$75 per adult
€72 per adult
£60 per adult
C$107 per adult
A$118 per adult
-
Local experts
Personal stories and insider travel tips -
Top-rated
Thousands of reviews averaging 4.9 stars -
Worry-free booking
Flexible scheduling and refunds
Highlights
- Relive the race to the sky as you discover how architects and visionaries took NYC to new heights.
- Hear the tale of a 1930s rivalry that ignited a competition to change Manhattan’s skyline forever.
- Admire the Art Deco design of the Chrysler Building and learn what its gleaming finish symbolizes.
- Meet the marble lions who guard the entrance to a grand Beaux-Arts landmark known as the People’s Palace.
- Discover secrets and stories behind skyscrapers like One Vanderbilt, the American Radiator Building, and more.
- See all of New York from 1,050 feet up on top of the Empire State Building.
What you'll do
Experience the magic of Midtown Manhattan on this immersive walking tour that blends history, architecture, and the spirit of New York City. As you explore the bustling streets with your local guide, you’ll learn what to keep an eye out for with the architectural wonders and how the ...
Experience the magic of Midtown Manhattan on this immersive walking tour that blends history, architecture, and the spirit of New York City. As you explore the bustling streets with your local guide, you’ll learn what to keep an eye out for with the architectural wonders and how the epic “race to the sky” unfolded here a century ago.
Marvel at the gleaming Chrysler Building, a masterpiece of Art Deco design, and the soaring One Vanderbilt, a modern symbol of innovation. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating stories of the rivalries, dreams, and challenges that shaped Manhattan’s iconic skyline.
Uncover secrets like the New York Public Library’s underground tunnels and a resident (and very famous) stuffed bear. And discover an oasis in the heart of the concrete jungle: scenic Bryant Park.
As you stroll Fifth Avenue, you’ll pass landmarks like Macy’s and more, learning how they changed not just New York but America.
Our tour culminates at the legendary Empire State Building, where you’ll hear tales of its creation and understand why it has such a revered place in pop culture. With your included ticket, you’ll ascend to the 86th-floor observatory of the Empire State Building. Expect panoramic views that stretch across the city and reach several states on a clear day — a fitting finale to our skyline and skyscraper tour of Midtown NYC.
Itinerary
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One Vanderbilt
A gleaming skyscraper where you’ll learn about and get a view of the Chrysler Building, the world’s first supertall skyscraper
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New York Public Library
A Beaux-Arts landmark with some secrets that might surprise you
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Bryant Park
A scenic 9.6-acre greenspace, affectionately known as the town square of Midtown Manhattan, with a view of an Art Deco landmark
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Fifth Avenue and Herald Square
Where you’ll learn about the cultural significance of Macy’s and its impact not just on New York but America as a whole
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Empire State Building
A viewpoint for this iconic building as you hear stories of its birth and struggles
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Empire State Building observatory
360-degree views from the 86th floor, where you can see as far as Massachusetts on a clear day
Plan your trip
Tour ending point
This tour ends outside Macy’s, a half block from the Empire State Building.
Refund policy
We offer a 100% refund up to 24 hours before the start time.
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.
FAQs
How much walking is there?
This tour covers around three quarters of a mile at a leisurely pace.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, this tour is accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers.
What is the cancellation policy?
We understand plans change. We offer a 100% refund or the option to reschedule up to 24 hours before your tour start time. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t eligible for refunds or rescheduling.
When should I get there?
Plan to show up 15 minutes early. The tour starts promptly, and you may not be able to catch up if you arrive late.
What isn’t allowed inside the Empire State Building?
You’ll pass through a security screening to enter the Empire State Building. Visitors aren’t allowed to bring outside food or drinks, large luggage, or weapons and similar items not allowed in TSA screenings at the airport.
What if it rains?
Our tours run rain or shine. If there’s extreme weather and we have to cancel, you’ll get a full refund.
Are gratuities included?
Tips aren’t included but are always appreciated by our guides. If you think your guide did an outstanding job, a tip is a great way to show that.
Do you have gift certificates?
Yes! If you want to give the gift of New York (or any of our destinations) to someone else, you can purchase a tour gift card. Our gift cards are good for any of our tours, and they never expire.