Have you ever looked up at a super tall building and wondered just how many floors it has? The Empire State Building in New York City is one of the most famous skyscrapers in the world, and people often ask: how many floors is the Empire State Building? Well, the answer is 102 floors! This amazing building has offices, observation decks, and fun places to explore. But that’s just the beginning! In this article, we’ll take you inside the Empire State Building and share cool facts, history, and everything else that makes it a true wonder.
How Many Floors Is the Empire State Building?
The Empire State Building has 102 floors in total. That means if you took the stairs (which would be really hard!), you’d climb up 102 different levels. Most of these floors are used for offices, but some special ones are open to the public.
The building also includes two main observation decks, where people can look out at the beautiful view of New York City. There are also technical levels at the very top that are used for broadcasting and equipment, but they are part of the official floor count.
How Many Floors Is the Empire State Building in NYC?
The Empire State Building, located in the heart of New York City (NYC), proudly stands with 102 floors reaching into the sky. It’s one of the tallest and most iconic buildings in the city.
When people ask, “how many floors is the Empire State Building in NYC,” they’re usually talking about all the levels inside, including the ones used for work, sightseeing, and technology.
Here’s a simple table to help you understand what happens on each set of floors:
| Floor Range | Purpose |
| 1–85 | Offices for companies and staff |
| 86th | Public Observation Deck |
| 87–102 | Broadcasting, antennas, and observation equipment |
Empire State Building Height in Meters
The Empire State Building isn’t just tall — it’s really tall! People often wonder not only how many floors it has but also how high it reaches into the sky. So, let’s break it down in meters.
- The roof height of the Empire State Building is 381 meters.
- When you include the antenna at the top, the total height is 443 meters.
- And remember, the building has 102 floors in tot
To help you imagine how tall that is:
That’s taller than 1,000 large pizzas stacked on top of each other!
It’s like nearly 100 school buses standing end to end!
The Empire State Building was once the tallest building in the world, and even today, it’s one of the tallest in New York City. It still amazes people from all around the world with its incredible height.
What Is Inside the Empire State Building?
The Empire State Building is much more than just a tall structure. It’s a place where people work, visit for fun, and enjoy incredible views of New York City! So, what exactly is inside this iconic building? Let’s take a look:
Offices and Companies
The Empire State Building has many offices on its lower floors. These are home to businesses and organizations, making it a hub of activity throughout the workday.
Observation Decks
For those who want to enjoy stunning views, the Empire State Building offers two observation decks.
- The first is on the 86th floor, where visitors can see the city from an open-air deck.
- The second is on the 102nd floor, offering an even higher view of Manhattan and beyond!
Restaurants, Gift Shops, and Exhibits
- Inside the building, there are also restaurants where visitors can grab a bite to eat after exploring.
- Don’t forget the gift shops where you can pick up a souvenir to remember your visit!
- There are also exhibits that showcase the building’s history and its role in the growth of New York City.
Fun Activities for Tourists
When you visit, you’ll also find fun activities for tourists of all ages. The Empire State Building Experience is a popular interactive exhibit where you can learn all about the building’s history, construction, and amazing facts.
How Long Did It Take to Build the Empire State Building?
The Empire State Building is a huge skyscraper, and guess what? It was built in just 1 year and 45 days — from May 1930 to April 1931! That’s incredibly fast for a building this size. Imagine that: they built a 102-floor skyscraper in less than two years!
Why Was That So Fast for a Skyscraper?
Building such a tall building in such a short time was an amazing achievement. The secret behind this speed was all about planning and teamwork:
- Fast assembly: Builders worked in teams, and they set up everything from steel beams to concrete floors in record time.
- Special techniques: The construction team used new methods and machinery that allowed them to work quickly and efficiently.
- No time wasted: They didn’t stop for bad weather or delays — they kept building, and it paid off!
That’s Faster Than Building Some Schools Today
To put it into perspective, building the Empire State Building was faster than constructing some schools today! It shows just how advanced construction techniques were for their time — and how amazing the workers were in making it all happen in such a short period.
Who Owns the Empire State Building?
The Empire State Building is currently owned by the Empire State Realty Trust. This is a public company, meaning it’s owned by many people who buy shares (parts) of the company. These shares are traded on the stock market, just like other big companies.
What Is a “Realty Trust”?
So, what exactly is a realty trust? Simply put, it’s a type of company that owns, manages, and leases out properties, like buildings, land, and other real estate. The purpose of a realty trust is to make money by renting or selling these properties. In the case of the Empire State Building, Empire State Realty Trust makes money by renting out office space and using the building for other purposes, like the observation decks that attract tourists.
How Many People Died Building the Empire State Building?
Building the Empire State Building was an incredible achievement, but like many large construction projects, it came with risks. Official reports say that 5 workers sadly lost their lives during the building’s construction.
Was That a Lot for the Time?
In the early 1930s, building tall skyscrapers was a dangerous job, and many workers faced serious risks. However, 5 deaths was considered relatively low for such a large project, especially compared to other major buildings constructed during that time. Many workers worked high above the ground with little safety equipment, and accidents were more common.
How Is Safety Better Today?
Thanks to advancements in construction safety, today’s workers are much better protected. Modern construction sites have:
- Better safety gear: Hard hats, safety harnesses, and protective clothing are now standard for construction workers.
- Strict safety rules: There are strict laws and regulations to ensure workers’ safety, and companies must follow them.
- Safer equipment: Builders use advanced cranes, scaffolding, and other machinery that are designed to keep workers safe.
Fun Facts About the Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is full of interesting stories and fun facts that make it even more special! Let’s take a look at some of the coolest things about this iconic skyscraper:
It Was Once the Tallest Building in the World
For 40 years, the Empire State Building held the title of the tallest building in the world. It was finished in 1931, standing at 443 meters with its antenna, and was the tallest until the World Trade Center in 1970.
Lights Change Colors for Holidays
One of the most beautiful sights is the Empire State Building’s changing lights. The building’s lights change to different colors to celebrate holidays, special events, or awareness days. For example, it turns green for St. Patrick’s Day and red and white for Christmas.
King Kong Famously Climbed It in the Movies
In the famous movie “King Kong” (1933), the giant ape climbed the Empire State Building, making the building an even bigger part of pop culture. This scene is one of the most iconic movie moments, and the building has appeared in countless other films and shows.
\Over 4 Million People Visit Every Year
Every year, the Empire State Building attracts over 4 million visitors from all around the world. Whether they’re coming to see the views from the observation deck, explore the exhibits, or simply admire its beauty from the streets below, it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world.
It Has Its Own ZIP Code: 10118
The Empire State Building is so important and famous that it has its own ZIP code — 10118. It’s the only building in New York City with its own ZIP code, a testament to its significance in the city.
Things You Might Not Know
The Empire State Building is filled with stories and hidden facts that many people may not know. Let’s dive into some interesting things you might find surprising about this historic skyscraper:
It Has Survived a Plane Crash in 1945
In 1945, a B-25 bomber accidentally crashed into the Empire State Building, hitting the 79th and 80th floors. Despite the severe damage, the building survived the crash. Remarkably, the Empire State Building remained standing, and this event only added to its legendary status.
Used to Have a Mooring Mast for Blimps
In the past, the Empire State Building had a mooring mast at the top, which was originally designed to dock blimps. The idea was that airships could land at the top of the building to avoid traffic in New York City. However, the plan didn’t work as expected, and the mast was eventually removed.
Featured in Hundreds of Movies
The Empire State Building is one of the most iconic buildings in film history. It has been featured in hundreds of movies and TV shows, from the famous scene with King Kong to newer films like “The Avengers”. Its unique shape and height make it a favorite location for filmmakers.
It Uses Green Energy Now (Modern Update for 2025)
In a modern update for 2025, the Empire State Building is committed to using green energy to reduce its environmental impact. This includes energy-efficient lighting and systems that reduce its overall energy consumption, making it more sustainable and environmentally friendly for the future.
FAQS
How long would it take to climb the Empire State Building?
Climbing the Empire State Building by stairs takes about 1 hour for an average person. The building has 1,576 steps, and it’s a popular challenge for those looking to test their fitness.
What is on the secret 103rd floor of the Empire State Building?
The 103rd floor of the Empire State Building is not publicly accessible. It was originally an observation floor, but now it’s mostly used for mechanical purposes and is not open to visitors.
How high is 102 floors?
The 102nd floor of the Empire State Building reaches a height of about 1,250 feet (381 meters) from the ground. Including the antenna, the building’s total height is 1,454 feet (443 meters).
What is the difference between the 86th and 102nd floors?
The 86th floor is the main observation deck, offering spectacular views. The 102nd floor is an indoor observation deck that provides a more panoramic experience of the city’s skyline.
How many stairs are in Empire?
There are a total of 1,576 steps in the Empire State Building. These stairs connect the ground level to the 86th floor, but visitors are allowed to take the elevator to the top.
What is the highest floor you can go to in the Empire State Building?
The highest floor accessible to the public is the 102nd floor, which has a smaller indoor observation deck offering panoramic views of New York City.
Can you go to the top of the Empire State Building?
Yes, visitors can go to the 86th and 102nd floors for breathtaking views. The 102nd floor offers a more exclusive experience for those looking for a quieter, higher perspective.
How tall is the Empire State Building compared to other buildings?
The Empire State Building is one of the tallest buildings in New York City, standing at 443 meters tall with its antenna. It was the tallest building in the world until the World Trade Center was completed in the 1970s.
Why is the Empire State Building so famous?
The Empire State Building is famous for its history, architecture, and appearances in movies. It symbolizes New York City and has been a tourist attraction for millions around the world.
Conclusion
The Empire State Building is truly one of the most iconic structures in the world, standing tall with 102 floors and offering breathtaking views of New York City. Inside, it’s filled with offices, observation decks, restaurants, and exhibits that attract millions of visitors each year. It’s also known for its height, with a roof height of 381 meters and a tip height of 443 meters.
From surviving a plane crash in 1945 to being featured in hundreds of movies, the Empire State Building has a fascinating history and continues to stand as a symbol of human achievement and resilience. Today, it’s even making strides towards a greener future with its use of green energy.
