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NYC Private Midtown Tour Plus Empire State Building Observatory

5.0(26 reviews)New York City, USAOperated by ExperienceFirst
  • Duration1 hour 30 min
  • GroupPrivate tour
  • TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
  • LanguagesEnglish
  • BookingInstant confirmation

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.

What to expect

1 hour 30 min5 stopsPrivate tour
  1. One Vanderbilt

    1 Vanderbilt Avenue, New York City, New York, 10017, United States

    20 minutesAdmission 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.

  2. New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

    476 5th Ave, New York City, New York, 10018, United States

    25 minutes

    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)

  3. Bryant Park

    Between 40th and 42nd Streets & Fifth and Sixth Ave, New York City, New York, 10018, United States

    15 minutes

    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.

  4. Macy's Herald Square

    151 West 34th Street, New York City, New York, 10001-2101, United States

    15 minutes

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

  5. Empire State Building

    20 West 34th Street, New York City, New York, 10001, United States

    15 minutesAdmission 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

Pickup & meeting point

There is no pickup — all travellers meet at the start point.

Start

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.

End

This tour ends outside Macy’s, a half block from the Empire State Building.

Redemption

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's included

Included

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

Not included

  • Gratuities
  • Guided tour inside the Empire State Building

Good to know

Accessibility & suitability

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Traveller requirements

  • Minimum 1 traveller per booking
  • Maximum 15 travellers per booking
  • At least one adult must be included in the booking
  • Age bands: Adult (0–100)

Languages

Guide
English

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

  • 1+ days before100% refund
  • 0–1 days before0% refund

Important booking information

Booking cut-off
Bookings close 2 days before the activity starts.
Confirmation
Confirmed immediately after booking.
Tickets
One per booking
Local time zone
America/New_York
Product code
5250P63

What you'll be asked when booking

  • Any special requirements

Traveller reviews

5.0/ 526 reviews
  • 526

Ratings aggregated from Viator (3) and Tripadvisor (23).

Ready to book NYC Private Midtown Tour Plus Empire State Building Observatory?

From USD 270 per person · Free cancellation available

Check dates & book

Activity information provided by Viator, an authorized travel partner. Gateera does not operate this activity.

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