Visiting the US? 6 reasons to celebrate America`s I-Day at Empire State Building

The Empire State Building, adorning New York City’s skyline, is an iconic architectural wonder, and the top attraction in the city, for many tourists from all over the world.

A historic American landmark and pivotal to the city’s cultural richness, the Empire State Building is a living testament to the nation`s past, present, and future. 

Moreover, the Fourth of July and the USA’s 250th Anniversary are set to bring a captivating line-up of events and special moments, in addition to its year-round visitor experiences, thus reliving and celebrating the nation’s past at the “World’s Most Famous Building”. 

History of an icon

The beginning story of the Empire State Building dates back to 1928, with completion in 1931, becoming the world’s first 100+ story building, holding the title of the world`s tallest building for nearly four decades. Emerging right after the darkness of the Great Depression, it became a powerful representation of American freedom, resilience, ambition, innovation, and perseverance, and one of the world`s most recognised landmarks and a symbol of New York City’s skyline. The building soon became a popular spot, drawing millions of visitors each year with its varied offerings of panoramic views, observation deck experiences, photo opportunities, sunrise and sunset visits, exhibits, galleries, and so much more. Moreover, the Empire State Building has been an iconic filming location for many movies, including King Kong, earning its status as an important element in modern-day pop culture.

A fourth of July afternoon at the Empire State Building

Although the Empire State Building is a year-round destination, the Fourth of July transforms it into one of New York City`s most exclusive and sought-after locations to celebrate Independence Day. Capture the festive atmosphere and the once-a-year opportunity to celebrate the USA’s birthday with an immersive afternoon at the Empire State Building.

This Fourth of July, the Empire State Building Observation Deck Experience will offer an unforgettable evening at New York City’s most iconic and exclusive vantage point for the Macy’s Fireworks display, more than 1,000 feet above the city’s skyline. The event begins with a private celebration on the 80th Floor and includes live DJ entertainment, classic summer barbecue favourites, unlimited beer and wine, festive treats, and panoramic sunset views over Manhattan. Before the show, guests are guided to the iconic 86th Floor Observation Deck to enjoy more music and fun before the fireworks begin. This year, fireworks will shoot off on both the East River and the Hudson River, and guests will enjoy views of both shows from the only 360-degree outdoor observation deck in New York City.

America`s 250th anniversary at the Empire State Building

This year, the Fourth of July celebrations will exemplify the USA’s patriotic spirit more than ever with America`s 250th anniversary, or Semiquincentennial, a landmark event that marks the country’s historic milestone, with the Empire State Building serving as a vital location where visitors can reflect on the country`s history, achievements, and enduring spirit. The historic Sail4th250 festivities along the Hudson River and East River as part of New York City’s commemorative events will honour America’s 250th anniversary. The event will bring one of the largest international flotillas of tall ships and naval vessels ever assembled to New York Harbor, which guests can view from the top of the Empire State Building throughout the day on July 3rd and 4th. 

Visitor experiences

The observation decks, museum galleries, exhibits, and interiors all provide an immersive journey through the building’s legacy.

The Observation Deck Experience: 86th and 102nd Floors- The Empire State Building has two observation decks: the iconic outdoor 86th Floor and the exclusive 102nd Floor. The open-air deck on the 86th floor offers 360° views and New York City skyline symbols such as the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and more, while the 102nd Floor Observatory features unparalleled sights that stretch up to 80 miles through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Preserve this precious memory in the backdrop of a gorgeous skyline by taking a picture.

Exhibits and Guided Tours: Empire State Building`s digital and tactile exhibits offer a fascinating glimpse into various subjects, ranging from history to sustainability. From the Kong exhibit that offers guests the chance to step right into the famous ape’s hand to the Sustainability exhibit that showcases the building`s industry-leading deep energy retrofit and eco-friendly initiatives, these exhibits add an extra layer of history and authenticity to your visit. Enjoy a guided 90-minute tour that includes the building’s lovingly restored Art Deco lobby on 5th Avenue, the Celebrity Walk, and other exhibits that celebrate the building’s history and heritage, led by the Empire State Building Ambassador, who will share interesting little-known facts and trivia. 

The ESB Starbucks Reserve Sunrise Experience: The iconic 86th Floor Observation Deck is the ultimate point for sunrise views more than a thousand feet above the heart of New York City. The Sunrise with Starbucks Reserve® @ ESB experience encompasses a NYC sunrise from an exclusive sky-high vantage point with the Empire State Building Microblend coffee-only found at this location.

When it comes to a day exploring New York City, the Empire State Building is not just another architectural sight to be admired, but an emblem that embodies decades of national pride, history, culture, and art, earning its well-deserved title as a national landmark.