Empire State Building unveils new 102nd floor observatory

NEW YORK, USA – The Empire State Building (ESB) yesterday announced the third phase of its top-to-bottom reimagined Observatory Experience, the newly renovated 102nd floor Observatory. Opening to the public on October 12, 2019, the 102nd floor will feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows where Guests can step right to the edge of the World’s Most Famous Building.

Guests experience their first “wow” moment when they enter an all glass elevator on the 86th floor. As they travel 16 stories through a newly-renovated glass shaft to 102, they will be provided a never-before-seen look at the inside of the tower’s mast and a glimpse of its world-famous tower lights.

Once the elevator nears its destination, Guests get a sneak peek at the breath-taking views before stepping out onto the Observatory. Made up of 24 crystal-clear, eight-foot-tall windows, the 102nd floor is an enclosed, climate-controlled, all-weather Observation Deck allowing 360-degree views of the city and beyond from the heart of New York City.

“The 102nd floor Observatory is the crown jewel of the Empire State Building. We’ve removed all the obstructions and obstacles, giving guests access to a view that is centrally-located and unrivaled in New York City,” said Anthony E. Malkin, chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) of Empire State Realty Trust. “The Observatory entrance and the second-floor galleries have been embraced by our visitors, and the 102nd floor’s reopening is a major moment in our progress to complete the new Empire State Building Observatory Experience.”

Construction of the 102nd floor began in January 2019 within a state-of-the-art suspended “cocoon” — a circular scaffolding structure — the highest of its kind in New York. The cocoon allowed work to take place with no impact to Guests visiting the world-famous 86th floor Observatory. The design and structural work, which highlights not only the external views, but also the historical elegance of the original features, was conducted by a best-in-class team of experts including:

Beneville Studios – Corgan – Diversified – IDEO -JLL – Kubik Maltbie – Otis – Skanska – Squint/Opera -Syska Hennessy – The Lighting PracticeThinc -Thornton Tomassetti

Phase three follows the successful openings of the Observatory entrance at 20 West 34th street and the immersive second-floor galleries.