Free cancellation

NYC Private Midtown Tour Plus Empire State Building Observatory

★ 5.0 (26 reviews) · By ExperienceFirst

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.

Free cancellation

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

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Duration 1.5 hours

Check availability to see start times.

Live tour guide

English

Key facts

Duration 1.5 hours
Languages English
Group size Up to 15
Ages Adult 0–100
Accessibility Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Tour type Private

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

Itinerary

  1. Stop 1

    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.

    20 minutes
  2. Stop 2

    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)

    25 minutes
  3. Stop 3

    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.

    15 minutes
  4. Stop 4

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

    15 minutes
  5. Stop 5

    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

    15 minutes

Meeting point & pickup

Meet at the starting 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.

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Cancellation & confirmation

Free cancellation

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

  • 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day(s) before
  • 0% refund if cancelled 0–1 day(s) before

Instant confirmation

Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.

From $270.00 per person

Adult Age 0–100
1
  • Free cancellation
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