By The Art Deco Lobby of the Empire State Building isn’t just an entrance — it’s a masterpiece of design. From its gleaming gold accents to its bold geometric patterns, this historic lobby is a must-see for architecture lovers and fans of NYC history. A tour of the Art Deco Lobby offers a close-up look at one of the city’s best-preserved examples of 1930s glamour and craftsmanship. ✨🗽🎨
📍 Where Is the Art Deco Lobby?
📍 Inside the Empire State Building, street-level entrance at
350 Fifth Avenue (between 33rd & 34th Streets), New York, NY
🚇 Nearest subway stations:
- 34th St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W)
- 33rd St (6 train)
- Penn Station (Amtrak, LIRR, NJ Transit) — short walk
🖼️ What Makes the Lobby Special?
- ✨ Restored to its 1930s Art Deco glory
- 💎 Ceiling mural: hand-painted with 24-karat gold and aluminum leaf
- 🏙️ Large wall panel of the building with radiating beams, symbolizing power & ambition
- 🖤 Classic black and gold marble walls with geometric detailing
- 🛑 Recognized as a New York City Landmark since 1981
- 💌 Once home to the original US Postal Station inside the building
🎟️ Do I Need a Ticket to See the Lobby?
✅ No ticket is required to walk through the main lobby area
🛗 You’ll pass through it if you’re visiting the Empire State Building observatories, but you can also enjoy it without going upstairs
🕒 Lobby Hours
- 🕘 Open Daily: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- 🛃 Security screening is required even for lobby access
🎄 The lobby is beautifully decorated during the holidays
❓ Art Deco Lobby Tour – FAQ
1️⃣ Is the lobby part of the observation deck tour?
✅ Yes — you walk through the lobby on your way to the observatories
📸 Many visitors stop for photos before heading to the elevators
2️⃣ Can I visit just the lobby without going to the top?
✅ Yes — it’s open to the public
🚶 You can admire the design, take photos, and explore the lobby level at no cost
3️⃣ What should I look for on a lobby tour?
- 🎨 The ceiling mural – modern take on the sky and stars
- 🏛️ The Empire State panel with stylized rays
- 🖋️ The original directory etched into black marble
- ✉️ The historic postal chute and mailbox
4️⃣ Is it guided or self-guided?
🗺️ Mostly self-guided, but:
- The Empire State Building app has a free audio tour
- Private architecture tours of Midtown may include the lobby as a stop
- Exhibits and plaques offer helpful context
5️⃣ Is it wheelchair accessible?
♿ Yes — the entire building, including the lobby, is fully accessible
Elevators and ramps are available
6️⃣ Is photography allowed?
📸 Absolutely!
- Photos of the lobby are welcome
- Tripods and professional gear may require permission
✅ Bonus Tips
- 🧥 Dress nicely — the reflective surfaces and lighting make for stunning photos
- 📱 Use the Empire State Building app for lobby history and Art Deco info
- 🛍️ Check out the gift shop on the concourse level
- 📅 Visit during off-peak hours or in the evening for fewer crowds and golden lighting
🎟 Want help pairing the Art Deco Lobby with a full Empire State Building tour or NYC architecture walk?
Let me know! I’ll help you build a stylish, design-focused itinerary through NYC’s architectural gems 🏛️🗽✨📷
🏛️ Art Deco Lobby Tour – FAQ
The Art Deco Lobby of the Empire State Building is more than just an entryway — it’s a beautifully preserved piece of 1930s design and a must-see for architecture lovers. Here’s everything you need to know before or during your visit. ✨🎨🗽
1️⃣ What is the Art Deco Lobby?
It’s the main entrance hall of the Empire State Building, known for its:
- 🖼️ Gold-and-aluminum leaf ceiling mural
- 🏛️ Elegant black marble walls and geometric accents
- 🌟 1930s Art Deco style, fully restored to its original glory
- 🏙️ Iconic wall panel of the Empire State Building with radiating light beams
2️⃣ Where is it located?
📍 Empire State Building, 350 Fifth Avenue (between 33rd & 34th Streets), NYC
🚇 Closest subway:
- 34th St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W)
- 33rd St (6)
- Penn Station (LIRR, Amtrak, NJ Transit)
3️⃣ Do I need a ticket to visit the lobby?
❌ No ticket is required to access the main lobby
✅ It’s open to the public during regular building hours
💡 You’ll pass through it if you’re heading to the observation decks, but it’s also worth visiting on its own!
4️⃣ What are the hours?
🕒 Daily from 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM
🕛 Last entry for observatory access: 11:15 PM
🚶 Lobby access may require security screening, even without an observatory ticket
5️⃣ What should I look for in the lobby?
✨ Don’t miss:
- The ceiling mural made with real gold and aluminum leaf
- The famous Empire State Building relief panel on the wall
- Original directory and postal chute from the 1930s
- Subtle Art Deco patterns in the marble, bronze, and lighting fixtures
6️⃣ Is it guided or self-guided?
🗺️ It’s a self-guided experience, but:
- 📱 You can use the Empire State Building app for a free audio tour
- 🎙️ Architecture walking tours of Midtown may include a stop here
7️⃣ Is it accessible?
♿ Yes — the lobby is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible
8️⃣ Can I take photos inside the lobby?
📸 Yes — photos are encouraged!
🚫 Tripods and pro gear may need prior approval
✨ It’s a great spot for portraits with vintage NYC vibes
✅ Bonus Tips
- 🛍️ Visit the gift shop on the concourse level for Art Deco-themed souvenirs
- 📅 Visit during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) for fewer crowds
- 📱 Download the ESB app for lobby and tower history
- 🎄 Don’t miss the holiday decorations if visiting in December!
🎟 Want help combining the Art Deco Lobby with a full Empire State Building experience or a Midtown architectural tour?
Let me know! I’ll help you build a stylish itinerary packed with design, history, and classic NYC charm 🏛️✨🗽📷
