The Empire State Building  in New York has launched its new observatory experience, which features floor-to-ceiling glass windows where guests can step right to the edge of one of the world's most famous buildings.

The newly-renovated 102nd floor Observatory at the Empire State Building
The newly-renovated 102nd floor Observatory at the Empire State Building © Empire State Realty Trust

Guests heading to the newly-renovated 102nd floor Observatory will enter an all-glass elevator on the 86th floor. As they travel 16 storeys through a newly-renovated glass shaft, they will be able to see the inside of the tower’s mast and glimpse its world-famous tower lights.

Visitors walk through the newly renovated 102nd floor Observatory at the Empire State Building
Visitors enjoying the view from the 102nd floor Observatory © Drew Angerer/Getty Images

The Observatory itself is made up of 24 eight-foot-tall windows, providing visitors with 360-degree views of the city and beyond. Up to now, visitors have only been able to visit the 86th floor observation deck to enjoy the view. The new Observatory is the second phase of a large renovation at the famous building, which includes a new lobby and museum.

The view of New York from the newly renovated 102nd floor Observatory at the Empire State Building
The view from the 102nd floor Observatory at the Empire State Building © Drew Angerer/Getty Images

“The 102nd floor Observatory is the crown jewel of the Empire State Building," says Anthony E. Malkin, chairman and CEO of Empire State Realty Trust. "We’ve removed all the obstructions and obstacles, giving guests access to a view that is centrally-located and unrivalled in New York City.”

A woman taking in the view from the 102nd floor Observatory at the Empire State Building
The 102nd floor Observatory at the Empire State Building has just opened © Drew Angerer/Getty Images

Tickets to the 86th floor Observatory start at $38 (€34.42) and tickets to the 102nd floor Observatory can be purchased for an additional $20 (€18.11). For further information on visiting the Empire State Building, please visit here.

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