The Empire State Building is a bit more than just a tourist attraction. It is a bit of New York history, a colorful beacon in Manhattans night-time skyline, as well as a destination for breathtaking views and romantic encounters. Here are a few interesting information about the Empire State Building.
The Empire State Building puts on an amazing show with colored light displays throughout the year to mark holidays as well as other events. The first light to shine from the top of the Empire State Building was a searchlight beacon that announced to the city that Franklin D. Roosevelt became elected president in 1932. In 1964, the top 30 floors were illuminated by new floodlights which is designed to transform the building into a nighttime attraction for the World’s Fair. In the present day, the Empire State Building shines a rainbow of colors – green for St. Patrick’s day, pink and white for breast cancer awareness, lavender for the anniversary of Stonewall.
The Empire State Building rises to 381 m at the 102nd floor, and including the 62 m pinnacle, its full height reaches 443 m. The 86th floor of Empire State Building comprises of an indoor and outdoor observation deck. The stories starting from 87th floor and going till 102nd floor represent the Art Deco tower, which is capped by an observatory on the top floor.
Following the destruction of the World Trade Center in 2001, the Empire State Building again became the tallest building in New York City and New York State. In 2007, it was ranked number one on the List of America’s Favorite Architecture according to the AIA. As of 2007, approximately 21,000 employees work in the building each day, making the Empire State Building the second-largest single office complex in America, after the Pentagon.
If you and your family plan a vacation to New York City, do remember your Empire State Building tickets!