Don't miss this rare cosmic event in New York City's most iconic locale.
On April 8, New Yorkers can look skyward to witness the 2024 solar eclipse -- the last that will be visible in the contiguous United States until 2044. Though New York City may be outside the path of totality, the sun and the moon are still sure to give a stunning show. Find our full guide below to capture a rare glimpse of the obscured sun along with safety tips, the best ways to capture the event on camera, and even a guide to plan your day around the 2024 solar eclipse in New York.
Prime Location to View the 2024 Solar Eclipse in NYC
New York City boasts plenty of beautiful locations to witness the 2024 solar eclipse, but none as spectacular as the Empire State Building.
As one of New York City's tallest buildings, the iconic Empire State Building Observatory is considered by many to be the optimal viewpoint for cosmic events, and now is your chance to be a part of history. The building's central location and 360-degree outdoor 86th Floor Observatory make it an unmatched spot for solar eclipse views from the heart of New York City. For the full experience, visit the 102nd Floor where you can view up to six states on a clear day.
A $5 booking charge is added to each transaction.
A $5 booking charge is added to each transaction.
Want to capture a photo of the New York City eclipse but don't know where to start? Here are some tips and recommended settings to help capture a stunning image:
- Use a solar filter to protect your camera and your eyes.
- Use a tripod for stability during the long exposure required for eclipse photography.
- Experiment with exposure settings to get your desired photo effects.
Recommended settings for eclipse photography:
- Aperture: Around f/8 to f/11 for a balance between depth of field and sharpness.
- Shutter speed: Use a fast speed, like 1/1000th of a second, to freeze the motion of the eclipse.
- ISO: Keep it low, around 100 to 200, to reduce noise and maintain image quality.
- Safety: Always use proper protective gear and follow safety instructions
Safety Measures for the 2024 Solar Eclipse in New York
Safety is crucial for a good view of a solar eclipse. The sun's intense rays can harm your eyes if proper precautions are not taken. Here are a few tips to ensure a safe and memorable experience while at New York City's best eclipse viewpoint:
- The right eclipse glasses: Regular sunglasses or homemade filters aren't suitable to view the solar eclipse. Always use certified eclipse glasses, designed to block harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation. The Empire State Building will provide special solar eclipse glasses to the first 300 guests who purchase a ticket for the 2:30 and 2:45 p.m. timeslots.
- Eye protection: Check your eclipse glasses for scratches, holes, or damage before use. They should fit snugly and cover your eyes completely. Never remove them as you view the sun during the eclipse. Avoid the use of cameras, binoculars, or telescopes without solar filters as they can cause permanent eye damage.
- Safety tips for kids: Supervise children and ensure they wear eclipse glasses. Encourage them to make pinhole projectors or watch live streams of the 2024 solar eclipse.
Plans for Your Day in NYC During the 2024 Solar Eclipse
The Empire State Building is an exceptional place to witness the 2024 solar eclipse. Whether you're a local or a visitor, here's what you need to know to plan your day around the solar eclipse in New York.
- Recommended viewing times and duration: The solar eclipse is a rare event, and timing is critical. In New York City, peak view times for the 2024 eclipse are expected from 2:10 p.m. through 4:36 p.m. Reserve your Empire State Building tickets for any time within this window for optimal viewing.
- Public transportation: With its central location in the heart of New York City, access the Empire State Building is just a subway or bus ride away.
- Nearby attractions: Grab lunch at Tacombi or STATE Grill & Bar before you head up to the world-famous Observatory to view the eclipse. Enjoy the Observatory Experience's immersive museum -- included in every ticket -- that showcases the building's innovative history from construction to its current place in pop culture.
Visit The Heart of NYC
It’s New York’s can’t-miss experience. Book your ticket to the top today.
