Rappelers Make History at ESB as they Descend from the Building's Iconic Spire

Watch your step!

For the first time in history, the Empire State Building hosted 20 brave supporters of Outward Bound, which included actor Jared Leto, in a momentous rappel down the south side of the building. The fundraiser garnered over $3 million, which will be donated to Outward Bound to improve the educational journeys of young people worldwide.  

Jared Leto Descends ESB

Leto, who previously climbed the “World’s Most Famous Building” in November 2023, kicked off the Big Rappel.

ESB Lights Up in Partnership with Outward Bound

The event kicked off with a lighting ceremony led by Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice, Trustee of Outward Bound in the UK on May 6. She flipped the famous switch to light the building blue, pink, green, and white to mark this historic event and honor Outward Bound and their incredible mission.

The Empire State Building really stands for resilience and courage, and motivated [people] to stand tall and reach their potential,” Princess Beatrice said in remarks at the ceremony. “This is what Outward Bound is all about.”

The Climb

Rappelers began their descent from the building’s spire and made their way nearly 900 feet down to the 30th floor. The rappelers passed by a window on the 80^th Floor, which allowed their family members to get a front-row seat to their descent.

The Cause

Outward Bound is a worldwide educational and charitable network whose mission is to change young people’s lives through challenge, learning, and adventure. Four Outward Bound organizations united to create this once-in-a-lifetime event. 

Learn more about Outward Bound online.