The Empire State Building is one of the most iconic buildings in New York City, in the United States and in the world. The 102 story, 1,250 foot high Art Deco building was the tallest building in the world for 40 years after it was completed in 1931.

Even today, the Empire State Building is still the third tallest building in the United States, trailing only the Willis Tower and the Trump International Hotel and Tower, both in Chicago. There are two observation decks on top of the Empire State Building. One is on the 86th floor, and the second observation deck is located on the very top, 102nd floor.

Combined, some 120 million people have visited the two observation decks. Both offer fantastic 360 degree views of New York City and the surrounding area. These are thirteen beautiful distinctive views that visitors can see from the top of the Empire State Building.

1. The Moon over New York

Image Source by Massimo Catarinella

If you go to the top of the Empire State Building at the right time of day or night, you can see the moon over New York City.

2. Downtown Manhattan

Image Source by Quasipalm

From the top of the Empire State Building, one can see right down Manhattan Island. Downtown Manhattan looks different since 911, without the World Trade Center, and will soon look different again with the rise of the Freedom Tower.

3. The Hudson River

Image Source by Arnoldius

Henry Hudson sailed up the Hudson River in 1609, all the way to present day Albany. Hudson did not discover the river, as Giovanni da Verrazzano made mention of the river during his 1524 voyage to the New World.

4. Rooftop Pool

Image Source by Hu Totya

A rooftop pool one can see from the top of the Empire State Building. Rooftop pools are not that common in Manhattan, but they do exist here and there.

5. Manhattan at Dusk

Image Source by *Muhammad*

Manhattan is a magical place as dusk sets in and lights come on in the city.

6. Other New York City and New Jersey Skyscrapers

Image Source by Norbert Nagel

What a sight! Manhattan during the day.

7. Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Image Source by Krokodyl

Looking down on a balloon float during the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. My sister lived on the west side of Manhattan, and one year one of the giant balloon floats lost air and landed on top of her building, temporarily covering her windows.

8. Manhattan in HD

Image Source by Jacob Montrasio

High definition photo taken from the top of the Empire State Building by Jacob Montrasio.

9. Flat Iron Building

Image Source by Norbert Nagel

The Flat Iron Building is a unique architectural structure built in 1902 to fit along the street where Fifth Avenue and Broadway meet in Manhattan, New York City.

10. Streets Below the Empire State Building