Monday 6 January 2014

The Empire State Building

A big one on my to-do list was a visit to the Empire State Building, which I have described as "That really tall tower that King Kong climbs" when I couldn't remember what it was called (embarrassing fact). It also lingers in my mind as the place for the ultimate date with destiny, courtesy of Sleepless in Seattle, An Affair to Remember, and that Tom Cruise movie, Oblivion (Now that I think about it, it's probably in a lot of movies). Did you know you can also get married at the top on Valentines Day, if your application is accepted?


I'll be honest with you, it's kind of a big tourist trap. Its expensive ($27 USD to visit the 86th floor, and $44 USD to go all the way up to the top deck...we went to the 86th!), and it takes forever to get through the lineups and security checks even on a slow weekday morning. (Also, be warned: you will be accosted by guys claiming to sell "cheaper" tickets outside the building. Do not engage! I repeat, do NOT engage!)


That being said, I am glad we decided to go up, despite being packed like sardines into a very small elevator, and herded from one checkpoint to the next by cranky staff. Can't really blame them...they have a terrible job.

The impressive entrance! 

It was cold, windy and crowded at the top, but a relatively clear day, which was nice. 
We got a great view of Manhattan!

Regis and the City
I really liked seeing the city with all the snow...as the week progressed, it got quite warm and it all melted!


I don't know why, but I just really wanted to see these viewfinders. It just completes my concept of the Empire State Building. I have to confess this is totally posed, however. I didn't have any change...


The Chrysler building!
A rare selfie :)

It's pretty cool, and weird, to look over the city and see nothing but skyscrapers in the distance! I'm used to hills, mountains, forests, and the occasional apartment building poking out from the little city I call home.
This was a neat site to visit, and another check on the bucket list!

4 comments:

netablogs said...

I loved the posed shot..it looked so REAL! ;) Wow, New York is really big.. and smoggy! Glad you got to see the Big Apple from the Empire State Building.

Kriss said...

Posts like this make me desperately want to travel. Amazing views, spectacular buildings, posing with viewfinders...ahhh my travel bug is growing!

Brittany said...

I love your posts Jilly!

Jill said...

awww, I love it when you guys comment! It makes me feel so special :) I'm glad you're enjoying it!