Empire State Building. Empire State Building is the tallest building in New York that raises proudly right in the center of Manhattan. The building was constructed in a record time - the works began in October 1929, and in March 1931 the official opening took place. After the tragedy of September 11, 2001, Empire State Building became the tallest skyscraper in New York once again (its height is 443 meters, including the antenna on the top). New World Trade Center that is currently being built should soon regain its leading position.
The stairs in Empire State Building have 1860 steps, but no one uses stairs to get to the top of the building. Empire State Building is equipped with 73 elevators, some of which are made especially for tourists. The 86th floor of the building, located at the height of 320 meters, is equipped with a large observation platform, from which guests will be able to enjoy breathtaking views of New York. When the weather is good, the visibility from the deck is more than 70 km. Moreover, there is a smaller observation deck with a glazed floor at the 102th store, but entrance to this deck is paid and costs $15.00. Every year, Empire State Building is visited by 3.5 million tourists. That’s an average of 10,000 people a day! The lighting on the top of the building is different and its color changes depending on the season or on special occasions. For instance, during the American Open tennis championship the top of the building becomes yellow, just like the color of a tennis ball, and on Christmas it’s red and green.
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