Visiting timetable10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
|Saturday, January 10, 202620 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001, USA
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Empire State Tower Lights: Guide to Colors and Shows
A friendly guide to ESB’s LED tower lights — color meanings, dynamic shows, and where to stand for perfect photos.
1/8/2026
13 min read
What to Know
- LEDs enable dynamic sequences and precise color palettes.
- Themes mark holidays, events, and moments of remembrance.
- Classic white = timeless; color cycles = celebration.
Color Notes (Examples)
| Color/Pattern | Typical Meaning |
|---|---|
| All‑white | Classic NYC skyline mode |
| Red/Green | Holidays/seasonal |
| Blue/White | City/team/civic tributes |
| Rainbow | Pride and inclusive celebrations |
Vantage Points
- 34th Street & 5th Avenue (near base).
- Bryant Park / 42nd Street sightlines.
- Rooftop bars with Midtown angles.
- Long lens from the Hudson/Queens waterfront for compression.
Photo Tips
- For crisp shots, steady against a wall and lower ISO.
- Expose for the lighted crown; let the city fall a half‑stop dark.
- Shoot a short burst to avoid motion blur.
Bottom Line
The lights are NYC’s mood ring — check the theme, find your angle, and catch the glow.
About the Author
NYC Observatory Expert
I put this guide together to make your Empire State Building visit simple, insightful, and full of New York tips.
Tags
LED
Tower Lights
Night
Design
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