A reimagined Empire State Building Observatory experience opened last week on the 80th floor of the Empire State Building. Part of a four-year, $165 million project, the new floor adds engaging, interactive and informative components to the visitor experience.

Five video blades allow visitors to design itineraries for their New York City visit, using a large information database covering all five boroughs. Itineraries are downloaded to visitors’ phones for use later. Classic binoculars show augmented reality scenes from around the city. Exhibits cover topics such as the Empire State Building’s music-to-light shows, artwork depicting New York City and more.

“What began with the new observatory entrance opening in August 2018 is now as we intended — a fully educational and immersive journey which connects visitors from around the world to their emotional connections to the world’s most famous building and helps them design their entire visit to New York City from the center of it all. The completed Empire State Building Observatory elevates our guests’ experience, from our new entrance to the dramatic and exciting new 102nd floor,” said Anthony E. Malkin, chairman and CEO, Empire State Realty Trust. “At 88 years young, the Empire State Building remains the icon of innovation, aspirations and dreams, and is the vibrant ancestor of all tall buildings around the world.”