Express Access, Party Favors, and Private Room with Decorations and Ghirardelli Ice Cream Sundaes

New York (Feb. 23, 2026) – Parents who have looked for the best birthday party idea for their children have had their wish fulfilled. Today, the Empire State Building (ESB) announced the debut of its first-ever ESB Birthday Party Package for kids at the international icon’s Observatory as part of year-long 95th anniversary celebrations.

“From Lego playtime to Percy Jackson readers, children love the Empire State Building and now parents can give an unmatched experience to their children and their friends,” said Anthony E. Malkin, chairman and CEO of Empire State Realty Trust. “This birthday party package tops them all with an escorted visit through our world-famous Observatory, a private party room with a Ghirardelli sundae chef, Empire State Building party favors, and so much more.”

The ESB Birthday Party Package includes a guided visit through the Observatory’s galleries and New York City’s best views on the 86th Floor deck, a private party room with a Ghirardelli Chocolate & Ice Cream Shop sundae chef, artisanal snacks and drinks, professional face painting and balloon twisting, and ESB-themed evites and party favors. For the ultimate experience, celebrants can include a visit to the premium 102nd Floor Observatory and can even add a visit from the Empire State Building’s beloved mascot, Emma Pire. The package includes a party for 12 children and three adults, which can be expanded to accommodate up to 25 guests. ESB Birthday Party Packages must be booked at least 28 days in advance at esbnyc.com and are available for celebrations on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Empire State Building’s world-famous Observatory Experience recently underwent a $165 million upgrade that features an interactive museum with nine galleries, brand-new host uniforms, and a reimagined 102nd Floor Observatory. 

Hi-res imagery for the Empire State Building Observatory and its new Birthday Package can be downloaded here. More information about the Empire State Building and the ESB Birthday Party Package can be found online.