I have a 4.00 pm ticket to the summit and wondering how early do I need to be near the tower or what is the process.
We get there, stand in the correct line (line with reserved tickets) to get security done ?
Can we climb the stairs to second floor and take the elevator from there ?
Appreciate your help.
Get there a bit early just to allow for a bathroom break, getting a water. But not too early as they won't let you in until the time on your ticket, and when we were there last summer they were quite precise about it.
Geez, for my own benefit, I'd love to hear an answer that is a little less vague. A "bit early" and too late" don't really answer the OP. 10 minutes? 30 minutes? 1 hour? 2 hours?
Well, let me try again for PharmerPhil. The tickets are timed. When you get there, you can't queue up until that time. If you get there early there are snack bars, WC's, souvenir stands. If none of that interests you get there on time. I don't know about climbing the stairs, we took the elevator.
we went up the tower last sunday ( only to the second level) we had an allotted time. the tickets/web site mentioned a number of things that were not quite correct when you actually got there. the signage could be clearer, ( when you first arrive) particularly with the security now in place. ( ie: bag screening etc) we were not the only 'dumb' tourists with pre paid tickets, not knowing which line to be in.
note there was two lots of bag screening to go through, so allow perhaps 30 min extra ? if our experience was anything to go by.
hope this helps.
Thanks for the information. Will be going in August with our grandson and will definitely get tickets. Afternoon or evening. My husband is wanting sunset.
I'd aim for 30 minutes ahead for the perimeter security. Those with reserved slots use a different leg of the tower than those waiting in line for tickets and access. There are big 'reservation' signs where you need to go. No point in searching for a restroom etc on the ground before going up the tower there are rest rooms, snack bars, souvenir shops etc on the second floor of the Tower. You will need to line up again for elevators to the top and that is entirely first come first serve and can be a bit slow. Leave plenty of time for the whole experience. If the line is not too long for the top, go ahead and do that first and then come back down and enjoy the views and amenities on the second floor.
I'd want to be in the line for the elevators about 15 minutes ahead of my time slot or so.
Hi DTraveller, arrive a bit early to get through Security. When you're past that, go to the proper pillar (they're marked "ticket holders"). The guards will allow you to enter a few minutes before the time on your ticket.
Thank you all !!! Very helpful in understanding the process and how early we need to be in the area.
