Reach for the Sky!
Build the Empire State Building

Capture the Art Deco elegance of this iconic New York landmark with 1,767 pieces. A stunning display piece for architecture enthusiasts and LEGO collectors alike.

🏛 Architecture
Set #21046

Empire State Building

The LEGO Architecture Empire State Building is a stunning tribute to an iconic landmark.

Before you buy

Who it's for
Ages 16+ · Intermediate build Architecture enthusiasts and LEGO collectors
Build
1,767 pieces · about 4.5 hours Build time is an estimate.
Price
$129.99 list price · 7.4¢ per piece
Availability
Retired at LEGO
★★★★☆ 4.3 community rating from 287 ratings

Fans praise the Empire State Building for its accurate representation and impressive scale, making it a great display piece. Some builders found the repetition tedious, but the end result is undeniably striking.

📝 Our Take

AI-assisted editorial summary, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

The LEGO Architecture Empire State Building is a stunning tribute to an iconic landmark. Capturing the Art Deco grandeur of the New York City skyscraper, this set is a masterclass in using LEGO elements to recreate architectural details.

This set is perfect for architecture enthusiasts and LEGO collectors seeking an impressive display piece. The building experience is engaging and rewarding, resulting in a model with significant shelf presence.

Skip this if you prefer play-oriented sets or are intimidated by repetitive builds. Consider the LEGO Architecture Statue of Liberty for a different iconic landmark experience.

✨ New
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Hi! I'm BlockTalk, your LEGO expert. Ask me anything about the Empire State Building - building tips, investment potential, comparisons, or anything else!
Try asking:
How does this set compare to other LEGO Architecture landmarks in terms of scale and detail? What are some creative ways to display the Empire State Building model? How does the retired status of this set affect its collectibility and value? What are the key building techniques used to capture the Empire State Building's unique architectural features?

🧱 Building Experience

AI-assisted build estimate, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI
🧩
1,767
Pieces
⏱
4.5h
Estimated Build Time
📊
Intermediate
Difficulty
👤
16+
Ages
Build Highlights:
  • Intricate recreation of the Empire State Building's Art Deco facade
  • Clever use of grille tiles to simulate the building's texture
  • Engaging building techniques for the spire and antenna
  • Impressive display model with significant height and presence

📈 Investment Analysis

AI-assisted investment analysis, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI
Not enough price history for a trend
B+
Investment Grade
⏳ Retired
The LEGO Architecture Empire State Building, set number 21046, presents a moderately attractive investment opportunity. As a retired set from a popular theme, its value is likely to appreciate over time. The set's high piece count and iconic subject matter contribute to its collectibility. However, the architectural theme, while popular, may not generate the same level of demand as licensed themes like Star Wars or Marvel. Investors should monitor its performance on the secondary market and consider acquiring it at a reasonable price to maximize potential returns. The set's condition and the completeness of the original packaging will significantly impact its future value.

Not Financial Advice: Content is for educational purposes only. Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Full disclaimer

⚖ Compare Similar Sets

The LEGO Architecture Empire State Building stands out for its detailed recreation of a classic skyscraper. Compared to other Architecture sets like the Statue of Liberty or the Eiffel Tower, the Empire State Building offers a different building experience with its focus on geometric patterns and repetitive elements. Collectors might choose this set for its iconic subject matter and its impressive height, making it a prominent display piece.

📦 Parts Inventory

Official piece count
1,767
Parts cataloged in this inventory
75 unique parts, 1,767 pieces
Brick Special 1 x 2 with 2 Studs on 1 Side Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 11211 72× Light Bluish Gray
Brick Special 1 x 2 with 2 Studs on 1 Side Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 11211 12× White
Plate 3 x 3 Plate 3 x 3
Part #: 11212 4× Red
Plate 3 x 3 Plate 3 x 3
Part #: 11212 19× Light Bluish Gray
Brick Curved 2 x 1 No Studs [1/2 Bow] Brick Curved 2 x ...
Part #: 11477 8× Metallic Silver
Plate Special 1 x 2 with 1 Stud with Groove and Inside Stud Holder (Jumper) Plate Special 1 x...
Part #: 15573 22× Light Bluish Gray
Plate Special 1 x 2 with 1 Stud with Groove and Inside Stud Holder (Jumper) Plate Special 1 x...
Part #: 15573 4× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate Special 1 x 2 with 1 Stud with Groove and Inside Stud Holder (Jumper) Plate Special 1 x...
Part #: 15573 11× White
Plate Special 1 x 2 with 1 Stud with Groove and Inside Stud Holder (Jumper) Plate Special 1 x...
Part #: 15573 6× Yellow
Technic Pin Connector Round 1L [Beam] Technic Pin Conne...
Part #: 18654 1× Light Bluish Gray
Tile Special Round 1 x 1 with Hollow Bar Tile Special Roun...
Part #: 20482 1× Pearl Gold
Brick Special 1 x 2 x 1 2/3 with 4 Studs on 1 Side Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 22885 4× Red
Brick Special 1 x 2 x 1 2/3 with 4 Studs on 1 Side Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 22885 42× Light Bluish Gray
Tile Special 1 x 2 Grille with Bottom Groove Tile Special 1 x ...
Part #: 2412b 684× Tan
Tile Special 1 x 2 Grille with Bottom Groove Tile Special 1 x ...
Part #: 2412b 6× White
Plate 2 x 2 Corner Plate 2 x 2 Corner
Part #: 2420 4× Black
Plate 2 x 2 Corner Plate 2 x 2 Corner
Part #: 2420 32× Light Bluish Gray
Tile 1 x 4 with Groove Tile 1 x 4 with G...
Part #: 2431 4× Light Bluish Gray
Tile 1 x 4 with Groove Tile 1 x 4 with G...
Part #: 2431 16× Black
Plate Special 2 x 2 with Pin on Bottom Plate Special 2 x...
Part #: 2476a 2× Light Bluish Gray
Tile Round 1 x 1 Quarter Tile Round 1 x 1 ...
Part #: 25269 4× Light Bluish Gray
Antenna 8H Whip Antenna 8H Whip
Part #: 2569 1× Light Bluish Gray
Tile 2 x 3 Tile 2 x 3
Part #: 26603 4× Black
Tile 2 x 3 Tile 2 x 3
Part #: 26603 14× Dark Bluish Gray
Brick 2 x 4 Brick 2 x 4
Part #: 3001 4× Light Bluish Gray
Brick 2 x 3 Brick 2 x 3
Part #: 3002 2× Blue
Brick 2 x 3 Brick 2 x 3
Part #: 3002 1× White
Brick 2 x 2 Brick 2 x 2
Part #: 3003 2× Blue
Brick 1 x 2 Brick 1 x 2
Part #: 3004 2× Yellow
Plate Special 1 x 4 with Bar Down Plate Special 1 x...
Part #: 30043 2× Light Bluish Gray
Brick 2 x 8 Brick 2 x 8
Part #: 3007 2× Light Bluish Gray
Brick 1 x 6 Brick 1 x 6
Part #: 3009 6× Light Bluish Gray
Brick 1 x 6 Brick 1 x 6
Part #: 3009 8× Blue
Brick 1 x 4 Brick 1 x 4
Part #: 3010 2× Light Bluish Gray
Brick Special 1 x 2 Palisade [aka Log] Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 30136 4× Tan
Plate 2 x 4 Plate 2 x 4
Part #: 3020 2× Light Bluish Gray
Plate 2 x 4 Plate 2 x 4
Part #: 3020 2× White
Plate 2 x 3 Plate 2 x 3
Part #: 3021 29× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 2 x 3 Plate 2 x 3
Part #: 3021 4× Red
Plate 2 x 3 Plate 2 x 3
Part #: 3021 3× Tan
Plate 2 x 3 Plate 2 x 3
Part #: 3021 19× White
Plate 2 x 3 Plate 2 x 3
Part #: 3021 39× Light Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 2 Plate 1 x 2
Part #: 3023 32× Trans-Clear
Plate 1 x 2 Plate 1 x 2
Part #: 3023 6× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 2 Plate 1 x 2
Part #: 3023 31× Light Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 2 Plate 1 x 2
Part #: 3023 14× Blue
Plate 1 x 2 Plate 1 x 2
Part #: 3023 4× White
Plate 1 x 2 Plate 1 x 2
Part #: 3023 14× Trans-Brown
Plate 1 x 1 Plate 1 x 1
Part #: 3024 8× Trans-Clear
Plate 1 x 1 Plate 1 x 1
Part #: 3024 16× Light Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 1 Plate 1 x 1
Part #: 3024 2× Tan
Plate 1 x 1 Plate 1 x 1
Part #: 3024 8× Black
Plate 1 x 1 Plate 1 x 1
Part #: 3024 7× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 4 x 10 Plate 4 x 10
Part #: 3030 6× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 2 x 8 Plate 2 x 8
Part #: 3034 6× Dark Bluish Gray
Bar 4L (Lightsaber Blade / Wand) Bar 4L (Lightsabe...
Part #: 30374 1× Light Bluish Gray
Brick Special 1 x 4 with 4 Studs on One Side Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 30414 2× Tan
Brick Special 1 x 4 with 4 Studs on One Side Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 30414 8× Light Bluish Gray
Brick Round 1 x 1 Open Stud Brick Round 1 x 1...
Part #: 3062b 1× Light Bluish Gray
Tile 1 x 2 with Groove Tile 1 x 2 with G...
Part #: 3069b 4× Pearl Gold
Tile 1 x 2 with Groove Tile 1 x 2 with G...
Part #: 3069b 8× Trans-Clear
Tile 1 x 2 with Groove Tile 1 x 2 with G...
Part #: 3069b 5× Dark Bluish Gray
Tile 1 x 2 with Groove Tile 1 x 2 with G...
Part #: 3069b 10× Light Bluish Gray
Tile 1 x 2 with Groove Tile 1 x 2 with G...
Part #: 3069b 4× Metallic Silver
Tile 1 x 1 with Groove Tile 1 x 1 with G...
Part #: 3070b 4× Black
Tile 1 x 1 with Groove Tile 1 x 1 with G...
Part #: 3070b 6× Light Bluish Gray
Tile 1 x 1 with Groove Tile 1 x 1 with G...
Part #: 3070b 4× Tan
Tile 1 x 1 with Groove Tile 1 x 1 with G...
Part #: 3070b 6× Yellow
Plate Special 1 x 2 with Door Rail Plate Special 1 x...
Part #: 32028 6× Tan
Plate Special 1 x 2 with Door Rail Plate Special 1 x...
Part #: 32028 8× Dark Bluish Gray
Technic Plate 1 x 5 with Smooth Ends, 4 Studs and Centre Axle Hole Technic Plate 1 x...
Part #: 32124 2× White
Brick Special 1 x 1 x 1 2/3 with Studs on 1 Side Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 32952 4× Red
Brick Special 1 x 1 x 1 2/3 with Studs on 1 Side Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 32952 6× Light Bluish Gray
Plate Special 1 x 3 with 2 Studs with Groove and Inside Stud Holder (Jumper) Plate Special 1 x...
Part #: 34103 10× Tan
Plate 1 x 8 Plate 1 x 8
Part #: 3460 2× White
Plate 1 x 8 Plate 1 x 8
Part #: 3460 4× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 8 Plate 1 x 8
Part #: 3460 2× Red
Brick 1 x 3 Brick 1 x 3
Part #: 3622 4× White
Brick 1 x 3 Brick 1 x 3
Part #: 3622 2× Light Bluish Gray
Brick 1 x 3 Brick 1 x 3
Part #: 3622 5× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 3 Plate 1 x 3
Part #: 3623 4× Tan
Plate 1 x 3 Plate 1 x 3
Part #: 3623 16× Light Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 6 Plate 1 x 6
Part #: 3666 12× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 6 Plate 1 x 6
Part #: 3666 12× Light Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 6 Plate 1 x 6
Part #: 3666 4× Tan
Plate 1 x 4 Plate 1 x 4
Part #: 3710 2× Red
Plate 1 x 4 Plate 1 x 4
Part #: 3710 1× White
Plate 1 x 4 Plate 1 x 4
Part #: 3710 6× Light Bluish Gray
Plate 2 x 6 Plate 2 x 6
Part #: 3795 4× Dark Bluish Gray
Plate 2 x 6 Plate 2 x 6
Part #: 3795 8× Black
Plate 2 x 10 Plate 2 x 10
Part #: 3832 4× Light Bluish Gray
Plate 6 x 6 Plate 6 x 6
Part #: 3958 2× Light Bluish Gray
Plate Round 2 x 2 with Axle Hole Type 1 (+ Opening) Plate Round 2 x 2...
Part #: 4032a 2× Light Bluish Gray
Tile 1 x 8 with Groove Tile 1 x 8 with G...
Part #: 4162 8× Dark Bluish Gray
Tile 1 x 8 with Groove Tile 1 x 8 with G...
Part #: 4162 7× Black
Tile 1 x 8 with "Empire State Building" Print Tile 1 x 8 with "...
Part #: 4162pr0068 1× Black
Technic Pin 1/2 without Friction Ridges Technic Pin 1/2 w...
Part #: 4274 1× Light Bluish Gray
Plate 1 x 10 Plate 1 x 10
Part #: 4477 4× Light Bluish Gray
Brick Special 1 x 2 x 2/3 with Studs on Sides Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 4595 2× Black
Brick Special 1 x 1 Studs on 4 Sides Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 4733 3× White
Brick Special 1 x 2 with Studs on 2 Sides Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 52107 4× Red
Cone 1 x 1 [Top Groove] Cone 1 x 1 [Top G...
Part #: 59900 1× Light Bluish Gray
Plate Special 1 x 1 with Clip Vertical [Thick Open O Clip] Plate Special 1 x...
Part #: 60897 1× Light Bluish Gray
Brick Sloped 18° 2 x 1 x 2/3 with 4 Slots / Grate Brick Sloped 18° ...
Part #: 61409 8× Metallic Silver
Plate Round 1 x 1 with Solid Stud Plate Round 1 x 1...
Part #: 6141 7× Trans-Clear
Plate Special 4 x 6, Studs on 3 Edges Plate Special 4 x...
Part #: 6180 4× Black
Tile 1 x 3 Tile 1 x 3
Part #: 63864 2× Tan
Tile 1 x 3 Tile 1 x 3
Part #: 63864 6× Dark Bluish Gray
Tile 1 x 3 Tile 1 x 3
Part #: 63864 3× Light Bluish Gray
Tile 1 x 6 with Groove Tile 1 x 6 with G...
Part #: 6636 6× Light Bluish Gray
Plate Round 1 x 1 with Open Stud Plate Round 1 x 1...
Part #: 85861 3× Yellow
Brick Sloped 30° 1 x 2 x 2/3 Brick Sloped 30° ...
Part #: 85984 2× Light Bluish Gray
Brick Sloped 30° 1 x 2 x 2/3 Brick Sloped 30° ...
Part #: 85984 2× White
Tile 2 x 4 with Groove Tile 2 x 4 with G...
Part #: 87079 4× White
Brick Special 1 x 1 with Stud on 1 Side Brick Special 1 x...
Part #: 87087 8× Light Bluish Gray
Plate Special 2 x 2 with Groove and Center Stud (Jumper) Plate Special 2 x...
Part #: 87580 12× Light Bluish Gray
Bar 3L Bar 3L
Part #: 87994 1× Black
Plate 2 x 14 Plate 2 x 14
Part #: 91988 2× Black
Brick and Axle Separator v2.0 Brick and Axle Se...
Part #: 96874 1× Orange
Brick Round 2 x 2 Truncated Cone Brick Round 2 x 2...
Part #: 98100 1× Light Bluish Gray
Tile Round 1 x 1 Tile Round 1 x 1
Part #: 98138 10× Tan
Plate Special 2 x 2 x 2/3 with Two Studs On Side and Two Raised [Solid Anti-stud] Plate Special 2 x...
Part #: 99206 20× Red
Plate Special 2 x 2 x 2/3 with Two Studs On Side and Two Raised [Solid Anti-stud] Plate Special 2 x...
Part #: 99206 148× Light Bluish Gray
Plate Special 2 x 2 x 2/3 with Two Studs On Side and Two Raised [Solid Anti-stud] Plate Special 2 x...
Part #: 99206 2× Tan
Bracket 1 x 2 - 2 x 2 Inverted Bracket 1 x 2 - 2...
Part #: 99207 6× White
Bracket 1 x 2 - 2 x 2 Inverted Bracket 1 x 2 - 2...
Part #: 99207 4× Tan
Bracket 1 x 2 - 1 x 2 Inverted Bracket 1 x 2 - 1...
Part #: 99780 8× Light Bluish Gray
Bracket 1 x 2 - 1 x 2 Bracket 1 x 2 - 1...
Part #: 99781 6× White
The set features a substantial collection of Tan Tile Special 1 x 2 Grille pieces, ideal for creating textured surfaces in MOCs. The Light Bluish Gray elements are also present in useful quantities for builders.

🛒 Where to Buy

💎 Notable Parts

Tan Tile Special 1 x 2 Grille with Bottom Groove (684x) $34.20
Light Bluish Gray Plate Special 2 x 2 x 2/3 with Two Studs On Side and Two Raised (148x) $14.80
Light Bluish Gray Brick Special 1 x 2 with 2 Studs on 1 Side (72x) $7.20
Est. BrickLink Part Value
$56.20

💡 MOC Potential

🏛 Alternate skyscraper designs
🏙 Expansion of a New York City skyline
🏰 Imposing castle tower or keep

Community Insights

Real opinions from Reddit and YouTube

What Reddit Says

Based on 11 discussions
3.0 /5
Mixed
0% positive
BlockTalk AI

The Reddit community finds the Empire State Building (21046-1) set interesting, particularly its building techniques. Some users mention using it for creative purposes like billboards or incorporating it into city layouts with LEGO mechs and even bearded dragons.

Your collection needs a ninjago mecht to defend the city from this kaiju

48 upvotes • 4y ago

I had a bearded dragon when I was younger and I remember having him walk in my lego city terrorizing the citizens. Obviously he mostly just chilled...

25 upvotes • 4y ago

That entire set is full of some crazy building techniques!

15 upvotes • 5y ago

What YouTubers Say

2 videos found
BlockTalk AI

ZIROTCA's stop-motion build highlights the Empire State Building (21046) as the tallest LEGO Architecture model after the Statue of Liberty. Another reviewer showcases a time-lapse build of the 1767-piece set, presenting it as an engaging birthday gift experience.

Community Sentiment

Based on 11 Reddit opinions

Reddit

3.0 /5
Mixed
0% positive
0
Positive
11
Mixed
0
Critical

YouTube

Not enough YouTube data

BlockTalk AI Analysis

The Reddit community finds the Empire State Building (21046-1) set interesting, particularly its building techniques. Some users mention using it for creative purposes like billboards or incorporating it into city layouts with LEGO mechs and even bearded dragons.

What the Community Says

6 Reddit + 2 YouTube reviews
BlockTalk AI Summary

Redditors appreciate the set's unique building techniques and potential for use in LEGO city displays. One user humorously recounts their bearded dragon interacting with the set, while another suggests it's good for making billboards.

Reddit Reviews

6 discussions
Neutral
48

Your collection needs a ninjago mecht to defend the city from this kaiju

4y ago in r/lego View
Neutral
25

I had a bearded dragon when I was younger and I remember having him walk in my lego city terrorizing the citizens. Obviously he mostly just chilled on a baseplate

4y ago in r/lego View
Neutral
15

That entire set is full of some crazy building techniques!

5y ago in r/lego View
Neutral
14

I use it quite a bit, it’s actually very good for making billboards

5y ago in r/lego View
Community Content: These reviews are from Reddit and YouTube users sharing their personal experiences. Opinions may vary.

📖 Building Instructions 9

Empire State Building Instructions
21046_A_Digital Booklet - DE
Download PDF
Empire State Building Instructions
21046_A_Digital Booklet - ES
Download PDF
Empire State Building Instructions
21046_A_Digital Booklet - FR
Download PDF
Empire State Building Instructions
21046_A_Digital Booklet - HU
Download PDF
Empire State Building Instructions
21046_A_Digital Booklet - IT
Download PDF
Empire State Building Instructions
21046_A_Digital Booklet - LV
Download PDF
Empire State Building Instructions
21046_A_Digital Booklet - PT
Download PDF
Empire State Building Instructions
BI 3018, 136+4/65+200G, 21046 V29
Download PDF
Empire State Building Instructions
BI 3018, 136+4/65+200G, 21046 V39
Download PDF

Charts Inventory Statistics

75
Unique Parts
1,767
Official Piece Count
1,767
Cataloged Inventory Pieces
0
Minifigures
17
Spare Parts
Inventory Version: 1

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