This was my second time, paid the little extra for the VIP entrance. Not sure if it's worth the extra, and it may be too much to pay if you are taking the family, but VIP meant no wait, and a less crowded elevator. That in itself may be worth the extra money since they have a video show on the side walls of the elevator, something you may not enjoy as much in a packed elevator. Once you make the round, taking in the 360 degree views, get a drink in the bar upstairs, sit back, look out, and contemplate, meditate, whatever - there are some bar seats disconnected from bar with spectacular views, but they require a food order. If your stay in NYC is short, going up would not be on top of my priority list, but otherwise, it's kind of a must do.