After the post-arrival orientation, CCIP exchange visitors toured Manhattan in different groups and then joined together to visit the Empire State Building in the evening. Empire State Building is a key New York City landmark. Like the Les Mis evening, the Empire State Building tour was also led by student leaders who had purchased tickets at least one month in advance.

Liaowei, co-chief of the event, commented that the amazing view was only part of the rewarding experience. "It was nice that everyone gathered after work for dinner first. I like when the group comes together," he said.

The visitors ate together at a restaurant in midtown as the sun set before they headed to the observation deck to enjoy the nighttime view from the top.

SAB leader Eugenia was overwhelmed by the vastness of New York. "It was amazing to see how the city goes to the horizon in every direction," she said. Besides the view, she also was impressed by how conveniently the group was able to purchase tickets, meet for dinner, and enjoy the view together. "We took lots of pictures of each other to show the rest of the group. We were so happy to be there! You can tell because we're all smiling," she explained.