Rockefeller Center (Top of the Rock)

The Rockefeller Center is a national historic landmark that offers dramatic vistas of New York City from its 850 foot high observatory commonly refered to as the Top of the Rock

Looking up at Rockefeller Center in New York City
Looking up at Rockefeller Center in New York City cc licensed photo by paul-simpson.org

Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987 and listed on the US Register of Historic Places, Rockefeller Center is a complex of 19 commercial buildings covering 22 acres. Commissioned by John D Rockefeller, it was the largest private construction project ever undertaken and was the setting for the famous 1932 Lunchtime atop a Skyscraper photograph of workers having lunch on a steel beam dangling 840 feet in the air.

The centrepiece of Rockefeller Center is the GE Building, referred to locals as "30 Rock", which headquarters NBC and houses most of the network's New York studios. NBC offers daily studio tours and free tickets to tapings of Saturday Night Live, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, the Today Show and the Dr Oz Show through the show website or try your luck at with standby tickets at the NBC Studio Experience Store.

At the front of 30 Rock, the Lower Plaza is the centre of the complex and home to the world-famous annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice skating rink. On the upper level of the 70 story GE building, Top of the Rock is a six level observatory 850 feet above street level offering visitors an alternative to the crowds at the Empire State Building. Reopened to the public in 2005, Top of the Rock offers sweeping views of the New York City skyline from the Chrysler Building to the Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park to the Hudson and East Rivers.

When you visit Top of the Rock NYC, you will purchase tickets with assigned entrance times to reduce congestion. The experience begins with an exhibit area chronically the history of Rockefeller Center, before you begin your 70 story ascent in an elevator with a transparent ceiling. Once on the observation deck, you will enjoy a bird's eye view of the city, but be sure to climb up above the main deck or you will be forced to photograph through glass. The security guards at Top of the Rock are extremely helpful in identifying landmarks and helping visitors orientate themselves to the city below.

Nearby attractions include Museum of Modern Art, Theatre District, Times Square, Radio City Music Hall, St. Patrick's Cathedral and Saks Fifth Avenue.

Facts For Your Visit

Official Website: Rockefeller Center | Top of the Rock in NYC

Fee: Yes.

Regular Hours:
May differ on holidays

  • Monday: Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours

Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111, USA

Phone: (212) 588-8601

Official Website: Rockefeller Center | Top of the Rock in NYC

Reviews

Rated 4.7 out of 5Rockefeller Center Star Rating

5 Star Rating Rockefeller Center in New York City is an iconic landmark that offers an unmatched 360-degree view of the city from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. From the towering skyscrapers to Central Park, the panorama is stunning. The center’s rich history, art deco architecture, and famous skating rink enhance the experience beyond just the views. It’s a quintessential New York experience, combining the city’s heartbeat with the glamour of a bygone era. A must-visit for anyone in NYC, Rockefeller Center is an unforgettable part of the city’s story. This condensed version still captures the key aspects of the Rockefeller Center experience, focusing on its views, history, and significance in New York City.
Carl Woodward (Wedding Photographer) - 12 days ago

5 Star Rating Amazing view from the top of the rock. The observatory is a great place to visit but extremely crowded. The general admission ticket should be enough as there isn’t really anything but the view of Manhattan to see.
Cris Guhman - 12 days ago

5 Star Rating Went early book tickets . Arranged a time slot, met our tour guide, took us around outside, showed us interesting places, also very informed with knowledge around the area . Very interesting. After the tour made our way up to top of the rock.was advised would be misty , the views we're amazing mist gliding around Central park. Was a great memorable experience. Everyone from purchasing the tickets , tour guide. Security very friendly. Thankyou for a great experience
Pauline Charlton - 1 month ago

5 Star Rating Booked the observatory deck before our visit for 6pm and wasn't disappointed with the views. Didn't realise there was a shopping area inside on the lower ground, so a revisit was planned during our stay. Lovely building, full of history
Karen White - 16 days ago

5 Star Rating Rockefeller Center, an iconic symbol of New York City, stands as a testament to art, commerce, and innovation. This historic complex, spanning 22 acres in Midtown Manhattan, is a vibrant hub of entertainment, shopping, and culture. Home to the renowned Radio City Music Hall, it hosts the legendary Radio City Christmas Spectacular, captivating audiences with its dazzling performances. The Top of the Rock Observation Deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, while the Rockefeller Plaza, adorned with the famous Prometheus statue, buzzes with activity, especially during the winter when it transforms into a magical ice-skating rink. With its art deco architecture and a rich history, Rockefeller Center remains a must-visit destination, embodying the spirit and energy of New York City.
Charlie - 1 month ago

Accommodations near Rockefeller Center | Top of the Rock in NYC:

Directions

Subway Line Nearest Station Walking Time
B, D, F or MRockefeller Center0 minutes
1, C or E50th Street5 minutes
N, Q or R49th Street6 minutes

How to get to Rockefeller Center | Top of the Rock in NYC by Subway

Take the B, D, F or M train to Rockefeller Center, arriving in the underground concourse or take the 1, C or E train to 50th Street and walk east on 50th to just past 6th Avenue or the N, Q or R train to 49th Street and head north to 50th Street go right (east) to just past 6th Avenue. Access to the Top of the Rock is off 50th Street between 5th and 6th Avenue.

Map & Instant Route Finder

Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.

Finding Your Route - Please Wait

Photo Gallery

Video


This video will show you the spectacular views from the Top of the Rock along with the many other fun things to see and do in and around Rockefeller Center
New York City Hotel Deals

Book Now, Pay Later
Price Matching
2,563,000+ Properties Worldwide
24/7 Support
booking.com logo
Booking.com sale banner link

Visiting New York City?
Here's why we use Booking.com for our hotel bookings.
Best Selection
Daily Deals
Price Matching
Pay at the Hotel
24/7 Support
Share on Pinterest
Share on Pinterest
Help us grow! Please Share
Thanks for Visiting!