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
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
Fee: Yes.Rockefeller Center | Top of the Rock in NYC Hours:
Opening 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
Rockefeller Center | Top of the Rock in NYC Reviews
Rated out of 5
Such a great experience going to the observation deck at the Empire State Bldg. I really enjoyed all of the different inviting displays they used to tell the history of building the Rockefeller Center. Made it really fun and interactive. We learned a lot about all of the movies made there. But then the views¡ Amazing! The sun set while ẁe were there and I loved seeing the city at night. It would be on my top 10 things to do in NYC. I highly recommend you make it part of your NYC visit.
Vicki Wilson - a week ago
It was a childhood dream to visit here. And this place didn't disappoint; it's beautiful, just like in the movies. The building's lobby is captivating with its massive murals. The courtyard with fountains and benches is very cozy. It's even more beautiful here with the festive winter decorations.
Julia Davis - 2 weeks ago
Visiting Rockefeller Center for the first time, I was truly impressed by the lively atmosphere and the iconic architecture full of history. The spacious plaza surrounded by glittering skyscrapers which were built since 1939 gives off a vibe that’s both modern and classic. During my visit, the place was still buzzing with activities, shops, cafés, and plenty of beautiful spots for photos. It's a must-visit landmark in New York!
Huynh Huu Thanh - a week ago
Hands down, this is the best rooftop view in New York City! While the Empire State Building is great, Top of the Rock offers an unobstructed, breathtaking view of both the Empire State Building and Central Park.
Ticket prices vary, but general admission starts at around $40-44 USD. It's absolutely worth every penny. For the best photos and experience, try to visit during sunset. The three different levels of outdoor observation decks give you plenty of space to enjoy the incredible 360-degree view. Highly recommend it
Antonio - a month ago
An unforgettable NYC landmark!
Rockefeller Center is a must-visit when you're in New York. The architecture is stunning, and there's so much to explore. We went up to the Top of the Rock and the views were absolutely incredible—especially at sunset.
Walking around the plaza, you’re surrounded by iconic sights like the Prometheus statue and Channel Gardens. In the winter, the whole place transforms with the ice rink and that famous Christmas tree—truly magical.
There are tons of shops, restaurants, and even NBC Studios, where you can take a behind-the-scenes tour.
Tip: If you have the New York Pass, Top of the Rock is included—great value if you're visiting other landmarks too!
Whether you’re into history, architecture, or just want to experience the NYC vibe, this place has it all. Highly recommended!
Paul Ger - 3 months ago
Directions
| Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| B, D, F or M | Rockefeller Center | 0 minutes |
| 1, C or E | 50th Street | 5 minutes |
| N, Q or R | 49th Street | 6 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.
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Photo Gallery
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And Looking Down from the top of the Rockerfeller Center cc licensed photo by ?ellie? -
Photo Credit: Nicolas Lh. - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Jesús Quiles - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Nicolas Lh. - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Jesús Quiles - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: John Brighenti - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Bradley N. Weber - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Always Shooting - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Jesús Quiles - cc license via Flickr
