– This post was written by Layla Durrani –
Welcome urban adventurers to New York City’s crown jewel – Top of the Rock New York City! If you’re dreaming of panoramic views of the city’s skyline, then this is the landmark for you.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip to the Big Apple, visiting Top of the Rock in New York will certainly elevate your trip.
Keep reading to see why your trip to New York in 2024 wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Top of the Rock.
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History of Top of the Rock
Rockefeller Center is at the heart of Manhattan and is a symbol of New Yorkers’ determination and ambition. It was built by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in the 1930s during the Great Depression.
Top of the Rock in New York started as an architectural feat for its time and has since become a popular observation deck. Renovated in the 1980s, it re-opened in 2005 for tourists to enjoy its amazing 360° view of the city, starting from the 67th floor.
In 2024, Top of the Rock introduced the Beam Walk, an interactive installation to enhance your experience. This is your perfect moment to recreate the iconic 1930s photo, “ Lunch atop a Skyscraper”, featuring construction workers taking a lunch break on a steel beam while building Rockefeller Center. Luckily for you, you can pose for a photo without any risks!
Planning your visit
Take the elevator to soar up 70 floors. When the doors open, you’ll see skyscrapers, Central Park, the Empire State Building, and more.
To make the most of your visit to Top of the Rock in New York, avoid peak times between 11 am and 1 pm. Early morning or evening, visits will still give you a beautiful view of the city with fewer crowds.
Each season offers a unique experience too. Spring and summer offer clear views out into the Hudson Bay. In autumn, see the red and orange fall leaves in Central Park.
And, yes, winter has something to offer, too (despite the cold). Witness sparkling holiday lights, and perhaps a snowy landscape. The decks are partially outdoors, so take that into consideration on the day of your visit.
Pre-booking your ticket can make your entry a breeze. You can choose from a range of Top of the Rock ticket types so you can rest easy that your spot is secured, especially during busy times.
Insider tips for a memorable experience
Don’t forget your camera! If you like taking photos, the 70th-floor deck offers a great spot with an unobstructed view of the city. Get plenty of photo opportunities of Central Park and downtown Manhattan. While you’re up there, you’ll also see the Empire State Building.
Top of the Rock isn’t just one floor. Roam across three levels, each offering a different vantage point and experience. On average, visitors take around 45 minutes to explore, but there’s no time limit and you can stay as long as you like.
Construction just began on a new exhibition and theater experience as well as the Sky Lift, which will take you 30 feet into the air, so keep an eye out for these new features coming soon.
Top of the Rock sunset and sunrise visits
If you’re planning to watch the sunrise or sunset from Top of the Rock, aim to arrive 30 minutes before sunrise or an hour before sunset. This will give you time to find a good spot and enjoy the changing colors of the cityscape.
If you get your timing just right, you’ll see one of the most beautiful sunsets – the city lights twinkling as night falls on the City That Never Sleeps.
Getting to the Top of the Rock
Planning a visit to the Top of the Rock in New York? Here’s a guide to ensure a smooth trip.
How to get there?
Your journey to the top starts in the heart of New York City – in Rockefeller Plaza. You have various options on how to get there depending on your location.
Subway
Catching a subway is the most cost-effective way to get around NYC. If you’re coming via subway, there are a few different lines you can take.
- Lines 1, D, F, M, N, R, Q and 6 stop near the Rockefeller Center, just minutes from your destination
- You can catch the D or F train anytime
- B and M trains stop nearby during weekdays
- F train stops nearby during rush hours
Subway options:
Exit at the 47th-50th Street Rockefeller Center station if you’re on the B, D, F, or M train.
If you’re on the 1 train, disembark at 50th Street, then walk east on 50th Street until you reach Rockefeller Center, located between 5th and 6th Avenues.
The 6 train stops at the 51st Street station, from there, head west on 50th Street till you get to Rockefeller Center.
If you’re on the N, Q, or R train, get off at the 49th Street station then take a walk east on 49th Street towards Rockefeller Center between 5th and 6th Avenues.
Buses
(Going South) 5th Avenue or (Going North) Madison Avenue
Buses M1, M2, M3, M4 and M5 run north and south along 5th Avenue or Madison Avenue.
From Broadway:
Board the M7 bus from Broadway, get off at 50th Street, and walk east until you arrive at Rockefeller Center. Buses operate in both north and south directions.
From 49th and 50th streets:
Ride the M50 bus from 49th and 50th streets, and get off between 5th and 6th Avenues. Buses operate both westbound and eastbound.
Cab
If you prefer using a taxi, simply direct the driver to 30 Rockefeller Plaza and let them know you’ll enter on 50th street (between 5th and 6th Avenue).
Top of the Rock opening hours
The Top of the Rock is open 365 days a year, so you can plan your visit anytime that suits you.
The Observation Deck opens at 9 am and stays open until 11 pm, giving you flexibility to decide the best time for you to head to the top. The last elevator ascent is at 10:10 pm, so make sure you time your visit accordingly!
Top of the Rock tickets
When it comes to purchasing your Top of the Rock tickets, you have a few different options.
Buy Online:
If you’re someone who likes to have it all sorted out in advance, simply buy your Top of the Rock Tickets online before your visit. This way, you can plan your day without worrying about getting tickets on time.
On Arrival
If you’re more spontaneous, purchasing tickets once you get there is also an option. It can get busy during peak hours and there may be a wait.
Tickets Types:
Top of the Rock: General Admission
This ticket provides access to the observation decks of the 30 Rock building – see spectacular views of NYC from the 70th floor. You’ll see 360° views from indoor and outdoor decks including sights of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and Downtown Manhattan.
VIP Top of the Rock Pass
This VIP pass offers a guided tour of Top of the Rock with exclusive perks like access to the VIP Lounge, priority entry, a special photo package, and skip-the-line access.
You’ll be able to try out the unique Beam experience, recreate a famous photograph, and enjoy unbeatable views of Manhattan from the observation deck. You’ll also receive a generous discount at the gift shop.
RockMoMA Duo Ticket
This combo ticket gets you access to both the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), offering breathtaking views of the New York skyline and a chance to see impressive artworks.
Begin your day with a panoramic view of the city from the 70th floor of Rockefeller Center at the Top of the Rock. Then, head to MoMA to explore an array of modern art disciplines across six floors of galleries, restaurants, and shops
Attractions and activities nearby
There’s more to see around Rockefeller Center than just the Top of the Rock views. The place is packed with various cultural and entertainment spots.
Check out Rockefeller Plaza, which features the famous Prometheus Bronze statue.
And in winter, the plaza becomes an ice skating rink — a favorite for locals and tourists. Grab tickets here to skate under the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree!
Take a tour of NBC Studios and see the sets of popular TV shows. A 4-minute walk away, you’ll find the Radio City Music Hall, known for its performances by the leggy Rockettes.
Book your Top of the Rock New York tickets
Visiting Top of the Rock is like stepping into a part of New York City’s history while enjoying its present-day appeal. Now you know the best times to visit and insider tips to make your trip enjoyable.
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