Top of The Rock, New York
The Top of the Rock Observation Deck is located at the famous Rockefeller Centre in Midtown Manhattan. This offers some of the most panoramic views of New York City, where visitors can view the Empire State Building and Central Park, as well as the Statue of Liberty without any obstructions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of your visit.
History and Location
The Top of the Rock, located atop 30 Rockefeller Plaza, opened in 1933 as part of the Art Deco style Rockefeller Center. Every visitor who visits New York likes to see Top of the Rock since 2005, when it was reopened. There are three floors of viewing platforms on the 67th, 69th, and 70th floors, offering breath-taking views from every angle.
Three Levels of Views
67th Floor: An entirely indoor as well as an outdoor portion, this floor gives great scenic views for all viewers here; they can enjoy good views that show the breathtaking sight of Empire State Building and even more.
69th Floor: This floor is designed to provide a more personal experience. The floor-to-ceiling glass panels connect the visitor to the city below; it is a great photography opportunity.
70th Floor: This is the most elevated view, and here you can see the city from a 360-degree view. From here, one would see Central Park stretching northward, the shining water surrounding Manhattan, and even One World Trade Centre.
Best Time to Visit
For you to enjoy your visit, plan to arrive around 30 minutes before sunset. It will be the time of golden glow over the city, and watch as the skyline lights up when night falls. The deck is open from 9:00 AM to midnight, and it is less crowded than some other observation decks; however, booking tickets in advance is recommended.
Unique Experiences
Take Away: One of the most iconic images of New York construction workers eating lunch on a steel beam high above the city was taken during the construction of Rockefeller Centre.
The Skylift This new attraction offers visitors an even higher view. Taking visitors three stories above the viewing platform, this 360-degree rotating platform gives a breathtaking view of the city; now offered as part of a more comprehensive experience.
Accessibility and Convenience
Top of the Rock is completely wheelchair accessible, and strollers and service animals are also permitted. One can dine and shop on-site at Rockefeller Center to make a whole day out of a visit
Tickets and Pricing
General admission runs to $44 per head; VIP experiences are offered with the option of bypassing lines. Combo tickets allow visitors to combine the ticket with other attractions like Museum of Modern Art, popularly known as MoMA
Why Top of the Rock?
Compared to every other observation deck in New York, Top of the Rock is one of the largest and least crowded observation decks. Its view, one of the best, is a perfect view over the Empire State Building; it’s extremely popular amongst photographers, and its midtown location gives views unequalled by any of the other New York skyline observation decks of the expanse of Central Park.
More Than a View
Top of the Rock is not just views, but an experience. Take that perfect selfie against the skyline, or walk through interactive exhibits on the history of Rockefeller Centre, or just soak in the energy of New York City from above. It’s definitely something you won’t forget.
Final Tips
Book ahead of time, especially in peak tourist season in the summer and winter holidays.
Spend at least 1-1.5 hours on the observation decks to view and explore many experiences.
Late afternoon for viewing both day and night in optimum lighting conditions.
It’s an experience that can capture the essence of New York City’s architecture, history, and skyline in one go. Three levels of observation, interactive experiences, and iconic views create an essential stop for all those who want to view the city from a different perspective.
After taking in the views from the Top of the Rock, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants located in and around Rockefeller Centre.
