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Top of the Rock NYC | Observation Decks in NYC

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Top of the Rock NYC
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Top of the Rock NYC is located at the top of the Rockefeller Center in New York City. It offers stunning panoramic city skyline views, including famous landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Chrysler Building.

The Top of the Rock observation deck is located on the 70th floor of the Rockefeller Center and features three different viewing levels. Visitors can take an elevator to the top and enjoy the 360-degree views from the outdoor observation deck or from the indoor viewing area.

Top of the Rock NYC is open daily and offers a variety of ticket options, including timed tickets that allow visitors to skip the lines. Visitors can also purchase tickets that include access to other attractions in the Rockefeller Center, such as the NBC Studio Tour and the Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour.

Top of the Rock in NYC

Fun Facts

Sure, here are some fun facts about the Top of the Rock observation deck:

  1. The observation deck at Top of the Rock is 850 feet (259 meters) above street level, making it one of the highest observation decks in New York City.
  2. Explore 9,500 square feet of unobstructed outdoor viewing space, the most of any New York observatory. The views extend from Central Park to Brooklyn.
  3. The Rockefeller Center, where Top of the Rock is located, was originally built during the Great Depression and intended to symbolize hope and progress during a difficult time.
  4. There are three decks to enjoy views at Top of the Rock NYC. The first deck, located on the 67th floor, provides a large indoor space for relaxation, along with stunning north and south-facing outdoor terraces. Visitors then can head up to the 70th floor and check out the second observation deck, complete with the Breezeway and breathtaking outdoor views. And for the ultimate viewing experience, the third observation deck on the open-air roof boasts unobstructed, 360-degree views of the city without any glass enclosures. Get ready to take in the sights like never before at Top of the Rock NYC.
  5. The observation deck was designed by the same architects who designed the Empire State Building, which is another popular New York City attraction.
  6. Top of the Rock is one of the best observation decks in NYC and is a popular spot for photographers, as it offers some of the best views of the city skyline and is a great place to capture the perfect shot.
  7. Top of the Rock observation deck is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy different views depending on the season. For example, in the winter, visitors can see the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree from the observation deck.

Observation Decks in NYC: This is a list of the five observation decks in NYC, the classics, and the modern. There might be a deck that entices you more. Each one has unique characteristics, views, and qualities. You can find the article HERE.

Top of the Rock- Know Before You Go

  • Top of the Rock observation deck is open daily from 9 am – 11 pm; The last elevator to the top goes up 1 hour before closing time at 10:10 pm
  • The Top of the Rock is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year, regardless of weather conditions. In the case of inclement weather, portions of the deck may be closed for safety reasons.
  • Tickets will be rescheduled if there is inclement weather. You will be advised about weather conditions and visibility prior to entry. You won’t wait in long lines to enter Top of the Rock. Timed ticketing means you receive immediate entry at your scheduled time.
  • Waiting times to enter the Top of the Rock observation deck can be over an hour during high season

Top of the Rock Tickets

Top of the Rock Timed Ticket: See the best NYC view from 70 floors up at our indoor and outdoor observation decks. All tickets for the Top of the Rock unlike other observation decks in NYC are timed so entry is guaranteed. This is the most popular and practical ticket. All tickets are immediate access at your date and time. You can find timed and refundable tickets here.

Express Entry Ticket. Get immediate entry at any time on the day of your choice, priority elevator access, and a 20% discount at the gift shop. Find Express Tickets here.

VIP Tour Ticket. Skip the line and go on a guided, exclusive tour of the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, digital photo package is valued at $30, commemorative pin and instant photo, including the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and Rainbow Room, (which is an amazing event space). Find the VIP Tour here.

The Edge NYC: This New York City other new observation deck that is modern and thrilling. Don’t forget to check out City Climb while you are there. Read about climbing the side of a skyscraper HERE.

Top of the Rock Restaurant NYC

There are many amazing restaurants at Rockefeller Center. You can find breakfast, lunch, dinner, cocktails, and treat galore at Rockefeller Center. Rainbow Room is open for events and weddings and offers private dining for a very special occasions.

Other options at Top of the Rock and our favorites and recommendations:

Bar SixtyFive: Tucked in on the 65th floor of Rockefeller Center, this beautiful restaurant has fantastic small bites, amazing cocktails, and even better views. It’s the best place to have a cocktail before or after your Top of the Rock visit.

Alidoro: if you are craving a truly unforgettable sandwich experience, look no further than Alidoro. These sandwiches are not just your average lunch fare; they are inspired by the classic Italian sandwiches that have lasted the test of time. With roots dating back over three decades in New York, you know you’re in for something special.

Bills Bar & Burger: Voted the top 10 burgers in the US by CNN, Bills Bar & Burger is a great place to grab a hand-pressed burger, fries, and a nice cold beer at Rockefeller Center.

Chip City: Our family’s favorite cookie joint in NYC, these thick, gooey, warm cookies in all flavors cannot be missed while in the city.

Summit One NYC: This is New York City’s other modern and newest observation deck. It’s an art installation, in addition to three levels of experiences, New York views, glass elevators, and observation decks. Summit One NYC is well worth checking out in addition to The Edge. Read the Summit One NYC guide HERE.

Rockefeller Center Top of the Rock-Other Activities

observation decks in nyc

As one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks, Rockefeller Center offers many activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to take in breathtaking views from the Top of the Rock observation deck or lace up your skates for a spin on the famous ice rink, there’s certainly no shortage of things to do at this bustling hub of entertainment.

With various shops, restaurants, and seasonal events, you can stay all day or night at Rockefeller Center So why not plan a day at one of New York’s most beloved destinations and experience the magic of Rockefeller Center for yourself?

  • The Rink at Rockefeller Center. During summer, Experience Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace—the legendary L.A. roller rink from 1979, reinvented for NYC in 2022. Skate by day or night alongside live DJs and the buzzing backdrop of the city. Open April through October. During winter, the rick transforms into the classic ice rink sparkling with holiday decorations as you glide by the famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree. Rockefeller Ice skating begins in November and through the holiday season.
  • Shopping – Explore the many shops located in Rockefeller Center, including high-end fashion stores and souvenir shops.
  • NBC Studio Tour – Get a behind-the-scenes look at the studios of NBC and learn about the history of television broadcasting.
  • Rockefeller Center Art & Architecture Guided Tour. Rockefeller Center is a true masterpiece of Art Deco and one of the most iconic landmarks in New York City. Its art and architecture have captivated people for decades, and there’s no better way to discover its history and secrets than with a knowledgeable guide. As you tour the unique buildings, gardens, and spaces, you’ll be transported back in time and treated to fascinating stories and photos that bring this historic complex to life. Find tickets here.
  • Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour. Take an hour-long walking tour of the famous Radio City Music Hall by an expert tour guide. Learn the secrets of the Great Stage, view the breathtaking Art Deco masterpieces, and meet a legendary Radio City Rockette! Find tickets here.

Empire State Building Observation Deck: A quick guide on the classic NYC observation deck, the Empire State Building. You can find the guide and tickets here.

Top of the Rock NYC

More New York Travel Guides

Summit One NYC: This is New York City’s other modern and newest observation deck. It’s an art installation, in addition to three levels of experiences, New York views, glass elevators, and observation decks. Summit One NYC is well worth checking out in addition to The Edge. Read the Summit One NYC guide HERE.

The Edge NYC: This New York City observation deck is modern and thrilling. Don’t forget to check out City Climb while you are there. Read about climbing the side of a skyscraper  HERE.

Empire State Building Observation Deck: You can find a more in-depth guide to the Empire State observation deck, HERE!

NYC Rooftop Brunch. Brunch in NYC is always a good idea but level it with a rooftop and a view, oh and bottomless mimosas! Find your NYC rooftop brunch guide HERE.

New York City Travel Guide: This is the end-all-be-all New York City Travel Guide. It has everything you possibly need to know for your trip to NYC. Read the guide HERE.

New York City Travel Tips: Want to know why you dock your CitiBike properly or why you should not get on a horse-drawn carriage in Central Park? Read these Tips for New York City HERE.

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