Top of the Rock
Iconic NYC observation deck offering breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline, including the Empire State Building and Central Park.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical transition from day to night
Top of the Rock
Best Time
Magical transition from day to night

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic NYC observation deck offering breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline, including the Empire State Building and Central Park.
"The most spectacular view I’ve ever seen during sunset at @topoftherocknyc."
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Secure your spot online to skip lines, especially for sunset. :admission_tickets:
🚇 Take the Subway
The most efficient way to reach Rockefeller Center. :subway:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic NYC Skyline Views
Observation Decks
Panoramic vistas of Manhattan, including the Empire State Building and Central Park. A must-see for any NYC visitor.

The Beam Experience
Observation Decks
Recreate the famous 1932 photo by sitting on a steel beam suspended high above the city. Thrilling and unique!

Skylift Adventure
Top of Rockefeller Center
A thrilling ride on a glass carousel that lifts you to new heights for unparalleled city views.
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Consider the Time of Day
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Secure your spot online to skip lines, especially for sunset.
:admission_tickets:🚇 Take the Subway
The most efficient way to reach Rockefeller Center.
:subway:☀️ Check Visibility
Ensure clear skies for the best panoramic views.
:cloud:🚶♀️ Skip the Lines
Consider 'Bar 65' for drinks for a potentially shorter wait.
:cocktail:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Secure your spot online to skip lines, especially for sunset.
:admission_tickets:🚇 Take the Subway
The most efficient way to reach Rockefeller Center.
:subway:☀️ Check Visibility
Ensure clear skies for the best panoramic views.
:cloud:🚶♀️ Skip the Lines
Consider 'Bar 65' for drinks for a potentially shorter wait.
:cocktail:📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera for breathtaking photos of the NYC skyline.
:camerawithflash:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Top of the Rock for its unparalleled, unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline, including the iconic Empire State Building and Central Park. The multi-level observation decks and unique experiences like 'The Beam' are frequently highlighted as memorable aspects. However, some find the ticket prices steep and the sunset hours can be extremely crowded, leading to long wait times despite advance bookings.
"Top of the Rock is still the best deal when it comes to observation decks. This time, I also tried both new attractions – The Beam and the 360° Deck.
As for The Beam, I definitely want to point out that if you’re a couple or a group, don’t go all together on this attraction if you want nice photos. You can’t take your phone with you, and the photos they take of you are only two – and you have to pay extra for them. Considering you’ve already paid for the attraction and the observation deck, this can get quite pricey, and the photos often look staged. On the other hand, your partner or family can easily take beautiful photos and videos of you from the upper level – and those will be more authentic, even better, and free. Otherwise, the view from there is fantastic.
As for the 360° Tower, it’s better to wait until there are fewer people at the top. Make sure to really enjoy it, because you won’t be up there for long, but if you’re already visiting the observation deck, this attraction is definitely worth it."
Dejv3x
"The views here were amazing. We went at sunset so it was a little crowded but we were still able to see the skyline and get lots of good pictures. I would recommend getting the tickets a time slot or two earlier than sunset because you have to go through a short video presentation first so if you go right at sunset could cause you to miss the best parts. The video itself is really well done and interesting and we enjoyed it. Good food options on top as well."
Keaton Sunchild
"Definitely a must see when in NYC! If you’re a local and to be a tourist in your own city, check out for local deals. You need a local zip code to verify address. Great views of upper Manhattan of Central Park and lower Manhattan too since you’re literally in midtown! They put a mini 5 minute show before heading up. There’s also a bar on top to enjoy a drink with the views. All in all, great NYC experience!"
abcdan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Top of the Rock is by taking the subway to the 47-50th Streets-Rockefeller Center station. Several lines stop here, including the B, D, F, and M.
Walking is also an option if you're in Midtown Manhattan.Parking in Midtown Manhattan can be challenging and expensive. While there are garages nearby, taking public transportation like the subway is highly recommended to avoid traffic and high parking fees.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off near Rockefeller Center. However, be mindful of potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours.
The B, D, F, and M subway lines all stop directly at the 47-50th Streets-Rockefeller Center station, making it very convenient.
Absolutely! Top of the Rock is very well-connected by public transport, with the subway being the most popular and efficient method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase Top of the Rock tickets directly from the official Rockefeller Center website or through authorized ticket vendors. Buying in advance online is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slot and avoid long queues.
Ticket prices for Top of the Rock generally start around $40 for adults, but can vary based on the time of day, season, and any special exhibits or packages. It's best to check the official website for the most current pricing.
While discounts aren't always available, checking sites like Groupon periodically might yield results.
Locals might also find special offers, and purchasing tickets for a group of four or more can sometimes lead to a discount.Yes, it's strongly advised to book your Top of the Rock tickets in advance, especially if you want to visit during sunset or peak tourist seasons. This helps guarantee your entry and preferred time.
Top of the Rock typically opens around 8 AM and closes late into the evening, often around midnight. However, hours can vary seasonally, so it's essential to check the official Rockefeller Center website for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🏙️ Onsite Experience
Many visitors recommend visiting during sunset for a breathtaking view as the city lights up.
However, early mornings or late evenings offer fewer crowds and still provide spectacular cityscapes.From Top of the Rock, you get unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline, including the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the surrounding boroughs.
Yes, Top of the Rock has three levels of observation decks. The first is enclosed, the second is open-air with protective glass, and the top level offers unobstructed 360-degree views.
The Beam is a unique attraction where you can sit on a steel beam, recreating an iconic 1932 photograph, offering a thrilling perspective high above the city.
Crowd levels can vary significantly. Sunset and holiday periods are typically the busiest.
Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays outside of peak season can result in a less crowded experience.📸 📸 Photography
The highest observation deck offers unobstructed views for panoramic shots. Look for angles that capture the Empire State Building and Central Park. The glass barriers on the lower decks can also be used creatively.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photo shoots may require special permits or arrangements. It's best to check the official policy if you plan on extensive professional photography.
Sunset is incredibly popular for photography due to the dramatic lighting.
The 'golden hour' before sunset and the 'blue hour' just after sunset offer beautiful light. Early morning also provides soft, beautiful light with fewer people.Tripod usage policies can change, but generally, they may be restricted, especially during busy times, to avoid obstructing other visitors. It's advisable to check the latest rules on the official website.
You can capture stunning wide-angle shots of the Manhattan skyline, including iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Central Park. Night photography is also spectacular, showcasing the city's vibrant lights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
💑 Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Observation Decks
The second observation level is an open-air deck with protective glass barriers. This allows for more immersive views while maintaining safety. Here, you can get closer to the edge and capture stunning photographs without significant obstruction.
The highest observation deck, on the 70th floor, provides unobstructed 360-degree panoramic views. This is often considered the prime spot for taking in the full grandeur of the Manhattan skyline, including iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Central Park. Many visitors find this level to be the most breathtaking and recommend spending ample time here to soak in the scenery.
The Thrill of 'The Beam' and Skylift
Another exciting addition is the Skylift, a glass carousel that ascends to new heights, offering an elevated and dynamic way to view the city. This innovative attraction provides a different angle and a sense of wonder as you glide above the urban landscape. Both 'The Beam' and the Skylift are designed to offer unforgettable moments and are highly recommended for those seeking an extra dose of adventure during their visit.
Comparing Top of the Rock to Other Viewpoints
Reddit users often suggest Top of the Rock for its potentially shorter lines compared to the Empire State Building, especially if you haven't purchased VIP tickets. While both offer incredible vistas, the unique vantage point of Top of the Rock, looking at the Empire State Building, often makes it the preferred choice for capturing that classic New York City postcard image.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit