Top of the Rock Observation Deck New York offers the most iconic and breathtaking vantage point of the Big Apple. Perched atop Rockefeller Plaza, this viewing deck dazzles visitors worldwide with its all-around panorama of New York City. In this article, I will discuss our review and experience, including essential information and guides about this magnificent observation deck in Rockefeller Center.
Basic Information About Rockefeller Center
The Rockefeller Center is a commercial complex consisting of 19 buildings located in Midtown Manhattan. Its centerpiece, the 30 Rockefeller Plaza, is the tallest building in the complex and currently houses the headquarters of NBC. The Rockefeller Center is an iconic Art Deco masterpiece that stands as a testament to the vision and ambition of the Rockefeller family. Today, the whole center welcomes millions of visitors every year, and among its attractions is the Top of the Rock Observation Deck New York, which offers a stunning view of the metropolis.
Where is Top of the Rock Located
Top of the Rock is located at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. If you are taking the subway, the closest station you must alight to is 47-50 Sts Rockefeller Center. If you are riding a bus, you must alight at W 50 St and 6 Ave bus stop. The Top of the Rock’s Entrance is positioned on 50th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues.
Top of the Rock Hours
The observation deck is open daily from 0900H to 2300H, and they accept visitors for entry until 2210H.
Top of the Rock Price
There are three available tickets at the top of the Rock. Prices are up to date as of October 5, 2023. All tickets have no time limit; thus, you can stay at the observation deck as long as you want.
| Ticket Information | Price |
| General Admission: Basic entrance ticket that offers a fantastic view of New York City 70 floors high. You need to choose your time of entry, and you have to wait for the availability of the elevators. | $34 – $40 |
| Express Pass: This ticket provides visitors with immediate entry at any time of the day, priority access to elevators, and discounts at the gift shop. | $85 |
| VIP Pass: All features of Express Pass but with an added guided tour of Top of the Rock. | $125 |
If you want to save money, check out the CityPass option, wherein you can purchase one ticket and access five different tourist attractions in New York City within nine days. You can also check our travel partners at Viator.com for more deals and discounts.
Our Experience
Before Entering
This is the first observation deck I visited in New York City, and I was excited because we planned to visit Top of the Rock before sunset. My friends and I purchased a CityPass ticket, and entering the place is easy once you present the QR code on your smartphone. As usual, we passed a security check before taking the elevators. Even though we didn’t purchase an express pass, the elevator queue was surprisingly not long. After enjoying the elevator ride, we finally arrived at the 67th floor of the observation deck.
The Three Decks
There are three decks in Top of the Rock. The first deck offers an indoor space where visitors can relax and unwind. The second deck features the breezeway, which has glass enclosures. Finally, my favorite is the third deck, which sits on top of the 70th floor of the building. It has an entirely outdoor platform with no glass enclosures, offering an unobstructed view of NYC.
Top of the Rock View
My friends stayed entirely on the third deck and enjoyed the fantastic view of New York City. Here are some photos I took at Top of the Rock.
Facing north is the spectacular vista of Central Park, wherein you will witness the stark contrast of lush greeneries and concrete. The Hudson River is viewable on the western side of the observation deck.
The eastern side offers a view of the East River and Queens.
The south side offers the most breathtaking and iconic views of Manhattan Skyline, with the Empire State Building perfectly positioned in the middle. This is my favorite view of the Top of the Rock Observation Deck New York.
New Features Coming
Rockefeller Center is developing a new exhibit and mezzanine level for visitors in 2024. Tourists will be able to follow in the footsteps of the ironworkers who built Rockefeller Center and recreate the iconic beam ride photograph. The new mezzanine level will also have a theater and an upcoming SkyLift experience offering a private unobstructed view of New York City.
Summary
One of the best ways to experience New York City is to see it from a different perspective. The Top of the Rock Observation Deck in New York offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will bring memories that last a lifetime. If you plan to visit New York City, include this tourist attraction in your list and enjoy the amazing view of NYC.
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