The observation deck at Rockefeller Center originally opened to the public in 1933 but was closed in 1986. A newly restored and improved Top of the Rock reopened to the public in November 2005. The observation deck offers 360-degree views of the New York City skyline.

Top of the Rock Facts

• Top of the Rock is a six-level observatory atop the Art Deco 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
• The upper decks are 850 feet above street level.
• Views include some of the city’s most prominent landmarks from the Chrysler Building to the Brooklyn Bridge; from Central Park to the Hudson and East Rivers.
• Originally designed to evoke the upper decks of a 1930s grand ocean liner, the observation deck was outfitted with deck chairs, goose-neck fixtures, and large air conditioning vents intended to look like the stacks on a ship’s deck.

How to Visit Top of the Rock

The timed-ticket system eliminates the aggravation of waiting in line, and it even allows you to select the time of day that most appeals to you. Want to enjoy great views of Central Park and see New York City’s waterways? Plan to visit during the day. Alternatively, if you want to see the sunset, buy your ticket for about 30 minutes before sunset. If you wish to experience the sparkle of New York City at night, plan to come after dinner.

The views are best on clear days. Depending on availability, tickets can be reserved online with just 3 hours of notice. Additionally, you can collect your tickets at the box office or at one of the kiosks selling tickets at Rockefeller Center.

If you have to choose between Top of the Rock and the Empire State Building Observatory, you may want to prioritize the former. It tends to be far less crowded, and the timed ticketing can indeed save you significant time. Moreover, the views of Central Park are fantastic, and you can actually see the Empire State Building. Although Top of the Rock isn’t as high as the Empire State Building, you feel closer to other buildings.

Tips for Visiting

• Dress for the weather—the wind is often stronger and it’s usually a bit chillier on the Observation Deck compared to street level. Moreover, if you get too cold, duck into one of the enclosed viewing areas to warm up.
• If you arrive shortly before sunset, you can enjoy breathtaking views both during the day and at night.
• The security guards can be very helpful in identifying landmarks if you’re unsure what you are seeing.
• Be sure to ascend from the main deck to enjoy the view from a slightly higher perspective and take better pictures.
• There are both indoor and outdoor viewing areas, which is incredibly convenient when it’s cold outside.

Visiting With Kids

• Strollers are permitted, and children under 6 are admitted free when accompanied by a paying parent or guardian.
• The Student Activity Guide includes worksheets for children in grades 4-7 who visit the Top of the Rock.
• The Teacher’s Guide offers information about visiting Top of the Rock and includes resources relevant to Rockefeller Center for various visitors.

Top of the Rock Basics

• Entrance: 50th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues.
• Visit the website for the most up-to-date admissions information, hours, and special events.
• Nearest Subways: B, D, F to Rockefeller Center/47-50th St. Station.

Tourism Deals

If you’re interested in exploring Rockefeller Center more thoroughly, consider taking the Rockefeller Center Tour. There is also a Rock MoMA pass available, which covers admission to both the Top of the Rock and the Museum of Modern Art (available at the Top of the Rock box office).