Top of the Rock

The basics

The observation deck is a popular spot from which to admire 360-degree views of New York City, especially the Empire State Building and Central Park. For the best Top of the Rock experience, book your timed general admission ticket in advance with your chosen date and time slot.

You can also opt for VIP access to skip the elevator lines, or a Sun and Stars ticket to visit twice in 24 hours and catch the views by both day and night. Top of the Rock tours are usually limited to ticket combinations with other attractions or museums. To uncover more of the history and architecture of this famous landmark, book a guided tour of Rockefeller Center.

Things to know before you go

• Visitors pass through a security checkpoint before entering; food and beverages are not allowed.

• Kids under 6 enter free, and collapsible strollers are allowed.

• Top of the Rock is fully wheelchair accessible.

• There's no time limit for visits to Top of the Rock, but expect to spend around an hour there.

• While Top of the Rock doesn't have a restaurant or bar, dining can be found in Rockefeller Center, as well as the 65th-floor Bar SixtyFive.

• Free Wi-Fi is available in the building.

How to get there

Set at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in Midtown Manhattan, the 1933 art deco Rockefeller Center houses the Top of the Rock. The main entrance is on 50th Street, between Fifth and Sixth avenues, and the closest subway stop is 47-50th Street/Rockefeller Center, which you can reach on the B, D, F or M line.

When to get there

Reserve your ticket in advance for timed entry between morning and night. Try to plan your visit for a day with clear skies for the best views. The site is busiest around sunset and after dark as travelers catch a look at the city illuminated; early morning visits are less crowded. Top of the Rock is open 365 days a year.

Best NYC spots for city views

Top of the Rock offers one of the best views of New York City. Other attractions with notable views include the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, the High Line, and the One World Observatory. With the city’s sea of skyscrapers, many New York restaurants and bars have rooftops and outdoor decks that attract both locals and visitors.

Ways to explore

The observation deck is a popular spot from which to admire 360-degree views of New York City, including iconic attractions such as the Empire State Building, One World Observatory, and Central Park. For the best Top of the Rock experience, book your timed general admission ticket in advance with your chosen date and time slot.

Choose from upgrades including an Express Pass with priority elevator access or a VIP tour with two additional, higher observation experiences: Skylift and The Beam. Top of the Rock tours are also available as part of a New York CityPass®. To uncover more of the history and architecture of this famous landmark, book a guided tour of Rockefeller Center.

Accessibility

Top of the Rock is fully wheelchair accessible with elevators to all floors and accessible restrooms.

Age limits

None, and children age 5 and under enter free. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult on Skylift. Kids must be 3.5 feet (107 centimeters) or taller for The Beam.

What to pack

Camera, sunglasses, hair ties for windy conditions

What to wear

Layers for the breezy observation deck; closed-toed shoes and clothes that can be secured for The Beam; pants, shorts, or tights for the transparent Skylift deck, and clothes that can be securely fastened.

Not allowed

Outside food or beverages, tripods, lighters, pocket knives, non-collapsible strollers; The Beam and Skylift have further restrictions, but cubbies are provided for possessions.

Amenities

Restrooms, Wi-Fi, storage cubbies for Skylift and The Beam

Address

Top of the Rock is atop Rockefeller Center at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in Midtown Manhattan. The main entrance is on 50th Street between Fifth Avenue and Sixth Avenue and is easy to access by public transit, bike, taxi, or on foot.

Driving

Driving in Midtown Manhattan is generally not recommended due to heavy traffic. If you drive, ensure a smooth arrival by pre-purchasing parking for the Rockefeller Center garage at 25 West 48th Street.

Public transportation

The subway is the cheapest and most efficient way to reach Top of the Rock. Get off at 47th-50th Streets Rockefeller Centre station (B, D, F, M), 49th Street (N, Q, R), 50th Street (1), or 51st Street (6).

Best times to visit

Sunset tends to be crowded but boasts spectacular views; book your ticket well in advance to snag a spot. Mornings and afternoons often offer better visibility.

Best days to visit

Top of the Rock is popular daily, but you might encounter fewer crowds midweek (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday) than at weekends. Aim to plan your trip for a day with clear skies for the best views.

Best months to visit

September and October are the driest months in New York City, when the views are less likely to be affected by cloudy skies. Sporadic rain is common throughout the spring and summer, but you can reschedule in case of bad weather.

Special events

While Top of the Rock doesn’t host any special events itself, Rockefeller Center frequently holds art, shopping, and dining experiences—most famously its Tree Lighting Ceremony and ice skating rink around the holidays.