The Top of the Rock, located in the iconic Rockefeller Center, is one of the most popular vantage points in New York City. Every year, thousands of tourists flock to this observation deck to see the city from a different perspective. But is it really worth visiting? In this blog you can read everything you need to know.
The history of Top of the Rock
The Top of the Rock is located atop Rockefeller Center, one of the most famous buildings in New York City. The Rockefeller Center was built in the 1930s and opened its observation deck in 1933. The name “Top of the Rock” comes from the top of this famous complex. After several years, the observation deck was closed for renovations, but it reopened in 2005 and has been one of the most popular attractions in the city ever since.
How high is Top of the Rock?
Top of the Rock sits 259 feet above the ground. That may not sound like the tallest tower in New York, but it does offer fantastic views of the city. From above, you can see not only the huge skyscrapers, but also icons such as Central Park and Times Square. It really is a great place to experience the city from a new perspective and take pictures of the skyline.
The observation deck on the 67th floor
The observation deck on the 67th floor is the first thing you will encounter when you go to Top of the Rock. Here you can already enjoy a great view and prepare yourself for what is to come. It is a partially covered platform, ideal for great photos of the city, with a good view of the streets of New York.
The observation deck on the 69th floor
On the 69th floor, you get an even better view. Here is an open-air platform, where you can immediately enjoy the fresh air and views of the city. From here you can see New York’s famous buildings, such as the Empire State Building, can be seen in the distance. It is a great place to quietly enjoy the view and take some great photos.
The observation deck on the 70th floor
The 70th floor is the highest point on Top of the Rock and offers the most impressive view. From here you can see 360 degrees over New York City, which means you can admire the city from every angle. It’s the perfect time to really take in the breathtaking view and see everything from the Brooklyn Bridge to Manhattan’s distant skyscrapers.
The Beam Experience at Top of the Rock
The Beam Experience is an exciting and unique attraction on the observation deck of Top of the Rock. It revolves around a steel beam that elevators you three meters up, making you feel as if you are literally above the city. The experience pays homage to the iconic 1932 photograph, “Lunch on the Top of a Skyscraper,” showing workers eating their lunch on a steel beam hundreds of feet above the ground. This attraction brings that historic moment to life and offers an exciting way to experience New York. It is a great addition for those looking for a little adventure on top of the city.
The Skylift at Top of the Rock
The Skylift is a unique experience on the observation deck of Top of the Rock, located on the 70th floor of Rockefeller Center. This platform elevator elevators visitors about 9 feet up, offering fantastic 360-degree views of New York City along the way. It is a fun and exciting way to go up, with panoramic views of the city from a height of about 270 feet.
What makes the Skylift extra special is its design, inspired by the iconic art deco style of Rockefeller Center. The platform has marble details and a glass shell, making it a perfect match for the building’s architecture. In addition, there is an impressive LED light show that can be seen both during the day and at night. These lights can be adjusted for special events, making the experience even more special.
What is the best time to visit Top of the Rock?
Want to visit Top of the Rock without standing in line for hours? The best time to visit this iconic observation deck is in the early morning or later in the evening.
1. Early morning: Right after opening time, it is usually quiet, allowing you to enjoy the view in peace. If you want to avoid the crowds, this is the ideal time to watch the city wake up without having many people around you.
2. Late night: It also tends to be quieter after sunset, especially between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m.. The city is then beautifully lit up and you have a breathtaking view of the skyline, having left the hustle and bustle of the day behind.
Don’t want to miss the sunset? Then it is wise to plan your visit about an hour before sunset. Just keep in mind that this is a popular time, so it may be a bit busier than at other times of the day.
In short, if you want to experience Top of the Rock quietly and with the best views, early morning or late evening is the best time to go!
Ordering tickets for Top of the Rock
Do you want to visit Top of the Rock? Then it’s a good idea to buy your tickets in advance. Especially during busy periods, such as in the summer or during the holidays, waiting times can be quite long. By reserving your tickets online, you can avoid long lines and enjoy the beautiful view of New York City faster.
Tickets for The Beam and the Skylift are not included in a standard Top of the Rock ticket. You will need a separate ticket for these additional attractions. It is best to order them in advance online through the links below.
Are you visiting multiple sights in New York? Then the New York CityPASS is an excellent choice. With this pass, you can save up to 40% on entrance fees to popular attractions, including the Top of the Rock observation deck.
The CityPASS gives you access to iconic sites such as the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, the American Museum of Natural History and, of course, Top of the Rock. A big advantage of the CityPASS is that you can skip the wait times at many attractions, giving you more time to enjoy everything and explore the city.
Many tourists hesitate between the Empire State Building and Top of the Rock. Both offer great views, but there are some differences. The Empire State Building is bigger and more famous, but from Top of the Rock you have a better view of this iconic building itself. Moreover, Top of the Rock is often less crowded, allowing you to enjoy the view more without long waits.
Where is the Top of the Rock?
Top of the Rock is located in Rockefeller Center, one of the most famous places in New York City. The address is 30 Rockefeller Plaza, in the heart of Manhattan. This means you are near other famous attractions such as Times Square, Central Park and Fifth Avenue.
How do you get to Top of the Rock?
Top of the Rock is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest subway station is 47th-50th Streets – Rockefeller Center, where you can take the B, D, F and M lines. In addition, several buses stop nearby. If you prefer to walk, you can easily reach Top of the Rock from other popular locations in Manhattan.
Our experience and visit to Top of the Rock
We have been to Top of the Rock several times, and it remains one of our favorite spots in New York. The view from the observation deck on the 70th floor is amazing: you have a panoramic view of the city, with icons such as the Empire State Building, Central Park and the Hudson River.
During our last visit, we also decided to try The Beam and the Skylift. The Beam Experience was a special experience, and the feeling of floating above the city for a moment was truly unique. The Skylift offered us a 360-degree view as we went up, and it was really nice to see the city this way for once.
One downside is that it can be quite crowded at times, especially during peak hours. This can make the experience a little less pleasant, as you can’t always enjoy the views or attractions in peace.
All in all, we continue to recommend Top of the Rock. It is one of the best places to see New York, and the extra experiences like The Beam and the Skylift make the visit just a little more special. Definitely worth it if you’re in New York for the first time.
5 Tips for a Visit to Top of the Rock
After multiple visits to Top of the Rock, we’ve gathered some helpful tips. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a return visitor, these tips will help you make the most of your experience. Here are our recommendations.
1. Book your tickets in advance
To avoid long waiting times, it is wise to buy your tickets online. Especially during busy periods, such as in the summer or around the holidays, waiting times can be considerable.
2. Go early in the morning or late in the evening
The best times to visit Top of the Rock are early in the morning, right after opening time, or later in the evening. These times tend to be less crowded, so you can enjoy the view in peace.
3. Take advantage of additional experiences such as The Beam and the Skylift
If you have time, try the additional attractions such as The Beam and the Skylift. The Beam Experience lifts you three feet up for a thrilling moment, while the Skylift gives you a 360-degree view.
4. Check the weather in advance
Because Top of the Rock is at a high altitude, it is important to check the weather in advance. Bad weather, such as rain or fog, can limit views.
5. Be prepared for the busy season
During tourist season, especially in the summer and holidays, it can be crowded. Try to plan your visit for quiet times of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
Special Offers for your City Break to New York
Are you planning a trip to New York? Then use the deals below to save on major sights and attractions during your trip!
Top of the Rock: Is it worth a visit?
The Top of the Rock, located in the iconic Rockefeller Center, is one of the most popular vantage points in New York City. Every year, thousands of tourists flock to this observation deck to see the city from a different perspective. But is it really worth visiting? In this blog you can read everything you need to know.
The history of Top of the Rock
The Top of the Rock is located atop Rockefeller Center, one of the most famous buildings in New York City. The Rockefeller Center was built in the 1930s and opened its observation deck in 1933. The name “Top of the Rock” comes from the top of this famous complex. After several years, the observation deck was closed for renovations, but it reopened in 2005 and has been one of the most popular attractions in the city ever since.
How high is Top of the Rock?
Top of the Rock sits 259 feet above the ground. That may not sound like the tallest tower in New York, but it does offer fantastic views of the city. From above, you can see not only the huge skyscrapers, but also icons such as Central Park and Times Square. It really is a great place to experience the city from a new perspective and take pictures of the skyline.
The observation deck on the 67th floor
The observation deck on the 67th floor is the first thing you will encounter when you go to Top of the Rock. Here you can already enjoy a great view and prepare yourself for what is to come. It is a partially covered platform, ideal for great photos of the city, with a good view of the streets of New York.
The observation deck on the 69th floor
On the 69th floor, you get an even better view. Here is an open-air platform, where you can immediately enjoy the fresh air and views of the city. From here you can see New York’s famous buildings, such as the Empire State Building, can be seen in the distance. It is a great place to quietly enjoy the view and take some great photos.
The observation deck on the 70th floor
The 70th floor is the highest point on Top of the Rock and offers the most impressive view. From here you can see 360 degrees over New York City, which means you can admire the city from every angle. It’s the perfect time to really take in the breathtaking view and see everything from the Brooklyn Bridge to Manhattan’s distant skyscrapers.
The Beam Experience at Top of the Rock
The Beam Experience is an exciting and unique attraction on the observation deck of Top of the Rock. It revolves around a steel beam that elevators you three meters up, making you feel as if you are literally above the city. The experience pays homage to the iconic 1932 photograph, “Lunch on the Top of a Skyscraper,” showing workers eating their lunch on a steel beam hundreds of feet above the ground. This attraction brings that historic moment to life and offers an exciting way to experience New York. It is a great addition for those looking for a little adventure on top of the city.
The Skylift at Top of the Rock
The Skylift is a unique experience on the observation deck of Top of the Rock, located on the 70th floor of Rockefeller Center. This platform elevator elevators visitors about 9 feet up, offering fantastic 360-degree views of New York City along the way. It is a fun and exciting way to go up, with panoramic views of the city from a height of about 270 feet.
What makes the Skylift extra special is its design, inspired by the iconic art deco style of Rockefeller Center. The platform has marble details and a glass shell, making it a perfect match for the building’s architecture. In addition, there is an impressive LED light show that can be seen both during the day and at night. These lights can be adjusted for special events, making the experience even more special.
What is the best time to visit Top of the Rock?
Want to visit Top of the Rock without standing in line for hours? The best time to visit this iconic observation deck is in the early morning or later in the evening.
1. Early morning: Right after opening time, it is usually quiet, allowing you to enjoy the view in peace. If you want to avoid the crowds, this is the ideal time to watch the city wake up without having many people around you.
2. Late night: It also tends to be quieter after sunset, especially between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m.. The city is then beautifully lit up and you have a breathtaking view of the skyline, having left the hustle and bustle of the day behind.
Don’t want to miss the sunset? Then it is wise to plan your visit about an hour before sunset. Just keep in mind that this is a popular time, so it may be a bit busier than at other times of the day.
In short, if you want to experience Top of the Rock quietly and with the best views, early morning or late evening is the best time to go!
Ordering tickets for Top of the Rock
Do you want to visit Top of the Rock? Then it’s a good idea to buy your tickets in advance. Especially during busy periods, such as in the summer or during the holidays, waiting times can be quite long. By reserving your tickets online, you can avoid long lines and enjoy the beautiful view of New York City faster.
Ordering tickets for The Beam or the Skylift
Tickets for The Beam and the Skylift are not included in a standard Top of the Rock ticket. You will need a separate ticket for these additional attractions. It is best to order them in advance online through the links below.
The New York CityPASS for Top of the Rock
Are you visiting multiple sights in New York? Then the New York CityPASS is an excellent choice. With this pass, you can save up to 40% on entrance fees to popular attractions, including the Top of the Rock observation deck.
The CityPASS gives you access to iconic sites such as the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, the American Museum of Natural History and, of course, Top of the Rock. A big advantage of the CityPASS is that you can skip the wait times at many attractions, giving you more time to enjoy everything and explore the city.
Empire State Building vs Top of the Rock
Many tourists hesitate between the Empire State Building and Top of the Rock. Both offer great views, but there are some differences. The Empire State Building is bigger and more famous, but from Top of the Rock you have a better view of this iconic building itself. Moreover, Top of the Rock is often less crowded, allowing you to enjoy the view more without long waits.
Where is the Top of the Rock?
Top of the Rock is located in Rockefeller Center, one of the most famous places in New York City. The address is 30 Rockefeller Plaza, in the heart of Manhattan. This means you are near other famous attractions such as Times Square, Central Park and Fifth Avenue.
How do you get to Top of the Rock?
Top of the Rock is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest subway station is 47th-50th Streets – Rockefeller Center, where you can take the B, D, F and M lines. In addition, several buses stop nearby. If you prefer to walk, you can easily reach Top of the Rock from other popular locations in Manhattan.
Our experience and visit to Top of the Rock
We have been to Top of the Rock several times, and it remains one of our favorite spots in New York. The view from the observation deck on the 70th floor is amazing: you have a panoramic view of the city, with icons such as the Empire State Building, Central Park and the Hudson River.
During our last visit, we also decided to try The Beam and the Skylift. The Beam Experience was a special experience, and the feeling of floating above the city for a moment was truly unique. The Skylift offered us a 360-degree view as we went up, and it was really nice to see the city this way for once.
One downside is that it can be quite crowded at times, especially during peak hours. This can make the experience a little less pleasant, as you can’t always enjoy the views or attractions in peace.
All in all, we continue to recommend Top of the Rock. It is one of the best places to see New York, and the extra experiences like The Beam and the Skylift make the visit just a little more special. Definitely worth it if you’re in New York for the first time.
5 Tips for a Visit to Top of the Rock
After multiple visits to Top of the Rock, we’ve gathered some helpful tips. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a return visitor, these tips will help you make the most of your experience. Here are our recommendations.
1. Book your tickets in advance
To avoid long waiting times, it is wise to buy your tickets online. Especially during busy periods, such as in the summer or around the holidays, waiting times can be considerable.
2. Go early in the morning or late in the evening
The best times to visit Top of the Rock are early in the morning, right after opening time, or later in the evening. These times tend to be less crowded, so you can enjoy the view in peace.
3. Take advantage of additional experiences such as The Beam and the Skylift
If you have time, try the additional attractions such as The Beam and the Skylift. The Beam Experience lifts you three feet up for a thrilling moment, while the Skylift gives you a 360-degree view.
4. Check the weather in advance
Because Top of the Rock is at a high altitude, it is important to check the weather in advance. Bad weather, such as rain or fog, can limit views.
5. Be prepared for the busy season
During tourist season, especially in the summer and holidays, it can be crowded. Try to plan your visit for quiet times of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
Special Offers for your City Break to New York
Are you planning a trip to New York? Then use the deals below to save on major sights and attractions during your trip!
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