Radio City Music Hall
1260 6th Ave., Manhattan, New York City, NY, 10020
Radio City Music Hall is a glitzy landmark that has been entertaining the masses since the Rockettes dance troop first kicked up their heels here in the early 1930s. The 6,000-seat theater was a gift to New York from the Rockefellers, and hosts nightly shows to this day. Performers range from stand-up comedians to chart-topping musical artists.
The basics
Photographing Radio City Music Hall’s famous neon sign is a rite of passage for first-time visitors to New York City. The iconic landmark features on many sightseeing tours of the city, as well as on hop-on hop-off bus tours. Join a Radio City Music Hall tour experience to explore the venue’s hallowed halls. You may even get to meet a real-life Rockette.
For those who want to catch a show, the ultimate Radio City Music Hall experience is the annual Christmas Spectacular, during which the Radio City Rockettes put on a festive one-of-a-kind show.
Things to know before you go
Visiting Radio City Music Hall is a must for anyone with an interest in NYC’s entertainment history.
Radio City Music Hall is wheelchair accessible. Visitors needing accessible seating should contact the Radio City Music Hall Accessibility Services Department to make arrangements.
Security search bags upon entry, so pack light to speed up the screening process.
Radio City Music Hall tickets are available online or at the box office.
How to get there
Radio City Music Hall is located on 6th Avenue (aka the “Avenue of the Americas”) in Midtown Manhattan. The best way to get there is by public transit. Take the subway to 50th Street/Broadway (1) or 47th–50th Streets–Rockefeller Center (B, D, F, or M). MTA buses M5, M6, M7, and M27/M50 all stop at Rockefeller Center/50th Street.
When to get there
There is no bad time to visit Radio City Music Hall, with an exciting program of tours and events happening year-round. Come during the holiday season to witness the Christmas Spectacular—and to see the Rockefeller Center decorated for the season. Ticket holders should arrive at least 30 minutes before their show.
Inside Radio City Music Hall
Designed by acclaimed industrial designer Donald Deskey, the Radio City Music Hall interior is an art deco masterpiece. Highlights include the sophisticated Grand Foyer and the auditorium itself. The theater’s column-free design ensures that every seat in the house has an uninterrupted view of the Great Stage.
Can you go into Radio City Music Hall?
Yes. You can enter Radio City Music Hall if you have a show ticket or a booking for a guided tour. Guided "stage door" tours take you behind the scenes of the building and the stage, ending with a meet-and-greet with a Rockette.
Is Radio City Music Hall worth visiting?
Yes, Radio City Music Hall is worth visiting. Known as "The Showplace of the Nation," this NYC institution is one of the leading concert, stage, and film premier halls in the US. If you don’t have time to enter, walk by after dark: the neon-lit marquee is a quintessential NYC image.
How long does the Radio City Music Hall tour take?
The official Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour lasts one hour. The tour takes you to the art deco-style foyer and backstage. Tours cover the history of the venue, the Rockette dancers, and past performers. They also include a photo opportunity with a real-life Rockette.
Can you visit the Radio City Music Hall without a tour?
The official Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour lasts one hour. The tour takes visitors to the art deco-style foyer and backstage to learn about the history of the venue, the Rockette dancers, and past performers before enjoying a photo opportunity with a real-life Rockette.
What time is best to visit Radio City Music Hall?
If you’re taking a tour, aim to arrive 10 minutes early in case of delays. Doors typically open 45 minutes before the lights go down. If you already have tickets, plan to arrive 30 minutes before the start time to find your seats and settle in.
Do you need reservations to get into Radio City Music Hall?
No, you don’t need reservations to enter Radio City, but its a good idea to book in advance. Tours of Radio City Music Hall depart about every 15 minutes. If you haven’t prebooked, you can purchase tickets from onsite, on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ways to explore
Photographing Radio City Music Hall’s famous neon sign is a rite of passage for first-time visitors to New York City. The iconic landmark features on many sightseeing tours along with other Midtown Manhattan attractions such as Times Square, as well as on hop-on hop-off bus tours. Join a Radio City Music Hall tour experience to explore the venue’s hallowed halls with a guide. You may even get to go backstage and meet a real-life Rockette. Or purchase a ticket to an upcoming show to see the venue in action.
Accessibility
Radio City Music Hall is wheelchair accessible. Contact the Radio City Music Hall Accessibility Services Department to make arrangements.
Age limits
While most events do not have any age restrictions, guests under 18 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
What to pack
Credit card as the venue is cashless, small purse or bag to speed through security
What to wear
There’s no formal dress code, but if attending a show, you can dress up (or down) to your comfort level.
Not allowed
Outside food and beverages, recording devices, professional cameras, noisemaking devices
Amenities
Restrooms, water fountains, concession stands
Address
Radio City Music Hall is on 6th Avenue—aka Avenue of the Americas— in Midtown Manhattan. It’s easy to access by train, bus, and ferry, and transportation is included on many sightseeing tours.
Driving
Self-navigating through the heavy congestion of Midtown Manhattan isn’t recommended, but if you must drive, reserve a parking spot in advance to ensure a smooth arrival.
Public transportation
Public transportation is the best way to get to Radio City. Take the subway to 50th Street/Broadway (1) or 47th–50th Streets–Rockefeller Center (B, D, F, M). MTA buses M5, M6, M7, and M27/M50 all stop at Rockefeller Center/50th Street.
Best times to visit
Plan a trip earlier in the day if you’re touring the venue, when there are typically fewer crowds. For shows, arrive at least 30 minutes before the start to get settled. Late-night performances tend to be less popular, especially with kids.
Best days to visit
Visit midweek for fewer crowds—especially Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday—and to avoid the weekend rush.
Best months to visit
Plan your trip to New York City during the shoulder season in spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) for pleasant weather and slightly smaller crowds.
Special events
Come during the holiday season to witness the annual Christmas Spectacular—and to see Rockefeller Center decorated for the season.
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