Rockefeller Center

The basics

There’s a lot to see and do in the complex of 19 buildings and gardens. Daily Rockefeller Center tours highlight the rich assortment of art deco sculptures, murals, and design, while benefiting from expert historians telling the story of the structure, gardens, and art. Entertainment fans can go behind the scenes on an NBC Studios tour, while anyone who loves NYC can see it all from above at the Top of the Rock observation deck.

Don’t miss artist Paul Manship’s famous Prometheus statue in the Lower Plaza and Lee Lawrie’s Atlas on Fifth Avenue, or the underground shopping and dining concourse. Most New York City sightseeing tours include the Rockefeller Center.

Things to know before you go

• The center is wheelchair accessible and has free Wi-Fi available.

• Many miss the Rockefeller Center Channel Gardens, but it’s worth visiting the strip of fountains and plantings, which change with the seasons.

• The NBC Studios tour is an interactive experience, as travelers can have their photo taken at the news desk or create an impromptu clip.

• You can take in views of the Manhattan skyline from three observation platforms at the Top of the Rock. (Book timed tickets in advance.)

How to get there

Rockefeller Center is located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues in Midtown Manhattan, stretching from West 48th to West 51st Streets. Top of the Rock is at the top of the Comcast Building at 30 Rockefeller Plaza (entrance on 50th Street). The nearest subway stop is 47-50th Street/Rockefeller Center, which you can reach on the B, D, F or M line.

When to get there

There is always something going on at Rockefeller Center, open 365 days a year. The holiday season, however, is the highlight, so be ready for crowds around the Christmas tree.

Ice skating at Rockefeller Center

Winter brings Rockefeller Center’s ice skating rink to life, starting in early October. The 90-minute skating sessions can be reserved in advance—otherwise admission is first come, first serve, with only 150 people skating at a time (so be sure to book ahead for the holidays). Skating lessons and other packages are also available. The famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, an iconic and festive annual NYC tradition, is lit at the end of November and stays up through early January, while the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and its stellar Rockettes make for another holiday highlight.

Ways to explore

Daily Rockefeller Center tours highlight the rich assortment of art deco sculptures, murals, and design found in this New York landmark. Look out for iconic artworks like Paul Manship’s gilded Prometheus statue in the Lower Plaza, or Lee Lawrie’s Atlas on Fifth Avenue, and don’t miss the underground shopping and dining concourse. Additionally, entertainment fans can go behind the scenes on an NBC Studios tour, while anyone who loves NYC can see it all from above at the Top of the Rock observation deck. Most New York City sightseeing tours also include stops at Rockefeller Center.

Accessibility

Rockefeller Center, including the Top of the Rock, is fully accessible to people using wheelchairs.

Age limits

None, although individual tours and attractions may have age restrictions.

What to pack

Camera, sunglasses, quarters for Top of the Rock viewfinders

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers, weather-appropriate gear

Not allowed

Depending on the venue, large bags and luggage, pets, tripods, outside food and drinks

Amenities

Food and drink options, free Wi-Fi

Address

Rockefeller Center is one of Midtown Manhattan’s major landmarks. Getting there by public transit is the easiest way to travel, although taxis and rideshare options offer a good backup option. Driving yourself—and parking—may prove challenging.

Driving

Owing to its dense crowds, heavy traffic, and limited (and expensive) parking, driving is not recommended in Midtown Manhattan. If you must drive, use Rockefeller Center’s dedicated paid parking garage.

Public transportation

The nearest Subway station is 47-50 Sts Rockefeller Ctr, served by the B, D, F, and M trains. However, many other stations are nearby, including Grand Central Terminal.

Best times to visit

Visit near opening time, or in the evening, to beat daytime crowds. Sunset is one of the best times to visit the Top of the Rock.

Best days to visit

Weekdays, especially earlier in the week, tend to be the quietest at Rockefeller Center. Expect crowds and commotion if visiting on a weekend or holiday.

Best months to visit

Aim for spring and fall to miss the peak heat and crowds of New York City’s summer high season. Alternatively, winter brings festive magic to Rockefeller Center.

Special events

The winter holiday period is one of the most popular times at Rockefeller Center, thanks to its ice rink, Christmas tree, and Radio City’s Christmas Spectacular (featuring the Rockettes).