Top of the Rock Observation Deck, NYC — About, History, Tours & Visitor Info (2025)

Discover Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center: open-air views from the 70th floor, classic Art Deco design, and the best angles of the Empire State Building and Central Park. Learn the story, ticket options, how to visit, and smart tips.

About Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock Observation Deck crowns 30 Rockefeller Plaza (the former GE/Comcast Building) in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Three viewing levels (floors 67–70) include indoor lounges and an iconic open-air 70th-floor terrace with unobstructed, 360° views. From here you’ll see the Empire State Building straight ahead, the greenery of Central Park, the Chrysler Building, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, both rivers, and the wider skyline glowing after dark.

What You’ll See

Panoramic cityscapes by day, golden-hour sunsets, and sparkling night views. Inside, multimedia exhibits share Rockefeller Center’s Art Deco heritage. The elevator ride itself is a quick, scenic ascent to the sky.

Why It’s Special

Unlike enclosed decks, Top of the Rock’s open-air top terrace is one of NYC’s best photography spots—no glass in your shot. It also gives the most famous front-row view of the Empire State Building.

Brief History & Timeline

  • 1930–1933 — Rockefeller Center constructed; 30 Rockefeller Plaza opens with Art Deco design and public spaces.
  • 1933 — Observation deck opens as a major attraction, alongside the Rainbow Room on the 65th floor.
  • 1986 — The deck closes amid building changes and renovations.
  • 2005 — Top of the Rock reopens after restoration, with new exhibits and modernized elevators.
  • 2005–2024 — Becomes a go-to for classic skyline photos, holiday tree views, and Art Deco history.
  • 2025 — Timed entry remains standard; hours vary by season and demand. Check your date when booking.

Good to know: The deck spans floors 67–70. The 70th floor is fully open-air, so it can be breezy—bring a light layer.

Tours & Ticket Options

General Admission (Timed)

Access indoor and outdoor viewing levels with a reserved time slot. E-tickets on your phone are accepted. Sunset and holiday periods price higher and sell out first—book early if you want day-to-night views.

Rockefeller Center Tour + Deck

A guided Art Deco tour through Rockefeller Center’s halls and sculptures, ending with observation deck entry—ideal for context and first-time visitors.

Empire State + Top of the Rock Combo

Two icons, two angles: pair Top of the Rock’s open-air shots with the Empire State Building’s classic observatory—great for photographers.

VIP Rockefeller Experience

Faster access and a hosted experience for those who want a smooth, premium visit with more flexibility for photos and timing.

Cancellation: Many third-party products allow free cancellation up to 24 hours before your slot. Always confirm on the product page for your date and ticket type.

What You’ll Experience

Indoor Galleries

Exhibits explain the Center’s 1930s origins, public art, and engineering. Large picture windows offer year-round views without the wind.

  1. Plan 60–90 minutes for a relaxed visit with photos.
  2. Sunset gives the best transition from golden hour to city lights.
  3. Bring a small power bank if you plan lots of photos or time-lapses.

Open-Air Terrace (70th Floor)

The crown of the experience—no roof and no glass at eye level for clean skyline shots. It can be breezy: hold hats and secure light items.

Photography: handheld cameras and phones are welcome. Tripods and bulky gear may be restricted for safety—follow staff guidance.

Visitor Information

Address

30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112. Main entrance for the deck is at/near W 50th St between 5th & 6th Ave.

Subway

B/D/F/M to 47–50 Sts – Rockefeller Ctr; also near 5 Av/53 St (E/M) and 49 St (N/R/W).

Hours

Vary by season and events; late evening openings are common. Always check live hours for your selected date when booking.

Tickets

Mobile QR tickets accepted. Timed entry helps manage crowds. Sunset slots cost more and sell out early.

Bags & Security

Airport-style screening. Large bags/luggage aren’t permitted—travel light for faster entry.

Accessibility

Elevator access to all viewing levels. Strollers generally allowed indoors; keep children close on the open terrace.

Best Time: Early morning for fewer crowds; sunset for dramatic light. For day-to-night, choose a slot 60–90 minutes before sunset.

Ready to Visit Top of the Rock?

Pick your ticket, plan your subway route, and get your camera ready for NYC’s most classic skyline views.