Tips for Visiting Top of the Rock, New York's Best Viewpoint

Visiting one of the iconic skyscrapers of New York City is an experience that everyone should have at least once. If you're wondering which one to choose, we have a clear recommendation: head to Top of the Rock, the finest observation deck in New York. In this article, we will provide you with essential information, practical tips, and insights to enhance your visit to this extraordinary location.

Standing atop the Top of the Rock and gazing out over the cityscape is an indescribable sensation. The thrill of seeing what you've previously only viewed through a screen is truly unmatched. If budget isn't a concern, why not visit all the major observation decks? We suggest exploring Top of the Rock, the Empire State Building, One World Observatory, and The Edge for a comprehensive experience!

Understanding the Top of the Rock

The official name of this observation deck is The Top of the Rock Observation Deck, and it is part of the architectural marvel known as Rockefeller Center, a legacy of the Rockefeller family. This location is famous for its annual Christmas ice skating rink, featured in countless films, including “Home Alone.”

Initially opened to the public in 1933, the observation deck experienced a closure in 1986, only to reopen its doors again in 2005. Perched at approximately 260 meters above street level, it offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, with various levels of observation available. Notably, the decks are open-air, allowing for an unobstructed experience of the stunning vistas.

Why Visit Top of the Rock?

From this vantage point, you will capture the best panoramic view of New York City, with Central Park sprawling to one side and the entirety of Manhattan—including the iconic silhouette of the Empire State Building—on the other. In our opinion, this observation deck stands out as the premier location for city views, and it tends to be less crowded than the Empire State Building.

How to Purchase Tickets for Top of the Rock

One of the most pressing questions before your visit is: where can you buy tickets? You have four options:

✓ Purchase at the Ticket Booth

The ticket booths are located on 50th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues, where you can buy tickets for the same day. You will be assigned a time slot to visit, which may not be immediate. The ticket price is $44.

✓ Opt for a Tourist Pass

Top of the Rock is a featured attraction on many tourist passes. We recommend the Go City Pass, which we believe is the most comprehensive option available (and you can even get a 5% discount with the code 'MOCHILEANDO'). While access is not immediate, you can skip the line for ticket purchases. Simply present your pass at the reserved ticket counter (Will Call) for a scheduled visit, which we received about 30 minutes after arrival. The price tends to be slightly lower due to these discounts.

✓ Buy Flexible Online Tickets

To avoid any hassle, you can purchase your tickets online at a good price. You will need to select an estimated date, but your ticket will be valid for seven days from that date. You will also need to visit the Will Call desk to request your time slot. If the time given isn't suitable, you can ask to reschedule for another day.

✓ Buy Tickets with Fixed Date and Time on the Official Website

The final price, including service fees, is $42. You can make reservations on the official website. The advantage here is that you can choose your visit time, but this can limit flexibility in your planning. If it rains on that day, unfortunately, you'll have to deal with it.

If you arrive early, they may allow you to take an earlier time slot if available. If you are slightly late, they will do their best to assign you another time so that you don't miss your visit.

Keep in mind that if you want to visit during sunset, there is an additional $15 charge per ticket. If you have a standard ticket, you can pay this supplement at the ticket booth.

Additionally, there are special tickets available for a higher price:

• VIP Pass: Skip the lines, gain priority access to elevators, and enjoy discounts in the gift shop. This premium pass costs $85.
• Sun & Stars Pass: This unique ticket allows you to visit twice in one day—once during the day and again at night. This way, you can experience New York's skyline under the sun and the enchanting glow of nighttime lights. The price for this pass is $56.

How to Visit Top of the Rock

Once you have your tickets, the real adventure begins: the Top of the Rock is not just an observation deck; it's a journey within one of the city’s most legendary skyscrapers. For example, you can explore the “Mezzanine Exhibit,” showcasing the building's history from its inception to the present day, or watch a documentary about Rockefeller Center in “Theatre.” Note that these attractions are available before you ascend to the observation deck.

Fun fact: this is the building where the iconic photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” was taken, depicting workers having lunch on a steel beam at 260 meters high. Allegedly, it was a successful publicity stunt! You can even take your own picture pretending to sit on a steel beam, with the skyline digitally added later. Keep in mind, however, that this photo is not included in your ticket price.

1. Accessing the Observation Decks

Now it's time to travel up to the Top of the Rock! You will need to enter one of the Sky Shuttles, four elevators that will whisk you up the 200 meters to the 67th floor in just about 40 seconds. This level is enclosed, providing a taste of what awaits you on the upper deck.

When you step onto the main terrace, you will be awestruck. Words can hardly describe the views, which are among the best in New York City (and arguably the world). To the north, you will see the expansive Central Park, while to the south lies the Empire State Building and the skyline of the Financial District. The main terrace is surrounded by glass panels, but there are sufficient openings for photography without reflections.

Additionally, there is a surprise: you can ascend to a smaller outdoor terrace on the 70th floor, where there are no glass panels, allowing for an even more immersive experience of New York’s stunning vistas.

2. Rooftop Bar at Top of the Rock

Many people are unaware that the building features a bar that offers breathtaking views as well. The Bar SixtyFive at Rainbow Room is located on the 65th floor, and entry is “free” – though you are expected to make a purchase. It’s recommended to dress smartly, and for dining at the restaurant, reservations are advised (no reservation is necessary for the bar). Prices range from $10 for beers to $16-20 for cocktails.

Tips for Visiting Top of the Rock

Plan your visit to Top of the Rock with the following tips:

• Operating Hours: The first elevator departs at 8:00 AM and the last one at 11:30 PM, with the deck closing at 12:30 AM.
• Tickets come with a specific time slot for ascending, determined at the time of purchase, but you can stay as long as you like after that! While the average visit lasts about 45-60 minutes, you can easily spend two hours enjoying the views.
• Best Time to Visit: Check the available hours for sunset (with a $10 supplement) and aim to arrive slightly earlier. This way, you can enjoy the city's beauty during golden hour and after dark! If you can’t swing the supplement, visiting at twilight is still worthwhile.
• Less Crowded Times: Early morning is the best time to avoid crowds, as the number of visitors increases after 10-11 AM. Naturally, sunset hours tend to be the most crowded.
• One downside is that from the Top of the Rock, you won't get the best view of one of the most beautiful buildings in New York: the Chrysler Building.
• Children aged 6 and under can enter for free. Strollers are also permitted.
• Wheelchair accessibility is available.
• For more information, visit the Official Top of the Rock Website.

We hope this comprehensive guide filled with useful information and tips for visiting Top of the Rock proves helpful!

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