Rockefeller Center

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.

• 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.)

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.

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.

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.

Yes, the Rockefeller Center Tour is a great way to explore one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks. The tour offers a comprehensive look at the history, architecture, and art of the famous attraction. Visitors learn about everything from John D. Rockefeller Jr. to the Radio City Music Hall.

Touring the top observatory offers stunning views of the cityscape in all directions. In addition to admiring spectacular sculptures, visitors can view works of art and historic photographs and learn more about the relationships between architecture and urban design at the lower levels of Rockefeller Center.

The length of guided tours of the Rockefeller Center tours varies, but they generally last between 1 and 1.5 hours. Whatever your schedule and preference, there is sure to be an appropriate tour so you can experience all that Rockefeller Center has to offer.

Technically no; but if you’re looking to explore everything that Rockefeller Center has to offer, it’s best to make a reservation ahead of time. Although same-day tickets are often available, reserving in advance is the only way to ensure your spot.

Yes. Although Rockefeller Center is one of New York City’s most popular attractions, there are free entry options available. Visitors can take a walk around the public areas of the complex for an up-close look at Rockefeller Center’s art and contemporary sculptures—take advantage of this if you’re on a budget.

No. While there are plenty of things to do at the center, it’s worth noting that there are no public parking facilities located on-site. However, visitors can choose to utilize various nearby garages to take advantage of convenient (but pricy) parking while they explore Rockefeller Plaza. Visitors can find spots in garages based on their needs.