Best time to visit New York

Top of the Rock in New York

See the most iconic landmarks of the Big Apple in one grand panorama

Best time: all year round

Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock

Rockefeller Center is the Midtown Manhattan is home to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck listed among New York's most popular tourist attractions. It has three observation decks—on 67th, 69th, and top 70th floors. From the 850 feet (260 m) height it reveals some of the Big Apple's best views. In the sweeping 360-degree panorama you'll be able to observe downtown Manhattan in detail, see Empire State Building, Central Park, One World Trade Center, spot the Statue of Liberty and lots of other iconic landmarks.

Top of the Rock Observation Deck is open to visitors daily from 8 am till midnight. The tickets aren't sold after 11 pm and the last elevator ascends at 11:55 pm. Sunset time is the most stunning, and the most popular as well, so you'll see the heaviest crowds. Thus, you better arrive earlier to occupy some good shooting position.

The place is popular with tourists all year round. In terms of weather, the least comfortable season is winter. Nevertheless, Christmas time is one of the most crowded at the Top of the Rock. To avoid long lines, buy tickets online. Also, try to come early in the morning, the best time is before 10:30 am.

Practical info

What are the hours of Top of the Rock Observation Deck?

Top of the Rock Observation Deck operates from 8 in the morning to midnight. They stop selling tickets at 11 pm, and the last elevator ride happens at 11:55 pm. Show more

What's the ideal time to visit the Top of the Rock in New York?

The beautiful view of the sunset makes it the best time to visit the Top of the Rock in New York. The place is crowded during this time. If you want to avoid crowds, visit during the morning, especially before 10:30 am. It is also advisable to purchase tickets online in advance to save time and avoid long lines. Show more

What famous landmarks can you see while on the observation decks?

Top of the Rock Observation Deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view of downtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building, Central Park, One World Trade Center, and the Statue of Liberty, among other iconic landmarks in New York City. Show more

Why is the Christmas season crowded at Top of the Rock?

Top of the Rock is one of the busiest places during the Christmas season in New York City due to the holiday decorations and massive influx of people. Visitors can avoid this by coming in the morning, particularly before 10:30 am, buying tickets in advance online, or going during the less busy seasons. Show more

Can you purchase Top of the Rock Observation Deck tickets online as well as on site?

Visitors can purchase Top of the Rock Observation Deck tickets on the premises, and online. To avoid long lines, it is best to get tickets online before the visit. Keep in mind that they stop selling tickets at 11 pm, and the last elevator ride happens at 11:55 pm. Show more

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