Top of the Rock vs One World Observatory - Comparing the Two Observation Decks

Whichever vantage point you pick, you'll get a spectacular view of New York's finest skyscrapers.
By Casey Makovich

Climbing up to an iconic viewpoint and watching as the city unfurls before you is one of the most popular activities when visiting New York. Whether you're up there in the daytime or visiting at sunrise or sunset, you'll surely be spellbound.

What’s the difference between Top of the Rock vs One World Observatory (formerly known as the "Freedom Tower")? They're both historic and cultural icons that stand out in the New York City skyline, offer sky-high views of NYC's landscape from their observation decks, and are both located in Manhattan; but each building offers a different experience when visiting their respective observation decks. We’ve put together a list of the key similarities and differences between the two attractions broken down by:

  • What’s Included with General Admission
  • Location
  • Scenic Views of New York
  • Building History
  • Tips for Visiting
Image of City, High Rise, Urban, Skyscraper, Metropolis, Office Building, Photo on left original by Sharat Ganapati has been modified for this blog post (Flickr: GE Building - Rockefeller Plaza) [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Thinking about visiting Empire State Building or One World Observatory?

Save up to 50% on admission to Top of the Rock plus your choice of other top New York attractions with the New York City Explorer Pass! Please note, tickets to One World Observatory are separately ticketed and not available as part of the New York City Explorer Pass. Another great observatory for amazing city views is the Empire State Building (also available on the Explorer pass). Check out our post on comparing the Top of the Rock vs Empire State Building.

What’s Included with General Admission:

Both observation decks feature special exhibits and experiences as part of general admission, here’s a summary of what each experience includes:

Top of the Rock General Admission:

Image of Advertisement, Poster, Text, Baby, Person, Ring, Paper,

  • Mezzanine exhibit highlighting the history of Rockefeller Center, including photos and artifacts that explore the life of John D. Rockefeller, Jr., the building's construction, and the creation of Top of the Rock, a short video presentation about NBC's history and ties to Rockefeller Center, and the interactive Beam Walk exhibit that simulates what it was like for construction workers walking on the construction beams 69 floors above Manhattan
  • Sky shuttle elevator ride that ascends 850 feet in less than a minute bringing visitors right to the top with an entertaining light show along the way
  • Access to three floors of indoor and outdoor observation decks on the 67th floor (includes the Radiance Wall and gift shop), 69th floor (featuring the breezeway, is entirely outdoors), and 70th floor (the open-air roof deck completely outdoors and free of a glass structure)

One World Observatory General Admission:

  • Access to the first floor/building foundation exhibit where you can walk through the Manhattan bedrock that the building it built on
  • Sky Pod Elevator ride with a virtual time-lapse that illustrates 500 years of New York City's ever-changing landscape
  • SEE FOREVER THEATERTM, an audio-visual experience that explores NYC's skyline
  • Admission to the main observatory on the 100th floor with 360-degree views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, New Jersey, and the surrounding waters
  • Observatory: Sky Portal, a clear glass floor that provides views of the city streets 100 stories below foot

Location:

Image of Chart, Plot, Map, Atlas, Diagram, Both buildings are located in Manhattan near other popular attractions, but the two buildings are about 4 miles apart. Top of the Rock: Top of the Rock is located in Mid-Manhattan closer to Central Park and Times Square. One World Observatory: One World Observatory is located near the southern point of Manhattan, in the Financial District and close to the water.

Comparing the Scenic Views:

Though only 4 miles apart, the views from the two buildings are very different. Closer to the southern point of Manhattan, One World Observatory has views of the Financial District's surrounding buildings, the Statue of Liberty, and the water. Alternatively, Top of the Rock offers great views of Midtown Manhattan's surrounding buildings, Central Park (you can't see it from One World Observatory at all), and Times Square. Both observatories offer stunning views of the Empire State Building (from Top of the Rock you can see it while looking south, from One World Observatory you can see while looking north). While One World Observatory is completely enclosed, the Top of the Rock offers both enclosed and open-air viewing decks.

View from the Top of the Rock:

The observation deck at Top of the Rock is 800-feet above ground. What you'll see from the Top of the Rock:
  • Empire State Building (looking south), Chrysler Building (partially obscured), One World Trade Center, Central Park, Bank of America Tower, Flatiron Building, Brooklyn Bridge, surrounding buildings in Midtown Manhattan, and more.

View from the One World Observatory:

Image of City, Building, Cityscape, Urban, Empire State Building, Landmark, Tower, Photo by Nathania Johnson (Flickr: The view from One World Observatory) [CC 2.0]
The observation deck at One World Observatory is higher than Top of the Rock's at 1250-feet above ground. What you'll see from One World Observatory:
  • Empire State Building (looking north), Chrysler Building, Grand Central, Flat Iron Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Guggenheim Museum, Rockefeller Center (partially obstructed), Trump World Tower, other buildings in the World Trade Center complex, Statue of Liberty, surrounding buildings in the Financial District, and more.
  • The observation deck is high enough that you can see the curvature of the earth
  • The streets below from a glass-bottomed viewing deck

Building History:

Even though One World Observatory is almost a century younger than Rockefeller Center, they were both built in response to tragedy and stand as symbols of American resilience, hope, and prosperity.

Top of the Rock:

Completed in 1933, the building is one of the most recognized skyscrapers in New York and embodies the architectural style of its time with lots of classic Art Deco details. The building was commissioned by John D. Rockefeller and construction began and continued during the Great Depression, sealing the building's status as an icon of American prosperity and hope in times of economic downturn and despair. 30 Rockefeller Plaza is the official address of the Center's tallest building, also known as '30 Rock,' and is the location of the show 30 Rock, starring Tina Fey, Alec Baldwin, Tracy Morgan, Jane Krakowski, and Jack McBrayer, among others.

One World Trade Center:

Completed in 2013, One World Trade Center is the second-tallest building the Western Hemisphere, and the sixth-tallest building in the world. The building of the World Trade Centers was part of the WTC reconstruction and site materialization response to the devastating terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

Tips for Visiting the One World Observatory and Top of the Rock:

Top of the Rock Tips:

  • Plan to visit Top of the Rock early in the morning and/or on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds
  • Plan to spend at least 1 hour visiting the Top of the Rock and take your time at the exhibits, once you pass through, you cannot go back to the exhibits
  • Entry tickets are timed, bring your pass to Top of the Rock in the morning to reserve a timed ticket for later in the day for the best chances of going up during your ideal time
  • If you want to catch the sunset, plan to get to the top well before (one hour before sunset offers the best lighting for photos).
  • Download the FREE Top of the Rock app for a skyline guide that identifies what buildings you’re looking at and has audio tours you can listen to
  • Bring layers to wear and remember, it's likely colder and windier at the top
  • Pack a camera and binoculars to capture the best views
  • Check out our post for even more Top of the Rock tips for visiting

One World Observatory Tips:

  • To avoid the largest crowds, plan to visit One World Observatory early in the morning--weekday visits tend to be less busy, too.
  • Be prepared to pass through TSA-style security to keep lines moving at a quick pace
  • Check the forecast before you go, a low visibility day will affect your views
  • Check the time of sunset before you go if you want to be at the top for the "golden hour" before sunset
  • Consider renting a One World Explorer iPad (+$15 if purchased in advance) to enhance your visit with software that identifies buildings and landmarks in your viewing screen with supplemental information about each
  • Bring a camera and binoculars to capture the best views
  • While in the area, visit the 9/11 Tribute Museum: Gallery Admission & Walking Tour (and save on admission with a New York City Explorer Pass) located right outside One World Trade Center in the original location of the Twin Towers.
  • On exiting, visit the new Oculus structure at the World Trade Center transportation hub serving as a connection between the New Jersy PATH trains and NYC's metro

In Summary (the Biggest Differences):

Both attractions offer a unique experience and are extremely popular, but the biggest differences are the views from the observation decks (from Top of the Rock you get a close up of Midtown Manhattan and can see the Financial District in the distance. From One World Observatory you get a close up of the Financial District and can see Midtown Manhattan in the distance). Top of the Rock offers both indoor and outdoor viewing opportunities while One World Observatory is indoor only.

Visit Top of the Rock & Save on Admission

Remember, the New York City Explorer Pass® is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Top of the Rock tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions, like the Empire State Building, Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour, Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Immigration Museum – Ferry Ticket, The MoMa, The Met, 9/11 Tribute Center & Walking Tour, and lots more. Save up to 50% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple New York City attractions for one low price. Enjoy!

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New York skyline at dawn, featuring Empire State Building in centre
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Observation Decks in New York

The city that never sleeps? You bet! Day or night there’s always something going on in New York City. But for a whole new perspective - or when you tire of the crowded sidewalks - one of the best ways to take in all that action is from above. You’ll be dizzy with delight gazing down on the blocks and the buildings, the scurrying people and the yellow taxis. But which is the best observation deck in New York? Each of the New York sky decks offers a different view and a different experience from a different height. Here’s the low down (sorry, had to be done) on five (or so) of the city’s high spots... Empire State Building Where: Midtown ManhattanWhen: Opened 1931Height of Observation deck: 1050 ft, 320 mtrs (86th floor) or 1,250 ft, 381 mtrs (102nd floor) Time to get yourself in an Empire state of mind...at New York’s most Instagrammed landmark! 443.2 meters tall and built during the Great Depression as a soaring symbol of hope and prosperity, for 40 years the Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world. Even though it's not even in the top 20 these days, it’s still one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks and guarantees you a spectacular 360o view of New York City. You’ll find not one but two observation decks - the outdoor one on the 86th floor and (at an extra cost) the indoor one on the very top (102nd) floor.Begin your visit in the newly restored Art Deco lobby and check out the interactive museum to learn about the building’s rich history. Maybe even grab a selfie with King Kong?! Then zoom up to the 86th floor and drink in a view so impressive that, on a clear day, you can see 5 states. Telescopes give you an even better view of other looming landmarks including the Chrysler Building, One Vanderbilt and the Rockefeller Center - and further beyond, Central Park, Brooklyn, the East River and the Hudson River. If you download the official Empire State Building multi-media tour you can get details of the view from every vantage point. There are even heaters to keep you cosy whatever the time of year. Top of the Rock Where: Midtown Manhattan When: Opened 1933 (Observation deck 2005)Height of Observation deck: 850 ft (67, 69 and 70th floors) The only problem with being up the Empire State Building is that you can’t see the Empire State Building! To capture that iconic landmark in your photos you could instead consider taking the elevator to one of three - yes three - observation decks at the Rockefeller Center - known as the Top of the Rock. Hold tight as you’re whisked to the 67th floor in just 42 seconds, to an indoor deck with views of the Empire State. Or choose floor 69 for an outdoor deck with glass walls and 270o views. From the 70th floor you have 360o views of Manhattan without having to shoot through glass. Once you’ve seen some of the best sights in New York from above - you can see them again from below, since the Rockefeller Center is just a hop and a skip away from Times Square, 5th Avenue, MOMA, Central Park and loads more hot spots. One World Observatory Where: Lower ManhattanWhen: Opened 2014 (Observation deck 2015)Height of Observation deck: 1,268 ft (102nd floor) Could the best birds-eye view of New York City be from the One World Observatory, the breath-taking observation deck at One World Trade Center (the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere)? Be enthralled by its exciting elevator where all four walls are digital screens. There’s more impressive tech as you ascend to the 102nd floor, with a time-lapse transformation of New York from the 17th century to today. Check out another cool video of life in New York in the See Forever Theatre, then cameras at the ready to capture the scene as you gaze through the glass at Manhattan, Brooklyn and the Statue of Liberty spread below. Maybe you’ll even treat yourself to a speciality cocktail - or the full a la carte menu - at ONE dine restaurant and bar? Edge Where: Hudson YardsWhen: Opened 2020Height of Observation deck: 1,131 ft, 345 meters (100th floor)The Apex (part of the City Climb Experience): 1,271 ft, 387 meters Take it to the top! The Apex is not only the highest observation deck in New York City - but in the whole of the Western hemisphere! Opened in 2020 Edge is a new kid among the observation decks - but super cool since, if you dare, you can grab the very best views of Manhattan through its glass floor.It’s right in the heart of Hudson Yards, New York’s newest neighbourhood where residents, tourists - and you! - can enjoy over 100 shops, food stops, public art and public gardens. Soar up to the 100th floor to visit the champagne bar, stake out the sky deck or walk upstairs to the 101st floor, for flawless 360o views of New York and New Jersey. Ratchet up the fun (and fear) factor even more at City Climb NYC, which opened in 2021. Dare you don a harness to scale the outside of the skyscraper to the highest observation deck in New York? Look out from The Cliff (the first outdoor platform) then ascend 161 steps of The Stair to The Apex for truly vertiginous views. No walls, no glass - but a giddying thrill if you’re brave enough to lean out at a height of 1,271 feet! The Vessel Whilst we’re in Hudson Yards, can we give a quick honorary mention to The Vessel? Whilst not an observation deck, this bronze honey-comb of stair-cases is certainly worth the climb if you’re looking for a new perspective on the city. Soaring 150ft, it cost an eye-watering $200million and is the centerpiece of this shiny new district where former industrial properties have been transformed into the most expensive real-estate development in US history! The High Line It’s also a great spot to take a stroll on the High Line, around 2km of stunning green walkway following the course of a former elevated railroad. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city streets and see New York from a new angle, whilst enjoying art, sculpture and landscaped planting. When you’ve taken all your pics, don’t forget to drop off at Chelsea Market in the Meatpacking District, renowned as one of the world’s best indoor markets, for foodie treats and quirky independent retailers. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Where: Midtown ManhattanWhen: Opened 2021Height of Observation deck: 1,063 ft (92nd floor) Back to the observation decks - and have we saved the best til last? Another new addition to the skydeck roster, opened in 2021, SUMMIT takes views to a whole new level thanks to a thrilling glass elevator and amazing interactive installations created by artist Kenzo Digital. He describes it as an attempt to express the “intoxicating inspiration of New York City.” As a unique experience, plus the best view of the Empire State and Chrysler buildings, it’s not to be missed! Oh and did we mention that the photo opps are insane? Get your senses in a spin on the top three floors of One Vanderbilt, one of Manhattan’s tallest skyscrapers, right next-door to Grand Central Terminal. Start your experience in ‘Transcendence 1’, with floor-to-ceiling windows and reflective surfaces designed to extend the sky so, whether its sunny, rainy or cloudy, you feel like you’re floating in air! Experience ‘Affinity’ where you’re surrounded by huge silver balloons, look for your face in the clouds of ‘Unity’, then dare yourself to stand and stare down from Levitation, transparent skyboxes hanging over 1,000 feet above Manhattan.Catch your breath in Aprés bar and lounge, before taking Ascent, the two glass elevators that offer an even more dizzying view of New York. If you choose the ultimate ticket you’ll get a SUMMIT signature cocktail too. They even offer proposal packages for anyone looking for an extra special engagement! With an All-Inclusive Pass the sky’s the limit. If this round-up has left you feeling on top of the world, remember to always take your adventures to new heights - with Go City.
Jo Cooke
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New York Food Guide - Best Places to Eat in NYC

New York really is a melting pot of cultures, and that means that there are plenty of delicious food options to try. Foodies will love New York City's eclectic mix of cuisines. From American and international dishes, street food to Michelin star restaurants, there is something for everyone. But if you don't know where to start, why not take a food tour? We've created a guide of the top food tours (plus some extra dining suggestions) so you can eat your way around the city with ease. Check out our suggestions, including... Food on Foot Tours Soho, Little Italy, and Chinatown Neighborhood Walking Tours Queens-Flushing International Food Excursion City Winery Tour Spirits on Foot–Beer, Spirits and Wine Crawl And more! Save on admission to attractions in NYC Admission to many of these food tours are included on the Go New York Explorer Pass. Plus, the New York Explorer Pass includes access to more than 90 attractions. You could save up to 50% on attraction admission vs gate price. Food on Foot Tours The Food on Foot Tours takes you behind the scenes, outside of the normal tourist-trap fares, and into the neighborhoods where you can experience the best in New York cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a sports-related food adventure or a one-of-a-kind authentic event, you’ll find the experience that’s perfect for you, with scheduled and customized tours. It’s a great opportunity to sample local flavors. This tour also received the TripAdvisor Certificate Of Excellence 2011-2019. Getting in: Admission to Food on Foot Tours is included with the New York Explorer Pass. Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown Neighborhood Walking Tours Soho, Little Italy, and Chinatown Walking Tours all offer an insight into New York culture and cuisine. Your tour guide will let you in on all the secrets and insider info about the fashionable SoHo district. You'll also experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of Chinatown and Little Italy. The tour puts you right in the thick of things, giving you the real New York experience. Getting in: Admission to Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown Neighborhood Walking Tours is included with the New York Explorer Pass. Queens-Flushing International Food Excursion Queens-Flushing is home to some of New York’s best attractions and destinations, from the eclectic mix of cultural foods to the world-class sports venues and lush gardens. On this tour, you hop on the subway and explore the immersive smells and flavors of Tai Pan Bakery or Paris Baguette. The sweet and savory intermingles with jazz (home to Louis Armstrong) and history, culminating with the Queens Night Market. Getting in: Admission to Queens-Flushing International Food Excursion is included with the New York Explorer Pass. City Winery Tour Michael Dorf founded City Winery in 2006 as a way to bring together music with his passion for great cuisine and fine wine. Your tour guide will help you explore the City Winery, learn more about the process of wine-making, and also taste the wine with the compliment of appetizers. Getting in: Admission to City Winery Tour is included with the New York Explorer Pass. Spirits on Foot–Beer, Spirits and Wine Crawl New York is famous for its eclectic watering holes, and this tour hones in on a few unique spots in New York neighborhoods to visit on every trek. You’ll enjoy the beer, wine, and spirits, while you’re immersed in NY culture and history. Getting in: Admission to Spirits on Foot, Beer, Spirits and Wine Crawl is included with the New York Explorer Pass. Where to get the best pizza in New York City? New York is famous for its pizza, so your New York experience cannot be complete without a slice at one of the city's top pizza spots. John’s Pizzeria is a mouth-watering experience with its famous thin-crust, brick-oven pizzas, and its accessible location in Times Square. Lombardi in NoLita has been serving thin-crust Neapolitan pizza since 1905. It's considered to be the first pizza shop in the United States. Pizza blogger Slice Harvester gave NY Pizza Suprema in Midtown a perfect score. Head to Madison Square Garden to see for yourself if it's worthy. Whether you’re looking for authentic New York cuisine, or just looking for a budget-friendly adventure, pizza is where it’s at in New York. Where to get the best street food in New York City? No visit to New York would be complete without sampling the street food, as it reflects the melting pot of ethnic cultures and experiences. There’s the Cinnamon Snail which serves vegan food in Pennsy Food Hall, the Melt Bakery serving up delicious cookies and ice cream in the Lower East Side, and Nuchas which does great empanadas in Times Square and Koreatown. No matter where in the city you are, you're sure to find tasty street food. Where to get the best bagels in New York City? New York is known for its bagels, which just aren't the same anywhere else in the world. So, this is the perfect way to immerse yourself in New York flavors and culture while being thrifty. Gene Davidovich founded the Davidovich Bakery in 1998. He founded it an attempt to bring the well-loved smells and flavors of his grandmother’s kitchen back to life. So, it’s not only authentic and mouth-watering, but it’s also a one-of-its-kind NYC hotspot. Of course, if posting all your top eats on Instagram is essential, head to The Bagel Store in Brooklyn to try the original rainbow bagel (and take plenty of snaps). Heartland Brewery Rotisserie Heartland Brewery Rotisserie is located in the Empire State Building, so it’s perfect for a bite to eat before or after you visit the observation deck. It’s a visit to an internationally renowned innovation and was the world’s tallest building for 40 years. Add to that level of historical importance the clout of the Heartland Brewery Rotisserie, and you’ve got a NYC destination tour you just can’t miss. Be sure to check out our Empire State Building guide before you go! Top tip: Present your New York Explorer pass at Heartland Brewery Rotisserie for 20% off lunch or dinner. In summary New York may feel a little overwhelming if you’re just here for a visit, but these food tours and ideas will help you experience the flavors of the city without the hassle. You’ll also be able to dig into the history of the places while becoming swayed by the overpowering foods. Become inspired, and feed your curiosity as you venture around the city. For suggestions on what else to do on your vacation, check out our ultimate guide to New York City. Remember that many of these top food attractions are included with the New York Explorer Pass, which could save you up to 50% off admission attraction vs gate price.
Go City Expert
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Top of the Rock Discount Tickets & Tips for Visiting - A Must See Attraction!

The Top of the Rock features one of the best views of the New York City skyline from both an indoor observation deck, and two outdoor observation decks. You haven't seen NYC until you see it from the Top of the Rock. Also known as "30 Rock," the famous art deco style skyscraper, and home of NBC Studios, offers 360-degree panoramic views of New York City from the 67th, 69th, and 70th floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. This iconic attraction also features a multi-media interactive educational exhibit to enhance the experience. Experience a New York City icon, learn about the history of the building and its historical significance, and learn about New York City's ever-evolving skyline, right from the source. Where to get Top of the Rock Observatory discount tickets? We’ve got you covered – Top of the Rock Observatory admission is available with the below money-saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. Explorer Pass – Choose attractions as you go. Includes admission to up to 10 attractions. 2. Build Your Own Pass – Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Now you can take your trip to NYC to new heights--850 feet above ground level to be exact. How high is the Top of the Rock? The Rockefeller Centre is a 70-story building and is 850 feet tall. It is the 22nd tallest in NYC and the 47th tallest in the USA. It is 400 feet shorter than the Empire State Building. Tips for visiting Top of the Rock Take your time at the exhibits on the way up to the Top of the Rock, once you pass through, you cannot return. Save on combined admission to the Top of the Rock and other popular New York City attractions with a Go New York Explorer Pass. Bring a back-up battery for your camera or mobile device--you'll be taking lots of pictures. Head to 30 Rockefeller Plaza in the morning for the most choices for timed tickets. Look up the time of sunset for the day and get your timed ticket for about one hour before sunset, also known as "the golden hour" for photography. Plus, you'll get daytime and evening views of the city when the buildings light up. Download the Top of the Rock app for a skyline guide that identifies what buildings you're looking at, audio tours you can listen to, and more. Insider tip: download the audio tour over WiFi before your trip to save data. Plan to stay a while. There is no time limit on the observation decks so make the most of it and plan to stay a while. Don't let an inclement weather forecast scare you away - the view is pretty breathtaking in all weather, plus a stormy sky can add to the dramatic views (plus crowds tend to be smaller, too!). Visit another popular observation deck so you can compare Top of the Rock vs Empire State Building. What are the Top of the Rock opening hours? When to visit the Top of the Rock Observation Deck? The Top of the Rock is open seven days a week from 8:00am - 12:30am. The last elevator up is at 11:40pm. To avoid the largest crowds, save your Top of the Rock trip for a weekday. Head to 30 Rockefeller Plaza early in the day and get a timed ticket. The best views are arguably right before sunset to get both daytime and twilight views. Worried about the weather? The views are pretty spectacular no matter the weather, but be sure to double check the observation deck hasn't closed due to inclement weather if it looks iffy. What to bring to the Top of the Rock? Image Credit: Top of the Rock Facebook Page A camera is a must! Bring backup batteries if you have them. Dress for the weather as the observation decks are outdoors and keep in mind that it's windier at the top: sunscreen, rain jacket, sweater, sunglasses, etc. Quarters if you want to use the coin-operated binoculars. A selfie stick for memorable photos of yourself with the Empire State Building in the background. What to do at the Top of the Rock? Take your time going through the exhibits on the way up to the observations decks to get the background history and learn about this iconic New York City landmark building. The Grand Atrium Lobby Be sure to look up when you're in the lobby for a view of "Joie - Crystal Water Fall", a 35-foot delicate chandelier made of 600 free hanging strands of perfectly cut Swarovski crystals. Designed by Michael Hammers, the chandelier is an inverted replica of the shape of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Mezzanine Level Exhibit This multi-media exhibit enhances visitors Top of the Rock experience by providing entertaining information about the building's rich history, its iconic art deco architecture designed by famed architect Raymond Hood, the construction of the building, and more. Visitors can watch informative videos on plasma screens and observe the original basswood model of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Learn about John D. Rockefeller's original plans for the building in 1928 and how the crash of the stock market on October 24, 1929, the beginning of the Great Depression, changed his vision and the building's construction became a symbol of hope for economic recovery. Browse through photographs and artifacts from the building's construction and check out the original architect's model for the building. You'll see how the building was a feat of engineering and learn about some of the individual workers who contributed to its construction including the iconic photo "Lunchtime" portraying construction workers sitting on a construction beam and eating lunch--you'll even have a chance to pose for your own "Lunchtime" photograph! Walk along the interactive beam walk, a motion technology simulated exhibit that allows visitors to see what it was like to walk across one of the building beams during the building's construction. The Sky Shuttle Elevator Ride and Light Show Among the world's fastest elevators, the Sky Shuttle travels 700 feet in less than a minute. While inside, keep your eyes to the sky for an entertaining light show (a kid favorite!). Radiance Wall The second Swarovski crystal installation at the Top of the Rock is the Radiance Wall, a large, colorful crystal geode wall located on the 67th observation floor. Observation Decks Image Credit: Top of the Rock Facebook Page There are three floors of observation decks; the 68th, 69th, and 70th. The 67th floor is where the elevator lets visitors out and features exhibits, a souvenir shop, and mostly indoor views of New York City. The 69th floor features open-air, 360-degree views of the city from behind the safety of glass panels. The 70th floor features open-air, 360-degree views of the city with no glass panels. Each of the observation decks features stunning views of many notable New York City skyline icons, including: The Empire State Building One World Trade Center The Chrysler Building Bank of America Tower Central Park The Brooklyn Bridge The Statue of Liberty Trump Tower Times Square Flatiron Building and lots more What attractions are near the Top of the Rock? New York City is huge, be sure to visit other top attractions close to Rockefeller Plaza while you're in the area to make the most of your time. Check out our New York City by Neighborhood Guide for more NYC itinerary tips, and our Getting Around NYC Guide. Tour of Rockefeller Center - For a full Rockefeller experience, be sure to go on a guided tour of the "hub of Manhattan", Rockefeller Center, which has earned the status of a National Landmark. Comprised of 19 commercial buildings, the center is spread out over a space of 89,000 square meters. You'll go through the center's most recognizable spots, including its gardens and some of its buildings. Museum of Modern Art - Visit the greatest collection of modern art in the world and experience the New York museum scene. Home to Vincent van Gogh's The Starry Night, Claude Monet's Reflections of Clouds on the Water-Lily Pond, Andy Warhol's Campbell's Soup Cans, and many more iconic works of art, visitors will enjoy the museum's premier permanent collection. Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour - Get a behind-the-scenes look and meet a real-life Rockette on a tour of Radio City Music Hall, the "Showplace of the Nation" and host to some of the world's most famous events, including the Grammy's and MTV Music Awards. Central Park Bike Rental - Biking is one of the best ways to explore all the sights in Central Park. With your full-day bike rental starting in Central Park, you'll get a detailed map, helmet, chain lock, and basket so you can make the most of your time in the famous sprawling park. Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus New York: Go on the Classic 1-Day Tour for an overview of all the top sites in New York City. You'll get to see tons of landmarks and learn about New York's unique history and culture from your onboard professional tour guide--one of the best ways to get to know the city. (You can also start your Hop-On Hop-Off tour elsewhere in the city and hop off when you get to the Rockeller Center Stop.) Night Tour by Big Bus New York: If you visited Top of the Rock in the late afternoon, just a short walk from Rockefeller Plaza you can board a double-decker sightseeing bus for an evening tour of New York City and its most iconic buildings and landmarks lit up in the night sky. Where to eat near the Top of the Rock? What restaurants are at the Top of the Rock? If you want to grab a bite to eat during your visit, the Top of the Rock has a few options to choose from, right in the building, including: Auntie Anne's - For a small snack to hold you over until mealtime, grab a pretzel from Auntie Anne's, located just outside the Top of the Rock ticketing lobby and souvenir shop. SIXTYFIVE - For a cocktail and appetizers before or after your trip to the top, head to SIXTYFIVE Bar and Cocktail Lounge located on the 30th floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza and featuring views that are almost as good as the top. Rock Center Café - For a sit-down meal right in the building, head to Rock Center Café, the buildings namesake dining destination. In the winter, the restaurant features front row views of the famous ice skating rink and outdoor garden seating in the summer months. Cucina & Co. - For more casual fare, check out Cucina & Co. for gourmet Mediterranean sandwiches, pasta, salads, and more. Dine-in or take-out. Need to Know Hours Daily: 8:00 am-12:00 am. The first elevator goes up at 8:00 am and the last one goes up at 11:00 pm. Holidays: check the site for up-to-date holiday hours. Directions & Address 30 Rockefeller Plaza New York, NY 10112 The main entrance is located on 50th Street between 5th and 6th Avenue. Public Transportation: Plug your starting address into the correct field for subway, train, walking, biking, or driving directions to 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Save on Admission Tickets with a New York Explorer Pass Remember, the New York Explorer Pass is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Empire State Building tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 50% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple New York City attractions for one low price.
Casey Makovich

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