For over two decades, Rockefeller Center has been an integral part of the New York City experience for locals and tourists alike. Its iconic presence in midtown Manhattan is further enhanced by the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, a must-visit attraction offering unparalleled city vistas. Since its rebranding in 2005, Top of the Rock has provided visitors with stunning open-air views from its 67th, 69th, and 70th floors. Recently, it unveiled its newest feature, the Skylift, adding an even more exhilarating dimension to this already impressive rock observation deck.
For those seeking exceptional vantage points, New York City boasts several high-altitude options. However, Top of the Rock distinguishes itself with its central location and now, the unique Skylift experience. While the Empire State Building, One World Observatory, Edge NYC, and Summit One Vanderbilt offer incredible heights, Top of the Rock provides a uniquely positioned rock observation deck right in the heart of the city.
The newly introduced Skylift elevates the Top of the Rock experience, quite literally. This open-air, circular platform ascends 30 feet above the rooftop, completing a 360-degree rotation to deliver fully panoramic views. I was fortunate to experience a preview of Skylift just before its public launch, and it truly redefined my perspective of the city I thought I knew so well.
Stepping onto the 69th-floor outdoor deck is already an immersive New York moment. From this vantage point on 50th Street, you are perfectly situated between the Hudson and East Rivers, with views stretching from the Statue of Liberty to the Bronx. Ascending to the 70th floor, the Skylift appears as a subtle yet striking addition – a transparent circular enclosure promising an extraordinary journey.
Upon entering Skylift, the ascent begins almost imperceptibly. Engrossed in the unfolding cityscape, the gentle rise is easily missed at first. Then, the platform begins to rotate, effortlessly guiding your gaze across the sprawling metropolis. No need to strain or shift; Skylift presents New York City in a seamless, panoramic spectacle.
The feeling is akin to floating amidst iconic landmarks. Looking north, Central Park unfolds like a vibrant green carpet. As Skylift rotates, familiar skyscrapers of Columbus Circle and Times Square reveal themselves from a breathtakingly new altitude. Turning south, the Empire State Building dominates the view. From this elevated perspective, you can almost imagine standing eye-to-eye with King Kong, should he pause to admire the view. Skylift doesn’t just show you the skyline; it immerses you within it, making you feel a part of the city’s vibrant tapestry. Unlike other viewpoints that merely present the skyline, this rock observation deck integrates you directly into the urban landscape.
Skylift’s design harmonizes seamlessly with 30 Rock’s Art Deco aesthetic, dating back to its 1933 inception, while incorporating modern flair. Ninety-six LED pixel flutes at its base project vibrant colors skyward, and a central speaker provides ambient music. A panoramic camera captures the moment, offering a memento of your elevated experience.
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Adding another layer of thrill, midway through the Skylift ride, the frosted glass floor transforms to transparent, revealing the city directly beneath your feet. This unexpected element injects an extra dose of adrenaline, enhancing the sensation of soaring above New York.
EB Kelly, Senior Managing Director at Tishman Speyer and Head of Rockefeller Center, explains the intention behind Skylift: “We really wanted to create a special experience that took advantage of our outdoor space… in a way that created a moment that was a little bit thrilling, a little bit breathtaking.”
This innovative rock observation deck experience also subtly nods to Rockefeller Center’s rich history. Kelly notes, “The rotating floor of the sky lift evokes the iconic rotating dance floor of the Rainbow Room… and the experience of twirling on The Rink downstairs.” This connection to Rockefeller Center’s heritage adds depth to the modern attraction.
Visitors to Top of the Rock can further engage with Rockefeller Center’s history by recreating the famous “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper” photograph. Taken during the construction of the RCA Building (now 30 Rock), this iconic image depicted ironworkers perched precariously on a beam. At The Beam experience, located on the same 69th floor, visitors can safely pose on a similar beam, complete with props, for a memorable photo.
Further enhancing the visitor experience are recent additions like The Weather Room eatery on the 67th floor, named after the Doppler radar that once graced the 70th floor. The Beam and The Weather Room, along with a new welcome gallery, are part of Top of the Rock’s recent modernization, aligning with Rockefeller Center’s broader revitalization. This includes curated retail spaces featuring brands like Rough Trade and McNally Jackson Books, and diverse dining options such as Pebble Bar and Lodi.
Admission to this premier rock observation deck, Top of the Rock, ranges from $40 to $61 for adults, with varied pricing for children and seniors. The Beam and Skylift experiences are available as add-ons, or as part of a VIP Pass.
“Rockefeller Center is a place with history and authenticity,” Kelly emphasizes. “If you want to see the real New York and connect with New York of 90 years ago and New York of today, you must come to Rockefeller Center to hear that story and feel a part of that history” – and experience the unparalleled views from its iconic rock observation deck.
