For over two decades, Rockefeller Center has been a constant in my New York City life. From early internships in its towering buildings to countless lunches near Radio City Music Hall, and even overnight stays for Saturday Night Live tickets, this 22-acre complex has always felt like a familiar, comforting part of the city. In 2005, Rockefeller Center unveiled a reimagined version of its iconic observation deck, Top of the Rock, inviting visitors to ascend to its 67th, 69th, and 70th floors for unparalleled open-air views in the heart of Midtown Manhattan.
As someone captivated by heights and cityscapes, I first visited Nyc Top Of The Rock shortly after its reopening. While New York City boasts several sky-high vantage points – the Empire State Building, One World Observatory, Edge, and Summit One Vanderbilt – Top of the Rock always held a unique appeal. Recently, the introduction of Skylift at Top of the Rock has elevated the experience to new heights, quite literally. This innovative, open-air circular platform ascends 30 feet above the rooftop, offering a 360-degree panoramic spectacle. I was fortunate to experience Skylift just before its public debut, and it offered a truly unforgettable perspective of the city I thought I knew so well.
A New Perspective on a Classic: Top of the Rock’s Skylift
Stepping onto the 69th-floor outdoor deck of nyc top of the rock, the sheer magnitude of the New York moment is striking. While other observation decks might claim greater altitude or modern designs, from this vantage point on 50th Street, you are undeniably in the epicenter of the city. Positioned perfectly between the Hudson and East Rivers, the views stretch from the Statue of Liberty to the south all the way up to the Bronx in the north.
Ascending to the 70th floor to experience Skylift, its understated design initially blends seamlessly with the rooftop. Looking like a transparent circular enclosure, it’s only when you step inside and the platform gently begins to rise that the magic truly unfolds. The ascent is so smooth, it’s almost imperceptible at first, allowing you to be fully immersed in the breathtaking surroundings.
Instinctively, you begin to turn, trying to capture every angle of the sprawling cityscape. But then, Skylift begins its rotation, effortlessly showcasing the city in its entirety. No effort is required – simply absorb the mesmerizing panorama that unfolds before you. It feels like floating amidst New York City’s most iconic landmarks. Facing north, Central Park extends like a vibrant green carpet. As Skylift rotates counterclockwise, familiar skyscrapers in Columbus Circle and Times Square, usually viewed from street level, take on a new dimension from above.
Then comes the pièce de résistance: the southward view, dominated by the majestic Empire State Building. From this elevated perspective, roughly 900 feet above the city, one can almost imagine being at eye level with King Kong himself, if he were to pause and admire the view. This is the immersive quality of Skylift – it places you within the cityscape, not just above it.
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A captivating aerial view of a couple enjoying the 360-degree rotation on the NYC Top of the Rock Skylift, showcasing the panoramic cityscape.
Why Top of the Rock Stands Out Among NYC Observatories
While other nyc observation decks offer impressive heights, Top of the Rock provides a uniquely balanced and historically rich experience. Unlike the singular focus of the Empire State Building’s southward view or the downtown perspective from One World Observatory, Top of the Rock’s central location offers unparalleled 360-degree views encompassing Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the sprawling cityscape in between.
Edge NYC and Summit One Vanderbilt offer modern, thrilling experiences, but Top of the Rock distinguishes itself by seamlessly blending modern innovation with the historical significance of Rockefeller Center. Skylift, with its subtle integration into the Art Deco architecture of 30 Rock, adds a contemporary twist to a timeless landmark. The platform even incorporates 96 LED pixel flutes at its base, radiating colors that extend upwards, and a central speaker plays music, enhancing the immersive atmosphere. A panoramic photo opportunity is also available from the platform’s center.
Adding to the thrill, midway through the Skylift experience, the frosted glass floor beneath your feet turns transparent. This unexpected feature provides an adrenaline surge, amplifying the sensation of floating high above the city – exactly as intended by the creators.
More Than Just Views: Exploring Top of the Rock’s Rich History and Attractions
EB Kelly, Senior Managing Director at Tishman Speyer and Head of Rockefeller Center, explains that the goal with Skylift was to create a “special experience that took advantage of our outdoor space… that created a moment that was a little bit thrilling, a little bit breathtaking.” This vision is deeply rooted in Rockefeller Center’s heritage.
Kelly notes that Skylift’s rotating platform is reminiscent of the iconic rotating dance floor of the Rainbow Room, located just floors below, and the joyful twirling on The Rink during winter. This connection to Rockefeller Center’s history, spanning nearly a century, is what truly sets nyc top of the rock apart.
Beyond Skylift, Top of the Rock offers other unique attractions that celebrate its rich past. Visitors can recreate the iconic “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper” photograph on “The Beam.” This experience, situated on the 69th floor where the original photo was taken during the construction of the RCA Building, allows you to pose securely strapped onto a beam, complete with props like tools and even playful doughnuts.
Another nod to history is “The Weather Room,” an eatery on the 67th floor named after the Doppler radar that once occupied the 70th floor, used for weather forecasting. The Beam and The Weather Room, along with a new welcome gallery, are part of Top of the Rock’s recent modernization, complementing Rockefeller Center’s broader revitalization. This includes the introduction of thoughtfully curated retailers like Rough Trade, McNally Jackson Books, and diverse dining options such as Pebble Bar, Lodi, and Le Rock.
Planning Your Visit to NYC Top of the Rock
Admission to Top of the Rock ranges from $40 to $61 for adults (ages 13+), $34 to $55 for children (ages 6-12), and $38 to $59 for seniors (65+). The Beam experience is a $25 add-on, and Skylift is an additional $35 per person. For an exclusive experience, the VIP Pass, which includes private access to both The Beam and Skylift, starts at $190. Tickets can be purchased online through the Rockefeller Center website.
To make the most of your visit to nyc top of the rock, consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid crowds. Sunset provides a particularly magical time to experience the city skyline as it transitions from day to night.
Conclusion: A Timeless NYC Experience Elevated
NYC Top of the Rock offers more than just stunning views; it provides a deeply immersive and historically resonant New York City experience. From the breathtaking panorama of the Skylift to the interactive and nostalgic attractions like The Beam and The Weather Room, Top of the Rock seamlessly blends the past and present of this iconic landmark. As EB Kelly aptly states, “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.” Plan your visit to Top of the Rock today and witness New York City from a perspective unlike any other.
