For over two decades, Rockefeller Center has been my personal landmark in the vibrant tapestry of New York City. From navigating its underground passageways during my early internship days to countless lunches near Radio City Music Hall and even camping out for Saturday Night Live tickets, this iconic complex has always felt like a familiar embrace in the heart of Manhattan. Within this 22-acre urban marvel, nestled between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, lies an attraction that has redefined the New York City skyline experience: Top Of The Rock New York.
Rebranded and unveiled in 2005, Top of the Rock Observation Deck invites visitors to ascend 70 stories above the city in a mere 45 seconds. Stepping out onto the open-air decks on the 67th, 69th, and 70th floors places you squarely in the center of Midtown Manhattan, offering breathtaking panoramic views. While New York City boasts a plethora of sky-high viewpoints, including the Empire State Building, One World Observatory, Edge NYC, and Summit One Vanderbilt, Top of the Rock has always held a unique charm.
Recently, Top of the Rock has elevated its offering even further with the introduction of Skylift, a thrilling new attraction that literally takes the viewing experience to another level. This open-air, circular platform ascends 30 feet above the rooftop, providing a 360-degree panoramic spin, offering an unparalleled perspective of the city. I was fortunate enough to experience Skylift just before its public debut, and it redefined my appreciation for the top of the rock new york experience.
Stepping onto the 69th-floor outdoor deck, I was immediately struck by the sheer magnitude of the New York moment. While other observation decks might boast greater heights or sleeker designs, the vantage point from 50th Street felt like the absolute epicenter of the city. Positioned perfectly between the Hudson and East Rivers, the view stretched from the Statue of Liberty in the south to the Bronx in the north, a truly encompassing urban panorama.
Ascending to the 70th floor, Skylift initially appeared deceptively subtle, resembling a transparent fiberglass enclosure on the rooftop. However, stepping inside revealed a transformative experience. As the platform gently ascended, almost imperceptibly at first, I was immediately captivated by the unfolding cityscape. Instinctively, I began to turn, eager to absorb every angle. But Skylift effortlessly took over, rotating smoothly to showcase the city in its entirety. All I had to do was immerse myself in the breathtaking views.
It felt like floating amidst the city’s most iconic landmarks. Facing north, Central Park unfolded like a vibrant green carpet. As Skylift rotated counterclockwise, familiar skyscrapers in Columbus Circle and Times Square, previously experienced at ground level, transformed into new shapes and perspectives, now at eye level. Then, as the viewpoint shifted south, the majestic Empire State Building emerged as the undisputed centerpiece. From this vantage point, nearly 900 feet above ground, I imagined being face-to-face with King Kong himself, had he paused to admire the view. This is the immersive perspective that Skylift at the top of the rock new york provides.
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While other observation points offer skyline views, Skylift at top of the rock new york makes you feel intrinsically part of it. Seamlessly blending with 30 Rock’s Art Deco architecture dating back to 1933, Skylift introduces a modern twist with 96 LED pixel flutes that radiate colors upwards. A central speaker plays music, and a panoramic camera captures the moment, enhancing the multi-sensory experience.
Adding another layer of thrill, halfway through the three-and-a-half-minute ride, our guide prompted us to look down. The frosted floor beneath our feet transformed into transparent glass, revealing the city directly below. This unexpected element of vertigo added an adrenaline rush to the sensation of soaring above the city, precisely as intended.
EB Kelly, Senior Managing Director at Tishman Speyer and Head of Rockefeller Center, explained that the goal was to create a “special experience” that leveraged the outdoor space, allowing visitors to “feel the wind in your hair and the sights and sounds of New York around you,” while injecting “a moment that was a little bit thrilling, a little bit breathtaking.”
This innovative experience also draws inspiration from Rockefeller Center’s rich history. Kelly noted that “the rotating floor of the skylift evokes the iconic rotating dance floor of the Rainbow Room” and the “twirling on The Rink downstairs in the wintertime,” emphasizing the desire to create a “whimsical moment” deeply rooted in the center’s heritage.
This connection to Rockefeller Center’s nearly century-old history is what truly distinguishes the top of the rock new york experience. Visitors can also engage with another iconic chapter by recreating the famous “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper” photograph. Taken during the construction of the RCA Building (now 30 Rock), this image captured 11 ironworkers perched on a beam 850 feet in the air. Now, on the 69th floor, “The Beam” attraction allows guests to pose atop a similar beam, securely harnessed, for a memorable photo opportunity, complete with playful props.
Further enriching the visitor experience, “The Weather Room” eatery on the 67th floor pays homage to the Doppler radar that once graced the 70th floor, used for weather forecasting.
Alongside Skylift, The Beam and The Weather Room are integral parts of Top of the Rock’s comprehensive modernization, which also includes a new welcome gallery. This revitalization aligns with Rockefeller Center’s broader effort to reinvent itself with a curated mix of modern retailers and dining establishments. From Rough Trade and McNally Jackson Books to N.Peal, Todd Snyder, and The Shops at NBC Studios, and restaurants like Pebble Bar, Smith & Mills, Lodi, Jupiter, Le Rock, NARO, and 5 Acres, Rockefeller Center offers a diverse and contemporary experience.
Admission to Top of the Rock New York ranges from $40 to $61 for adults, $34 to $55 for children (ages 6-12), and $38 to $59 for seniors (65+). The Beam and Skylift are available as add-on experiences for $25 and $35 per person, respectively. For an exclusive experience, a VIP Pass, including private access to both The Beam and Skylift, starts at $190. For the most up-to-date pricing and to book tickets, please visit the official Rockefeller Center website.
“Rockefeller Center is a place with history and authenticity,” Kelly concludes. “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.” Elevate your New York City adventure and discover the unparalleled views and rich history awaiting you at the top of the rock new york.
