Visit Top of the Rock
in New York
- Open from 8am to midnight
- From $42
- View current availability
- Ticket delivered immediately after validation
- Mobile ticket accepted
- Non-refundable ticket under the listed conditions
Perched at 259 meters, the Comcast Building offers a 360° panoramic view with no tinted glass. Enjoy direct views of Central Park and the Empire State Building from the 70th floor. Booking a time slot is required to guarantee your spot.
Ticket options
Prices and conditions
Top of the Rock: Entry Ticket
From 40,87 €.
Get a million-dollar-view of New York City from the 70th floor!.
RockMoMA
From 63 €.
See breathtaking views from Top of the Rock and iconic art at MoMA.
Top of the Rock: All-Inclusive Pass
From 70,06 €.
Ride a platform and take high-altitude photos.
Top of the Rock + Statue of Liberty tour
From 90,71 €.
Sail to Lady Liberty and take in the views over Manhattan.
Top of the Rock: Entry Ticket + 2 Attractions
From 106,35 €.
Soar to the top of Rockefeller Plaza, plus pick 2 more things to do in NYC.
Top of the Rock + St. Patrick’s Cathedral
From 57,20 €.
View the city skyline and tour a historic church.
VIP Top of the Rock Pass
From 180,01 €.
Visit observation decks and enjoy a private experience of SKYLIFT and The Beam.
Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock: Holiday VIP Pass
From 291,91 €.
Plunge into VIP tours and take holiday pictures with Santa.
What visitors say
Thousands of visitors have already booked their visit: reviews and testimonials
★ 4.6/5 · 12 reviews collected directly from visitors and moderated by Visit Tickets
"The The Beam Experience is a unique experience; you truly feel suspended in the void. The view of the Empire State Building from the 70th floor is superb without tinted glass. I highly recommend booking in advance to avoid lines."
"We loved the SKYLIFT; the exterior elevator is very impressive. However, it was crowded despite our timed ticket. The price is high, but the view of Central Park is worth it. Bring a light bag as there is no luggage storage."
"Going solo, I was able to fully enjoy the Welcome Gallery before the ascent; it's educational and quick. The staff was very efficient with our skip-the-line access. The evening light on the south terrace was magical for photos."
"The view is undeniably magnificent, especially over Manhattan. But the security wait lasted 45 minutes despite our time slot, which is frustrating. The space on the 70th floor gets suffocating during peak hours. A bit pricey for this level of crowding, I'd say."
"With my children, we really enjoyed the Immersive Theater before the ride. The route is well-organized and lines are short thanks to the precise ticket. We watched the sunset over the Hudson, an unforgettable family moment."
"The Art Deco building is superb, and you understand its history better via the Welcome Gallery. Direct access from Times Square is convenient. Only downside: the wind is strong on the outdoor terraces, so dress warmly."
"Our VIP pass allowed us to avoid endless lines and access the bar on the 70th floor. The 360-degree panoramic view is stunning. It's the best observation point in New York, especially for seeing the Empire State Building up close."
"For around €41, I expected more exclusivity. The crowds were so heavy that we had no room to breathe or take good photos in peace. The flow towards the elevators seemed chaotic despite clear signage."
"As a senior, accessibility is decent even though there are stairs. The Weather Room offers a pleasant break with an unbeatable view. The staff was attentive. A must-see visit in Midtown, close to subway lines B, D, F, M."
"The south terrace is perfect for framing the Empire State Building without obstruction, as advised. The sunset surcharge is justified by the quality of the raking light. Queues were manageable on weekdays thanks to our reservation."
"We combined this visit with RockMoMA, which was an excellent idea. The flat roof 'The Slab' offers a unique perspective of the city. The architectural innovation from 1933 is fascinating. Friendly staff and smooth service from ticketing all the way up."
"The weather was mild, allowing us to appreciate the full extent of the skyline. The lack of tinted glass changes everything for photography. Total immersion begins right at the entrance of Rockefeller Center. Absolutely recommended."
Practical info
Everything you need to plan your visit
Address
10112 New York, United States
New York
Manhattan · Metro: Times Sq - 42 St (Lx, Ly, exit B) or Rockefeller Ctr (N, W, U, 2 min walk).
Opening hours
Open 7 days a week from 8am to midnight. Hours may vary slightly depending on seasons and special events.
Visit Duration
Photos
Audience
Accessibility
PMR
Full access to observation levels via adapted elevators and accessible terraces.
Family
Safe and spacious environment, ideal for families with children of all ages.
Audio guide
French, English, Spanish, Italian, German
Weather in New York
Current conditions and forecast to plan your visit
Discover Top of the Rock
A 1933 Art Deco icon
A designated landmark, this skyscraper embodies New York's architectural elegance.
259 m
Total height
70 floors
Accessible levels
1933
Year completed
1985
Landmark status
Built between 1931 and 1933, the Comcast Building (formerly RCA Building) stands as the jewel of Rockefeller Center. With its 259 meters height and atypical flat roof, it offers three observation levels providing an unobstructed view of all Manhattan. Its central location allows you to appreciate the skyline without major visual obstructions.
History and architecture of the Comcast Building
Inaugurated in 1933 under the name RCA Building, this building was designed by Raymond Hood. It distinguishes itself from other Art Deco towers of the era with its flat roof, inspired by a ship's bridge, unlike the pointed spires of neighboring buildings like the Chrysler Building. New Yorkers affectionately nickname it 'The Slab' due to its blade-like shape that dominates Rockefeller Plaza.
The major technical innovation of 1933 lies in the elevator layout, grouped in the center of the building for the first time. This design facilitates vertical circulation to the upper floors. The building was designated an official landmark in 1985, thus protecting its historical heritage in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, an iconic site since its inception.
Today owned by Comcast, the building preserves its media heritage with the NBC studios that historically operated there. Its black and beige decor is enhanced by theatrical nighttime lighting, changing the city's atmosphere after sunset. Noble materials such as granite, Indiana limestone, and aluminum ensure its exceptional durability.
Top of the Rock experience vs Empire State Building
The main difference lies in the quality of the view: Top of the Rock uses non-tinted glass, allowing for superior natural brightness. From the 70th floor, the perspective on Central Park and the Empire State Building is direct and detailed, ideal for photography. The Empire State Building, although taller, often offers a more filtered view.
Compared to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt or Edge NYC, Top of the Rock prioritizes the open outdoor terrace. The atmosphere is calmer and airier, conducive to a longer visit of 1h15 to 1h30. Unlike the immersive vertical experiences of its competitors, here the horizon takes precedence, with easy access to the west-facing terraces.
For families and couples, this setup reduces fatigue associated with dense crowds. Physical proximity to the Rockefeller Center also allows combining the visit with a stroll on the plaza or a session of ice skating, a New York tradition since 1936. It is the most comprehensive observatory to capture the geometric essence of Manhattan.
Logistics, weather and practical tips
Booking a specific time slot is mandatory to access the observatory. Note that a price supplement applies to sunset slots, a period when demand explodes. It is advisable to arrive 45 minutes before the indicated time to secure your spot and fully enjoy the golden light on the skyline.
Visibility depends heavily on the weather; a rescheduling policy exists depending on the ticket conditions purchased. We recommend checking the sky before paying if possible. Do not forget that there is no baggage storage on site: only compact backpacks are admitted, as space is optimized for visitor flow on the three panoramic levels.
To maximize your photos, position yourself on the West side to frame the Empire State Building without obstruction. The absence of lockers requires lightening your bag before going up. This logistical constraint encourages a light and quick approach, perfect for a rhythmic city break. Also take advantage of the outdoor terraces which offer unique perspectives on Central Park and the Midtown skyscrapers.
What awaits you at the top
360° panoramic view from the 70th floor
Tips for visiting Top of the Rock
Insider tips
Optimizing the time slot
Booking a time slot is mandatory to access the observatory. Choose a specific slot to avoid waiting, as the timed admission system limits the number of people present simultaneously on the three levels.
Sunset budget
A price supplement applies specifically to end-of-day slots for sunset. Check prices when booking, as these premium slots are often more expensive than standard morning hours.
Weather and rescheduling policy
Visibility depends heavily on the weather; a rescheduling policy exists depending on the ticket conditions chosen. In case of heavy fog, contact support to learn about your options for free or refunded rescheduling.
Accessibility and bags
No luggage storage on site; only compact backpacks are admitted. Plan for a small, light bag for your photos and phone, as large suitcases will not pass the access controls to the 70th floor.
Ideal photo angles
Position yourself on the south terrace to frame the Empire State Building without obstruction. The low evening light accentuates the Art Deco details of the Comcast Building, offering sharp shots without tinted glass distortion.
Easy access to Midtown
Located in the heart of Rockefeller Center, access is via 5th Avenue. Subway lines B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W stop at Times Square - 42nd Street, less than 5 minutes' walk from the main entrance of the building located at 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
Group visit
For groups of 10 people or more, contact the group sales service directly. They offer tiered rates and can coordinate several consecutive time slots to facilitate group movement management.
Digital preparation
Download your electronic ticket before leaving to speed up passage through the gates. Ensure your battery is charged, as you will likely use your smartphone intensively to document the 360-degree panoramic views.
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Little-known anecdotes
The name 'The Slab'
Nicknamed this by New Yorkers due to its blade-like shape, distinct from neighboring Art Deco spires. This nickname highlights its unique architecture completed in 1933, contrasting with the classic towers of the era.
Unique flat roof
Designed to resemble the deck of a cruise ship, this flat roof without a spire differentiates the building from classic Art Deco towers. With its height of 259 meters, it offers a stable and innovative observation platform for the time.
Centralized elevators
First building to group its elevators in the center, a major architectural innovation dating back to 1933. This design marked the history of New York architecture. The building, completed in 1933, stands 259 meters tall.
NBC heritage
The building historically houses spaces leased by NBC, a subsidiary of General Electric, anchoring its role in New York media since 1933. This media presence has shaped the cultural image of Rockefeller Center.
Official landmark
Designated a landmark in 1985 along with the rest of Rockefeller Center, this status guarantees its strict historical preservation. It protects the architectural integrity of the Comcast Building against excessive modern modifications.
Nocturnal theatrical lighting
The black and beige decor of the Comcast Building is highlighted by theatrical lighting at night. Photographers appreciate this luminous transition that enhances the vertical lines of the skyscraper.
Integrating Top of the Rock into your New York trip
Three itineraries depending on available time
Midtown Iconic Views
- 9:30 AM: Visit the Rockefeller Center and take a photo in front of the Saint Nicholas statue.
- 2:00 PM: Head up to Top of the Rock for a 360° panorama from the 70th floor.
- 4:30 PM: Sunset from the south terrace, facing Central Park.
- 6:00 PM: Walk down to 5th Avenue for dinner near Grand Central.
Manhattan Skyline & Culture
- 9:00 AM: Guggenheim Museum or Metropolitan Museum for modern art.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch near Grand Central Terminal, just steps from the site.
- 3:00 PM: Top of the Rock for an unbeatable view of the Empire State Building.
- 5:30 PM: Stroll around Rockefeller Plaza to admire the theatrical lighting.
New York Essentials
- Day 1: Times Square and a Broadway show in the evening. Remember to book your tickets to avoid the crowds.
- Day 2: Top of the Rock in the morning, then walk across the Brooklyn Bridge in the afternoon.
- Day 3: Morning in Central Park and end the day on the High Line.
- Day 3 evening: Quick revisit of the skyline from a nearby rooftop.
New York CityPASS®: Choose 5 of the best attractions in New York City
Limited-time offer: free Big Bus tour included with the 4, 5, 6, 7 and 10 attraction passes.
From 133,16 €
See also
More must-see experiences in New York
Interactive map
Find the attraction and nearby places to visit
Near Top of the Rock
Make time to explore the surrounding area
Guggenheim Museum
10 min walk
Frank Gehry's unique spiral architecture offers a fascinating architectural contrast with the Art Deco of Rockefeller Center.
The Standard Grill
2 min walk
Iconic restaurant in the heart of the complex, ideal for a quick meal before or after going up to the upper floors.
Central Park South
5 min walk
The park's south entrance allows you to start a walk in nature right after admiring the urban skyline.
St. Patrick's Cathedral
8 min walk
Majestic Gothic cathedral overlooking Fifth Avenue, offering a distinctive historical landmark near Times Square.
Rockefeller Plaza
On site
The main forecourt where the statue of Saint Nicholas is located, perfect for souvenir photos before entering the building.
How to get to Top of the Rock
Estimated travel times from the main points in the city
Metro : 6th Avenue & 56th Street at Southeast Corner (6 min walk) Bus : 6th Avenue & West 50th Street (1 min walk)
- From Grand Central Station 0,7 km → 8 min
- From New York Penn Station 1,6 km → 10 min
- From John F. Kennedy International Airport 21,1 km → 57 min
- From 47-50 Sts-Rockefeller Ctr 0,2 km → 6 min
- From Long Island City 2,7 km → 13 min
- From Grand Central Station 0,7 km → 11 min
- From New York Penn Station 1,6 km → 14 min
- From John F. Kennedy International Airport 21,1 km → 92 min
- From 47-50 Sts-Rockefeller Ctr 0,2 km → 9 min
- From Long Island City 2,7 km → 19 min
- From Grand Central Station 0,7 km → 5 min
- From New York Penn Station 1,6 km → 8 min
- From John F. Kennedy International Airport 21,1 km → 73 min
- From 47-50 Sts-Rockefeller Ctr 0,2 km → 4 min
- From Long Island City 2,7 km → 12 min
- From Grand Central Station 0,7 km → 5 min
- From New York Penn Station 1,6 km → 9 min
- From John F. Kennedy International Airport 21,1 km → 99 min
- From 47-50 Sts-Rockefeller Ctr 0,2 km → 3 min
- From Long Island City 2,7 km → 15 min
- From Grand Central Station 0,7 km → 9 min
- From New York Penn Station 1,6 km → 20 min
- From 47-50 Sts-Rockefeller Ctr 0,2 km → 2 min
- From Long Island City 2,7 km → 34 min
Accommodation
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When should you visit Top of the Rock?
Expected crowds by day - click a date to book
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before your visit
Booking
Visit
Practical Information
Accessibility
Top of the Rock on video
A preview of this exceptional place before your visit
Top of the Rock in pictures
See what to expect during your visit
Top of the Rock vs other viewpoints in New York
Manhattan's observatories, face to face
| Top of the Rock | Empire State Building | Edge NYC | SUMMIT One Vanderbilt | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 259 m | 381 m | 335 m | 336 m |
| Observation levels | Floors 67, 69 and 70 | Floors 86 and 102 | Floor 101 | Floors 91 to 93 |
| Year | 1933 | 1931 | 2020 | 2021 |
| Entry fee | From €40.87 | From €44.81 | From €38.58 | From €44.34 |
| Feature | Direct view of Central Park and the Empire State Building, open-air terraces | The highest, 360° panorama of the entire city | Inclined glass bridge, bird's-eye view of the skyline | Immersive panorama with distortion effects |
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