Things to do in New York

Everything you need to know about the Top of the Rock entrances

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Nested on the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, the Top of the Rock will give you serene moments that will let you take in the glorious and spectacular views of the New York skyline. Top of the Rock’s observation deck will offer you a panoramic sight from the 70th-floor observatory, with terraces facing in all directions. Believe the hype, as this 3-tiered observation deck is a hard miss!

Top of the Rock Tickets


Buy your Top of the Rock tickets in advance!

Needless to say, you’d benefit greatly from booking your tickets in advance. Whether you choose the basic top of the rock tickets: observation deck, or a New York Attractions Pass (3 days), you're in for a real treat. The choice is yours:

Top of the Rock Entrances Explained


top of the rock entrances


Rockefeller Center’s Top of the Rock’s main entrance is situated on the 50th Street between the 5th and 6th Avenue and has a large unfolded red carpet indicating Top of the Rock – Observation Deck Entrance. There are security checkpoints for all visitors.

Now, if you have purchased your ticket or are carrying a tourist card that grants entry to the observation deck online, you need to head to the ticket booths where the staff will provide you with an original ticket. On approaching further, you will be able to spot two lines, one for visitors who have their tickets purchased well in advance and another, for those who do not have a New York city pass.

At the second entrance on the Concourse Level of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, you need to present your pass at the box office here for the next available timed ticket, using the dedicated pass line. Once you have entered, this place will provide you with an overview of the historic heart of New York City.

How To Get To Top of the Rock Entrances


By Bus

Take buses M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M7, or M50 and get down at a stop near the Rockefeller Centre.

By Train

Take train 1 to the 50th street stop and walk east on the street to Rockefeller Centre between 5th and 6th Avenues. If you take trains 6, N, Q, and R, they all stop at the Rockefeller Centre stop.

By Subway

Rockefeller Centre stop is the closest stop to the attraction. You can hop on a Subway Number – B, D, F, or M train and head to the 47rh-50th Street top and walk your way to the building.

Does The Top of the Rock Entrance Have Parking?


There are discounted and convenient parking spaces available for Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Centre SP+ garage, situated at 25 West, 48th Street. Apart from this, here are a few nearby parking locations:

  1. 52nd St – Valet Garage (CBS Building)
  2. 46th St. – Valet Garage
  3. 53rd Street
  4. 46th Street (390 Madison Avenue) – Valet Garage.

All you have to do is click on the parking location to print a coupon with the discounted parking rates. It is necessary to have a coupon to receive the discount for Top of the Rock parking rates, so make sure you get one to the suitable garage of your choice.

Top of the Rock Entrances: Tips


top of the rock entrances


  • Make sure you keep a tab of the weather conditions before your visit to the Top of the Rock as it can get quite chilly on the Observation Deck. So, dress accordingly!
  • If you have booked your tickets well in advance, there is still a chance for you to experience flocks of people at the attraction as it is a very popular hotspot in New York.
  • Enjoy the lovely hues by arriving shortly before sunset, allowing you to make most of the day and night views.
  • Carry jackets or something to keep yourself warm as it can get quite cold.
  • Climb up from the main deck to enjoy a great view of the city from a slightly higher angle to get great pictures.
  • Apart from the observation deck, there are a lot of other things to see and experience at the centre. You can grab a delicious bite at the rooftop restaurant, shop, or go skating on the Rink.

FAQs: Top of the Rock Entrances


Where is the entrance to Top of the Rock?

You'll find a big red carpet on the south side of 50th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues.

How much does it cost to walk into the entrance of the Top of the Rock?

Top of the Rock tickets for adults start at $38. 

What is the best thing to do at the Top of the Rock?

At Top of the Rock, you'll enjoy spectacular panoramic views of NYC's skyline from its observation deck.

Can you get into Top of the Rock for free?

Children aged 5 and under may enter Top of the Rock for free.

What is the best time to visit Top of the Rock?

If you wish to beat the crowds, the best time to visit Top of the Rock is in the morning between 8 AM and 11 AM.

Top of the Rock Entrances Guide