Ride a private elevator to panoramic terraces, experience the heart-stopping SKYLIFT and Beam, and visit a secret rooftop garden with expedited VIP access. This two-hour Top of the Rock pass pairs skyline spectacle with insider access—especially notable during the holiday edition with up-close tree viewing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off 50th Street into a hushed VIP Lounge and, within minutes, are riding a private elevator toward glass and wind. Atop 30 Rockefeller Plaza the city opens like a map: Central Park a green wedge to the north, the Hudson folding away to the west, and Midtown’s stone and steel rising around you. The SKYLIFT and Beam deliver quick, dramatic bursts of elevation; the rooftop garden offers a quieter, planted vantage that feels improbably green amid the traffic below.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Light walking and standing; suitable for most fitness levels
Wildlife
History
Rockefeller Center was developed during the 1930s as an Art Deco complex and became a cultural hub for radio, film and civic events, including the annual Christmas Tree tradition.
Conservation
Use public transit and avoid disposable bottles; rooftop gardens are managed to support urban biodiversity and visitor access is limited to protect plantings.
Reserve your spot on the VIP Rock Pass: Includes SKYLIFT, Beam, Rooftop Garden today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Time your visit for sunset
Book the slot 45 minutes before sunset for the best transitional light; early morning is quieter for unobstructed views.
Dress in layers
Terraces are exposed and can be windy—bring a light jacket even in summer.
Bring a charged camera or phone
Photo Pass is included, but personal shots from multiple terraces capture the city best; extra battery helps.
Use public transit
Subway and bus stops are steps away—avoid limited parking and aim for subway arrival to save time.
Comfortable walking shoes
You’ll stand and walk between indoor lounges and outdoor terraces—supportive shoes keep you comfortable.
Light jacket or windbreaker
Upper terraces are exposed; a windproof layer helps in cooler months (and breezy summers).
fall
Camera or smartphone with extra battery
City panoramas and Photo Pass moments make spare power and storage useful.
MetroCard or contactless payment
Public transit is the fastest, most reliable way to reach Rockefeller Center and avoid parking delays.