Rockefeller Center is 19 buildings in the heart of Manhattan, a city within a city, as it was once called. It is one of the most recognizable building complexes in New York City, located in midtown Manhattan between 48th and 51st Streets. More than just an architectural ensemble, it is a cultural, business, and tourist attraction with a rich history and a unique atmosphere.
History of Rockefeller Center
The idea for Rockefeller Center belongs to John D. Rockefeller Jr., who decided to build a commercial complex in the 1930s during the height of the Great Depression. This ambitious project employed thousands of people and became a symbol of optimism and progress. Initially conceived in collaboration with the Metropolitan Opera, the project later became a completely private initiative of the Rockefeller family.
The complex officially opened in 1933. Built in the Art Deco style, it consists of 19 buildings, including the famous GE Building (now the Comcast Building) and Radio City Music Hall.
What’s inside Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is currently owned by Tishman Speyer, and most of its facilities are used by NBC. These are the television studios where some of America’s most famous programs are filmed, including Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show, and others. You can sign up for a tour.
An annual Christmas tradition dating back to 1933 is the magical Christmas tree on the plaza in front of the GE Building. And back in 1936, New York City's first ice skating rink opened in the plaza. Ironically, the rink, which today seems like a symbol of Rockefeller Center, actually appeared quite by accident. Initially, the plaza was intended to be a shopping courtyard with a cafe. But tenants were unavailable, so the administration decided to build an ice skating rink to attract people.
Also there is Radio City Music Hall – a legendary venue for concerts, theater, and events.
Lego Store – the flagship LEGO store in New York City – an absolute must-see for adults and children. Address: 636 5th Ave, New York, NY 10020.
And Nintendo New York – the only official Nintendo store in the US. Address: 10 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10020.
Christie’s New York – the world-class auction house where you can enter for free and view pre-auction exhibitions. Part of the auction house also functions as a museum.
And few people know that you can also visit the main lobby of Rockefeller Center and see the site of the Lenin fresco. You can also visit the International Building with its luxurious lobby. The building previously housed offices of foreign companies and consulates representing various countries. The entrance is located immediately behind the Atlas sculpture.
Top of the Rock, Rockefeller Center
The Top of the Rock observation deck (Rockefeller Center) welcomes over three million visitors a year, offering incredible views of New York City. This is no surprise, as the upper floors of Rockefeller Center offer views of every corner of Manhattan. From here, you can admire Central Park and Times Square, as well as see the Empire State Building.
Useful Information
Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111
Top of the Rock Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM (last admission: 10:10 PM)
Rink Season: Late October – April
Top of the Rock Tickets: Starting at $40, available online and on-site
