Rockefeller Center - NYC
Rockefeller Center is located in the heart of midtown Manhattan at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, between 48th and 51st Streets at 5th and 7th Avenues. Named after John D. Rockefeller, Rockefeller Center is one of New York’s most popular year-round attractions. Get an up-close view of Prometheus, the gilded sculpture of the mythological Greek figure (pictured above). It’s one of the Rockefeller Center’s most famous symbols. And it makes a great backdrop for a picture, especially with all the colorful flags flying overhead. Rockefeller Center’s breathtaking setting and fun people-watching also makes it a popular dining destination.
Ice-Skating Rink
In addition to NBC Studios, Radio City Music Hall and Christie’s Auction House, Rockefeller Plaza also houses the world-famous outdoor Ice-Skating Rink. Rockefeller Center’s Ice-Skating Rink is visited by over half a million people every year. During winter months, the famous sunken plaza is filled with ice-skaters as spectators watch from above. The rink is open daily during Winter months only.
Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock Observation Deck sits high above Rockefeller Center (on the 70th floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza), in the heart of midtown Manhattan. The Observation Deck is surrounded by huge panels of clear safety glass, offering visitors an unobstructed open-air 360-degree view of New York City. Sunset is the most popular – and busiest time – at the Top of the Rock, especially during the Summer months, so expect to wait in long lines.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree & Lighting Ceremony
Rockefeller Center’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony signals the beginning of the Holiday Season in New York City. It’s one of the most exciting times to be in Big Apple. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has been a New York City tradition since 1933. Back then, the tree had 700 lights; now it has over 30,000. The Tree Lighting usually takes place the Wednesday after Thanksgiving at approximately 8:55pm and usually remains lit through the first week of January.
Rockefeller Center’s fun holiday event always draws a huge crowd, so be sure to get there early for the best viewing spot. The annual star-studded event, filled with holiday festivities, various celebrity appearances and live entertainment featuring popular music and classic holiday tunes, celebrates the annual lighting of the world’s most famous Christmas Tree. If you can’t make it to NY to see the Tree Lighting Ceremony, not to worry. It’s broadcast live every year and you can enjoy watching it in the comfort of your home. 🙂
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Tour Rockefeller Center and learn about its history, the world-famous Ice-Skating Rink, the beautiful Prometheus and Atlas Statues, the Channel Gardens, viewing famous artwork and learning about the various flags on the Plaza. Get Tickets to the Top of the Rock and see panoramic views of New York City. If you’re taking a Double-Decker Bus Sightseeing Tour, Rockefeller Plaza is a featured stop along the Downtown Loop route. You can hop-on-and-off at your leisure.
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