Incredible views of the city from a vantage point. If you are considering one high rise viewing deck - consider Top of the Rock for the following reasons : 1. Unhindered views of the city without any grills or glass restricting your view. 2. Only building from where you can see Central Park 3. Rest of the tall buildings seen from a vantage view. 4. Two viewing decks and great views of the sunset.Great views from great central location so views excellent from north, south, east and west. We went late at night after short walk from Broadway. Lights of NYC amazing. The darkest area you see is of course central park with no lights. Tip - save your picture taking for the top level as no glass on that floor. Strange feeling that you were going to drop camera every time you took a picture.Great views from great central location so views excellent from north, south, east and west. We went late at night after short walk from Broadway. Lights of NYC amazing. The darkest area you see is of course central park with no lights. Tip - save your picture taking for the top level as no glass on that floor. Strange feeling that you were going to drop camera every time you took a picture.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

View from Top of the Rock was magnificent, absolutely stunning! But the place where you watch it from is not that good. It's fully open, and if it's chilly, you are cold. When I went, it wasn't fully constructed, there was a lot of unused place. They can make at least a small souvenir shop at the top or a small bar for drinks. Since there is nothing else to do rather than watching the view, it's overcrowded and it can be a challenge to find yourself a good spot, especially at peak hours from 6pm to 7, 7 30pm. And if you go to the upper side - really windy - so bring a jacket. I got a small cold after being exposed to the cold wind at sunset. Oh, and it's kinda hard to find where to go in order to go to the Top of the rock - maybe some more signs for better guidance.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$31+

There are LOTS of helpful employees here - absolutely important to help guide visitors from ticket check-in to the elevators to the open-air observation deck (crowded) & back down to street level. Great views of the Empire State Building & Central Park. // I reserved tickets for 30 minutes before sunset - so we could view the fiery sun setting against New York's skyline & so we could watch all the buildings' lights come on like sparkling diamonds. We spent about one hour atop the outdoor observation deck. // TIP: You can save several dollars & reserve your tickets with third-party providers (Google to find them), instead of purchasing tickets directly from Top of the Rock's website. Senior-age tickets are also discounted.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$31+

“Top of the Rock VIP tour” was worth the $$$$… Met inside with our tour guide David at designated time with a small group of 6 people. David took us on a nice walking tour first with special VIP spots to view the tree, the light show as well as a few roof top gardens… The we headed up to the observation deck and to the Beam Experience.. Did not wait in one single line the entire time, as a matter of fact, David insisted as part of the VIP experience the entire staff will make way for our tour… We ended with views on the city from the Beam and private photo shoot with Santa…. Wonderful experience with David and well worth every penny… No lines no waiting!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

If you like mediocrity and crowds, this is the place to go. If you go during a busy time, you will probably not have a good time, as it will feel like a concert without the music. I was shocked by how crowded it was, so much that it was had to even move around. The staff where also not helpful when trying to navigate around. The bathroom is difficult to get to and it was hard to figure out how to get back to the viewing decks, instead of exiting completely. If you have a choice of viewing decks, I would put way below Empire State Building and The Edge. Both of those are much better than The Top of the Rock.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$31+

This was such an amazing experience! Besides the disorganization of the line up times, being told to come back at 4 even though my reservation was before then and the actual queue itself being unorganized and exhausting, once you’re inside it’s a complete bliss. WELL worth the wait. I had 2 small kids and it was incredible. The staff inside was very nice, extremely helpful and really went above and beyond. The elevator ride was very cool and fast. Once you get to the top, the panoramic view of NYC is breathtaking. We went at sunset and that is a time that should not be missed! Thank you for such a great experience!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Top of The Rock is still a reasonably popular observation deck, with two open air levels and seemingly not too busy to get to, at least on a weekday. We visited in the middle of the day Friday and didn't have to wait more than maybe 5min to get tickets using our pass and that was it, straight up after that more or less. The views are nice, although the new skyscrapers to the north block the view of Central Park, so only parts of it are visible. Worth a visit if you have time to spare and are in the area as you can also look at the Cathedral nearby and Rockefeller building itself.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure

My husband, myself, and our 2 boys (9 and 11 years old) enjoyed this very much. We bought our tickets in advance, like maybe 2 weeks before our trip and toy pick the day and time you want to get in. It has great views of the NYC skyline. It is outdoors and there is a glass panel surrounding the view, but there are stairs that take you a level up and you can see the view without any glass interference. After you are done, there is the usually gift shop, plus there are some small restaurants and a Ben and Jerry's you can buy right inside that building.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$16–20

Just here to back up other reviews - this is truly an iconic observation point to take in the sights of Manhattan. Sunsets are spectacular, but coming at night during the Christmas season is something to behold as well. The city is lit up, and with the Empire State Building in the forefront of the southward view toward lower Manhattan, it’s a live postcard. $30-45 per ticket depending on the time of day. Be sure to go up the stairs to the very top deck for the best views. No glass to obstruct views up there. And buy your ticket ahead of time.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Disappointed. We got our tickets on the day, walked in without booking, and went straight to the elevators. You are then packed down the corridor waiting for the elevator. We queued for about 10 minutes, so I was impressed. The elevator was cramped but very quick to the top. It was a cold, wet day when we went and there was a lot of renovation work going on, which was noisy. The views aren't great, not a patch on the Empire State Building (just my opinion). The real problem was the queue for the elevator to go down! We waited in line for about 30 minutes! It was very cramped and very warm. I'd not recommend this to anyone.

The view is awesome but the rest is just a joke. Honestly I do not recommend going to top of the rock. We were there at a Friday at 9:30. After we got timed tickets for a specific time to go up you still have to wait for more than 30 mins to be at the top. The platform is very crowded and only from the top level you have a good view. Going down will take over 1h as the organization is that bad. There has to be more elevators or restrictions in the number of people going there. Just sad. There are better platforms with less waiting time.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Yes

Went earlier to book our tickets for time slot, was a misty morning, give good advice bit later time slot or rearrange for following day , as we already had arrangements. Kept to 1pm time slot. Met up with the tour guide; was very knowledgeable, lots of very interesting information on Rockerfellers, and how it all started . When tour finished made our way to top of the Rock interesting scenery with the mist . Had a fantastic time . Chatted to a lovely security guard. Had a great afternoon worth every penny . Great experience
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

I've visited here a few times now and it's the place to snap the great pictures of the NYC skyline, including the Empire State building. The skyline is ever changing and it was my first visit in winter. It wasn't too cold and we purchased tickets at 9am that morning for 9.40am. we turned up at 9.35 and were called in at 9.45am. Prompt, efficient and friendly. Special mention to Arty at the top, who helped us and was like something out of a beautiful Christmas movie. Thanks! of the
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Fantastic observation deck with iconic views looking back down Manhattan. Some actually prefer this view to going up the Empire State Building. It’s also significantly cheaper than the Empire State Building too. Really well organised too. Don’t be put off if you are asked to queue outside on the pavement. They take people in, in groups depending on your allocated time. Wrap up warm it’s windy up there!!!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

I’m really glad that I opted for the Top of the rock over the Empire state building, as I had a chance to witness the iconic landmark in its full glory. Sunset experience was truly magical. The panoramic views of New York City as the sun dipped below the skyline were nothing short of magical. If you could afford the extra price during the sunset time then go for it. It’s truly one of a kind.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Gorgeous views. It is a bit of a pricey experience, but 100% worth it! We visited toward the start of the day and didn't have much of a wait at all. Security was very smooth and the 360 view was just stunning. There are a couple of different levels so that you can easily get that perfect shot without anyone else in your picture. Definitely would reccomend it!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$31+

The BEST experience ever!! Felt like Spiderman at the Top of the Rock. The fresh breeze and air felt so good on my face. Even though it was cloudy and rainy, it was perfect. Ending the day in the sky was memorable. Went around 10:30pm, no wait or lines. Would love to come back for sunrise or sunset! The ESB is definitely a must see but I prefer the view at Top of The Rock better!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Very nice view of the Empire State Building and of Central Park but the quantity of the people inside was Crazy. I think they should regulate more the flux. Was almost impossibile to take a photo in the First row. At the exit we had to wait an entire hour to be able to take elevator and reach street floor due to quantity of people going away
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$31+

Buy your tickets online and skip the queue. To view both the day and night scenes of the NY city skyline, come early. There’s no time limit once you are in. I chose the 4pm slot and the crowd is getting in fast and furious just so to catch the sun set. So if you would like to secure a prime photo spot catching the sunset, May want to come in earlier.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Definitely the best view in Manhattan and the fact you get to go outside and view on the upper and lower deck just makes it that much better than the empire state. Definitely look online for tickets as it's a lot cheaper than buying tickets on the day at the Rockefeller. Agoda was cheapest I found on this occasion.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

There are amazing views of the city. One deck has glass windows that don't obstruct the views but blocks the wind so it wasn't as cold as it would have been. The upper deck doesn't have the glass. Definitely wear comfortable clothing that's appropriate for the weather because you are outside.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Now I’ve done all the observation decks, Top of the Rock is my personal favourite. The views are great and the open area without the Perspex glass is a cool experience really making you feel like you’re out in the open at the top of a skyscraper. Be warned if it’s windy it tests your balance.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Probably my favorite public observation deck because of its location right in the heart of midtown. I prefer it over the Empire State Building because when you're on the deck there your shots are missing... the Empire State Building itself.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$31+

Fantastic experience. Absolutely worth the money. Probably the only observation deck which has 360 degree view of the NYC including Central Park, Empire State, Statue of Liberty, and World One. Visited the place at 7:00pm when sunny, stayed till the night and saw all three views from the top (Sunny, Sunset, and Night). And all three have a charm of its own.

Amazing view, but just 2 corners to take pictures that are usually long line to take a picture but I liked the place. It would be nice if they had tables or chairs to sit and wait for family members or friends sell affordable drinks and water that will be a good addition to the place.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

I went to One World, Empire started building, and the top of the Rock. I loved the view of the Empire State Building from the top of the rock. My favorite along with the Empire State Building! Wait time was short enough too- I think I've lined up for about 10 minutes which was not too bad.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min

This place is just amazing. 360 degree views. People were awesome. 100% will go back. The express pass is the only way to go!! Straight to the 69th floor no waiting in the huge lines. Cost double but worth every penny of it.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$31+

The top of the rock is probably one of the best viewing platforms in New York. An amazing view on the Empire State Building and Central Park. Can be very busy at all times so expect yourself to queue a lot downstairs and also upstairs to get back down.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

What an amazing place to visit. You get a fantastic view of the city and central park. It's worth spending an hour here to soak it all up. It is a great photo opportunity and a place to make some memories.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

I’ve been visiting top of the rock for the last 10 years or so and every time I’m as surprised as the first time. Views are amazing, you can see the Empire State, the one world observatory and most of the iconic Mew York buildings.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Wonderful experience overlooking NYC. Very cool vantage point and lots to see. If you are in the area, I would recommend checking it out once. Dress warm though, it gets COLD up at the too, especially in November.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

It was such a good choice to visit! I really enjoyed watching the night view here. Better than the view on top of the empire state building. Be aware that there are a lot of people and book tickets in advance!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Spectacular views from the top of the Rockefeller building. Involves a lot of queueing even with pre-booked tickets though both when accessing the deck but also when you're exiting. Probably spent over an hour in queues. But the views were great and the staff were really efficient and helpful. More

Stunning view! It has maybe the most famous scene of Empire State building and New York from top. Be cautious about sunset hours (extra $15 per person). Once in a lifetime
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$31+

It was a great experience! Especially as we visited at night. The NY skyline at night was spectacular! But it was too windy so taking photos with the mobile at night is tough. All in all it was worth it!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Beautiful scenes. Well worth the view. We had a super clear day as you can see. A lot of security checks before you get to where you need to be. Get your camera ready in the elevator too!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

It offers 360-degree panoramic views of New York City, including Central Park, the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge. I would recommend visiting the Top of the Rock at sunset, as the views are especially beautiful at this time of day. More

You have to put this one on your must visit list when in New York. The view of the New York skylines from here are amazing, especially at night. You get a 360° clear view at the very top. The wait time was short, and when you are in the lift/elevator, make sure to look up.

A wonderful view and a fun angle to see the city from. More expensive than I would have liked for a shorter activity. Although you could stay up there longer if you wanted. We were up on top for about 25 minutes. It also looked like the lines could get pretty crazy.

Super nice view of NYC! I don’t give 5 stars because some of the staff were rude. The guy who sells the tickets inside the little mall they have downstairs was the best staff I met in New York. Unfortunately the others on the top we didn’t have luck More

One of my favorite views and destinations when visiting New York City with first timers. The ️ views are epic, as you get equal parts, Central Park and lower Manhattan and everything between the two rivers. The staff are temporary so

BETTER THAN EMPIRE STATE BUILDING. The views were Incredible! We went during the “prime time” so it was extra for the views but it was totally worth it. It’s nice that everything is glass so that you have an unobstructed view of NYC. If you

This observation deck is pretty cool. There is some sort of visual thing on the ceiling of the elevator, but I can’t look straight up due to a neck injury and the audio was really mumbly so I ignored it. Overall I would recommend this place

Wonderful panoramic views of New York , Pretty crowded but very nice weather today. Compare to the empire state building, the price is great ,good value.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Didn’t know it was a timed entry thing, so we ended up having to wait awhile after buying tickets to go up. Tickets were also really expensive. However, this was absolutely worth it! The view from the top was amazing, allowing you a 360°

Top of the rock gives you an amazing view, not only for the empire state building, but also on the central park! It was my most favourite view spot, out of the 3 or 4 that they have in NYC. In the evening it gets pretty crowded, and if

One of the best experiences! We were lucky to see the beautiful sunset. The staff is festive and friendly The sandwich was delicious.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Too expensive for that. I booked 6.55 pm today to see the sunset at 7.44pm. We couldn't find a place to see the view as this place is far too small and it was already full of people sticking there 45 mins before the sunset.

Great views we went at sunset and we queued for about 30 mins to up and then queued for about 30min to come down. Whilst the observation were busy, you could find spaces to take good photos would recommend. More

Absolutely fantastic, the views over Southern Manhattan are incredible, the view over the Park are also quite nice. Go there to see the sunset, and see the Empire State Building lightning up