Rockefeller Center Walking Tour With Optional Top of the Rock

New York City , United States of America

Rockefeller Center Walking Tour With Optional Top of the Rock

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(59 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Step back in time to the 1930s as we explore Rockefeller Center, often called a "city within a city." This Art Deco masterpiece will transport you to an era of grandeur and creativity, where we'll uncover the artistic influence of ancient Greece and more modern times.

Join your guide to explore the heart of Rock Center. We’ll visit iconic landmarks like Radio City Music Hall and the legendary 30 Rock — home to “Saturday Night Live” — and other renowned spots that define this historic site.

The scene here is always changing. In summer, the Channel Gardens are at their most vibrant with seasonal blooms. During Christmas, you can’t miss the opportunity to capture a photo against the famous evergreen — your guide is happy to snap pics for you.

At the very end of our tour, you’ll take your included ticket to Top of the Rock and head up over 800 feet to three levels of observatory views. See Manhattan from above with stunning 360-degree views, both inside and out.

Available options

Rockefeller Walking Tour Only

Walking Tour (no ticket): 90-minute walking tour of Rockefeller Center not including a ticket to the Top of the Rock.

Rockefeller Center Walking Tour With Top of the Rock

Walking Tour and Ticket : 90-minute walking tour of Rockefeller Center including a ticket to the Top of the Rock.

What's included

Ticket including all three levels of Top of the Rock (if option chosen)

Professional NYC tour guide

90-minute walking tour of Rockefeller Center

Detailed itinerary

This sculpture of the Greek mythological figure holding up the earth is the work of two artists from different disciplines. Here you’ll learn how Greek art influences much of what you’ll see at Rockefeller Center.

Stop 2

Marvel at the architecture inside and out in this neo-Gothic wonder, the largest Roman Catholic cathedral in America.

Stop 3

See nine bronze figures above the entrance to 620 Fifth Avenue and learn a little about their origin and what they represent.

Stop 4

This building has a grand entrance with two pieces of art. One is a woman holding a gilded torch to symbolize French freedom. The other is an elaborate bronze engraving showing more symbolic figures, including France and New York holding hands in friendship.

Though they bloom in summer, these gardens are scenic year-round. They include six granite pools with bronze fountainhead sculptures inspired by mythology. As you take in the views, learn about Prometheus, the many flags you’ll see here, and the various TV shows filmed at 30 Rock.

Also called the Comcast Building, this is the central building of Rockefeller Center. Learn about the giant Christmas tree that adorns it during the winter and what makes it so special.

Stop 7

This three-story mega store is the home of the oldest toy retailer in the country. On the way to it, see the Today Show studio and Christie's.

Stop 8

As we head down West 50th toward the Rockefeller Center, we’ll stop to admire the artwork on the side of this historic entertainment venue. Opened in 1932, Radio City Music Hall is the largest indoor theater in the world. Here, your guide will share more about its history and architecture.

Stop 9

Located above the entrance to 50 Rockefeller Plaza, this stainless steel 3D plaque is one of the largest Art Deco works in the complex. Your guide will explain how the five journalists pictured symbolize the industry of one of the building’s former tenants.

Stop 10

As you say goodbye, your guide will prepare you for what’s next as you visit the Top of the Rock, offering three levels of indoor and outdoor observatory views.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.7

14 reviews

5★

4★

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Tripadvisor 4.9

45 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

If you’ve booked this tour on the weekend, please be aware that delays are common due to street closures for events and parades that often cross 5th Avenue near Rockefeller Center. We strongly recommend arriving early to avoid any disruptions and ensure you don’t miss the start of your tour.

Meeting point

Please meet your guide by the statue of Atlas (a Greek god holding a globe on his shoulders) outside of the Rockefeller Center. You’ll find the statue in front of the main entrance to the Rockefeller Building. orange hat or blue jacket with "ExperienceFirst" written on it.

Important notes

Plan to show up 15 minutes early. The tour starts promptly, and you may not be able to catch up if you arrive late.

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information