Tour Rockefeller Center in 2025: 7 Things to Do

You have probably heard about the ice rink and annual Christmas tree, but did you know there is so much more to Rockefeller Center in NYC? As a central hub, you will find shopping, dining, observation decks, a performance hall, gardens, and film studios. Plan to spend the day at Rockefeller Center and learn about its history as an icon in Midtown, New York City. 

1. Top of the Rock

Take in the 360-degree view at the Top of the Rock observation deck. Explore the three levels of the indoor and outdoor decks with unobstructed views of Manhattan. Elevate your experience by booking tickets for the Skylift experience, taking you even higher. Purchase tickets to The Beam Experience and experience a piece of history.

2. The Rink

Locals and visitors flock to The Rink at Rockefeller Center in NYC as a fun outdoor activity. During winter, the ice rink opens for skating, which has been a quintessential NYC activity for decades. The ice rink is packed away during the summer, and the area becomes an outdoor adult playground. In addition, Rockefeller Center hosts numerous art exhibits where you can appreciate artistic talents. You can also do a bit of shopping and enjoy al fresco dining at Rockefeller Center.

3. Rockefeller Center Tour

Several Rockefeller Center Tours are available, including a 75-minute classic tour. The Rock Pass focuses on art and history. The VIP Rock Pass is a 2-hour extended experience. There is also a tour tailored for young visitors, ages 6-12, that takes them on an interactive tour of Rockefeller Center.

4. Rainbow Room

The Rainbow Room at Rockefeller Center is a private event space. It has seen movie stars, dignitaries, and countless influential people grace its floors. Thanks to its opulent design, the Rainbow Room has a reputation for being the perfect sumptuous setting for glamorous events.

5. Channel Gardens

Take a stroll outside and see the many sculptures at Rockefeller Center. Seasonal displays adorn the Channel Gardens throughout the year, including Easter, fall, and Christmas. The merman fountains come to life in the warm months, with water flowing into elegant pools. The pools are drained and filled with lush winter foliage in the winter months.

6. Radio City Music Hall

The Rockettes have made Radio City Music Hall famous with their popular Christmas Spectacular show. However, this concert hall is home to shows throughout the year. Tickets can be purchased for several shows, from comedy and arts to theater and dance performances. For an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience, book the stage door tour.

7. The Tour at NBC Studios

Rockefeller Center in NYC is where you will find the NBC studios. It is where shows like Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and TODAY are filmed. Tours are escorted through the production process as you view what it takes to produce your favorite shows.

Know Before You Go 

Rockefeller Center Plaza is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, there are limited times for each of the experiences. It is best to book tickets in advance, as some experiences book quickly. Touring the NBC studios is reliant on filming schedules. If you want to experience the full beauty of the Channel Gardens, visit during the summer when it is lush with greenery. However, if ice skating at Rockefeller Center in NYC is your dream, you’ll need to visit during winter.

Book your stay at the boutique Belvedere Hotel and be blocks away from Rockefeller Center.