Rockefeller Center Timings | Making the Most of Your Visit

Rockefeller Center

Operating hours:

Rockefeller Center Plaza: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (Always accessible)
Shops & restaurants: Hours vary by establishment. Most establishments are open between 11am and 5pm.
Top of the Rock Observation Deck:
Daily: 8am to midnight
Last entry: 11pm

Jan 1 TO Dec 31 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Dec 31)	TIMINGS
Monday	24:00–23:59
Tuesday	24:00–23:59
Wednesday	24:00–23:59
Thursday	24:00–23:59
Friday	24:00–23:59
Saturday (Today)	24:00–23:59
Sunday	24:00–23:59

Rockefeller Center itself is never entirely closed, but some shops and restaurants may be closed on major holidays.

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Rockefeller Center Guided Tour

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Top of the Rock with 2 or 3 Top NYC Attraction Tickets

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Best time to visit the Rockefeller Center

Weekday vs Weekend

The peak season at the Rockefeller Center coincides with the holiday season. This is when the center transforms with the famous Christmas tree and ice skating rink. The festive atmosphere is truly magical, attracting visitors from all over the world. The center is bustling with activity, and a palpable sense of joy in the air.

On the other hand, the off-peak seasons, such as summer and early fall, offer a more relaxed experience. The crowds are significantly smaller, making it easier to explore the center at your own pace. The weather is also generally pleasant (~10°C to 28°C or 50°F to 83°F) during these months, perfect for leisurely strolls around the center’s art deco buildings and beautiful gardens.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant

Crowded

Very Crowded

Closed

Peak season vs low season

Weekdays, especially Monday and Tuesday, are typically quieter at the Rockefeller Center. Many local residents are at work, and there are fewer tourists compared to the weekends. This makes weekdays an excellent time to visit if you prefer a more peaceful atmosphere. You’ll have more space to enjoy the center’s attractions and shorter wait times for the Top of the Rock.

Weekends at the Rockefeller Center are a different story. They tend to be busier, with more local visitors and tourists alike. The center buzzes with energy, and there’s often a variety of special events and performances to enjoy. If you’re visiting on a weekend, consider arriving early in the morning or late in the evening to beat the crowds.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season

Moderate Season

Peak Season

How long should I spend at the Rockefeller Center?

For the cultural explorer

Plan to spend about half a day, approximately four to five hours, exploring the cultural offerings of the Rockefeller Center.

NBC Studios Tour: Begin with a tour of the NBC Studios for a behind-the-scenes look at some of your favorite shows. You’ll get a chance to see where shows like “Saturday Night Live” are filmed.
Art Deco Buildings and Artworks: Explore the Art Deco buildings and artworks that make up the Rockefeller Center. Don’t miss the famous bronze Atlas sculpture located across from St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Top of the Rock Observation Deck: Cap off your day with a trip to the Top of the Rock observation deck for sweeping views of midtown Manhattan. This is a must-visit for any cultural explorer.

For the shopaholic

If you’re looking to spend your time shopping and exploring the various dining experiences that Rockefeller Center has to offer, dedicate anywhere from half a day to a full day to explore the massive retail collections.

Rockefeller Plaza: Start your shopping spree at the iconic Rockefeller Plaza, home to a range of flagship stores and high-end boutiques. It’s a must-visit for any shopaholic.
Underground Concourse: Next, browse the unique shops and eateries in the Underground Concourse. This underground shopping complex offers a variety of stores and restaurants to choose from.
Explore the Channel Gardens: For a broader shopping experience, explore the Channel Gardens area of the Rockefeller Center. This section is known for its variety of retail spots, including a mix of local brands, international names, and up-and-coming designers.

Shopping at the Rockefeller Center

For the festive visitor

If you’re visiting to enjoy the festivities of the Christmas season, aim to spend a delightful two to three hours to soak in the holiday spirit at the Rockefeller Center.

The Christmas Tree and Ice Skating Rink: Start your day by marveling at the giant Christmas tree and the ice-skating rink. This is where New York City’s most famous holiday attractions come alive with a tree-lighting ceremony each year in early December.
Channel Gardens: Next, take a tour of the Channel Gardens which are beautifully decorated for the holiday season. The gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights and festive decorations.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular: End your day with the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, a holiday tradition featuring the Rockettes. This iconic show is a must-see for any festive visitor.

Frequently asked questions about the Rockefeller Center hours

What are the timings for the Top of the Rock Observation Deck?

The Top of the Rock Observation Deck is open daily from 8am to midnight. The last entry is at 11.10pm.

Is the Rockefeller Center open all days of the week?

Yes, the Rockefeller Center is open all days of the year, not just of the week.

What are the timings for the ice skating rink at the Rockefeller Center?

The ice skating rink at the Rockefeller Center opens at 11am and closes at 11pm. However, it is only open from October to March.

What is the best time to visit the Rockefeller Center?

The best time to visit the Rockefeller Center is early morning or late afternoon when it’s less crowded. The views from the Top of the Rock are particularly stunning during sunset.

How long should I plan to spend at the Rockefeller Center?

On average, visitors spend 2-3 hours at the Rockefeller Center. However, if you plan to visit the Top of the Rock, dine at one of the restaurants, or do some shopping, you might want to allocate more time.