Rockefeller Center | All About This New York City Icon

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Quick information

ADDRESS

45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111, USA

RECOMMENDED DURATION

5+ hours

Timings

12am–11:59pm

TICKETS

From $ 29.40

NUMBER OF ENTRANCES

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

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Did you know?

A self-financed Project: The Rockefeller Center stands as a testament to vision and financial prowess. Despite the economic downturn during the Great Depression, he personally financed the project, turning it into a symbol of resilience and determination.

A hub of art and culture: The center is a hub of art and culture, housing over 100 sculptures and mosaics created by 39 different artists. The renowned statue of Atlas and the prominent friezes on the site were the work of Lee Lawrie, who has the most number of pieces in the center.

From botanical garden to iconic landmark: The land that the Rockefeller Center occupies today was once a botanical garden. David Hosack, a local physician, bought the land from the city of New York in 1801 for $4,800 and transformed it into a garden. This piece of rural land has since evolved into an iconic landmark in the heart of New York City.

Brief history the Rockefeller Center

The Rockefeller Center, an iconic landmark in New York City, was born out of a vision to create a city within a city during the Great Depression. John D. Rockefeller Jr., the driving force behind this project, leased the land from Columbia University in 1928 and ventured on a journey to transform the city’s landscape.

1931: Tradition of Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree begins, becoming a symbol of holiday cheer.

1932: Construction of Rockefeller Center commences amidst economic hardship.

1933: The first buildings of the Center open to the public, offering hope and resilience during challenging times.

1934: Rainbow Room opens as the highest-elevated restaurant of its time, providing a unique dining experience.

1936: Rockefeller Center skating pond opens, quickly becoming a popular recreational spot.

1939: Core of Rockefeller Center completed, standing as a symbol of innovation and architectural excellence.

Over the years, the Center has evolved into a hub of culture, art, and entertainment, adding significance to the city's landscape. It is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and offices, including the headquarters of NBC and the famous Radio City Music Hall. The Rockefeller Center continues to grow, offering new experiences and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

Architecture of the Rockefeller Center

The Rockefeller Center is a marvel of modern architecture and urban planning. Its design is a testament to the collaborative efforts of a team of architects with expertise in various fields. The center’s design superbly demonstrates how tall buildings can be seamlessly integrated into the cityscape.

30 Rockefeller Plaza, originally called the RCA Building and now known as either 30 Rock or the Comcast Building, is the centerpiece of the complex. This Art Deco masterpiece designed by Raymond Hood exudes elegance with its clean lines and impressive height. Its limestone entrance rises above its neighbors in a series of stepped verticals, with aluminum spandrels creating a vertical pattern of lines that emphasize the building’s height.

The center boasts a remarkable collection of art in almost all of its buildings, its expansive underground concourse, its ice-skating rink, and its annual lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. The center is a ‘city within a city’, housing corporate headquarters, offices, television studios, theaters, shops, and restaurants. Its status as a National Historic Landmark is a recognition of its architectural significance and its role in shaping the city’s identity.

Frequently asked questions about the Rockefeller Center

What is there to do or see at the Rockefeller Center?

The Rockefeller Center is a complex of 19 commercial buildings covering 22 acres in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. It includes Radio City Music Hall, art installations, an ice-skating rink, and hosts various businesses and television studios.

What facilities are available in the Rockefeller Center?

The Rockefeller Center offers various facilities, including businesses, television studios, shopping and dining options, art installations, an expansive underground concourse, and an ice-skating rink.

Are there any special events at Rockefeller Center?

Yes, Rockefeller Center hosts various special events throughout the year. These include concerts, art exhibitions, and seasonal events like the Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

Are there food options at Rockefeller Center?

Yes, the Rockefeller Center offers a wide range of dining options. It hosts a variety of over 40 restaurants, cafes, and food outlets offering diverse culinary experiences.

Is the Rockefeller Center wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Rockefeller Center is wheelchair accessible. There are elevators to all levels and ramps throughout the complex.

Why is the Rockefeller Center important?

The Rockefeller Center, built during the Great Depression, is a symbol of hope and progress. Its unique blend of Art Deco and Modernist styles makes it a notable example of early 20th-century design. The center is also known for its extensive artwork, innovative features like parking garages and centralized heating systems, and its annual Christmas tree lighting event.

How old is the Rockefeller Center?

The construction of the Rockefeller Center began in 1931 and the first buildings were opened in 1933. The core of the complex was completed by 1939. So, as of 2024, the Rockefeller Center is approximately 85 years old.