Your hassle-free guide to getting to the Rockefeller Center

Directions

Where is the Rockefeller Center located

The Rockefeller Center is located between W 49th Street and W 50th Street in bustling Midtown Manhattan within walking distance of popular landmarks including the St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Times Square.

Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111, United States | Find on Maps

Closest landmark: St. Patrick's Cathedral (0.1 miles)

Getting to the Rockefeller Center by public transport

By bus

Travel time: 25 minutes from the Flatiron Building

Closest stop: 6th Avenue & West 47th Street (154 ft)

Timings: 24x7

The Rockefeller Center is well-connected by bus, thanks to its convenient location in Midtown Manhattan. Take bus M2 from Park Ave South/E 23rd Street to the Madison Av/E 49th Street bus stop or M7 from 6th Avenue & West 23rd Street to 6th Avenue & West 47th Street bus stop. Both bus stops are within walking distance, less than 100 meters from the Rockefeller Center.

By subway

Travel time: 11 to 13 minutes from the Flatiron Building

Closest stop: 47-50 Sts-Rockefeller Center (75 ft)

Timings: 24x7

Numerous subway options can help you reach the Rockefeller Center from the Flatiron Building. You could take subway R from 23rd Street to 34th St-Herald Square. Then switch to line F and reach the 47-50 Street-Rockefeller Center subway station. Although you need to switch lines, this is the fastest route. Alternatively, you can take a direct subway (R line) from 23rd Street to the 49th Street subway station, which is about 0.2 miles from the Rockefeller Center. Subway lines F, W, and M also connect the Flatiron Building to the Rockefeller Center.

Getting to the Rockefeller Center by Car

Driving route

Travel time: 10 to 30 minutes

From Flatiron Building

Exit the Flatiron Building and get on 5th Avenue. Take an immediate right onto W 21st Street and drive for about 0.2 miles.
Turn right at the 1st cross toward 6th Avenue. Now, drive around 1.3 miles before turning right to W 48th Street, where the Rockefeller Center Parking Garage is located.
The total distance is around 1.7 miles and typically takes 10 to 20 minutes by car, depending on the traffic conditions.

Parking

There is plenty of parking available close to the Rockefeller Center at The Rockefeller Center Parking Garage. The parking lot is open 24/7 and is located at 53 West 48th Street, around 300 feet from the Rockefeller Center. The hourly rate is about $23.10, including the service fee for standard-size vehicles.

Parking facilities: The Rockefeller Center Parking Garage

Timings: Open 24 hours

Daily rates: Hourly parking rates start from $23

Walking to the Rockefeller Center

Travel time: 30 hour

Distance: 1.3 miles

We highly recommend walking to the Rockefeller Center from the Flatiron Building to soak in New York’s vibrant city life, particularly if you have time on your hands. You will find the beautiful and world-famous Madison Square Park on your right as soon as you exit the Flatiron Building. Soon after crossing W 33rd Street, you will also see the iconic Empire State Building on your left, towering above 5th Avenue. All in all, you will get a first-hand experience of what life is like in one of the busiest areas of the Big Apple as you walk past several key landmarks, popular restaurants, gardens, and other attractions.

Best ways to get to the Rockefeller Center

Budget-friendly: The fastest and the most pocket-friendly way to get to the Rockefeller Center using public transport is by subway. It typically costs around $2.90 per swipe on top of the $1 you need to pay to buy a new card. Alternatively, consider traveling using OMNY or a MetroCard if you intend to use the subway frequently.
Fastest route: The fastest way to get to the Rockefeller Center is by car or taxi, especially if you’re planning a visit at night since there is very little traffic. While it takes around 5 to 7 minutes to cover the 1.7-mile journey at night, it can take 10 to 25 minutes to cover the same distance during the day. We recommend taking the subway during peak hours to avoid traffic and reach the Rockefeller Center without significant delays.
Sightseeing: Walking to the Rockefeller Center is a good idea if you are not in a rush. It is the best way to get familiar with the city’s lively atmosphere and also see some of the legendary landmarks including the Empire State Building and Madison Square Park.

Entering the Rockefeller Center

The Rockefeller Center has multiple entrances for the different attractions within the complex. Take the entrance on 50th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues if you want to visit The Top of the Rock observation deck for sweeping views of New York City. Use the entrance on 30 Rockefeller Plaza if you have booked the Rockefeller Center tour.

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Frequently asked questions about getting to the Rockefeller Center

What is the best mode of public transport to reach the Rockefeller Center from the airport?

The best and fastest way to get to the Rockefeller Center using public transport is by train. The commute time is around 50 minutes.

What is the most convenient way to reach Rockefeller Center if I am within the city?

The most convenient way is by bus or subway; both stop within walking distance from the Rockefeller Center.

I'm traveling with young children. How easy is it to get to the Rockefeller Center with a stroller?

It is worth noting that both subways and buses are stroller-friendly and located at a decent height, so it isn’t a hassle to lift or lower it while getting on or off buses and subways. That said, be more attentive and mindful during peak hours for a better experience.

Is there anything to see along the way while walking to the Rockefeller Center?

Yes, you can see several iconic landmarks while walking to the Rockefeller Center including Madison Square Park, the Empire State Building, Bryant Park, and the New York Public Library to name a few.