The popular sitcom “30 Rock” gave audiences in the U.S. a satirical sneak peek at what goes on inside just one of the massive structures in the 22 acres (89,000 square meters) that make up Rockefeller Center. The address 30 Rockefeller Center is where the NBC studios are housed and where the comedy show “Saturday Night Live” is filmed. Besides the studios, the Rockefeller Center complex is a news media, publishing, and entertainment icon declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987. It features Radio City Music Hall, the original Time-Life Building, “Today Show” studios, the Simon & Schuster Building, and the initial RKO Pictures (renamed the GE Building) and McGraw-Hill buildings.

Steeped in Rich History

The Rockefeller Center complex was built during the Great Depression, providing essential work for New Yorkers. It was commissioned by the Rockefeller family on land formerly owned by Columbia University. Construction started in 1931, and the first buildings opened in 1933. The central part of the complex was completed by 1939, showcasing architecture that reflects the popular Art Deco style. Remarkably, Rockefeller Center was revolutionary in incorporating artwork throughout both public and private spaces, adding parking garages, and providing centralized heating systems.

Furthermore, the center is one of New York City’s most visited sites, especially during the winter when it transforms into a holiday wonderland with its iconic tree and ice skating rink.

Location and Nearest Subways

Rockefeller Center is a massive complex spanning the area between 48th and 51st Streets and Fifth and Sixth Avenue. To get there by subway, you can take the B, D, F, M lines to the 47th-50th Street Rockefeller Center stop. Additionally, you can take the 1 train to the 50th Street stop, the 6 train to the 51st Street stop, or the N, Q, R lines to the 49th Street stop.

Guided Tour & Dinner

Discover the marvelous sights of Rockefeller Center through a guided tour. For a posh experience, consider planning a dinner and enjoying handcrafted cocktails at the Rainbow Room restaurant on the 65th floor of 30 Rock, offering stunning views overlooking the promenade.

Art and the Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Rockefeller Center showcases a number of well-known works of art, including murals and the famous bronze Atlas sculpture situated across from St. Patrick’s Cathedral. In addition, consider a stop at the Top of the Rock observation deck for sweeping views of midtown Manhattan.

The Holiday Season

The Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center is one of New York City’s most famous holiday attractions, featuring a tree-lighting ceremony every year in early December. Moreover, one of the quintessential New York City experiences is ice skating at the Rockefeller ice rink.

Rockefeller Center Tours

Learn intimate details about Rockefeller Center by taking a curated tour. Notably, several guided tours provide an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Rockefeller Center and NBC Studios, including the Radio City Music Hall’s “Stage Door Tour.”

TV Shows Broadcast From Rockefeller Center

Experiencing a live taping is one of the free activities at Rockefeller Center. You can be part of the studio audience for shows that are broadcast from Rockefeller Center, such as “Saturday Night Live” or “The Tonight Show.”

Nearby Attractions

Rockefeller Center is conveniently located in midtown near many attractions, including St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the New York Public Library, and Central Park. Keep a ​map of the neighborhood handy to meticulously plan your visit to midtown Manhattan.