New York City Things to Do Tips by Robin922

Cooler view than the Empire State Building Top of the Rock Review

One of the top 10 things to do has been to go to the top of the Empire State Buiding and enjoy the bird's eye view of the city. However, there's something better.... The Top of the Rock.

Not only do you get a great view of the city (360 degree), you can take photos of the Empire State Building and Central park. There are 3 different observation floors, the two lower have a plexaglass barrier, with slits to photograph through, and the top (70th floor) is totaly open and great for photographers.

While many websites, say buy your ticket early, and be ready to wait. I had no problems, with lines. They open the doors at 8am, which is when I arrived... no line. Then I returned that night at 7 pm, and found a very short line (less than 5 minutes)

You can buy your tickets online (at thier website) Also they sometimes offer special online deals. You can buy a two visit ticket for only $10 more. This will allow you to visit in the daytime, then again after dark. If you only want to go up once it's $20 plus $2 if you want a map of the city.

Photographer note: The 70th floor is closed if there is lighting in the area. Also they an aggrement with Kodak not to let you use a full size tripod. I got buy with the monopod, but not sure if it was just luck. You are allowed to use a mini tripods or beanbags and there are large ledges to set up on.

Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, Manhattan

Directions: Rockefeller Center on top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. TOP OF THE ROCK has an exclusive entrance on West 50th Street, between fifth and 6th Avenues, which leads directly to the ticket counter.

Phone: 212-698-2000

Website: http://www.topoftherocknyc.com