I've heard people say that the Top of the Rock actually has better views of New York than the Empire State Building, but never believed them. (I've been to the Empire State Building at night; it was as beautiful as you would think it is.) However, after my trip to the Top of the Rock, I have to say that I'm officially on the side of The Rock.
Not only are the views better on the Top of the Rock (particularly the side facing towards Central Park), but the trip up and the all around experience is better, too. It took about half the time to get to the top versus the Empire State Building, and the service was friendly and inviting the whole way up. Plus, when you're at the top, you can take the escalator or stairs to the secondary perch atop the Rock and enjoy unimpeded views of the city from all angles. I was lucky enough to visit on a clear NYC morning (a Monday, no less - definitely go on a weekday if you can), and I took some fantastic views from above the streets of New York.
One thing I would suggest is to combine your ticket with one of the package deals the Top of the Rock offers. I bought the MoMA package, and was able to tour the Top of the Rock and the Museum of Modern Art for $38. (You save $12 total.) Plus, the voucher you're given for MoMA upon purchase is good through the end of the year, so it's not like you have to rush off to the museum that day. Definitely worthwhile if you plan on seeing both attractions. (There are also packages available that include NBC Studio Tours, too.)
Overall, if you've never been to the Top of the Rock, I highly recommend checking it out. I imagine the views are stunning at sunset, but they're pretty beautiful on a clear morning, too. And yes... It's BETTER than the Empire State Building. There. I said it.
This review was made by the www.nyctourist.com site editor based on personal experience. NYCTourist was not paid for this review, but we may receive compensation for placement of this travel provider advertisements on our site.
Jason Bushey
(NYCtourist Staff)
Aug 24, 2012
at 11:28 am
Points: 10
Joined: November 2010
xxx.xxx.185.247
Would recommend to a friend
Date of stay: 08/12
Top of The Rock - Dare I say, better than the Empire State Building?
Venue Reviewed: TOP OF THE ROCK™ Observation Deck
I've heard people say that the Top of the Rock actually has better views of New York than the Empire State Building, but never believed them. (I've been to the Empire State Building at night; it was as beautiful as you would think it is.) However, after my trip to the Top of the Rock, I have to say that I'm officially on the side of The Rock.
Not only are the views better on the Top of the Rock (particularly the side facing towards Central Park), but the trip up and the all around experience is better, too. It took about half the time to get to the top versus the Empire State Building, and the service was friendly and inviting the whole way up. Plus, when you're at the top, you can take the escalator or stairs to the secondary perch atop the Rock and enjoy unimpeded views of the city from all angles. I was lucky enough to visit on a clear NYC morning (a Monday, no less - definitely go on a weekday if you can), and I took some fantastic views from above the streets of New York.
One thing I would suggest is to combine your ticket with one of the package deals the Top of the Rock offers. I bought the MoMA package, and was able to tour the Top of the Rock and the Museum of Modern Art for $38. (You save $12 total.) Plus, the voucher you're given for MoMA upon purchase is good through the end of the year, so it's not like you have to rush off to the museum that day. Definitely worthwhile if you plan on seeing both attractions. (There are also packages available that include NBC Studio Tours, too.)
Overall, if you've never been to the Top of the Rock, I highly recommend checking it out. I imagine the views are stunning at sunset, but they're pretty beautiful on a clear morning, too. And yes... It's BETTER than the Empire State Building. There. I said it.
This review was made by the www.nyctourist.com site editor based on personal experience. NYCTourist was not paid for this review, but we may receive compensation for placement of this travel provider advertisements on our site.