Woosshh to the Top of the Rocks! (Top of The Rock (New York City))

Member Name: denise40

Product:	Top of The Rock (New York City)
Date:	18/12/07 (101 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: You can see the empire state building and its a cheaper option

Disadvantages: It can be very cold up there in march time

I stumbled against this wee gem by accident and was really glad I did! Its at the Rockerfela centre the main entrance is 50th Street between 5th and 6th Avenue. Its open between 8am to midnight. To get up to the observatory deck you go up an elevator which goes whoosshh (it goes so fast it makes you ave butterflies)!

Once at the top you can see the same type of views as you do at the empire state building however in my opinion they are more breathtaking. The observatory is on the 70th floor, 850 feet up in the sky. You could see central park but as I went up at night this view wasn't as clear as what it would have been during the day. You can see for miles in every direction as there is 360 degree panoramic views. You can see the northern half of manhattan and this cannot be seen anywhere else. Other landmarks to be seen are Times Square and the Chrysler Building. The views are unobstructed by clear glass. However the glass was slightly scored on certain pieces and it was annoying when taking photographs (you need to turn off your flash or you can't see the view behind you) but there is small gaps you can take your photos through if you have a small enough camera to fit between the gaps.

It was very cold (I went in March time) and I would definately advise you to wrap up warm as it can b very windy and snowy, hats and gloves are strongly advised.I went up at night and it was so magical seeing the city glitter below me.

A bonus was that it wasn't busy at all so I didnt have to wait in queues and we had the platforms to ourselves which made the experience even better, with uninterrupted views and no-one pushing into you. Also the fact that you can see the Empire State Building in the view I felt made it more interesting and therefore better than the view from the Empire State Building itself. Also it was a cheaper option, tickets were $18 each. I definately would advise someone to go here!

Orginally posted on Ciao under my username denisekelly40

Summary: Great place to visit