2. Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center – Most Art Deco

The deck and view of NYC"s Top of the Rock, one of the best NYC observation decks
Photograph Courtesy of Tishman Speyer

Rockefeller Center boasts one of the most iconic NYC observation decks, from Top of the Rock, which offers some of the best views. Though the Top of the Rock as New Yorkers know it today only opened in 2005, the tradition of visitors climbing to the 70th floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza dates back to 1935 when the observation deck first opened. At that time, the available deck space was only 190 feet, compared to today’s 9,500 square feet. Early 20th-century guests lounged on Adirondack chairs in a setting designed to invoke the atmosphere of a luxury ocean liner deck. There was an outdoor refreshment bar that served sliced egg and tomato sandwiches, pie, and frosted malts, tour guides to answer all your questions, and souvenirs to buy like ashtrays, lighters, compacts, and tiepins.

Secrets of Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center

The deck closed in 1986 and reopened in 2005 after major renovations. Today, visitors will experience fascinating exhibitions about Rockefeller Center’s construction and breathtaking views of the city’s skyline on the expansive rooftop deck, 850 feet in the air. You can make your reservations online here and uncover more secrets of Rockefeller Center on our upcoming walking tour of the Art Deco complex! Please note that Untapped New York’s walking tour does not include access to Top of the Rock.