Top of the Rock, Midtown Tour with Optional Empire State Building

New York City , United States of America

Top of the Rock, Midtown Tour with Optional Empire State Building

Active

(1 reviews)

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the best of Midtown Manhattan with this expertly guided tour that takes you through some of New York City’s most iconic landmarks. Start at Rockefeller Center, where you’ll ascend to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck for breathtaking 360-degree views of Manhattan. From the 70th floor, take in stunning sights of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the city skyline. Your expert guide will provide insights into the history and significance of Rockefeller Center, making this more than just a photo opportunity.

After soaking in the views, continue on a walking tour through Midtown. Stroll past the elegant New York Public Library and enjoy the atmosphere of Bryant Park. Walk along the famous 5th Avenue, where your guide will share the history behind this legendary shopping street and its architectural landmarks.

For those who want to enhance their experience, an optional visit to the Empire State Building offers a final, unforgettable perspective of the city.

Available options

Empire State Admission Upgrade

Empire State Building Upgrade: Choose this upgrade to finish your tour with a visit, at your own pace, of the legenday Empire State Building !

Top of the Rock & Midtown Tour

Top of The Rock Midtown Tour: Choose this option for a guided tour of Top of the Rock and Midtown Manhattan. Empire State Ticket NOT included.

What's included

Guided Tour of Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock

Admission to the Empire State Building 86th Floor Observatory (If Upgrade Selected)

English Speaking Expert Local Guide

Admission Ticket to Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Guided Walking Tour of Midtown Manhattan

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Experience Top of the Rock like never before with a guided tour. Your expert guide brings NYC’s skyline to life, sharing fascinating stories about its history, architecture, and iconic landmarks. Skip the guesswork and discover the best photo spots, insider secrets, and the incredible engineering behind 30 Rockefeller Plaza. With a local expert leading the way, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the city’s breathtaking views. Elevate your experience with knowledge and stunning sights.

Stop 2

Discover the charm of Fifth Avenue with your local guide. Walk along one of the world’s most famous streets while your guide shares insights into its rich history, luxury boutiques, and architectural gems. Learn about iconic landmarks like St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the New York Public Library while uncovering hidden details you might miss on your own. With expert storytelling, this journey offers a deeper connection to New York’s vibrant heart.

Stop 3

Explore Bryant Park and uncover the rich history behind this beloved NYC oasis. Once a neglected space, it has transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, events, and stunning landscapes. Your guide will share fascinating stories about its past, the architectural beauty surrounding it, and the hidden details that make it special. From its famous seasonal activities to its tranquil green spaces, your guidet offers a deeper appreciation of this urban gem.

Stop 4

Discover the grandeur of the New York Public Library from the outside. Admire its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture, iconic lion statues, and intricate details that make it one of New York’s most celebrated landmarks. Your guide will share fascinating stories about its history, famous visitors, and cultural significance. Learn about its role in literature, research, and film while gaining a deeper appreciation of this architectural masterpiece at the heart of Midtown.

Stop 5

Learn about Macy’s Herald Square with your guide and uncover the history of one of the world’s most iconic department stores. Standing since 1902, this legendary shopping destination is more than just retail—it’s a New York City landmark. Your guide will share stories of its architectural grandeur, historic wooden escalators, and its role in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Learn how this flagship store shaped American retail while admiring its timeless charm and significance in NYC culture.

Stop 6

Visit the Empire State Building [if upgrade selected] and experience one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks. With your entrance ticket, ascend to the 86th-floor observatory for breathtaking 360-degree views of the skyline. Take in famous sights like Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and Times Square from above. Explore interactive exhibits that showcase the building’s history and cultural impact. A must-visit for any NYC trip, this experience offers unforgettable views and a true taste of the city's magic.

What's not included

Gratuities

Guided Tour of Empire State Building

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour involves a fair amount of walking, comfortable shoes are recommended.

Meeting point

Please meet your guide in front of the MBL Flagship store in the corner of 6th Ave (Avenue of the Americas) & West 51st. Your guide will have a City Wonders flag for easy recogntition.

Important notes

• We kindly ask our guests to be at the meeting point 15 minutes before the departure time. Missed tours or tickets due to late arrivals cannot be refunded.
• Our City Wonders guides will have a City Wonders flag and/or sign at the meeting point for easy recognition.

• We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance. We are also unable to accommodate strollers or baby carriages on our tours.

• Gratuities to guides providing excellent service are appreciated

Accessibility/Restrictions
• We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance. We are also unable to accommodate strollers or baby carriages on our group tours.
• Most venues/attractions in NYC have airport-like security and item restrictions apply.
• We do not recommend bringing bags bigger than a bag pack. City Wonders is not responsible for dismissal of items or refused entry due to illicit items.
Attraction Guidelines
• Visitors with strollers are welcome to visit the Empire State Building and Top of Rock. However, they must be able to fold up the strollers in our observatory areas.
• Empire State and Top of The Rock does not permit outside food or beverages. Weapons of any kind are also prohibited. This includes but is not limited to: glass bottles, lighters, flammable substances, and knives of any kind, including pen knives, pocket knives, Swiss army knives, and switchblades. Tripods are also not permitted.

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information