Rockefeller Center was first envisioned by American business tycoon John D. Rockefeller over a hundred years ago as a “city within a city.”
Construction began on Rockefeller Center during the worst years of the Great Depression, employing thousands of individuals and that is only the beginning of Rockefeller’s philanthropy and contributions. Today, Rockefeller Center is a beautiful building complex with art deco details, historical significance, and entertainment attractions. TV shows like Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock are filmed at 30 Rockefeller Plaza while the building complex has been featured in Sleepless in Seattle, Home Alone 2, and Elf.
Arriving at Rockefeller Center, you first see the grand building with a statue of the mythical Atlas holding up the world in a representation of Rockefeller’s personal philosophy. Other artistic decorations include Winged Mercury, the Fraternity of Man, and other murals commissioned by Rockefeller himself to represent man’s struggle and success. Several innovations and traditions started here such as the annual lighting of the Christmas tree and the skating rink. Visit during the spring and summer months to see the flowers in full bloom in the Channel Gardens and during the winter holidays for the special shows.
Rockefeller Center is home to Radio City Music Hall and the iconic Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes. Be in the audience for a taping of the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon at NBC Studios or look out over the New York City skyline from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck where you will see one of the best views in the city.