It's on 6 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
A passion project of John D. Rockefeller Jr. (one of the wealthiest men of all time), Rockefeller Plaza was built during the Great Depression. Construction started in 1930 and lasted nearly 10 years (completed in 1939).
The project was a significant source of employment during the country’s most difficult economic times. At its peak, there were more than 40,000 construction workers tied to the job, when the country’s unemployment rate neared 25%.
In a lot of ways, Rockefeller Center was an investment in the future of NYC when things were looking bleak. The building was originally built to house the Metropolitan Opera but after the stock market crash in 1929, Rockefeller reimagined the space as a complex of commercial buildings alongside public areas.
As a whole, Rockefeller Center covers 22 acres and includes 19 commercial buildings, the most famous being 30 Rockefeller Plaza (which offers the best views of NYC, in my opinion) and Radio City Music Hall.
Every time I walk by Rockefeller Plaza, I half expect to see Buddy the Elf spinning in circles or Liz Lemon power-walking through a scene of 30 Rock. It’s one of those famous movie spots in NYC that always feels a little surreal in real life, especially during the holidays. Between the skating rink, the towering Christmas tree, and the Art Deco buildings, it’s practically made for the screen.
The most memorable Rockefeller moment for me? Standing in the exact spot where Home Alone 2 wraps up, Kevin gazing up at the tree, reunited with his mom. Gets me every time. Beyond that, you’ve got Elf, The Adjustment Bureau, Sleepless in Seattle, and countless cameos in everything from rom-coms to thrillers. I’ve even caught live filming happening on the Today Show set. If you’re exploring New York movie locations, this one is worth seeing in person. It’s polished, cinematic, and instantly familiar, even if you’ve never been before.
At the heart of Rockefeller Center stands the most beautiful Christmas tree in New York City. Crowned with a dazzling Swarovski star, the famous fir is draped in five miles of lights and serves as a breathtaking backdrop to a picturesque ice skating rink.
If that wasn’t enough, Saks Fifth Avenue’s popular light show (arguably the most famous Christmas light display in NYC) plays directly across from the tree. Admire the synchronized lights as they dance to classic Christmas music and fill the air with contagious holiday spirit.
As a local, I can confidently say that Rockefeller Center has the best Christmas decorations in New York City, this the one place you don’t want to miss while exploring the city for the holidays.
For a complete roundup, read.10 Festive Things to Do at the Rockefeller Center at Christmas
I brought my mom here on her first visit. She still talks about it.
Constructed during the Great Depression, Rockefeller Center is a building complex made up of 19 buildings spread across 22 acres. The complex was completed in 1939 and provided crucial employment during one of the nation’s toughest economic periods.
At its peak, there were more than 40,000 construction workers tied to the job (when the country’s unemployment rate neared staggering rates of 25%). Marked by famous Art Deco architecture, Rockefeller Center houses some of Midtown’s top attractions, like the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and Radio City Music Hall.
During the holidays, don’t miss the massive Rockefeller Christmas tree, often exceeding 75 feet!
One of the most iconic spots for NYC Christmas photos is Rockefeller Center, especially during the holiday season.
Each year, a new tree is carefully chosen, with an impressive requirement: it must stand at least 75 feet tall. Adorned with over 50,000 lights and crowned with a breathtakingly bright Swarovski star, this Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is truly unforgettable.
My suggestion is to plan your visit as early as possible, preferably in the morning. Given its status as one of the most popular NYC Christmas photo locations, the crowds can be overwhelming. On the bright side, the tree is illuminated at 6 AM, ensuring you can still enjoy its dazzling lights.
Most first time visitors will visit places like the Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and Wall Street and the attractions always dress the part, covered in decorations for the season.