The best view of the island of Manhattan is, no doubt, from the top of Rockefeller Center. Top of the Rock is a romantic place where people can enjoy a panoramic view of all sides and angles of this wonderful city. Central Park in one direction, the Freedom Tower in another, and the Empire State Building front and center.

Whether you are a tourist or a New Yorker, this is something that you should definitely experience at least once in a lifetime. My personal connection to this beautiful spot is that it is where my sister was proposed to. Amy, and her now husband, shared one of the most unforgettable moments of their life atop the Rockefeller building overlooking the glistening buildings in the sunlight.

Top of the Rock stands at seventy stories high and is also the thirteenth tallest building in Manhattan. Since 1988, it has been referred to as the GE Building, and the RCA Building. Currently, 30 Rock is also home to the NBC headquarters, along with many other high standing corporations. When the limestone beauty was deemed finished in 1933, it received attention from people everywhere. The modern and innovative architecture of the building captured the attention of many, making it one of New York City’s most visited attractions.

Rockefeller Center itself is an exceedingly famous NYC landmark. It houses the Rockefeller Ice Skating Rink, which is one of the places my boyfriend took me to celebrate my eighteenth birthday in November. The Rockefeller lobby is where most of the commercial things happen. Here you can buy Top of the Rock tickets, go into Swarovski, shop at fancy chocolatiers and spend time admiring the gorgeous decor.

The Top of the Rock experience is not simply the three-tier observation deck, it is also the waiting room, and the elevator on the way up. The waiting area and security check point consists of a large room filled with pictures and descriptions of the construction of Rockefeller Center. The huge floor-to-ceiling windows also overlook the world renowned Radio City Music Hall. There is also a small area where you can take a picture in front of a beautiful city skyline backdrop. The elevator has a special roof that plays an interactive video all the way up to the seventieth floor. It is overall a very cool experience.