One of the most ornate and wealthy areas of the city, Rockefeller Center is the perfect spot for upscale shopping, dining and entertainment. This "city within a city" is a 21-acre wonderland of restaurants, theaters, and other imposing structures. It is also the site of the world-famous Christmas tree lighting and ice skating rink, as well as NBC Studios and Radio City Music Hall. The following is a brief guide to Rockefeller Center.
At 10 Rockefeller Plaza there is a six-level parking garage, so if you're approaching by private vehicle, this will be a good place to park it. Also, bear in mind that an underground concourse runs the length of the plaza, allowing for almost unlimited mobility within; so once you're parked, you should be able to access everything without much trouble. There's plenty to do outside, such as enjoy free outdoor concerts on select dates, or just wander around the pavilion. The architecture is impressive - the epitome of Art Deco design. You might notice a small bar by the name of Hurley's that seems to be a bit out of place among the sprawling skyscrapers that surround it. The owner of Hurley's was the only proprietor in the area that refused to sell to Rockefeller at the time of the center's development. As a result, the bar has the appearance of hanging off the end of the complex.
Rockefeller Center boasts more than 25 restaurants that generally cater to an upscale crowd, most notably the Rainbow Room, which is located on the 65th floor of the 70-story GE Building. The Rainbow Room features first-rate entertainment and usually upper-crust patrons as well. Naturally, prices are a little steep. For additional entertainment, be sure to explore the Guild Theater at 33 West 50th Street for movie showings, and the Taipei Theater and Gallery at 1221 Avenue of the Americas for a variety of folk performers and exhibits. The International Building at 5th Avenue between 50th and 51st streets features a huge statue of Atlas and a marble lobby. The building is the home of foreign consulates and international airlines.
Popular highlights include NBC Studios, Radio City Music Hall, the lighting of the large Christmas tree, and the ice skating rink. NBC's "Today" show is produced from the studio that overlooks 49th Street and Rockefeller Plaza - tours are available. Also, be sure to check out the "NBC Experience," an interactive event. The famous outdoor ice-skating rink opens in October and remains accessible until April.
Rockefeller Center pamphlets are available at the GE Building information desk. Contact the Guild Theater at (212) 757-2406 for schedules and screening information. The Taipei Theater and Gallery can be reached at (212) 373-1850. For NBC tours call (212) 664-7174.
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