Rockefeller Center is one of New York City’s most famous landmarks, known for its iconic ice rink, Top of the Rock observation deck, and NBC Studios. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this bustling attraction is easily accessible by subway, bus, taxi, or on foot. Whether you're coming from the airport, a nearby borough, or another part of NYC, getting here is simple.
Where is Rockefeller Center located?
You'll find Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan, surrounded by top attractions like Times Square and Fifth Avenue.
Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111, United States
Landmark: Near Radio City Music Hall and St. Patrick’s Cathedral
For the fastest and most convenient way to reach Rockefeller Center, public transport is the best option. Here’s what you need to know:
How to reach Rockefeller Center
By public transport
- Subway: Take the B, D, F, or M train to 47-50 Sts-Rockefeller Center Station.
The station is located directly beneath Rockefeller Center, making it the most convenient option.
- Bus: Routes M1, M2, M3, M4, M5 stop along Fifth Avenue, just a 2-minute walk away.
Routes M50 and M7 also have stops within a 5-minute walk of Rockefeller Plaza.
- Tram: NYC does not have a traditional tram system, but if you’re coming from Roosevelt Island, you can take the Roosevelt Island Tramway to 59th Street & 2nd Avenue and transfer to the M5 bus or subway to reach Rockefeller Center.
🚕 By taxi/car
Popular ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Lyft, and NYC Yellow Cabs operate in Manhattan.
Expect a fare of approximately $10-$20 from most Midtown locations.
Driving directions
- If driving from Times Square, take Seventh Avenue and turn onto West 50th Street.
- Expect a 10-minute drive (3km).
- Expect a 5-minute drive (1 mile), but traffic can cause delays.
- Be aware that Midtown Manhattan has heavy congestion, especially during peak hours (8am-10am & 4pm-7pm).
🚗🅿️ Parking near Rockefeller Center
If you’re driving, here are the nearest parking options:
- On-site parking: Limited parking is available at Rockefeller Center for pre-booked visitors.
- Nearest parking lots:
Icon Parking - 51st St. & 6th Ave. – 3-minute walk, approx. $20/hour.
SP+ Parking - 53rd St. & 5th Ave. 5-minute walk, approx. $18/hour.
- Street parking: Limited and metered, with time restrictions.
- Accessible parking: Available in designated garages near 50th Street & 6th Avenue.
👣 On foot
If you're near Times Square, Bryant Park, or Grand Central Terminal, Rockefeller Center is a short walk away.
- From Times Square– A 10-minute walk via Broadway.
- From Bryant Park – A 7-minute walk via 6th Avenue.
- From Grand Central Terminal – A 15-minute walk via 5th Avenue.
🚲 By bike
- Bike rentals: Citi Bike docking stations are available near 50th Street & 6th Avenue.
- Bike parking: Limited bike racks are available near Rockefeller Plaza.
🚌 Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours
Several Hop-on Hop-off bus tours stop near Rockefeller Center, making it a convenient and scenic way to reach the attraction.
- HOHO Tour Operator: Big Bus New York
- Stop name: Rockefeller Center / Radio City Music Hall
- Walking Distance: 2 minutes from Rockefeller Center
From major transport hubs
- From JFK International Airport (JFK):
- The fastest option is the AirTrain JFK to Jamaica Station, then transfer to the E subway train to Fifth Ave/53rd St Station (a 5-minute walk to Rockefeller Center). Total travel time: 50 minutes.
- A taxi ride takes around 45-60 minutes and costs approximately $65-$80.
- From LaGuardia Airport (LGA):
- Take the Q70-SBS bus to Roosevelt Ave-Jackson Heights, then transfer to the E subway train to Fifth Ave/53rd St Station. Total travel time: 40 minutes.
- A taxi ride takes 30-45 minutes and costs approximately $40-$60.
- From Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR):
- Take the AirTrain to Newark Airport Station, then board an NJ Transit train to Penn Station. From there, take the 1 subway train to 50th St Station. Total travel time: 50-60 minutes.
- A taxi ride takes 45-60 minutes and costs approximately $70-$90.
- From Penn Station:
- The best option is the 1 subway train to 50th St Station, followed by a 5-minute walk.
- If walking, it’s about a 15-minute stroll via 7th Avenue.
Recommended tickets to Rockefeller Center
Things to do near Rockefeller Center
- Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of NYC from the top of Rockefeller Center.
- Open:Mon–Sun: 8am–12am (Midnight)
- Tip: Visit at sunset for the best views.
- Iconic performance venue hosting concerts, Broadway shows, and the famous Rockettes Christmas Spectacular.
- Tip: Take a behind-the-scenes tour to explore its Art Deco design.
- A stunning neo-Gothic cathedral just across from Rockefeller Center.
- Tip: Step inside to admire its intricate stained glass windows.
- Walk along Fifth Avenue and explore luxury stores like Saks, Tiffany & Co., and Apple.
- Tip: Perfect for window shopping and holiday displays in winter.
- Just a 10-minute walk away, Times Square is perfect for experiencing NYC’s neon lights and Broadway buzz.
- Tip: Visit at night for the best experience.
Frequently asked questions
The fastest way is by subway (B, D, F, M lines to 47-50 Sts-Rockefeller Center Station), while buses and taxis are also convenient options.
There is limited on-site parking, but nearby garages like Icon Parking and SP+ Parking are available.
Approximately 0.5 miles (10-minute walk) via Broadway.
Yes, Rockefeller Center is fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, and accessible entrances.
Public transport is the easiest and most affordable way to reach Rockefeller Center, but taxis and Hop-on Hop-off buses provide added convenience.
