VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More in New York, United States
New York, United States

VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More

Outty Ranking 66 4.8 · 113 traveler reviews2 hoursFrom $245
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Outty Ranking

66/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 113 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More worth booking?

VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More is a 2-hour experience in New York, United States, from $245 per person. It scores 66 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 113 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
66 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (113)
Duration
2 hours
From
$245 per person

Elevate your New York City experience with the VIP Rock Pass, the premier choice for discerning visitors. Begin your two hour guided journey in the opulent VIP Lounge before delving into the rich history of Rockefeller Center. Wander through one of our hidden rooftop gardens and culminate your tour at Top of the Rock, boasting unrivaled panoramic views. The VIP treatment continues with expedited entry, exclusive elevator access, private Beam and SKYLIFT experiences and a Photo Pass for capturing those unforgettable moments. Enhance your visit with a delightful stop at the Weather Room Café & Bar for a champagne toast (21+), and round off your experience with a visit to our Gift Shop, where you'll receive a 20% discount. Experience Rockefeller Center like never before – in true VIP style.

What you get

    About this experience

    Elevate your New York City experience with the VIP Rock Pass, the premier choice for discerning visitors. Begin your two hour guided journey in the opulent VIP Lounge before delving into the rich history of Rockefeller Center. Wander through one of our hidden rooftop gardens and culminate your tour at Top of the Rock, boasting unrivaled panoramic views. The VIP treatment continues with expedited entry, exclusive elevator access, private Beam and SKYLIFT experiences and a Photo Pass for capturing those unforgettable moments. Enhance your visit with a delightful stop at the Weather Room Café & Bar for a champagne toast (21+), and round off your experience with a visit to our Gift Shop, where you'll receive a 20% discount. Experience Rockefeller Center like never before – in true VIP style.

    What's included

    Included

    • Priority Entry & Elevator Access
    • Private Beam Experience
    • Champagne toast at The Weather Room Cafe & Bar (21+)
    • Photo Pass Included
    • Top of the Rock Guided Tour
    • Tour of hidden rooftop garden
    • VIP Lounge Access
    • SKYLIFT- a heart-pounding 360 degree experience
    • 20% Off Gift Shop

    Not included

    • Food and beverages (available for purchase at The Weather Room)

    What you'll see and do

    1. Top of the Rock

      Elevate your Rockefeller Center experience with VIP Rock Pass. A special holiday edition of VIP Rock Pass runs from December 3 through January 10. VIP Rock Pass: This 2-hour guided experience begins in our VIP Lounge and includes a guided tour of Rockefeller Center, including a stop at one of the hidden rooftop gardens, plus a Champagne Toast (21+) and VIP access to Skylift and The Beam Experience at Top of the Rock. VIP Rock Pass: Holiday Edition is the only tour in NYC with up-close viewing of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree from Center Plaza (normally closed to the public), a photo with Santa on the Beam Experience (select dates only). Available from Dec 3-Jan 10 2026 (subject to change).

      Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Top of the Rock

    30 Rockfeller Plaza, Enter on West 50th Street, between 5th & 6th Avenues, New York City, New York, 10111, United States

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Top of the Rock · 30 Rockfeller Plaza, Enter on West 50th Street, between 5th & 6th Avenues, New York City, New York, 10111, United States

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Top of the Rock - Observation Deck

    Know before you go

    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Children under 6 are free with a paying adult.
    • The Beam Experience: Guests must be 52 inches (~132 cm) or taller to ride alone. If under 52 inches, guests must be a minimum of 42 inches (~107 cm) and be accompanied by an adult.
    • SKYLIFT: All children under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult for the entire duration of your Skylift experience. Guests who exceed 300 lbs. (136 kg) will not be able to ride.
    • Recommend layers and stable footwear for outdoor decks.
    • No outside food/beverages. No tripods. No weapons.
    • Elevators on all floors. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms. Strollers permitted (must be collapsible). Service animals welcome. Wheelchairs not permitted on The Beam Experience.

    Photos

    The Beam, VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More in New YorkSouth view at sunset, VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More in New YorkTree viewing area with VIP Rock Pass: Holiday Edition, VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More in New YorkTree view with rooftop gardens, VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More in New YorkSKYLIFT, VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More in New YorkVIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More in New York, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 113 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    5 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Photo opportunities

    4 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    3 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Good for families

    2 mentions

    Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

    Traveler reviews

    113 verified traveler reviews for VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    96
    4 star
    11
    3 star
    3
    2 star
    2
    1 star
    1
    Sort
    Jennifer_W · July 2026

    Beautiful views

    I booked the VIP tour for myself since the rest of my group did not like heights and were not interested in going to the top of the Rockefeller and so I could skip the lines so I wouldn't make them wait around too long. All of the staff from the VIP lounge to the tour guide were absolutely lovely! It did not mention that I would be grouped with other VIP guests so I did have to wait around a bit for each of the other guests to take their turns on the Beam & Skylift. But overall I really enjoyed the experience and the VIEWS! You really can't get a better view than the Top of the Rock. I wish they would let you take your phone on the Beam & give you more than a few seconds on it to be able to snap some photos and really take in the view. Same with the skylift which you're not in for very long at all.

    via Viator

    TIMOTHY B · June 2026

    Had a VIP tour with James as our guide. Absolutely awesome! James is enthusiastic and extremely knowledgeable, thank you!

    VIP tour from start to finish was wonderful! Rockefeller Center made us feel at home in their lounge with refreshments and cookies. James, our tour guide, is a rock star! With Brazil playing soccer across the Hudson and the Knicks getting ready for game 5, so much electricity, even more so than usual! Thank you for letting my wife and I be your guest!! Tim

    Response from the operator: We’re thrilled to hear you and your wife had such a fantastic experience! It’s great to know James and the atmosphere made your visit memorable. Thanks for sharing your highlights with us—hope to see you again soon for more exciting moments!

    via Tripadvisor

    C4464ZZmelissad · May 2026

    The VIP Tour at Rockefeller Center was absolutely worth it!

    The VIP Tour at Rockefeller Center was absolutely worth it! We entered through the main entrance and were quickly escorted to the exclusive VIP area next door. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm smiles and exceptional hospitality. We were offered complimentary drinks, including juice, water, and soda, along with biscotti and Biscoff cookies while we relaxed and waited for our tour time. Our guide, Matthew, introduced himself and immediately made us feel welcome. After watching a short video about Rockefeller Center, he explained what to expect throughout the tour. We were then privately escorted to an elevator, completely bypassing the regular lines. The entire experience felt exclusive and personalized. We never had to wait in line or share an elevator with large groups. Throughout the tour, Matthew shared fascinating history about Rockefeller Center, including details about the artwork, the construction process, and the thousands of workers involved in building it. One of my favorite parts was seeing the historical photos he showed us on his tablet, which really helped bring the stories to life. We also received priority access to the Beam Experience and Skylift, allowing us to take photos without long waits. Matthew went above and beyond by taking both photos and videos for us, making it easy to enjoy the experience without worrying about capturing every moment ourselves. At the end of the tour, we received commemorative pins and stickers, which were a nice bonus in addition to the champagne toast included with the VIP package. From start to finish, the entire experience felt like true VIP treatment. We would absolutely do it again, especially during the busy holiday weekend when skipping the crowds makes the experience even more enjoyable. Highly recommended! Matthew was a Rock Star !! Thank you for an amazing tour!

    Response from the operator: We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed the VIP Tour experience, Melissa! It’s great to know that Matthew made your visit special with his insights and hospitality. Thank you for recommending us, and we hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable experience soon!

    via Tripadvisor

    gaharris10 · May 2026

    Greg & Katherine Alleyne Harris Rockefeller Center Experience

    The Rockefeller Center is the preeminent commercial and entertaining complex of New York City and one of the most amazing destination of the world. Located in Midtown Manhattan, it consists of 19 commercial buildings and features a multitude of dining, entertainment and shopping venues. The center’s most renowned attractions include the “Top Of The Rock” observatory, the famed ice skating rink, NBC Studios, Radio City Music Hall and the annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Fully completed in November of 1939, the Rockefeller Center was largely designed by prominent architect, Raymond Hood. Hood was a student of the Art Deco architectural movement and he utilized this style when designing the facade and the interior halls of the center’s buildings. The founder and principal developer of the Rockefeller Center was John D. Rockefeller Jr. Jr. was a highly successful financier, one of America’s foremost philanthropist and the son of wealthy industrialist, John D. Rockefeller Sr, the patriarch of the Rockefeller family. Today, the center continues to remain a leading commercial and entertainment hub. It is now owned by real estate firm, Tishman Speyer, whom acquired the complex in the year, 2000 from David Rockefeller, a prominent banker and the youngest son of John Rockefeller Jr. It has been prominently featured in numerous shows and films ranging from “ Elf” “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” and “Spider-Man: No Way Home.” Due to its distinct and pioneering architectural features, its impact on skyscraper development and integrated urban design and its importance as a commercial and entertainment hub, the Rockefeller Center is listed on the U.S. National Register Of Historic Places and is recognized as a National Historic Landmark. In April of 2026, I brought and treated myself and my wife for a visit and tour of the Rockefeller Center to celebrate our Happy Twelve Year Relationship Anniversary!!! We enjoyed every moment of our experience!!! We first visited the gorgeous “Channel Gardens” which is located between 5th Ave & Rockefeller Plaza. We loved viewing the garden’s breathtaking fountains and pools and spectacular floral displays, which include diverse tulips and lilies. After visiting the garden, my wife and I took part in the “VIP Rock Pass.” The VIP Rock Pass is the premium guided tour experience that provides guests exclusive access to the Rockefeller Center and a chance to explore the center, a rooftop garden and the “Top Of The Rock.” Our tour guide, Matt was absolutely amazing!!! He was very courteous, consistently engaging and passionate and was unquestionably professional!!! At the beginning of the tour, Matt provided us with a thorough and concise overview of the Rockefeller family, their great wealth and success in business and philanthropy and their ownership and development of the Rockefeller Center. As we toured the complex, Matt did a great job on showcasing and discussing the beautiful works of art, such as Paul Manship’s “Prometheus” statue, Jose Marie Cert’s mural “American Progress” and Lee Lawrie’s “Atlas” statue. We also learned about the architecture and rich history of many of the complex’s buildings, such as Radio City Musical Hall, and 30 Rockefeller Plaza, the centerpiece skyscraper of the Rockefeller Center. We learned that 30 Rockefeller Plaza was designed by Raymond Hood, completed in 1933, has 66 floors, is 850 feet tall and that the facade is made of limestone. Notable tenants of the building include NBCUniversal and Comcast. This building is also the venue for the “Top Of The Rock.” After touring the center, we toured the “Rooftop Garden” in the British Empire Building. We loved the garden’s beauty and tranquility and enjoyed great views of NYC. Lastly, we visited the “Top Of The Rock” and saw magnificent views of NYC’s skyline and rode on both the “Beam” & the “Skyline.” Each ride was fun and we took great pics of Central Park and the Empire State Building!!! We thank Matt for providing an awesome tour and highly recommended for everyone to visit this outstanding destination!!!

    Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience, Greg! We're thrilled to hear you and your wife enjoyed the VIP Rock Pass and Matt's engaging tour. It sounds like a memorable anniversary celebration! We appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back for more unforgettable moments.

    via Tripadvisor

    Sightsee52722711904 · April 2026

    Very Exciting

    Santiago and Lisa did a fantastic job!

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that Santiago and Lisa made your experience memorable. We appreciate your support and hope to see you back soon for another fantastic visit!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    2 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $245 to $327
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    40
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Top of the Rock - Observation Deck, who run 7 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 53.8.

    See everything Top of the Rock - Observation Deck runs

    Why this scores 66

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)84
    Review evidence (18% weight)61
    Booking momentum (14% weight)55
    Value for money (12% weight)0
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)66
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for New York.

    How much does VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More cost?

    +

    Prices start at $245 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in New York usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More take?

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    Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in New York is not rushed.

    Is VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 66 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 113 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in New York, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More?

    +

    Around 40 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in New York can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in New York and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central New York within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in New York?

    +

    New York has more bookable experiences than any other city on Outty, and the quality spread is brutal. Observation decks are commoditised, so we score them on timed-entry reliability and sunset slots. Food tours and borough walks are where the ranking really separates operators, and the top scores in the city all come from small-group guides. On Outty we rank every New York experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include NYC Bus Tour of Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens: Art, Food & Sports, Half-Day Bus Tour of NYC Top Highlights, SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown Walking Tour in New York. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit New York?

    +

    September to early November, and late April through June. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in New York?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More?

    +

    Included: Priority Entry & Elevator Access; Private Beam Experience; Champagne toast at The Weather Room Cafe & Bar (21+); Photo Pass Included; and Top of the Rock Guided Tour. Not included: Food and beverages (available for purchase at The Weather Room). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More?

    +

    The experience starts at Top of the Rock, 30 Rockfeller Plaza, Enter on West 50th Street, between 5th & 6th Avenues, New York City, New York, 10111, United States. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible; Wheelchair accessible; and Elevators on all floors. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms. Strollers permitted (must be col. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in New York. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about VIP Rockefeller Center Pass: Guided Tour, Rooftop Garden and More?

    +

    Across 113 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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