NYREADERS.COM - The beam at the Rockefeller Center's Top of the Rock opens in December 2023. The unique interactive experience has captivated travelers from all over the world due to its breathtaking challenge for visitors to soar 850 feet over New York City. This month (February), locals can ride the beam for free.
Before you read any further, this attraction is just for individuals who are not afraid of heights!
The ride pays tribute to the iconic 1932 photo "Lunch Atop a Skyscraper" depicting 11 ironworkers casually eating lunch on a steel beam. Visitors sitting on a thick piece of metal will be raised 12 feet (3.6 meters) above the deck, rotated 180 degrees, and given an incredible perspective of Central Park and beyond.
There are seatbelts, and you are strapped in. The seatbelts are checked several times to assure safety. And you are not permitted to hold anything, so do not try to eat a sandwich while sitting on the beam.
“This building is a classic experience, a must-see in NYC. I will say, however, that it is frustrating to have some views blocked by the new Beam experience. Still, the multiple levels of viewing platform allow you to see the city from all sides which is nice. This isn’t the optimal observatory due to the Beam, but it gives good views of midtown, Central Park, and some of the iconic city buildings," stated Alex Moore, a tourist who posted the testimony on Google.
The Beam sits on the 69th floor's outdoor terrace of 30 Rockefeller. Simply purchase a ticket to the top of the rock from Rockefeller Center, and once there, show your valid New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut ID at the entrance of the beam to receive a free ride. Non-locals pay $25 in addition to a regular admission ticket, which costs between $40 and $55 for adults. The fee includes a digital photograph of the event.
See you at the top! (*)
