New York City has had a rich winter and holiday atmosphere for as long as I can remember. Whether it was merely going to see the lighting of a Christmas tree or the hectic shopping that goes on during first weeks of December, the entire thing has etched something in my mind that simply won’t be forgotten. However, when it comes down to a single place for winter activity, one should not have to look any further than the legendary Rockefeller Center.
The Rockefeller Center complex is made up of 19 buildings that cover 22 acres between 48th and 51st Streets in New York City. It spans Fifth Avenue and Seventh Avenue in Midtown Manhattan.
One of the most notable parts of parts of Rockefeller Center is that Radio City Music Hall is a part of the complex. Besides being the largest indoor theatre in the United States, the Music Hall has one of the richest winter traditions in the Christmas Spectacular with the Radio City Rockettes. This year proves to be a special year for the tradition, as a new scene has been added to the legendary routine, called “Deck the Halls.” Amongst other additions is a new tap scene, a new song called “I see Christmas everywhere” and a 3D Sleigh Ride through New York City.
Besides the usual holiday events that take place at Radio City Music Hall, the entire winter is littered with different events including Ennico Morricone, the legendary composer.
Another legendary tradition in Rockefeller Center is the Ice Rink. Featured prominently at the sunken plaza, which doubles as the ice rink, is Paul Manship’s gilded statue of Prometheus, adding to the already impressive sight. Skate rentals are only $7.50 and prices for time on the ice are reasonable especially if you’re going in a group, which most people who are not couples will be doing. If you’re interested in learning how to skate, the ice rink provides lessons for a reasonable fee. Once you’ve finished skating you’ll also be able to stop for a meal at the Rock Center Café or Cucina & Co. both of which are excellent.
At the Rock Center Café you’ll also be able to have breakfast with Santa this year, though if interested you should be quick to try and reserve your place because it seems this event will become full very soon. The event will include a visit from Santa and his Elves with gifts for children of all ages. Besides special events, the Ice Rink can be used for personal events, such as birthdays and more extravagant things such as an engagement.
Though these may be the main attractions at Rockefeller Center, there also happens to be a litany of other things to do at the complex. Shopping is also a large part of the complex, as it includes a myriad of shops ranging from Godiva Chocolate to the Metropolitan Museum of Art Store. There is also the Top of the Rock observation deck which overlooks the city, providing one of the best views in the world be it at the beginning of the morning when the city comes to life or at night when the city lights brighten up the dark.
Prices at the Rink: Admission: $10-$14 (Adult) $7.50-$8.50 (Children), Skate Rental: $7.50, Half Hour Skating Lessons: $30 (Weekday) $35 (Weekend)
