Step onto a piece of New York City history with The Beam Experience at the Top of the Rock Observation Deck in Manhattan, New York. Inspired by the iconic 1932 photograph of ironworkers perched on a steel beam high above the city, this experience places visitors on a gently lifting beam that recreates the thrill of that moment, complete with a panoramic skyline backdrop and a memorable photo opportunity. It adds a fun, adventurous twist to one of the city’s most famous viewpoints without feeling gimmicky.

In addition to The Beam ride, guests also receive general admission access to the full Top of the Rock Observation Deck. This means sweeping, open-air views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the rest of the Manhattan skyline across multiple levels. Together, the classic observation deck access and the Beam’s elevated perspective create a well-rounded, unforgettable way to take in New York City from above.

Any restrictions to participate?

• Age: All age groups are welcome.
• Height:
  • Guests must be 52 inches (~132 cm) or taller to ride the Beam alone.
  • Guests between 42–52 inches (~107–132 cm) may participate on the Beam only if accompanied by an adult.
• Weight: The maximum weight limit is 300 lbs. (~136 kg) per guest.

Who can you accommodate for?

• Children: All participants must have a valid ticket, including children. Children must meet the height requirements listed above to participate.
• Individuals with disabilities:
  • Wheelchairs are not allowed on The Beam. However, enhanced accommodations are available for ADA guests and guests with amputees. Guests with special needs must be accompanied by a supervising adult throughout The Beam experience.
  • The observation decks, SKYLIFT, and The Beam Experience are wheelchair accessible. Elevators serve all levels, and service animals are permitted.
• Pets: Pets are not permitted, except for service animals.

What to expect on the day of the experience?

• Duration: The Beam Experience lasts a few minutes, including seating, safety briefing, the lift rising 12 feet above the deck, and photo capture. The full visit to the observation deck typically takes 45–60 minutes depending on visitor flow.
• What’s included:
  • The Beam Experience, lifted 12 feet above the deck to recreate the iconic “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper” photo.
  • Admission to all indoor and outdoor observation levels offering panoramic 360° views.
  • Access to the Welcome Gallery, viewing terraces, and The Weather Room Café & Bar.
• Who will be present: Rockefeller Center staff will guide guests through the safety process and loading. Each Beam seats 7 guests, and rides may include guests from multiple parties.
• Spectators: Only guests with a valid ticket may participate.
• Photo / video: Guests are not permitted to take their cell-phones, cameras, and other recording devices with them on The Beam. Friends and family who are not riding may observe and record your experience from Level 3 of the observation decks. 
• Specific rules to follow:
  • Guests must follow all safety instructions, remain seated at all times on the Beam, and adhere to staff guidelines. Tripods and large bags are not permitted.
  • The following items are not permitted on The Beam: Cellphones, tablets, laptops, electronic devices, cameras, selfie-sticks, go-pros and other recording devices, backpacks or bags of any size, keys, wallets, beverages, bottles, infant carriers or any other loose items. Medical devices such as oxygen tanks, canes and walkers are also not permitted.
    • All loose personal belongings must be stored in the cubbies located adjacent to The Beam.

How to prepare?

• Weather dependency: The Beam Experience is outdoors and operates rain or shine, with temporary closures possible during severe weather.
• Arrival: Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes early for security and elevator access.
• Parking: Paid parking garages are available near Rockefeller Center.
• What to wear: Guests must wear close-toed shoes or sandals that fully engage the heel. Hats and glasses, and scarves (as examples) must be securely fastened.
• What to bring:
  • Recommended: A charged phone or camera for additional photos.
  • Allowed: Phones, small bags, personal items.
  • Not allowed: Weapons, tripods, large luggage, and oversized bags.
  • Storage: No lockers or storage options are available; belongings must remain with guests.
• Restrooms / lockers / changing rooms: Restrooms are available indoors before reaching the observation levels. No lockers or changing rooms are provided.

Anything else I should know before going on this experience?

• Photos from The Beam Experience are not included and must be purchased separately.
• Entry times are timed; modifications can be made in advance through the ticket management portal.

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 14 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

If you have any unused Experience Vouchers, you can exchange them for anything else in our marketplace, no matter when. If you choose an experience that's more expensive, you'll need to pay the difference, but if you choose one that costs less, you'll receive a credit towards your next booking.

No refunds are allowed once the experience is booked, but you can reschedule up to 24 hours before your experience, for a date within a year of the original booking. To reschedule, contact the experience provider directly. No-shows or rescheduling less than 24 hours in advance means losing the value of your experience.