Rockefeller Center Recreates Iconic 1930s Photo with Vertigo-Inducing Experience
Rockefeller Center is offering an immersive experience that brings to life the iconic 1932 photograph “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper.” The new encounter, known as “The Beam,” opened last week and allows visitors to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck to experience a thrilling recreation of the historic moment captured during the construction of 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
In this unique experience, participants are securely strapped onto a recreated beam situated on the 69th floor. The beam then elevates them 12 feet above the observation deck, offering a breathtaking 180-degree rotation over the cityscape, providing an unparalleled photo opportunity more than 800 feet above New York City.
Tishman Speyer, the owner of Rockefeller Center, shared details of the new encounter with Travel + Leisure. According to a statement from the owners, “The Beam is a part of Rockefeller Center’s top-to-bottom reimagination that will dramatically enhance the visitor experience at the iconic observation deck, which offers the city’s best unobstructed views of its most famous landmarks.” The statement continues, “After visiting Top of the Rock Observation Deck, visitors can spend time exploring the reimagined, iconic landmark infused with the same ambition and creativity of the people who built this ‘city within a city’ nearly 100 years ago.”
Access to “The Beam” is available for an additional $25 on top of the regular Top of the Rock ticket price. The admission includes both the immersive experience and a digital photo. Standard adult admission tickets for Top of the Rock range between $40 and $55, as reported by the company.
This latest offering is part of Rockefeller Center’s ongoing efforts to enhance visitor experiences. In addition to “The Beam,” a future interactive attraction named the “Sky Lift” is planned for introduction next year. The Sky Lift will elevate travelers 30 feet above the rooftop on the 70th floor, featuring a circular glass platform for an even more elevated experience.
Beyond the captivating experiences on the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, Rockefeller Center offers numerous attractions and activities. Visitors can enjoy the iconic ice rink and marvel at the famous Christmas tree, adorned with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights, which will remain lit until Jan. 13 at 10 p.m. This combination of historical recreation and modern interactive attractions showcases Rockefeller Center’s commitment to providing a dynamic and engaging environment for visitors.