Radio City Music Hall
For decades, America's most popular entertainers have thrilled audiences at Radio City Music Hall, which hosts one of the city's most beloved holiday traditions, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes.
A landmark of New York City, Radio City Music Hall is a magnificent venue located in Rockefeller Center that has awed generations since its inauguration on December 27, 1932. The venue was conceived by John D. Rockefeller, Jr., and opened and managed by Samuel “Roxy” Rothafel. It was initially planned as a movie theater that sold affordable tickets to all. The Rockettes were introduced as a mere 20-minute aperitif before the feature film, however, as time went by, Radio City evolved into a venue for concerts, shows and various media events.
Nowadays, the Christmas Spectacular Starring The Rockettes is the most popular show. Radio City is known worldwide as a unique Art-Deco hall that remains the largest indoor theater in the world – it can seat up to 5,000 people! This one-of-a-kind structure was designed with painstakingly detail by Donald Deskey, whose expertise and taste can be seen throughout the building. Rumor has it that the Great Stage was built to represent a sun setting over the water. The Grand Lounge’s walls were painted black to create a quiet ambiance that wouldn’t disturb a show in progress. The Grand Foyer is a breathtaking sight – original chandeliers tower above the room and a mural painting depicting mankind’s search for youth and immortality.
More Info
We can go on and on about all the details to watch out for, but the best way to truly appreciate the grandeur of Radio City is to take a guided tour. You’ll also have the opportunity to see the inner workings of the Great Stage and the Roxy Suite – a private apartment given to Roxy by the Rockefellers in recognition of his accomplishment.
In addition to being a great sight for lovers of art-deco style, Radio City Music Hall hosts world-class shows and events year round. Consult their calendar to keep up-to-date with the latest happenings. Just to give you an idea, artists like Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Elton John, Hans Zimmer and André Rieu have all given concerts on the Great Stage and programs like “America’s Got Talent” and “Dancing with the Stars” have also been broadcasted from Radio City.
Location and Opening Hours
1260 6th Avenue, between W 50th St and W 51st St.
Tours are given every day from 9:30am to 5pm. Access may vary if a show is in progress.
Getting There
From the Manhattan at Times Square, walk a block and a half to the entrance on 6th Avenue.
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If you are planning to see a show in Radio City but you have some time to kill before it starts, visit our attractions page to get some ideas of things to do in the area.
