Rockefeller Center, which is also known as Rockefeller Plaza, is a complex that consists of 19 different buildings that cover over 22 acres of land. The buildings stretch three blocks of New York City and were built by the wealthy Rockefeller family. Rockefeller Center is located in the borough of Manhattan, near Midtown.
It is a very popular attraction for sightseers in New York and is perhaps best known for their annual Christmas celebrations and decorations. The location has become so popular that it was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987.
The location was named after John D. Rockefeller Jr. He had been able to lease the space that was previously owned by Columbia University. The original plan for the location was for an opera house to be built there, but Rockefeller changed his mind after the stock market crash and subsequent depression. Because of the tough economic times, he was forced to finance his dream alone, and was able to sign a 24 year lease on the location that had three 21 year renewal options.
One of the biggest attractions in New York’s Rockefeller Center is the Radio City Music hall. The location is one of the most visited locations within New York City for its historical significance. When it was first constructed, it was marketed as the most advanced and up-scale theater in the World. At one time, the Radio City Music Hall was the most visited tourist attraction in New York City, even more visited than the Statue of Liberty at that time.
The RCA Building served as another significant attraction in Rockefeller Center. Standing 70 stories, and 872 feet tall, the RCA Building, which has become known as 30 Rockefeller Plaza (30 Rock) towered above other buildings in the center. Currently, the building serves as the headquarters for NBC, and is the home of a number of the US’s most prominent television shows including “Late Night With David Letterman,” “The Dr. Oz Show,” and “Saturday Night Live.”
Rockefeller Center is also known for the eye-catching art that is scattered throughout Rockefeller Center. The area is most known for its architectural sculpture, with some of their most amazing pieces (including the famous “News” by Isamu Noguchi) engrained right into the building. A huge number of artists contributed to the sculptures and other pieces of artwork that are located within the Center.
With 19 different buildings that are occupied by some of the most famous faces in America, it is easy to see why Rockefeller Plaza quickly became the most visited location in New York City. It is easily accessible to New York sightseers, and has a rich history that is both interesting and mesmerizing. During Christmas Time, a huge Christmas tree is placed in Rockefeller Plaza and is decorated with many different ornaments and a plethora of different lights. The location serves as the ideal spot for individuals who have never visited the area previously. Rockefeller Plaza is a key piece of American historical culture.
