The Beam: The Unique Attraction at Top of the Rock in New York

What You Need to Know About The Beam

• The Beam is a unique attraction that opened on December 1, 2023 on the 69th floor of the Top of the Rock observatory in New York. The Beam is exactly what its name suggests: a metal beam. Visitors sit on a long metal beam that rises approximately 3.5 m (11.5 ft) off the ground. The beam rotates 360°, giving you sweeping views of northern Manhattan and Central Park.
• The beam then rotates toward a camera for a souvenir photo before descending. The entire ride lasts about one minute, with a 15-second pause facing the buildings. It’s brief, but the experience is unforgettable.
• The Beam lets you recreate a famous photograph taken by photographer Charles Clyde Ebbets during the construction of Rockefeller Center. The image, titled “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper,” was published in 1932 in the New York Herald-Tribune. This photograph of 11 workers eating high above the city quickly became an iconic image of New York.

How to Book The Beam

• To experience The Beam, book your tickets as early as possible—spots fill up quickly and availability is limited each day. Use our Beam ticket reservation module. Note: your Beam ticket includes admission to the Top of the Rock observatory.
• Important: while Top of the Rock admission is included in the New York City Pass, New York Pass, and Explorer Pass, The Beam is not covered by these passes. You have two options: add The Beam to your pass by purchasing it on-site (subject to availability for your chosen date and time) for $25 per person, payable in cash or by card; or skip your pass for Top of the Rock and buy a combined Top of the Rock and Beam ticket above.
• Tip: The Beam price includes a digital photo. A nice keepsake from your New York visit.

Requirements for The Beam

• You must be at least 1.32 m (4 ft 4 in) tall to ride The Beam alone.
• Children between 1.07 m (3 ft 6 in) and 1.32 m (4 ft 4 in) must be accompanied by an adult who rides at the same time. Staff will provide a seat booster for children.

How The Beam Works

• Once on the main terrace of Top of the Rock, you’ll wait your turn in a small room showing the original 1932 photograph on a loop. You’ll then be led to one of two beams in operation. Leave your belongings in wooden lockers. Note: photography is not permitted while you’re on the beam, whether with a phone or camera.
• You’ll take your seat on the beam and fasten a safety belt identical to a car seatbelt. Staff will check that you’re properly secured and ask you to verify the belt is locked. They’ll also ask you to keep your feet on the beam. Dangling your feet over the edge is not allowed.
• Ready? Here we go. The beam rises into the air and rotates slowly. Don’t worry—the motion is very smooth and controlled. You won’t be thrown or jostled.
• You’ll pause to see the view over Manhattan. Look down and savor this moment between earth and sky. The beam rotates again for the photo stop.
• Then it’s time to descend. Unfasten your seatbelt and collect your belongings. Don’t forget to grab the coupon that lets you download your souvenir photo.

I Tested The Beam for You

• What is The Beam really like? I tested the attraction and here’s the video of this unique experience.