6th Avenue – Avenue of the Americas
6th Avenue has a unique distinction: it goes by two official names! Known as both 6th Avenue and Avenue of the Americas, you can use whichever name suits your mood. Discover what makes this iconic New York street special.
What You Need to Know About 6th Avenue
- In 1945, 6th Avenue was renamed Avenue of the Americas. New Yorkers, however, kept using the original name. The street officially adopted both names in 1980. Use whichever you prefer.
- 6th Avenue begins at 59th Street, near the entrance to Central Park. It runs straight south and ends in the Tribeca neighborhood at the Civic Center.
- 6th Avenue crosses Broadway at 34th Street, right in front of the Macy’s department store.
What to See on 6th Avenue
- This busy avenue is lined with skyscrapers between 42nd and 59th Streets, creating a distinctly corporate atmosphere. Stop for a moment to watch office workers grab hot dogs and sandwiches from street vendors.
- Don’t miss the iconic Radio City Hall at 51st Street, right in the heart of Rockefeller Center. This legendary concert venue has hosted some of the world’s greatest performers.
- At 55th Street on the west side, the avenue once displayed the LOVE sculpture by artist Robert Indiana. The sculpture was removed following a dispute between the artwork’s owner and New York City.