The top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza is a New York City attraction in its own right.  We previously wrote about Top of the Rock in May.  It's definitely one of the best views in the entire city and not to be missed on New York City tours.

One of the first things a group should say upon entering a new city is, "Get me to the nearest observation deck."  These sky-high views of the city are a great way to take in your new surroundings as a whole.  But as with any attraction, check around first to discover the decks that provide the greatest experience overall.  Of course, no matter what people tell you about Top of the Rock, if you've seen any number of romantic comedies set in New York City you may not be able to resist the call of the Empire State Building anyway.  You'll see in our previous blog that Top of the Rock has a comparable if not better view of the city.  But more notably, its ticket process eliminates the lines at the Empire State Building that could drive even the most dedicated romantic completely mad.

So, as with anything, get the opinion of the locals - or those who've gone before - and we know you'll still want to decide for yourself.  Here's a brief look at Top of the Rock to get you started.

Rockefeller Center is one of the best attractions for student tours. This is not your typical skyscraper. It's much more than that-and it's fun!

Top of the Rock offers great photo opportunities at the Top and while you are getting ready to go up in the fast elevators. Each group can have their photo taken on a steel beam that appears to have the old NYC skyline in the background. It can make for some great pictures.

Next, if there is any kind of a wait (don't worry, any wait is short) or if you have a large group, you can watch a video. In fact there are 3 different videos that you can choose from and there is plenty of room for everyone.

One of the best features of this attraction is the elevator ride where there is no endless line (like at the Empire State Building)! Don't confuse the lack of a line with a lack of popularity. Though you don't have to wait for two hours for an elevator ride (it's more like 10 minutes) the ride itself is a neat experience. Looking up while riding to the top the ceiling offers an educational experience like no other. There are lights and a movie showing on the ceiling while you move quickly towards the observation deck.

Once you are at the top, you will be able to go outside for a spectacular view. Just as the photo above shows, you will have a great view of Central Park and Northern Manhattan Island. The view is also unobstructed as clear plexi-glass is used instead of steal bars (like at Empire).

To get a view south you need to go through another room, but there is a surprise waiting for you. As you enter the room, look up. You just became a color on the ceiling. As you move around, your color follows you. Everyone in the room has a color. Try hugging a member of your party and your colors will combine to form a new color. It is really neat and students love it.

One of the great things about TOTR is that they have 3 observation decks. The first two have views of part of the Manhattan skyline, but the top one offers a panoramic view of NYC. Be warned, though, it can get very windy!

Overall, Top of the Rock is one of the Best Attractions in New York City and it is tons of fun. Not that your New York City Educational Tour group should avoid the Empire State Building necessarily, Top of the Rock is a better experience totally-no comparison!