Radio City Christmas Spectacular & Empire State Building

Traveling to New York City during the holiday season offers a special kind of magic, and for those looking to soak in some of the city’s most iconic sights and traditions, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular combined with a visit to the Empire State Building makes a memorable package. While we haven’t personally attended this tour, we’ve gathered enough insights to help you decide if it fits your holiday plans.

What we love about this experience is how it blends the timeless charm of the Radio City Rockettes with the breathtaking panoramic views from the 86th-floor Empire State Building. It’s a very efficient way to enjoy two quintessential NYC attractions in a single trip, especially with prebooking included, saving you time and hassle. However, a potential consideration is that the tour is non-refundable, so punctuality and planning are key. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a structured, value-packed day filled with festive cheer and skyline vistas.

Key Points

• Convenience and time-saving: Prebooked tickets avoid long lines and last-minute hassles.
• Iconic NYC sights: Experience the Rockettes’ legendary holiday show and the city’s most famous skyline views.
• Value for money: Combining two attractions often provides better value than booking separately.
• Limited group size: Tours are small, with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Weather considerations: The Empire State Building’s observation deck is heated, but the experience is outdoors, so dress warmly.
• No refunds: The booking is non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

A Festive Show in the Heart of Manhattan

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a holiday tradition that’s been delighting audiences for decades. Its main event, the Rockettes, are renowned for their synchronized kicks and dazzling choreography, creating a spectacle that captures the spirit of Christmas in New York. The show is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes long, and while its core is a nostalgic celebration of the season, it also offers a glimpse into American holiday entertainment at its best.

From the reviews, many guests find this part of the tour to be a genuinely heartwarming experience. One reviewer noted, “I loved this. Traditional in every sense of the word. Brought my in-laws and friends. Radio City Music Hall is gorgeous as the beautiful dancers. What a great time.” The venue itself is a sight—Art Deco splendor with a history that makes attending even more special.

However, it’s worth mentioning that seating is assigned based on your price level, and some reviews have mentioned that the best seats are in the back or side sections, depending on your package. Also, the show does prohibit photography and video during the performance, so you’ll want to enjoy the spectacle without distractions.

Ticketing and Booking: How It Works

One of the main advantages of booking this tour through a provider like Attractions4us LLC is the convenience of prebooked tickets. You’ll receive an email 3-5 days before your visit with instructions on how to download your tickets and access your showtime and Empire State Building entry.

It’s important to arrive on time, especially for your Empire State Building slot, which is carefully scheduled to align with your showtime. For shows starting at 4 PM or earlier, expect your Empire State entry around 6:30 or 7:30 PM, while later shows allow for earlier visits.

Since the tickets are allocated by the booking system, there’s no guarantee of specific seats, but reviews indicate that all seats have good views. Children under two can attend free if they do not occupy a seat, adding a family-friendly aspect to the tour.

The Empire State Building: The City’s Most Instagrammed Landmark

After the festive cheer at Radio City, you’ll head to the Empire State Building for a 1-hour 30-minute visit to the 86th-floor observation deck. This part of the tour is a highlight for many travelers, offering panoramic views of Manhattan that are arguably unmatched during daylight.

The observation deck is equipped with heaters, making it comfortable even on chilly winter days. From this vantage point, you can see landmarks like Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty, all while enjoying the crisp winter air.

The tour also includes access to the interactive galleries on the second floor, which provide engaging exhibits about the building’s history and architecture, adding educational value to your experience. Several reviews mention how photo opportunities abound here, with many guests sharing their snaps of the city skyline.

Some travelers have expressed concerns about waiting times or crowding, but since you have a timed ticket, your visit is scheduled to minimize these issues. Be prepared for airport-style security, and avoid bringing large packages or glass items.

Practicalities and Considerations

While the tour offers an efficient way to see some of NYC’s highlights, there are a few practical points to keep in mind. The tour does not include transportation, so you’ll need to plan your route to the venues. Public transit (subways and buses) are near both locations, with detailed directions provided in your pre-visit email.

Parking is available nearby, but many find using apps like SpotHero to reserve a spot in advance to be more convenient. Remember, this tour is designed for small groups—a maximum of 15 people—which helps keep things intimate but also means punctuality is crucial.

The tour is non-refundable, so if weather cancels your visit to the Empire State Building, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s also worth noting that all signage, audio guides, and exhibits at the Empire State Building are available in multiple languages, making it accessible for international travelers.

What to Expect Throughout the Day

The overall experience spans roughly three hours, but it’s best to plan your day with some flexibility. The show is about 90 minutes long, and your Empire State Building visit is also about that long, so make sure to allocate enough time for each.

The timed tickets ensure you won’t be stuck waiting in long lines, but punctuality remains essential. Arrive at the venue at least an hour before the show start—especially during busy holidays—to allow sufficient time for security checks and finding your seats.

While reviews are generally positive, some travelers have expressed frustration with seating arrangements when booking lower-price options, noting that seats can be in the back or far sides. But remember, the show is highly visual, and all seats offer decent views thanks to the venue’s design.

Cost vs. Value

At $134.99 per person, this package offers a lot of value, especially when considering tickets to the Rockettes and the Empire State Building are often sold separately and can be expensive. Booking in advance not only secures your spot but also reduces the stress of last-minute ticket hunting amidst holiday crowds.

However, it’s important to recognize that this experience is a group tour with fixed schedules and no refunds, so it’s best suited for travelers who prefer structured plans over spontaneous exploration.

Authentic Experiences and Real Guest Insights

From reviews, we see a spectrum of experiences. One guest called it a “heartwarming” holiday tradition, while another expressed disappointment about seating or limited food options. The consensus is that stunning views from the Empire State Building and the classic Radio City show make for memorable moments.

Travelers also appreciate the small group size, which can make the experience more personal, though some felt the seating at the show wasn’t ideal depending on their package. The overall feeling is that this tour offers a well-organized, festive slice of New York life, perfect for those wanting to combine holiday cheer with sightseeing.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best for holiday travelers who want a convenient, all-in-one experience of New York’s festive traditions and iconic skyline views. If you’re someone who values pre-booked tickets and wants to avoid the hassle of last-minute planning, this package offers real convenience.

It’s a great choice for families, first-time visitors, or anyone seeking a joyful, picture-perfect day in Manhattan during the holiday season. Just keep in mind that it is a structured tour with strict timing and non-refundable policy, so it’s ideal if your plans are firm.

For those who love classic holiday entertainment combined with city panoramas, this tour delivers both with style and ease. It’s not the cheapest experience, but considering the inclusion of two major attractions, it offers solid value.

FAQ

Where do I need to go to pick up my tickets for the Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes?
You will receive an email with a link to your tickets, which you can take directly to Radio City Music Hall for entry. The main entrance is on 6th Avenue at 50th Street.

Where do I redeem my tickets for the Christmas Spectacular?
The tickets are redeemed at the Box Office in the main lobby of Radio City Music Hall. Be sure to arrive early to allow enough time for security and seating.

How can I get to Radio City Music Hall?
It’s centrally located in Rockefeller Center. You can take the B, D, F, M trains to 47th-50th Streets/Rockefeller Center or the 1 train to 50th St./Broadway. Several bus options also serve the area.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, parking options exist, and using apps like SpotHero to reserve in advance can make your visit smoother. Many travelers prefer public transit for convenience.

What time do the doors open for the show?
Doors open about an hour before the show starts, so plan to arrive early to settle in and avoid missing the opening numbers.

Can children attend?
Yes, children under two can join for free if they do not occupy a seat. Just remember, all guests must pass through security, and outside food or drinks are not allowed.

This experience offers a festive, well-organized way to enjoy two of New York’s most beloved holiday attractions. Perfect for those wanting to celebrate Christmas in style with minimal fuss, it’s a good investment for first-timers and families craving a classic NYC holiday outing. Just be sure to plan ahead and arrive on time to make the most of this joyful day.