Combo Ticket Top of the Rock Observatory and MOMA

Exploring New York City with the Combo Ticket to Top of the Rock and MoMA

Our review of this combined experience offers a practical look into two of Manhattan’s most beloved attractions: the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Designed for travelers seeking a blend of breathtaking city views and world-famous art, this combo ticket provides a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy some of NYC’s highlights.

What we appreciate most about this experience is the ease of access—both sites are conveniently located just a short walk from each other in Midtown Manhattan—and the flexibility it offers, especially with MoMA’s no-reservation-needed admission, paired with the ability to pre-book your Top of the Rock time. However, it’s worth noting that the non-refundable policy might make some travelers hesitant if their plans change unexpectedly.

This tour caters best to art lovers, couples, and families who want a rich, culturally immersive day without the hassle of coordinating separate tickets. Whether you’re here for a quick cultural fix or a first-time NYC visit, this combination offers good value and memorable experiences.

Key Points

• Convenient Location: Both attractions are in Midtown Manhattan, making this tour easy to combine in a single day.
• Stunning Views: The Top of the Rock provides some of the best panoramic city vistas—perfect for photography lovers.
• World-Class Art: MoMA boasts iconic works by Van Gogh, Picasso, Warhol, and more, suitable for both casual viewers and serious art enthusiasts.
• Flexible MoMA Admission: No reservation required, offering spontaneous visits if desired.
• Cost-Effective: At $80 per person, it offers a good deal considering separate tickets often cost more.
• Ideal for Diverse Travelers: Suitable for art fans, families, and those wanting quick access to NYC’s skyline.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) — A Journey through Modern Creativity

The first stop on our tour is MoMA, approximately two hours of exploring some of the most influential modern and contemporary artworks. The museum’s location in Midtown makes it accessible, and its six floors hold an impressive collection that attracts millions of visitors annually.

We loved how walking through MoMA feels like stepping into a global art hub. Iconic pieces such as Van Gogh’s “The Starry Night”, Picasso’s groundbreaking Cubist works, and Andy Warhol’s pop art staples like Campbell’s Soup Cans are displayed prominently, offering instant recognition. Beyond paintings, the museum features sculptures, interactive installations, and even a sculpture garden, blending visual art with tactile experiences.

The exhibitions are thoughtfully curated, with many displays provoking questions about creativity and innovation. The museum’s spacious layout prevents overcrowding, and the easy navigation means you can spend more time appreciating art rather than hunting for your next exhibit.

One visitor commented, “MoMA’s collection is a visual treat, and I loved how interactive some exhibits were.” Another appreciated the flexibility, noting, “No reservation needed—so I popped in when I had a free hour.”

Top of the Rock — Sky-High Views of Manhattan

After soaking in modern art, we head to the Rockefeller Center for the Top of the Rock experience. The observatory offers three indoor and outdoor decks—each providing a different perspective of the city. The outdoor decks are especially popular at sunset, when the city glows in golden hues and the lights begin to sparkle.

From the vantage point, you can see Central Park, the Empire State Building, and on a clear day, all five boroughs. The unobstructed views are ideal for photography, and the open-air decks create an immersive experience that’s hard to match elsewhere in NYC.

The ticketing system’s advantage is that you can reserve your preferred time in advance, helping you avoid long lines. We found the process straightforward, and the wait times are generally minimal, especially if booked early.

Visitors have described the views as “breathtaking,” with one noting that “you get an incredible perspective of the city’s scale and beauty, especially during sunset.” Another mentioned that “the outdoor decks are a must for that open-air feeling and perfect photos.”

Practical Considerations

While the combo ticket offers excellent value, keep in mind that the experience is approximately four hours—two at MoMA and two at Top of the Rock. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to spend some time in the museum or walking around Midtown.

The non-refundable policy means you should confirm your plans beforehand. The tour provider, Travity, is reachable via their provided contact info for any questions or special requests.

Public transportation nearby makes it easy to get to both attractions, and the whole experience is suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility concerns, as both sites are wheelchair accessible.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

This combo ticket delivers a well-rounded slice of New York City life—art and skyline, culture and commerce, history and modernity—all in one go. We believe the stunning views from Top of the Rock are unmatched during the day, giving you a panoramic sense of Manhattan’s layout, especially with Central Park’s lush greenery providing a striking backdrop.

Meanwhile, MoMA’s collection offers a deep dive into modern artistic movements, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts or anyone curious about the creative spirit of the city. The fact that you can visit MoMA with no reservation needed adds to its appeal, making spontaneous visits feasible.

For travelers who value convenient location combined with cultural richness, this ticket makes sense. It’s particularly good for those with limited time, as it maximizes your exposure to two top-tier attractions without the need for multiple reservations or separate tickets.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a quick yet comprehensive taste of NYC. Families will appreciate the mix of stimulating art and stunning city views, while couples can enjoy romantic sunset vistas and meaningful cultural moments. Art lovers will find the array of works at MoMA inspiring, and those simply wanting to see the city from above will love the panoramic spectacle from Top of the Rock.

However, if you’re interested in deeper, more specialized art collections or specific time slots, you might want to explore additional options or bookings.

FAQs

Is the Top of the Rock included in the price?
Yes, the $80 ticket covers access to the Top of the Rock Observatory and MoMA, allowing you to enjoy both attractions.

Do I need to reserve a time for MoMA?
No, MoMA admissions are flexible and do not require a reservation, making spontaneous visits possible.

How long should I plan for each stop?
We suggest around two hours for MoMA to see the highlights comfortably, and about two hours for the Top of the Rock, especially if you want to enjoy different perspectives and take photos.

Can I visit both attractions on the same day easily?
Absolutely. Both are in Midtown Manhattan, just a short walk apart, making it easy to move between them without a long commute.

Is this experience suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Yes, both sites are wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers. Children often enjoy the art and the views, especially if they like taking photos.

What if I cancel or need to reschedule?
This experience is non-refundable, so be sure about your plans before booking.

Final Words

For travelers seeking a balanced blend of visual art and spectacular cityscapes, this combo ticket offers incredible value. You get to see some of the world’s most famous artworks at MoMA, combined with the unforgettable experience of viewing Manhattan from above. The convenience of booking and location makes it an efficient choice for those on a tight schedule or those who simply want to maximize their time in NYC.

The stunning views from Top of the Rock are truly a highlight, especially during sunset or clear days, giving you a memorable skyline backdrop. Meanwhile, MoMA’s collection is a treasure trove for anyone interested in modern creative achievements, making this tour suitable for a variety of interests and ages.

In short, if you want to enjoy high-quality cultural and scenic experiences without breaking the bank or complicating your day, this combo ticket is an excellent pick. It’s a straightforward, satisfying way to tick two of Manhattan’s most iconic attractions off your list.