A streamlime moderne masterpiece, Rockfeller Center is one of New York's
central gathering spots for visitors and New Yorker's alike. A prime example
of the city's skyscaper spirit and historic sense of optimism, it was
erected mainly in the 1930s, when the city was deep in the Depression as
well as its most pussionate Art Deco phase Designated a National Historic
Landmark in 1988, It's now the world's largest privately owned business and
entertainment center, with 18 buildings on 21 acres. For a dramatic approach
to the entire complex, start at Fifth Avenue between 49th and 50th streets.
The builders purposely created the gentle slope of the Promanade, known here
as the Chanel Gardens because it's flanred to the south by La Maison
Franeaise and to the north by the British Building. You will also find a
number of attractive shops along here, including a big branch of the
Metropolitan Museum of Art store, a good stop for elegant gifts. The
promenade leads to the Lower Plaza, home to the famous ice - skating rink in
winter and alfresco dining in summer in the shadow of Paul Manship's freshly
gilded bronze statue Prometheus, more notable for its setting than its
magnificence as an artwork. All around, the flags of the United Nations
member contries flap in the breeze. Just behind primetheus, in December and
early January, towers the city's official and majestic Christmas free. The
Rink at Rockfeeler Center is Any but positively romantic, especially during
the holidays, when the giant Christmas tree's multicolored lights twinkle
from above. It's open from mid - Octomber to mid - March, and you'll skate
under the magnificent tree for the month December. Overlooking the rink, and
with a terrific view of Prometheus, is the excellent Sea Grill restaurant.
Location: Between 48th and50th Sts, from Fifth to Sixth Aves.
Phone: 212/332 - 6868 |
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