Iconic New York Venue: Radio City Music Hall – New York, NY

Radio City Music Hall History

One of the oldest and most opulent continuously running entertainment venues in America, midtown Manhattan’s Radio City Music Hall is a piece of living history. On any given night you can walk in and experience that history — the art deco architecture (the Hall opened in 1932 as part of the Rockefeller Center project), the similarly vintage murals and artwork adorning the inside, and of course the uniquely arched interior of the auditorium itself. If a venue can be a work of art, Radio City qualifies. Its marquee alone is iconic, and Manhattan tourists flock to it year-round. Declared a landmark in 1978, the Hall received an extensive renovation in 1999. Nicknamed the Showplace of the Nation, the theater remains a destination for dance, music, comedy and other live events.

Radio City Music Hall Performers

Mention Radio City, and the first thing that comes to mind is the Rockettes. The high-kicking precision dancers have been part of the Hall’s history since the beginning, and their Christmas Spectacular may be the single most popular holiday event in New York City. But they’re just one of many talented acts to appear at Radio City through the decades. Cirque du Soleil and shows like Riverdance are among the multimedia spectacles. And huge figures in nearly every musical genre have headlined here. Among them are Tony Bennett, Pink Floyd, The Grateful Dead, Lionel Richie, Diana Ross and Mariah Carey, and more recently Billie Eilish, Imagine Dragons and Lizzo.

Planning Your Visit to Radio City Music Hall

Radio City is part of the legendary Rockefeller Center complex (“the Rock”), famous for its ice-skating rink, the annual lighting of its supersize Christmas tree, plus guided tours and entertainment. There’s no shortage of dining in and around the Rock, either. You’ll find upscale options including the famed Rainbow Room, with its 65th-story perch, and Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse. More casual eats include Bill’s Bar & Burger, Ted’s Montana Grill and the plant-based fare of By Chloe. For something speedy but scrumptious, there’s Chipotle’s Mexican fare, Hale & Hearty soups or Hombre Taco.

Radio City Music Hall Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Radio City Music Hall parking options?

Midtown Manhattan is not the place to try your luck with street parking. Fortunately, you can reserve a spot in a nearby lot for any performance. Visit the Radio City website for more info.

Does Radio City Music Hall serve food?

Popcorn, hot dogs and pretzels are available at concessions, as well as soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.

What are the seating options at Radio City Music Hall?

At the 6,000-capacity venue, the pit section is closest to the stage, followed by the main orchestra section. There are also three mezzanine levels. Find tickets here.

What are the Radio City Music Hall safety & security guidelines?

Guests are asked to arrive early, and all bags will be subject to screening. Prohibited items include recording devices. For info about the venue’s health and safety guidelines, contact Radio City Music Hall by calling (800) 854-2196 or using the email or live chat options at the Radio City website.