Discover the Best Shows At Rockefeller Center To Attend

Discover the Best Shows At Rockefeller Center To Attend

Rockefeller Center has plenty to offer as one of the most iconic destinations for NYC visitors. Beyond the tourist attractions, the plaza is a hub for entertainment. There is something for everyone, from live indie music to immersive art installations. You'll find plenty of options if you're looking for a hotel near Rockefeller Center. Here’s everything you need to know about this season's best shows and events.

Performances 

The fourth annual indieplaza will take place on Saturday, April 12th, 2025, in Rockefeller’s Center Plaza. The performance lineup typically includes emerging artists. This event is more than a series of concerts at Rockefeller Center. It will include merchandise booths, arts and crafts, food, and beverages. 

Art Shows 

Explore the world of art with the Art in Focus exhibit at Rockefeller Center. From March 3rd through May 31st, the center will host a series of public art pop-ups in partnership with the Art Production Fund. Artwork by acclaimed New York-based artist Will Cotton will be displayed throughout the center. His impressive sculptures and murals are larger-than-life, featuring mythical creatures, cowboy themes, and sweets.  

TV shows 

One of the most-loved attractions for NYC visitors is attending a live taping of a TV show. There are plenty of opportunities at Rockefeller Center, with several shows being filmed at the NBC studios in New York City. 

  • Saturday Night Live
  • The Kelly Clarkson Show
  • The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon
  • Late Night with Seth Meyers

Scoring a seat in the audience takes planning, as each show has a different ticketing process. To attend Saturday Night Live, you must enter the ticket lottery during its designated registration period. If you miss the lottery registration window, you can join the standby reservation list online and then wait in line on the day for a chance to get a standby ticket to the dress rehearsal or live taping. 

To attend the other shows, you must register an account on 1iota. You can then apply for free tickets to the show of your choice. If selected, you will be notified through 1iota. You can visit The Shop at NBC Studio on the day of taping to request a standby card if you weren’t selected for tickets in advance.

In-Store Events at Rough Trade

Rough Trade is an independent record store located at Rockefeller Center. Shop the latest in music, books, and band merch. The store regularly hosts events where up-and-coming artists perform. You can purchase tickets to these events in advance to secure your spot. 

La Maison du Chocolat Truck

From February 14th through March 31st, 2025, the La Maison du Chocolat Truck will be open to the public in the North Esplanade. This pop-up truck is the go-to spot for French macarons, gourmet chocolate, and specialty gift boxes. If you love what the truck has to offer, be sure to visit the permanent location at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. 

See the Best of Rockefeller Center 

With so much happening at Rockefeller Center, there’s no shortage of entertainment. Attend one of the live shows at Rockefeller Center or explore the many art installations. After a day of making memories, complete your experience by walking to a nearby hotel for a restful night’s sleep. Staying at the Pearl Hotel near Rockefeller Center means you're just a short 10-minute walk from all the excitement of this iconic NYC landmark!

Book your stay at the Pearl Hotel NYC and experience all of the Rockefeller Center events.