Rockefeller Center Proposal Ideas: Top of the Rock, Ice Skating, & Christmas Tree Engagement
There’s nothing quite like New York City during the holidays, and Rockefeller Center is one of the most iconic places to propose. Whether it’s the sparkling lights of the Christmas tree, the breathtaking skyline views from Top of the Rock, or a romantic moment on the ice rink, this location offers unforgettable proposal settings.
But how much does it cost to propose at Rockefeller Center? From VIP ice skating packages to private Top of the Rock engagements, here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect NYC proposal.
Rockefeller Center Proposal Locations
Top of the Rock Proposal
- General Admission: $38 per person.
- VIP Priority Access: $75 per person (recommended for sunset proposals).
- Private Event Pricing: Available for fully private proposals.
For a proposal with one of the best skyline views in NYC, Top of the Rock is a stunning choice. Sunset is the most magical time, but it’s also the most crowded. Here are some key tips:
✅ Best Time: Arrive when it opens at 10 AM or after sunset for a more intimate moment.
✅ Security Check: Keep in mind there’s a metal detector, so be discreet with the ring box.
✅ Photography Tip: The observation deck has three levels—opt for the highest level for the best backdrop.
📷 Want the best proposal photos? Book an experienced NYC proposal photographer to capture the moment!
Rockefeller Christmas Tree Proposal
A Rockefeller Christmas Tree proposal is the definition of holiday magic. While it’s not the most private setting, the glowing lights and festive atmosphere make it unforgettable.
💡 Best Time to Propose: Around 4 PM (soft daylight & twinkling lights).
📍 Celebratory Spot: Head to Morrell Wine Bar & Café afterward for a toast.
🎄 Pro Tip: December is incredibly crowded! For better photos, schedule a surprise proposal photographer!
Rockefeller Ice Rink Proposal Packages
- Public Proposal: Free (if you propose during general skating hours, but expect a crowd).
- VIP Ice Rink Proposal Packages: Starting at $425 USD for a private moment on the rink.
- Renting Out the Entire Ice Rink: Nothing is more romantic than a Rockefeller Ice Rink proposal—especially with the Christmas tree glowing in the background. Here are the available packages:
❄️ Classic Package – $425 USD
✔ Two VIP skating tickets (includes skate rental).
✔ Your choice of song.
🥂 Silver Package – $925 USD
✔ 6-hour limo rental.
✔ VIP skate passes (skip the line).
✔ Private moment on the rink after your skating session.
✔ Your favorite song played during the proposal.
✔ Champagne toast ringside.
✨ Gold Package – $1,075 USD
Everything in Silver, plus:
✔ A bottle of champagne with two flutes.
✔ Wrapped gift-ready toast set.
🎩 Platinum Package – $1,575 USD
Everything in Gold, plus:
✔ Rinkside seating overlooking your magical proposal spot.
✔ A dozen roses waiting for you.
✔ Five-course tasting menu.
✔ Leather-bound photo frame embossed with The Rink.
👑 Private Ice Rink Proposal – $1,300 USD
✔ Arrive before the rink opens or after it closes for a private 30-minute skate session.
✔ Up to 10 guests can join for this exclusive moment.
✔ Your choice of song for the proposal.
⛸ Pro Tip: For the most intimate experience, the Private Package is your best option!
How to Hire an NYC Proposal Photographer
The moment you reach for the ring, adrenaline and emotions start to kick in and you might not even remember the moment! Hiring a secret NYC proposal photographer for your surprise engagement will allow you to capture and relive that moment again and again.
Your marriage proposal is a story you will never tire of telling, so it definitely deserves better than selfies! Capture it with New York City proposal photography that you’ll look back on for years to come.
How does a proposal photoshoot work?
Before choosing a photographer, we recommend having some NYC proposal ideas in mind first! There are two ways a proposal photoshoot usually happens:
- Hire the photographer for a “normal” photoshoot with your partner, but let the photographer in on your secret proposal plan! This is the best way to ensure the photographer captures the moment perfectly, usually at a closer distance and better positioned.
- The photographer can be waiting at the designated spot to secretly capture the moment, paparazzi-style. You will want to make sure that you are positioned in a way that the photographer captures your partner’s face and their reaction. After the big moment, the photographer will introduce themselves and you can enjoy an engagement shoot after to capture that post-engagement glow.
After your photo shoot is booked, you will be able to plan and coordinate with your photographer directly.
What’s included in an NYC proposal package?
With every engagement photography package, you’ll get high-resolution engagement photos that are professionally edited and delivered by email in a private online gallery within 5 business days. In your gallery, you will be able to see all the photos from your proposal shoot and get to download a certain number of your favorites, depending on your package.
With each NYC proposal package you’ll receive:
- one-on-one planning with your photographer
- photos of the big moment and post-engagement
- private online gallery
- high-resolution photos that are professionally edited
- photos delivered within 5 days
How much does an NYC proposal photographer cost?
We have photographers on our team that specialize in proposal and engagement photoshoots. Check out our list of the best NYC proposal photographers to see pricing, compare portfolios, read customer reviews, and check date availability.
Below are our 3 different New York City proposal packages & pricing:
