The Rockefeller Center complex is made of 19 buildings and was created by the oil magnate John D. Rockefeller, who decided to build a primarily commercial space. The first stone was laid in 1930 and construction lasted approximately 10 years.

Rockefeller Center, a leading tourist destination in New York City, also houses NBC headquarters and Radio City Music Hall . Guided tours are available at Radio City Music Hall , which seats up to 6000 persons

The pedestrian area called the Promenade is characterized by the bronze statue of Prometheus, the symbol of the Rockefeller Center.

During the holiday season, an enormous Christmas tree stands in the plaza at the end of the Promenade, near the famous outdoor ice skating rink, patronized by tourists and New Yorkers alike.