Thrill-seekers experience iconic ‘Lunch Atop a Skyscraper’ pose 12 feet above Rockefeller Center
For those with a taste for adrenaline, a new and daring attraction in New York City is taking the concept of recreation to extraordinary heights. Visitors can now recreate the iconic ‘Lunch Atop a Skyscraper’ photograph at Rockefeller Center, providing an exhilarating view of Central Park.
The attraction, known as “The Beam,” elevates participants 12 feet above the deck of the building, rotating them 180 degrees, nearly dangling them off the side. This thrilling experience offers a modern twist to the famous 1930s photograph capturing 11 workers enjoying a light lunch while perched on a beam during the construction of Rock Center’s RCA Building.
Originally titled ‘Builders of The City Enjoy Luncheon,’ the photograph became a symbol of the courage and resilience of Irish immigrants working in manual labor jobs. Despite initial debates about its location, it was later confirmed that the photo was taken during the construction of the 69th floor of Rock Center’s RCA Building.
The attraction has sparked a divided public opinion, with some expressing excitement about the unique experience and others raising concerns about safety. A TikTok clip shared by ABC News ignited discussions, with comments ranging from awe to anxiety.
One TikTok user humorously quoted, “Like that one guy said, ‘I’m not afraid of heights, I’m afraid that I will jump.'” Another voiced safety concerns, expressing fear of panic and potential falls, while some speculated on the pricing, pondering the fortune Rockefeller Center might charge for such an experience.
According to the Rockefeller website, general admission starts at a reasonable $34, offering a 360-view of the city, while VIP passes go up to $160. Despite safety measures, including seat belts, the daring experience continues to capture the imagination of thrill-seekers willing to dangle above the skyline for a chance to recreate a piece of iconic history.
As the debate over this nerve-wracking attraction continues, it adds a new dimension to the diverse array of experiences offered in the bustling city that never sleeps.
