I am planning a trip to NYC and was wondering which building has the best view of the city for taking pictures? (Empire State building or Rockefeller Plaza) Are the viewing areas enclosed ?

Do both! Top of the Rock has spectacular daytime views of Central Park (which at night is just a black rectangle) and of the Empire State Bldg. From the ESB you get better views of the Chrysler Bldg. and downtown. I would go during the day to Top of the Rock, and then very late at night to ESB.

Both have indoor and outdoor viewing. Top of the Rock has three levels -- one enclosed, the second surrounded by glass panels (with slots in between for you to put your camera) and the top is completely unobstructed.

I'm going to the top of the rock for the first time tomorrow, I'll come back and let you know what I think.

Enjoy the elevator ride Kelly!

Oracle, thank you for your input.

Kelly, did you go to the top of the rock ?

oh, boy, I didn't actually end up going. My plan was to go with a bunch of volcano-stranded Brits who I've had over here (work colleagues). But, they all hopped on a plane to Rome yesterday evening so I didn't go. I have no idea how they all made out when they got to Rome!

Top of The Rock is great! I have not done the ESB,but the Rock is well worth it!

The elevator ride to the Top Of The Rock is amazing! It's worth the admission in its own right!

The great thing about the Rock is that it gets less crowded than the ESB, and there's more space to move about, and less obstructions.

Having said that, if you've got time, do both.