the top of the "rock"

When I first moved to New York City, a few people told me I should visit the top of the rock. Not wanting to sound like an out-of-towner, I would always politely smile and thank them for their advice, not having a clue what they were talking about. In the midst of one of these conversations it became apparent that this slang of sorts was in reference to the top of Rockefeller Center.

The other day I was walking with a friend who was new to town and we were passing by Central Park. In the midst of our conversation she looked at me, pointed at a huge rock in Central Park that was visible from the street, and asked, "is that what people are referring to when they talk about the top of the rock?"

I smiled and explained the true meaning of "Top of the Rock." I was sure to tell her she wasn't alone in once wondering what it meant!