Chrysler Building
The 1047 foot tall Chrysler Building held the title of the world's tallest building for one year when it was surpassed by the Empire State Building
In the 1920s, New York became obsessed with breaking the record of the world's tallest building. The title was achieved when the 1,047 foot Chrysler Building was built in 1930, but short-lived being surpassed by the Empire State Building in 1931. Almost thwarted all together by the Bank of Manhattan building being built at the same time, the stainless steel spire was constructed in secret and installed in 90 minutes giving the Chrysler Building the needed height win the title.
One of the most recognisable buildings in the Manhattan skyline, the 77-floor Art Deco building is currently the third tallest building in New York City. Since its restoration in 1996, the polished chromium nickel of the stepped dome building gleams even on cloudy days.
Automobile tycoon, Walter Chrysler purchased the design from architect William Van Alen and intended to make the building the Chrysler headquarters. Many decorative features inspired by Chrysler's automobiles including stainless steel eagle hood ornaments on the 61st floor and replicas of Chrysler radiator caps on the 31st floor.
Now a state of the art office building, the building is primarily used for business and there is no access for visitors beyond the lobby, but the intricate Art Deco marble floors and elevator banks are definitely worth a peek.
Nearby attractions: Grand Central Terminal, New York Public Library
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoAddress: 405 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10174, USA
Official Website: Chrysler Building
Chrysler Building Reviews
Rated out of 5![]()
The Chrysler Building is one of New York’s greatest skyscrapers, and one of the world’s most astounding and iconic buildings.
Owned by both the “Cooper Union” & “Signa Holding,” the Chrysler Building stands at 1,046 feet tall, and is considered the tallest brick building in the world with steel framework. It is located in Midtown Manhattan, near the Grand Central Terminal.
The building was constructed and designed by Walter Chrysler, the late founder & head of the Chrysler Corporation. Mr. Chrysler worked with noted architect, William Van Halen to design the Chrysler Building, and wanted it to be used as a real estate investment for the benefit of his children. The building was fully completed and opened to the public in May of 1930.
It has been showcased in many popular films ranging from “Independence Day” “Deep Impact,” “The Avengers” and “Men in Black 3.” Notable tenants include “Creative Artists Agency”, “Intermedia Partners” & the “YES Network.”
Due to its amazing design, distinctive architectural features and rich heritage, the Chrysler Building has been designated as a New York City Landmark, listed on the National Register Of Historic Places and has been recognized as a U.S. National Historic Landmark.
In November of 2025, I brought my wife and myself for a visit to the Chrysler Building and we very much enjoyed our experience!!!
We both loved viewing the building, especially the building’s 31st floor gargoyles, the Chrysler radiator caps, and its gorgeous Art Deco style crown and spire.
When entering inside the Chrysler Building, my wife and I were immediately captivated by the building’s immaculate ground floor lobby. We had fun viewing and taking pictures of the stunning Art Deco interior, the red Moroccan marble walls, the beautiful ceiling mural, and the ornate elevator cabs with exotic wood details.
The Chrysler Building's Art Deco lobby is open to the public on Monday through Friday. Generally the hours are from 8:00am to 6:00pm EST.
After viewing the building’s ground floor lobby, I treated my wife and myself for a light brunch at the WatchHouse Chrysler. The WatchHouse Chrysler is a wonderful coffee shop owned by WatchHouse, a highly revered coffee brand that’s based in the United Kingdom and one that has opened up branches throughout the world. Both my wife and I were impressed by the courtesy and professionalism provided by the staff and very much enjoyed our meal and warm beverages!!!
When visiting New York City, both my wife and I recommend that you definitely make time to see and visit the Chrysler Building, a highly renowned and outstanding destination!!!
Greg Harris - a week ago
In my opinion, Chrysler Building is the most beautiful building on NYC. Tourists are allowed into the lobby to appreciate some of the artistic decorations.
Anas Alsayed - 5 months ago
Lobby is beautiful to look at. The security guards are very knowledgeable on the history of the building. Would defo recommend as a stop on the tour!
Xavier lake - 8 months ago
This place is off-limits to tourists. I consider it a neglected part of New York's history. According to my ranking of NYC's TOP BUILDINGS, this building is second (#1 Rockefeller, #3 Empire).
As I mentioned, the building is not open to the public, but I had the opportunity, courtesy of the staff, to take a few photos to commemorate this great work of architecture.
Hi, I’m David! - 10 months ago
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Directions
| Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| 4, 5, 6 or 7 | Grand Central / 42 Street | 0-2 MInutes |
How to get to Chrysler Building by Subway
Take the 4, 5, 6 or 7 train to Grand Central / 42 Street, exit onto 42nd Street and walk east to the corner of Lexington Avenue. Note that you may get better views of the building itself from farther back.
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Photo Gallery
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Looking Skyward at New York City's famous Chrysler Building cc licensed photo by zoonabar -
Photo Credit: Paul Lowry - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Paul Lowry - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Paul Andrew's Photos - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stabbur's Master - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stabbur's Master - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stabbur's Master - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stabbur's Master - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: PunkToad - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: PunkToad - cc license via Flickr

