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
Official Website: Chrysler Building
Fee: NoClosed Now
Regular Hours:
Hours may be subject to change. Please verify on the official website.
- Monday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Category: Landmarks & Historical Buildings
Address:
405 Lexington Ave
New York, NY 10174
Phone: (212) 682-3070
Reviews
Jason G. Aug-24-2023
This building is entirely hollow. No floors or elevators or anything. The only thing I saw inside was one marble ground floor and a coyote who coughed like... Read More
This building is entirely hollow. No floors or elevators or anything. The only thing I saw inside was one marble ground floor and a coyote who coughed like...Sharon B. May-08-2023
Cheri Y. Aug-10-2022
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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.
Map & Instant Route Finder
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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: Yelp 
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Photo Credit: HHA124L - cc license via Flickr
