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: NoChrysler Building Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- 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
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Address: 405 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10174, USA
Phone: (212) 682-3070
Official Website: Chrysler Building
Chrysler Building Reviews
Rated out of 5
The Chrysler Building is an Art Deco skyscraper in New York City, located on the east side of Manhattan in the Turtle Bay area at the intersection of 42nd Street and Lexington Avenue. It is 1,046 feet (319 m) tall.
The structure was the tallest building in the world for 11 months before it was surpassed by the Empire State Building in 1931.
It is still the tallest brick building in the world, and despite having a steel interior, the second tallest skyscraper in New York City was rebuilt after the destruction of the World Trade Center, but in December 2007, the level of the Bank of America Tower was raised to 1, 200 feet (365.8 metres), which placed the Chrysler Building in third place
The Chrysler Building is a classic example of the Art Deco architectural style, and is considered by many contemporary architects to be one of the most magnificent buildings in New York City.
Nazart Amar - 3 months ago
5 stars for the history and architecture of such a beautiful building, it's just how you'd expect it standing tall and shining in the middle of Manhattan. 1 star tho for security who are as mentioned by multiple people very rude and need to be changed.
Saif Badr - in the last week
I had the dream of seeing Chrysler Building since I was young and saw it in the movies. The architecture is breathtaking and it stands out from anywhere you look at the building. I am so happy that I also got the chance to see the lobby from inside, such a beautiful art deco architecture. Would love to see in a couple of years an observation deck.
Ioana Covrig - 5 months ago
You do not need tickets to view this building. The building owners let you walk through the building, even if you have to stay against the wall. In one door and out the opposite side. Along the wall there are photos and a bit of history of this beautiful building.
Steve Deering - 4 months ago
If you love art deco you will love the lobby of this building. Unfortunately when we visited there was no access further than the lobby, but at least it was free to see this stunning lobby.
diana roach - 3 months ago
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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Accommodations near Chrysler Building:
Photo Gallery
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Looking Skyward at New York City's famous Chrysler Building cc licensed photo by zoonabar -
Photo Credit: PunkToad - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: PunkToad - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: PunkToad - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: PunkToad - 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 -
Photo Credit: PunkToad - cc license via Flickr
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