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
So beautiful. One of my favorite buildings in all of New York City. The architecture and details are amazing. From the Art Deco crown to the hood ornaments and the eagles, it is truly a very unique building that encapsulates the essence of old New York.
DF MIX - in the last week
Super duper cool to see. I feel the Chrysler building is much underrated due to the Empire State building yet I prefer the exaggerated art deco look of the former. There is not much to do, you can look around the lobby and go to the subway station, that is it. There is no observation deck; simply another office — fanciful — office in Manhattan.
Arthur Trusov - a month ago
One of the most spectacular buildings in NY. Even I seen it only from the outside I am still amazed with a design. However it’s hard to make a photo of the whole building as somehow is surrounded with lots of buildings from every side possible. My challenge for next visit in NYC is to find the best spot for a best Chrysler Building picture🥰
Malwa Kieron - 4 months ago
The Chrysler Building is an incredible building that amazes not only tourists but also city residents. It is beautiful at any time and will be interesting if you are traveling and want to see the unusual buildings of New York.
Anna Toptalina - 2 months ago
The Chrysler Building is one of New York's iconic landmarks, which in my opinion is somewhat overshadowed by the popular Empire State Building.
A must-see building while in New York, which is not difficult by the way, as it can be seen from many places throughout the city.
Good location in the middle of Manhattan, from where it is already close to many attractions in that area.
Ss Ss - 2 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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Photo Gallery
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Looking Skyward at New York City's famous Chrysler Building cc licensed photo by zoonabar -
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: 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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