Chrysler Building

The 77-story structure rises 1,047 feet (319 meters) at the intersection of 42nd Street and Lexington Avenue, constructed with steel, glass, and limestone. Its distinctive spire consists of seven telescoping arches of stainless steel, while the facade displays triangular windows and decorative Art Deco elements throughout.

Construction began in 1928 under the direction of architect William Van Alen for automotive magnate Walter P. Chrysler, with completion in 1930. The top floors were assembled in just four months, securing the title of world's tallest structure for eleven months until the Empire State Building opened. Ownership changed hands multiple times before the property sold to an investment firm in 2019.

This Manhattan tower has shaped the city skyline for nearly a century, representing American economic confidence during the era of rapid industrialization. It embodies the optimism and technological advancement of that period and stands today as one of New York's most recognizable landmarks, appearing in countless films, photographs, and works of art.

Open to visitors Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM for lobby viewing only, as no observation deck exists. The main entrance sits on Lexington Avenue, accessible via subway lines 4, 5, 6, or 7 to Grand Central Station. Public restrooms are available within the lobby, and security screening is required for all visitors entering the premises.

The spire was secretly assembled inside the structure and hoisted into place in just 90 minutes to surprise competing architects and secure the height record. At the 31st floor corners sit silver ornaments shaped like automobile hood ornaments, honoring the automotive industry connection. The lobby ceiling contains a painted sky scene that changes appearance depending on the time of day and lighting conditions.

Location: Midtown Manhattan

Inception: May 27, 1930

Architects: William Van Alen

Official opening: May 27, 1931

Architectural style: Art Deco

Floors above the ground: 77

Elevators: 32

Height: 282 m

Made from material: brick, glass, granite, limestone, steel

Website: https://chryslerbuilding.com

GPS coordinates: 40.75143,-73.97572

Latest update: November 27, 2025 19:45