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Chrysler Building
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Landmark
The Chrysler Building is an iconic Art Deco skyscraper situated on the East Side of Manhattan in New York City. Financed by automotive mogul Walter P. Chrysler and designed by architect William Van Alen, it was briefly the world's tallest building following its completion in 1930, before being surpassed by the Empire State Building just 11 months later. The structure is universally celebrated for its panoramic terraced crown, constructed of brilliantly polished stainless steel, and its remarkable gargoyles shaped like eagle hood ornaments and Chrysler radiator caps. Widely regarded by architects and critics as one of the finest buildings in New York, it stands as a well-suited testament to the Roaring Twenties. Art K8 — Art Deco architecture and urban design.
- Location: United States
- Top sights: MoMA PS1 · Triskelion Arts · Transfiguration Roman Catholic Church
- Nearby: Englewood Cliffs (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | -1 | 3 | 9 | 15 | 20 | 24 | 23 | 20 | 13 | 7 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 81 | 81 | 100 | 102 | 98 | 117 | 109 | 114 | 105 | 122 | 91 | 116 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Chrysler Building can be viewed from outside at any time. The lobby is accessible to the public during business hours, but upper floors are not open.
Typical hours
The lobby is typically open 8 AM to 6 PM on weekdays. Weekends have restricted hours.
Photography
Photos are allowed in the lobby without flash. The best shot of the building is from Lexington Avenue, especially at night.
Time needed
A quick exterior visit takes about 15 minutes. Those wanting to see the lobby should allow 30 minutes.
Combine with
The Chrysler Building is in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, near Grand Central Terminal and the New York Public Library. These can be easily combined.
Getting there
The building is reachable by subway (lines 4,5,6,7 or S) to Grand Central Station. It is a short walk from there.
Insider tip
The best view of the spire is from the corner of 42nd Street and Lexington Avenue. Go early morning to avoid crowds.
Geography
Facts
- The spectacular Art Deco building was completed in 1930.
- It stands 1,046 feet tall, briefly holding the title of world's tallest building.
- The magnificent sunburst crown is clad in highly polished Nirosta steel.
- Walter P. Chrysler fully financed the enormous construction project personally.
- The unique gargoyles are shaped like classic Plymouth hood ornaments.
- Architect William Van Alen secretly assembled the towering spire inside the building.
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Sights in the town Chrysler Building (14)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can I visit the building?
No, only the lobby is open to the public.
Is there an observation deck?
No, there is no public observation deck.
What is the building known for?
It is a masterpiece of Art Deco style.
When was it built?
It was completed in 1930.
Where is it located?
It is at the corner of Lexington Ave and 42nd St.
Chrysler Building: where is it located?
Chrysler Building is located in United States.
Chrysler Building: what is there to see?
Highlights include MoMA PS1, Triskelion Arts, Transfiguration Roman Catholic Church.
Chrysler Building: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Chrysler Building: why is it worth visiting?
The Chrysler Building is an iconic Art Deco skyscraper situated on the East Side of Manhattan in New York City.
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