Chrysler Building in New York
The Chrysler Building in New York is an iconic silver-topped skyscraper in Manhattan. The 77-story building is 1046 feet high and recognisable by its striking architecture. This famous Art Deco building in Midtown Manhattan has a long history, but it has mostly served as an office building. Below, you’ll find everything you should know about the Chrysler Building in Manhattan.
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Can you go inside the Chrysler Building?
As the Chrysler Building is one of New York’s iconic landmarks, you probably want to know if you can visit the building. Unfortunately, I have to tell you that the tower is not open to the public, so you cannot go inside at the moment.
Chrysler Building Observation Deck
There are plans for a Chrysler Building Observation Deck, although the future of this project is a little uncertain. This viewpoint will be on the 61st floor of the building. And if it goes through, it will provide great views of Manhattan.
Touring the Chrysler Building
As the building itself is not open to the public, you can’t go inside on a tour either. But to see the Chrysler Building from the outside, and learn more about its history and architecture, you can book the New York Architecture Tour.
If you would prefer to explore the area on your own, you can follow the Midtown walking route that I created. You can find it in my Eric’s New York app. As well as the Chrysler Building, I will show you other highlights of Midtown, such as Bryant Park and Grand Central.
What is the Chrysler Building used for today?
The Chrysler Building is located near Grand Central Terminal, on the east side of Manhattan. This makes it a defining part of the skyline. Though the building has changed owners several times, for the most part, it has primarily been used as an office building by various companies.
It’s built in a graceful Art Deco style, with a recognisable spire consisting of silver-coloured arches. On the tower, there are ornaments that are said to be inspired by cars, a reference to the first property owner, Walter Chrysler.
The Building in Movies
The Chrysler Building has become an iconic background in movies and TV series, being a recognisable symbol of New York City. The building appears in films such as Spider-Man, Two Weeks Notice, The Avengers and Men in Black 3.
The History of the Chrysler Building
The famous Art Deco building in New York was built between 1928 and 1930 as a personal real estate investment by the car manufacturing tycoon, Walter Chrysler, for his children. Therefore, the building owes its name to him. Contrary to what many people believe, it never served as the headquarters of the Chrysler Corporation.
The Chrysler Building in New York (sometimes misspelt as Crysler New York) was once the tallest building in the world. However, it was soon thrown off the throne in this ranking when the Empire State Building opened its doors in 1931.
The famous Cloud Club
In the 1930s, an iconic club was located in the Chrysler Building: the Cloud Club. This speakeasy was located on the 66th, 67th and 68th floors of the skyscraper. It attracted many influential business people, including publisher Condé Nast and Walter Chrysler himself, among its regular clientele. The Cloud Club closed in 1979.
Practical Information
- Location: 405 Lexington Avenue, between E 42nd and E 43rd Street
- How to get there: The closest subway station is Grand Central – 42 St. You can take lines 4567 to get here.
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