Chrysler Building
The Chrysler Building is much more than a skyscraper in the heart of Manhattan: it’s an emblem of the Art Deco style and an architectural gem that defines the New York skyline. Known worldwide for its distinctive spire and stainless steel ornaments, this building represents the elegance and ambition of a golden era in New York. ✨
Located at the intersection of Lexington Avenue and 42nd Street, the Chrysler Building is a must-see stop for any lover of architecture and history. Whether admiring its eagle gargoyles or the magnificence of its lobby, its unique design makes it an unforgettable visual experience that evokes the glamour and innovation of the 1930s.
Why visit the Chrysler Building?
Visiting the Chrysler Building means connecting with one of New York’s most beloved architectural icons. It’s a legendary place that represents the pinnacle of Art Deco design and tells stories of ambition, innovation, and the race to reach the sky. Its silhouette is unmistakable and its presence, imposing. 🏙️
Its cultural significance is undeniable: it was briefly the tallest building in the world and remains an enduring symbol of American optimism. Its details, from the radiant crown to the replicas of Chrysler radiator caps, make it a unique work of art in the urban landscape.
The Chrysler Building is also a testament to the vision of Walter P. Chrysler. Although today it is primarily an office building with limited public access to its lobby, its exterior beauty and rich history attract admirers from all over the world. If you want to behold a true architectural masterpiece, this is the place.
How to get to the Chrysler Building by subway?
Main Stations
The main station providing almost direct access to the Chrysler Building is Grand Central–42 St, located just steps away from the building. This station is a major transportation hub connecting several subway and train lines, providing quick access to Midtown East. 🚆
Subway Lines to the Chrysler Building
The Chrysler Building is excellently connected by the New York City subway, thanks to its proximity to Grand Central Terminal. The lines that take you directly to the Grand Central–42 St station are:
- 4, 5, 6 (green lines)
- 7 (purple line)
- S (Shuttle, connection between Grand Central and Times Square)
How to get to the Chrysler Building from:
Central Park / Columbus Circle
If you are near Central Park or Columbus Circle, you can take the 1 train southbound to Times Sq–42 St and then transfer to the S shuttle (or the 7 train) one stop east to Grand Central–42 St. You can also walk east and take the 4, 5, 6 trains directly south from stations like 59 St.
Lower Manhattan (Wall Street / World Trade Center)
From Wall Street or World Trade Center, the most direct way is to take the 4 or 5 trains (green lines) northbound (uptown) directly to Grand Central–42 St.
Brooklyn (DUMBO / Williamsburg)
From DUMBO, you can take the F train towards Manhattan to 42 St–Bryant Park and walk a few blocks east, or transfer there to the 7 train one stop to Grand Central. From Williamsburg, take the L train to Union Square and transfer to the 4, 5, or 6 trains northbound to Grand Central–42 St.
Queens (Long Island City / Flushing)
If you’re coming from Long Island City or Flushing in Queens, the 7 train will take you directly westbound to Grand Central–42 St. It’s a very convenient route from that area.
Harlem
From the north, in Harlem, you can take the 4, 5, or 6 trains (green lines) southbound (downtown) directly to Grand Central–42 St.
Airports (JFK / LaGuardia / Newark)
From JFK Airport, you can take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and then the LIRR train to Grand Central Madison, right next door. From LaGuardia, take the Q70-SBS bus to Jackson Hts–Roosevelt Ave and transfer to the 7 train to Grand Central. If arriving at Newark, take NJ Transit to Penn Station, and from there, take the 1, 2, or 3 subway line one stop north to Times Sq–42 St, and transfer to the S shuttle to Grand Central.
What to see at the Chrysler Building?
Although the Chrysler Building is primarily a private office building, it offers visual wonders both on its exterior and in its opulent lobby, which is accessible to the public (usually during business hours). It’s a place to admire architectural details and feel the atmosphere of a bygone era.
Admire its iconic spire
The spire or crown of the Chrysler Building is its most famous feature. Built in secret and hoisted in a bold maneuver to surpass the Bank of Manhattan building, its design of radiating arches clad in “Nirosta” stainless steel shines in the sun and is majestically illuminated at night. ☀️🌙
Appreciate the exterior details
Take time to observe the unique exterior details. Look for the famous eagle-shaped gargoyles on the corners of the 61st floor and the corner ornaments on the 31st floor that mimic the radiator caps of 1929 Chrysler cars. The brick and steel combine to create fascinating patterns. 🦅
Visit the Art Deco lobby
The lobby of the Chrysler Building is an Art Deco masterpiece and the main area accessible to the public. Admire its exotic marbles, African granite, inlaid hardwoods, and the stunning ceiling mural by Edward Trumbull titled “Transport and Human Endeavor”. The dim lighting and metallic details create a luxurious atmosphere. ✨
Photography Opportunities
The Chrysler Building is incredibly photogenic. Look for interesting angles from nearby streets or elevated points like the Tudor City Place bridge (to the east, over 42nd Street) or observation decks like Summit One Vanderbilt to capture its splendor. Both the details and the complete silhouette are worth a photo. 📸
Reflect on its history
While admiring the building, think about its history: the intense “race to the sky” of the late 1920s, the vision of Walter Chrysler, and the work of architect William Van Alen. It’s a monument to ingenuity, competition, and the spirit of a booming New York City. 🏙️
Attractions near the Chrysler Building
The Chrysler Building is located in Midtown East, an area full of other landmarks and points of interest. If you decide to explore the surroundings, you’ll find a wide variety of cultural and architectural attractions within walking distance.
Grand Central Terminal
Right next to the Chrysler Building is Grand Central Terminal. It’s not just a station, but a Beaux-Arts architectural marvel. Don’t miss its majestic main concourse with the celestial ceiling, the Whispering Gallery, and its vibrant atmosphere. 🚆
New York Public Library
Just a few minutes’ walk to the west, you’ll find the New York Public Library, famous for its neoclassical architecture and stunning Rose Main Reading Room. It’s a perfect place to enjoy some peace and admire its grandeur. 📖
Bryant Park
Behind the New York Public Library, Bryant Park is a green oasis in the heart of Manhattan. This park offers pleasant gardens, tables, chairs, and seasonal activities (like an ice rink in winter). It’s an excellent place to relax and observe urban life. 🌳
Rockefeller Center
A slightly longer walk to the northwest will take you to Rockefeller Center. Famous for its ice skating rink in winter and the Christmas tree, it also houses the Top of the Rock observation deck, which offers spectacular views, including the Chrysler Building itself from another perspective.
United Nations Headquarters
Walking east towards the East River, you’ll find the United Nations Headquarters. You can visit the visitor center or even take a guided tour of this important international complex with its distinctive modern architecture. 🇺🇳
Summit One Vanderbilt
Directly across from Grand Central is the One Vanderbilt skyscraper, which houses the Summit One Vanderbilt observation deck. It offers an immersive experience and absolutely spectacular views of the Chrysler Building, which is right across and slightly below. Ideal for photos!
Tips for visiting the Chrysler Building
Although you can’t go up to the top, admiring the Chrysler Building from the outside and visiting its lobby is a rewarding experience. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to this New York icon.
Best time of day to go
To appreciate the exterior details in good light, visit the building during the day. If you want to see its illuminated crown, nighttime is magical. The lobby is usually accessible to the public during standard business hours (Monday to Friday), but it might be quieter mid-morning or mid-afternoon. ☀️🌙
Avoiding crowds
The lobby is an entrance to an office building, so there may be more worker traffic during peak entry and exit times (morning and afternoon). Admiring the exterior from the sidewalk usually doesn’t pose crowd issues, although the Grand Central area is always busy.
Safety
The Midtown East area around the Chrysler Building and Grand Central is generally safe. As in any tourist area in New York, keep an eye on your belongings. Inside the lobby, there is usually security personnel; be respectful as it is a workspace.
What to bring and what not to bring
Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely do a lot of walking in the area to find the best viewing angles and visit nearby attractions. 👟 A camera is essential to capture its beauty. 📸 If you plan to enter the lobby, casual but respectful attire is appropriate (avoid beachwear, for example). You don’t need anything special, just your desire to admire!
