Chrysler Building
4.6(6.7K)google
4.5(138)yelp
Photo SpotCity LandmarkFreeMust-SeeHistoric BuildingDecorative Art
Overview
Dominating the east Manhattan skyline since its grand completion in 1930, the historic Chrysler Building stands proudly as one of the world's most widely recognized and beloved Art Deco architectural masterworks. Designed brilliantly by architect William Van Alen to feature a spectacular terraced sunburst steel spire crown and dramatic eagle hood ornaments, this elegant landmark remains an absolute marvel. Saved as a brilliant visual sentinel crafted intricately with shimmering stainless steel panels, it stands as an evocative symbol of early 20th-century automotive power.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 15-30 minutes
Best TimeClear weekday mornings from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM. The building has no active observation deck, but its stunning Art Deco lobby is open to the public on weekdays. The morning sun makes the sunburst steel spire gleam beautifully when shot from the 42nd St overpass.
Getting ThereSituated in Midtown at 405 Lexington Ave. Take the 4/5/6/7 or S subway line to Grand Central-42 St station. The building sits directly across the street from the terminal and can be accessed via underground concourses.
Travel Tips
- The historic upper observation deck is permanently closed; visitors are restricted to the ground-floor Art Deco lobby for free during business hours (Monday to Friday, 8 AM - 6 PM). The building is fully closed to tourism on weekends.
Photo Tips
Photo Spots
- For the absolute best exterior shots of the iconic sunburst steel spire, position yourself at the intersection of 44th Street and Lexington Avenue, or use a telephoto lens on the overpass just east of Grand Central Terminal.
Photo Rules
- The use of professional tripods, large DSLR telephoto lenses, or reflectors is strictly prohibited inside the lobby; handheld photography is permitted but must remain quiet without blocking the commuter turnstiles.
Reviews
Positive
- The most beautiful and classic Art Deco skyscraper in NYC; its unique sunburst stainless steel spire is visually stunning from any angle.
- The first-floor lobby is free to the public; its exquisite frescoes, gorgeous wood elevators, and classic lighting genuinely exude the luxury of old New York's golden age.
- Superb location right next to Grand Central Terminal with a highly developed transit network, making it convenient and efficient to snap photos from the perimeter.
Heads up
- Since the interior consists of private offices, regular tourists cannot visit upper floors and there is no public observation deck, limiting visits to just the lobby.
- The lobby's public access is limited to weekday daytime hours, with doors locked on weekends and late nights, offering lower convenience for weekend travelers.
- Situated at a busy intersection in Midtown, the area is intensely commercialized and packed with traffic and commuters, making it tough to safely find a clean photo spot.