Ultimate Visitor’s Guide to the Chrysler Building in NYC

The Chrysler Building in New York City is a celebrated architectural marvel, ranked among the top ten favorite structures in America by the American Institute of Architects. Standing 77 stories tall, the Chrysler Building is a striking icon of New York’s skyline, with its gleaming peak captivating the imagination of many. To appreciate this art deco masterpiece in person, it’s essential to be aware of the building’s visiting policies.

Viewing the Chrysler Building

Visitors have the opportunity to admire the Chrysler Building’s exterior. Additionally, the lobby is open for public viewing, where art deco features and an exquisite ceiling mural by Edward Trumbull can be explored. The lobby hours are from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays. There is no need for tickets to access the lobby.

However, the remaining areas of the building are leased to various businesses and are off-limits to the public. Consequently, there are no tours available, and tourists are strictly prohibited from entering areas beyond the lobby.

Building History

Constructed by Walter Chrysler, the building served as the headquarters for the Chrysler Corporation from its opening in 1930 until the 1950s. The construction took two years to complete. Notably, architect William Van Alen designed decorative elements inspired by Chrysler’s automobile creations, such as stainless-steel eagle head hood ornaments and racing cars on the 31st floor.

Former Observation Deck

The building once had a 3,900 square-foot observation deck located on the 71st floor, named “Celestial.” This deck offered breathtaking views extending up to 100 miles on clear days. Visitors could enjoy a stroll along a corridor adorned with vaulted ceilings and celestial motifs for a nominal fee of 50 cents. Additionally, the observatory featured the toolbox used by Walter P. Chrysler during the early years of his career.

However, after the Chrysler Building opened, it was soon eclipsed by the Empire State Building, which became the tallest building in the world just eleven months later, resulting in a decline in visitors to the Chrysler Building.

Walter Chrysler previously had an apartment and office on the top floor, alongside renowned Life magazine photographer Margaret Bourke-White. Due to leasing policies at the time, the magazine had to lease the apartment in the name of the magazine instead of Bourke-White, despite her fame.

Following the closure of the observation deck, it was utilized for housing radio and television broadcasting equipment. Notably, the old observatory was renovated in 1986, transforming it into an office space.

Private Social Club

The Cloud Club, a private dining establishment, was previously located within the 66th to 68th floors of the Chrysler Building. This exclusive club catered to some of New York City’s most influential figures and was initially designed for Texaco, which occupied a significant portion of the building. The club featured amenities such as a barber shop and locker rooms, reportedly used to conceal alcohol during Prohibition. The Cloud Club eventually closed in the late 1970s, with the space undergoing renovations for office tenants.

Current Owners

In 2008, the building was acquired by the Abu Dhabi Investment Council for $800 million. This acquisition transferred the majority of ownership (90%) from Tishman Speyer, which retains a modest 10%. Additionally, Cooper Union holds the land lease, utilizing the income generated as an endowment for the college.