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A Visitors Guide to Chrysler Building

The Chrysler Building in New York City is one of the top 10 architectural buildings as ranked by the American Institute of Architects.
Batul Nafisa Baxamusa
This iconic building is 77-story high and is easily recognizable in the magnificent New York Skyline. It was once the 1st super tall building of the world, and today it is the 8th tallest building in New York.

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If you wish to visit the Chrysler Building, you need to follow certain strict policies and guidelines.

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You can view this art deco building for free from the outside! You can even visit the lobby to view the art deco and Edward Trumbull’s ornate ceiling mural.
The building was opened by Walter Chrysler, the head of Chrysler Corporation. It remained the company’s headquarters from 1930’s to mid-50.

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This building is known for its unique art deco architecture, of which the crown and spire at the top, stand out.
On the exterior corners of the 31st floor, you will see embellishments like gargoyles on Gothic cathedrals. They are similar to the hood ornaments that were placed on the Chrysler vehicles of that period.

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The Race to Reach the Sky
During 1928, the Woolworth Building was supposed to be the world’s tallest building. Walter Chrysler, however dreamt of having his building take over this title.
During the same year, the construction of 40 Wall Street began, and this led to the ‘Race to the Sky’.
The race was won by Chrysler after a secret 125- foot spire was erected within 90 minutes in a day, just the day after 40 Wall Street Tower was opened.
The height of Chrysler Building is 282 m, and with the tip included, the height reaches up to 319 m.

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Location
The Chrysler Building is located at 405 Lexington Ave in Midtown Manhattan. It is situated right next to the Grand Central Terminal.

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The Inside

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The purposely dimly lit lobby is created to build an intimate atmosphere. Each of the 4 elevator banks are designed differently with a futuristic look.
Transport and Human Endeavor, a giant mural is painted over the ceiling of the lobby. It is a homage given to the Golden Age of Aviation and the Machine Age.

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A wall panel is dedicated to 50 figures, which represent different workers such as masons, carpenters, plasterers, builders, etc.
An observation deck called ‘The Celestial’ was once open to public who could visit here by paying 50 cents. However, the small triangular windows hardly allowed any view and soon fewer people came to visit.

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There was once a restaurant here, called Cloud Club for the wealthiest executives. This men-only club was mainly known for lunch. The restaurant was later closed in 1979.
As we talk of it today, there is no way to visit the observation deck that was closed decades ago. The only way to see the view from the top is by booking an appointment to a dentist office located way up on the 69th floor of the iconic and one of its kind, Chrysler Building.