The Chrysler Building, an iconic symbol of New York City’s skyline, is a must-see for any visitor to the Big Apple. But once you’ve marveled at its stunning Art Deco architecture, you might be wondering what else there is to do in the area. That’s where “The Chrysler Building: A Guide to the Most Exciting Activities Nearby” comes in handy!
In this guide, we’ll explore the best attractions, museums, shopping destinations, and dining options within walking distance of this architectural gem. So, put on your walking shoes and let’s discover the hidden treasures surrounding the Chrysler Building.
Table of Contents
The Chrysler Building: A Brief History
Before we dive into the nearby activities, let’s take a moment to appreciate the Chrysler Building itself. Completed in 1930, this 77-story skyscraper was designed by architect William Van Alen and originally built for the Chrysler Corporation. Its distinctive spire, adorned with sunburst motifs and triangular windows, has made it one of the most recognizable buildings in the world.
The Chrysler Building’s interior is equally impressive, with a luxurious lobby featuring red Moroccan marble walls, a ceiling mural by Edward Trumbull, and elaborate elevator doors. While the observation deck on the 71st floor closed in 1945, visitors can still admire the building’s exterior and snap photos from the nearby streets.
Observation Decks with Stunning Views
Summit One Vanderbilt
Just a 4-minute walk from the Chrysler Building, Summit One Vanderbilt offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation deck on the 91st floor. This new addition to the NYC skyline, opened in 2020, features an immersive art installation called “Air,” which uses mirrors, light, and sound to create a unique sensory experience.
Visitors can also enjoy a glass-floor ledge that juts out over Madison Avenue, providing a thrilling perspective of the bustling streets below. Tickets for Summit One Vanderbilt range from $39 to $73, depending on the time of day and whether you opt for the “Ascent” experience, which includes a glass elevator ride to the highest viewing point.
Empire State Building
No visit to New York City is complete without a trip to the Empire State Building, located just a 12-minute walk from the Chrysler Building. This 102-story skyscraper, completed in 1931, held the title of the world’s tallest building for nearly 40 years.
The 86th-floor observation deck offers 360-degree views of the city, including the Chrysler Building, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. For an even higher vantage point, visitors can head to the 102nd-floor observatory. Tickets start at $44 for adults and $38 for children, with options for skip-the-line access and sunrise/sunset visits.
Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center
Another iconic observation deck near the Chrysler Building is Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center, just a 13-minute walk away. This 70th-floor viewing platform provides unobstructed views of Central Park and the Empire State Building, as well as the Chrysler Building itself.
Visitors can also explore the history of Rockefeller Center through interactive exhibits on the mezzanine level before heading up to the observation deck. Tickets start at $38 for adults and $32 for children, with timed entry options available.
World-Class Museums and Cultural Attractions
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Art lovers won’t want to miss the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), located just an 18-minute walk from the Chrysler Building. This world-renowned museum houses an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol.
In addition to its permanent collection, MoMA hosts rotating exhibitions showcasing emerging artists and new perspectives on art history. Visitors can also enjoy film screenings, performances, and educational programs. Admission is $25 for adults, with free entry on Friday evenings from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm.
New York Public Library
The New York Public Library‘s flagship building, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture just a 9-minute walk from the Chrysler Building. This historic library, opened in 1911, features a grand marble staircase, ornate ceiling murals, and the iconic Rose Main Reading Room, which stretches nearly two city blocks.
Visitors can take a free one-hour tour of the building to learn about its history and architecture, or explore the exhibits in the Gottesman Hall and Wachenheim Gallery. The library also hosts author talks, workshops, and performances throughout the year.
United Nations Headquarters
For a glimpse into global diplomacy, head to the United Nations Headquarters, located a 13-minute walk from the Chrysler Building. This complex of buildings, designed by an international team of architects including Le Corbusier and Oscar Niemeyer, has been the official headquarters of the United Nations since 1952.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the General Assembly Hall, Security Council Chamber, and other significant spaces within the complex. Tours last approximately one hour and are available in several languages. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the UN Visitor Centre.
Morgan Library & Museum
The Morgan Library & Museum, a 15-minute walk from the Chrysler Building, is a hidden gem that combines rare books, manuscripts, and artwork in a stunning architectural setting. The museum’s collection includes original manuscripts by Charles Dickens, Mozart, and Henry David Thoreau, as well as drawings by Michelangelo and Rembrandt.
The building itself is a work of art, with a grand Italian Renaissance-style library, a modern glass-enclosed atrium, and a tranquil garden court. Admission is $22 for adults, with free entry on Friday evenings from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Shopping and Entertainment Districts
Fifth Avenue Shopping
Just steps away from the Chrysler Building, Fifth Avenue is a premier shopping destination known for its luxury boutiques and department stores. Visitors can browse the latest fashions at Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Tiffany & Co., or explore the flagship stores of brands like Apple, Nike, and Uniqlo.
In addition to shopping, Fifth Avenue is home to several historic landmarks, such as St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Rockefeller Center. During the holiday season, the avenue comes alive with festive window displays and the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
Times Square
No trip to New York City is complete without a visit to Times Square, the vibrant heart of the city’s entertainment district. Located a 15-minute walk from the Chrysler Building, this bustling intersection is known for its bright billboards, street performers, and throngs of tourists.
Visitors can catch a Broadway show at one of the many theaters in the area, pose for photos with costumed characters, or simply soak up the energy of the crowd. Don’t forget to stop by the TKTS booth to score discounted same-day tickets to Broadway and off-Broadway shows.
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center, a 12-minute walk from the Chrysler Building, is a historic complex of buildings that offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options for visitors. The centerpiece of the complex is the 70-story 30 Rockefeller Plaza, which houses the NBC Studios and the famous Rainbow Room restaurant.
Visitors can take a tour of the NBC Studios, go ice skating at the seasonal rink in the plaza, or browse the shops and restaurants in the underground concourse. During the holiday season, Rockefeller Center is home to the iconic Christmas tree and a festive light show.
Nearby Dining and Nightlife
SESAMO
For a unique dining experience near the Chrysler Building, head to SESAMO Italian Restaurant Hell’s Kitchen, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant located just a 6-minute walk away. The menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients and bold flavors, with dishes like grilled octopus, lamb kebabs, and handmade pasta.
The restaurant’s interior is just as impressive as the food, with a sleek, modern design and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of the bustling streets outside. SESAMO also has an extensive wine list and creative cocktails to pair with your meal.
Grand Central Oyster Bar
Located inside the historic Grand Central Terminal, just a 4-minute walk from the Chrysler Building, the Grand Central Oyster Bar has been serving fresh seafood since 1913. The restaurant’s vaulted ceilings and tiled walls create a classic New York atmosphere, while the menu features a wide variety of oysters, clams, and other seafood dishes.
In addition to the raw bar, the Grand Central Oyster Bar offers classic dishes like lobster bisque, crab cakes, and pan-roasted fish. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a selection of craft beers to complement your meal.
Benjamin Steakhouse Prime
For a classic New York steakhouse experience near the Chrysler Building, look no further than Benjamin Steakhouse Prime, located just a 6-minute walk away. The restaurant’s warm, wood-paneled interior and attentive service create a refined atmosphere, while the menu features prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and classic sides.
The restaurant’s signature dish is the porterhouse for two, which is dry-aged for 28 days and served with your choice of sides. Benjamin Steakhouse Prime also offers an extensive wine list, with a focus on bold reds to pair with your steak.
Tempura Matsui
If you’re in the mood for Japanese cuisine, Tempura Matsui is a must-visit spot located just a 6-minute walk from the Chrysler Building. This intimate, 19-seat restaurant specializes in tempura, a traditional Japanese cooking technique that involves lightly battering and frying seafood and vegetables.
The menu features a variety of tempura options, including shrimp, crab, and seasonal vegetables, as well as sushi and sashimi. The restaurant’s minimalist design and attentive service create a serene atmosphere that allows the food to shine.
Sea Fire Grill
For a modern twist on classic seafood dishes, head to Sea Fire Grill, located just a 7-minute walk from the Chrysler Building. The restaurant’s sleek, contemporary interior and open kitchen create a lively atmosphere, while the menu features fresh, sustainably sourced seafood and prime cuts of meat.
The restaurant’s signature dishes include the seafood tower, which features a variety of raw and cooked seafood, and the lobster mac and cheese, which is made with fresh Maine lobster and a blend of cheeses. Sea Fire Grill also offers an extensive wine list and creative cocktails to pair with your meal.
Guided Tours and Walks
Grand Central Partnership Walking Tours
To learn more about the history and architecture of the area surrounding the Chrysler Building, consider joining a free walking tour led by the Grand Central Partnership. These tours, which depart from the Grand Central Terminal clock tower on Fridays at 12:30 pm, offer an insider’s perspective on the neighborhood’s hidden gems and lesser-known stories.
The tours cover a range of topics, from the history of Grand Central Terminal to the architecture of the surrounding buildings. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating facts and anecdotes that bring the neighborhood to life.
Art Deco Architecture Tours
For a deeper dive into the Art Deco architecture of the Chrysler Building and other nearby landmarks, consider joining a specialized tour led by an expert guide. These tours typically last around 2-3 hours and cover a range of buildings and styles from the 1920s and 1930s.
Visitors can learn about the history and design of iconic buildings like the Empire State Building, the Chanin Building, and the Fred F. French Building, as well as lesser-known gems like the Socony-Mobil Building and the Lescaze House. Tour guides share fascinating stories about the architects, developers, and personalities behind these iconic structures.
Self-Guided Walks
If you prefer to explore at your own pace, there are plenty of self-guided walking tours available online that cover the area surrounding the Chrysler Building. These tours typically include a map and detailed descriptions of the points of interest along the route, allowing you to customize your itinerary based on your interests and schedule.
Some popular self-guided walks in the area include the Midtown Architectural Walking Tour, which covers iconic buildings like the Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, and Grand Central Terminal, and the Fifth Avenue Walking Tour, which focuses on the history and architecture of this famous shopping street.
Conclusion
As you can see, there’s no shortage of exciting activities and attractions to explore near the Chrysler Building. From stunning observation decks to world-class museums and shopping destinations, this iconic landmark is surrounded by some of the best that New York City has to offer.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time New Yorker, we hope this guide has inspired you to take a closer look at the hidden gems and lesser-known stories that make this neighborhood so special. So grab your camera, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to discover the magic of Midtown Manhattan!
