With its steel sunburst crown, the Chrysler Building is the pinnacle of the art deco era and one of the world’s most recognizable skyscrapers. Designed by William Van Alen for Chrysler founder Walter F. Chrysler, the 925-foot, 77-story tower boasts car-themed flourishes and was the first man-made structure with a height of more than 1,000 feet. Despite its historic significance, no public tours are offered of the tower. But during business hours, visitors can explore the elegant lobby with Moroccan marble walls and embellished Sienna marble floors. Check out the world’s first digital clock by the reception area and look up at Transport and Human Endeavor, artist Edward Trumbull’s ceiling mural depicting innovative buildings, airplanes and Chrysler’s automotive line. And the building is most stunning from the outside anyway, especially after the sun sets and thousands of lights in the triangular windows set the crown aglow.
Since the public observation deck closed in 1945, there has been no official way for tourists to admire the view from the triangular windows of the Chrysler Building’s iconic crown…but there is a dental office located on the 54th floor. So the best way to enjoy a breathtaking view of the NYC skyline is by getting a root canal.