One World Trade Center
Originally known as the Freedom Tower, this iconic structure stands 1,776 ft (540 m) tall, commemorating the year of American independence. It is the tallest building in NYC, the U.S., and the 7th tallest worldwide. The One World Observatory offers stunning views, and the 60-second elevator ride to 1,250 ft (381 m) is an exhilarating experience.
30 Hudson Yards
Located in Chelsea’s Hudson Yards complex, this 1,296 ft (395 m) skyscraper is NYC’s 6th tallest and features Edge, a thrilling triangular observation deck on the 100th floor. Designed by Bill Pedersen, it opened in 2019 and is a neo-futuristic highlight of the city’s skyline.
One Vanderbilt
Rising 1,401 ft (427 m) next to Grand Central Terminal, One Vanderbilt is NYC’s 4th tallest building. Opened in 2020, it houses the immersive SUMMIT observation deck, featuring art installations, outdoor terraces, and glass skyboxes over 1,063 ft (324 m) above ground.
Empire State Building
This iconic Art Deco skyscraper, once the tallest in the world (1931–1970), stands 1,454 ft (443 m) tall. Renowned as a “Wonder of the Modern World,” it underwent a $550M renovation in 2010, earning a gold LEED certification.
Chrysler Building
A masterpiece of Art Deco architecture, the 1,046 ft (319 m) Chrysler Building was the tallest in the world in 1930 before the Empire State Building surpassed it. Its stunning lobby, featuring murals and NYC’s first digital clock, is a must-see.
30 Rockefeller Center
Known as 30 Rock, this 850 ft (259 m) Art Deco building features “Top of the Rock,” a panoramic observation deck. Built in the 1930s, it has been the home of NBC Studios and once displayed Diego Rivera’s controversial mural.
Woolworth Building
Dubbed the “Cathedral of Commerce,” this 792 ft (241 m) neo-Gothic marvel was the tallest building in the world from 1913–1930. While its observation deck is closed, guided tours offer a glimpse into its historic and architectural significance.
Hotel Theresa
This Harlem landmark, built in 1913, stands just 13 stories tall but holds immense cultural significance. Known as the “Waldorf of Harlem,” it hosted prominent figures like Malcolm X and Fidel Castro.
United Nations Secretariat Building
This 505 ft (154 m) International Style building, opened in 1952, houses the United Nations. Its revolutionary glass-and-steel curtain wall is a global architectural icon.
One Columbus Circle
Formerly the Time Warner Center, this twin-tower complex at 750 ft (230 m) features residential and commercial spaces. Located at Columbus Circle, it has appeared in films like Ghostbusters.
Gehry New York
Designed by Frank Gehry, this 76-story residential tower at 8 Spruce Street features a rippling stainless-steel facade and nearly 900 rental units.
Flatiron Building
This 285 ft (87 m) triangular icon was one of NYC’s first steel-frame buildings. Its unique design inspired the term “Flatiron,” and it remains a historic landmark.
One57
A 1,005 ft (306 m) luxury residential tower on Billionaire’s Row, One57 once held the record for NYC’s most expensive residence. It features a Park Hyatt Hotel and ultra-luxury condos.
432 Park Avenue
At 1,396 ft (426 m), this slender residential skyscraper offers unparalleled luxury, including 10×10 ft windows and heated bathroom floors.
Central Park Tower
The tallest residential building in the Western Hemisphere, this 1,550 ft (472 m) tower features luxury condos with panoramic views and a seven-story Nordstrom flagship store.
40 Wall Street
Once the tallest building in the world (briefly in 1930), this 927 ft (283 m) skyscraper played a pivotal role in the skyscraper race of the early 20th century.
Metropolitan Life Tower
Inspired by Venice’s Campanile, this 700 ft (213 m) tower near Madison Square Park features 27-ft clock faces and a glowing dome symbolizing eternal light.
New York Life Building
This Gothic Revival skyscraper, adorned with a gold-leaf pyramid, stands 615 ft (188 m) tall and is the headquarters for the New York Life Insurance Company.
Trump Tower
This 58-story skyscraper on Fifth Avenue combines offices, apartments, and retail space. Opened in 1983, it is well-known as the filming location for The Apprentice.
