Exploring New York City: A Tour of the Iconic Empire State Building

As a tourist in New York City, one of the most exciting places to visit is the iconic Empire State Building. Sitting majestically in the heart of Manhattan, the Empire State Building is an iconic symbol of the city, and a must-see on any trip to the Big Apple. With its unique Art Deco styling, breath-taking views, and fascinating history, the Empire State Building is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world.

To the uninitiated, the Empire State Building may seem like just another skyscraper. But the truth is, it has a rich and fascinating history that is well worth exploring. From its construction in the wake of the Great Depression to its appearance in films like King Kong and An Affair to Remember, the Empire State Building is not only a symbol of New York City, but of the entire nation.

History of the Empire State Building

The Empire State Building was designed by architects William F. Lamb and Shreve, Lamb and Harmon, and was constructed between 1930 and 1931. The building was originally intended to be an office building, but the onset of the Great Depression led to the owners selling it to a real estate firm, which promptly turned it into a tourist attraction. Over the years, the Empire State Building has become a symbol of New York City and the United States, appearing in films, television shows, and books.

The building stands 1454 feet tall and has 102 stories, making it one of the tallest buildings in the world. It is clad with Indiana limestone and is decorated with a variety of Art Deco elements, most notably the spire and the iconic mast at the top of the building. The building is also home to several observatories, offering visitors stunning views of the city.

Visiting the Empire State Building

Visiting the Empire State Building is an absolute must for any traveler to New York. There are several ways to explore the building, from taking a self-guided tour to booking a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide. The building is open 365 days a year and is open from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. on most days.

The best way to experience the building is to climb to the top and take in the breathtaking views. Visitors can take the elevator to the 86th floor and then climb the remaining flights of stairs to the 102nd floor. From the top, visitors can see up to five states on a clear day, including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.

In addition to the stunning views, visitors can also explore the many exhibits and attractions within the building. The Empire State Building Observatory features a range of interactive exhibits, including a simulated time-lapse of the building’s construction and a virtual reality experience that allows visitors to explore the city from the top of the building. Visitors can also explore the historical artifacts, including the original blueprints, photographs, and other items from the building’s construction.

Facts and Figures

The Empire State Building is one of the most iconic buildings in the world and has become a symbol of the city and the nation. Here are some interesting facts and figures about the Empire State Building:

• The building is 1454 feet tall and has 102 stories.
• The building is clad with Indiana limestone and is decorated with Art Deco elements.
• The building has been featured in over 200 films, including King Kong and An Affair to Remember.
• The building is open 365 days a year, from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. on most days.
• The Empire State Building Observatory features an array of interactive exhibits.
• From the top of the building, visitors can see up to five states on a clear day.

Conclusion

The Empire State Building is an iconic symbol of New York City and the United States, and a must-see for any traveler to the Big Apple. With its unique design, stunning views, and fascinating history, the Empire State Building is a truly remarkable building and a must-visit destination. So next time you’re in New York, don’t miss out on the chance to explore this iconic structure and experience the city from one of its most iconic vantage points.