Flatiron Building: New York’s iconic iron-shaped skyscraper
The Flatiron Building is a true curiosity in New York. This iron-shaped skyscraper amazes with its distinctive form and seemingly fragile appearance. A must-see!
What You Need to Know About the Flatiron Building
- The Flatiron Building opened in 1902 as the Fuller Building in the heart of Manhattan, New York. At 87 m (285 ft) tall, this office building turned heads from day one. Its triangular shape, tapering to a sharp point, gives it an almost fragile appearance. That distinctive form quickly earned it the nickname “Flatiron”—a reference to the pressing tool it resembles.
- Legend has it that the building created unusual wind currents at street level. Pedestrians’ long skirts would lift in the gusts, and crowds would gather to watch. Police reportedly had to disperse onlookers.
- The Flatiron Building was designed by American architect Daniel Burnham, a leading figure of the Chicago School. Burnham also planned Chicago and Manila, and designed the building that houses the Selfridge’s department store in London.
- With its instantly recognizable silhouette, the Flatiron has been a favorite of Hollywood filmmakers. It serves as the headquarters of the Daily Bugle, the newspaper in Spider-Man. More recently, you can see the Flatiron crumble in Godzilla. In 1902, a silent film by Robert K. Bonine for the American Mutoscope & Biograph Company captured the building brand new, surrounded by streetcars, horse-drawn carriages, and Belle Époque fashions.
- Photographed countless times, the building appears on postcards and posters worldwide. Renowned photographer Alfred Stieglitz once said that “the Flat Iron is to the United States what the Parthenon was to Greece”.
What to See at the Flatiron Building
- To experience the Flatiron at its best, approach from Fifth Avenue. Exit the subway at 28 Street (N and R lines) and head toward Fifth Avenue via 27th or 26th Street. You’ll see this striking form come into view.
- The Flatiron Building is not open to the public. You can enter the lobby, but you won’t get much further unless you have business with one of the companies in the building.
- Spend time instead in Madison Square Park, which faces the Flatiron. This small park is perfect for a break while you take in views of this unique building.
- Tip: When you reach the top of the Empire State Building, look south to spot the Flatiron Building.
What to See Around the Flatiron Building
- The Flatiron Building’s neighborhood, called the Flatiron District, sits at the heart of New York. It’s a vibrant area, much like Madison Square Park itself.
- Just behind the Flatiron, you’ll find the Harry Potter Shop New York. It’s the world’s largest Harry Potter store. You’ll discover all the merchandise from the saga, including a wand available only in New York.
- Head east along 23rd Street and you can also visit the FRIENDS Experience. This unique museum is entirely dedicated to the TV series Friends.
- North of Madison Square Park, adults can visit the Museum of Sex, New York’s museum of eroticism. Good to know: admission to the Museum of Sex is included with the New York Pass and the New York Explorer Pass. Just show your pass at the entrance!
Inside the Flatiron Building: Video
Flatiron Building at a Glance
Flatiron Building in Photos
