Flatiron Building

The basics

Constructed on a narrow, triangular plot, the Flatiron Building is both an ingenious engineering solution—it was one of the first to feature a steel skeleton—and a world-renowned symbol of New York City. It was one of the city’s earliest skyscrapers and was originally known as the Fuller Building, with a 22-story design intended to replicate the 3-part structure of a classical Greek column. Largely used for office spaces and off-limits to the public for most of its existence, the building is nevertheless beloved by New Yorkers and visitors alike.

The Flatiron Building is a staple of many Big Apple itineraries, including hop-on hop-off bus tours, neighborhood walking tours, private sightseeing trips, architecture-themed excursions, and more. While tour guides can’t take you beyond the building’s lobby, they can tell you all about its history.

Things to know before you go

• Leading artists and photographers the likes of Alfred Stieglitz, Edward Steichen, and Albert Gleizes have all created works that feature the Flatiron Building.

• While it’s possible to enter the building’s lobby, there are no Flatiron Building tours as the rest of the building is off-limits to visitors.

• The Flatiron Prow Art Space, located at the front of the building at ground level, hosts a changing series of art exhibitions.

How to get there

Conveniently located in downtown Manhattan, the Flatiron Building can be accessed via numerous forms of transit. Take the N, Q, R, or W train to 23rd Street; the 4 or 6 train to 28th Street; or a PATH train to 23rd Street. The busy Union Square hub is also within walking distance. Alternatively, the area is served by numerous bus routes and can be reached on foot, by car, and by bike.

When to get there

The Flatiron Building is worth visiting throughout the year, but note that it’s best to discover it by day; the building’s illumination is limited at night, so you’re more likely to capture winning photos during daytime hours. If you can, time your visit for lunchtime; in season, the pop-up Madison Square Eats food market, a popular midday destination, is located just steps away.

Exploring the Flatiron District

The Flatiron Building may be the highlight of its eponymous district, but it isn’t the only thing to see in the area. Wander into Madison Square Park for a leafy pause; go on a food crawl of Eataly; seek out high-end restaurants like Eleven Madison Park and the Gramercy Tavern; and drop in the National Museum of Mathematics (or, for adults only, the Museum of Sex).

Ways to explore

One of the city’s earliest skyscrapers, the Flatiron Building has become a symbol of New York City. Largely used for office spaces, it is off-limits to the public, but it is nevertheless beloved by New Yorkers and visitors alike. The Flatiron Building is a staple of many Big Apple itineraries, including hop-on hop-off bus tours, neighborhood walking tours, private sightseeing trips, architecture-themed excursions, and more. While tour guides are unable to take you beyond the building’s lobby, they can tell you all about its history.

Accessibility

NYC walking tours are typically wheelchair accessible, but some bus tours are not; check beforehand.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Pack your camera or phone for a tour around NYC, as well as water, sunscreen, and a jacket if the forecast calls for rain.

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, layers

Not allowed

Visitors are not allowed beyond the lobby.

Amenities

The Flatiron Building is surrounded by stores and restaurants. Public restrooms are available in Greeley Square Park, a 10-minute walk away.

Address

The Flatiron Building is in Manhattan’s Flatiron District, right by Madison Square Park. There are several ways to get here, but public transit is your best bet. You could also walk here, depending on how far you’re traveling.

Driving

While it is technically possible to drive to the Flatiron Building, navigating NYC traffic and finding parking can be a headache. Call a cab or book a rideshare service instead.

Public transportation

The closest subway station is 23rd Street (on the N, Q, R, and W trains). Alternatively, take the 4 or 6 train to 28th Street, less than a 10-minute walk away. Bus routes M1, M2, M3, and M55 stop nearby.

Best times to visit

Visit during the day for the best view, as the building is not well-lit at night.

Best days to visit

Manhattan’s streets are almost always busy, but you’ll find the smallest crowds on Sunday.

Best months to visit

The spring and fall months promise the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing in New York City. Summer is humid and crowded.

Special events

In winter, the Flatiron Public Plazas host illuminated art installations as part of their Winter Glow event.