The History
Built in 1928 by Cass Gilbert, designer of the landmark Woolworth Building, this massive 40-story structure is topped by a golden pyramid roof and occupies a site with an equally grand history. From 1837-1889, the land was home to the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad depot, a concert garden and P.T. Barnum's Hippodrome. Until 1925, the site housed the original Madison Square Garden, designed by architect Stanford White.
Architectural Features
Pass through the grand bronze entryway doors, and you'll find yourself in a lobby that seems infinite, illuminated with the hushed glow of 18 enormous hanging lamps. Even if you're just taking the grand stairway to the subway station in the bottom of the building, be sure to look up on your short journey, or risk missing the elaborate coffered and vaulted ceilings.