Flatiron Building
Daniel Burnham's 1902 triangular masterpiece, an iconic NYC landmark known for its unique shape and historic significance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos
Flatiron Building
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Daniel Burnham's 1902 triangular masterpiece, an iconic NYC landmark known for its unique shape and historic significance.
"A true architectural marvel that defines the NYC skyline, even with its persistent scaffolding."
Scaffolding Reality Check
Be prepared for scaffolding; it's been up for years and may remain.
Best Photo Angles
Capture the unique shape from intersections of 5th Ave, Broadway, and 23rd St.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Triangular Facade
Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and 23rd Street
Marvel at Daniel Burnham's groundbreaking 1902 design, a true architectural marvel that defines the NYC skyline.
Madison Square Park Views
Adjacent to the building
Enjoy picturesque views of the Flatiron Building from this vibrant urban oasis, perfect for photos and relaxation.
Nighttime Illumination
Exterior of the building
Anticipate the building's new nighttime lighting scheme, set to enhance its architectural grandeur after dark.
Planning Your Visit
Scaffolding Status
Recent Sale & Future
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Scaffolding Reality Check
Be prepared for scaffolding; it's been up for years and may remain. +1
Best Photo Angles
Capture the unique shape from intersections of 5th Ave, Broadway, and 23rd St.
Explore Nearby Parks
Madison Square Park offers great vantage points and a pleasant break.
Recent Sale Buzz
The building recently sold for $190M; interior access is limited. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
Scaffolding Reality Check
Be prepared for scaffolding; it's been up for years and may remain. +1
Best Photo Angles
Capture the unique shape from intersections of 5th Ave, Broadway, and 23rd St.
Explore Nearby Parks
Madison Square Park offers great vantage points and a pleasant break.
Recent Sale Buzz
The building recently sold for $190M; interior access is limited. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the Flatiron Building's unique architectural design and its status as a New York City icon. While the persistent scaffolding is a common point of disappointment, the surrounding Flatiron District and Madison Square Park offer enjoyable experiences and great photo opportunities. The recent sale has sparked interest in its future, though interior access remains limited.
"The Flatiron Building was originally called the Fuller Building.This building is one of New York City's most iconic landmarks. The Flatiron Building is famous for its iconic triangular shape.Its unique shape sets it apart from the typical city structure, a design driven by the intersection of Broadway and 5th Avenue. The architecture is stunning, offering fascinating views from various angles."
Sergey Perlov
"I have always loved this building for the way it takes an almost impossible urban space and uses it with genius and economy in a Neo-renaissance style. The building was under renovation when we were there yet despite this remains and absolutely marvelous piece of architecture."
Bernard Savage
"My trip to the Flatiron district on May 5th, 2025, was a success! The weather was pleasant, typical for early May in New York – likely a mix of sunshine and some clouds, with temperatures hovering in the comfortable range, perhaps around the mid-60s Fahrenheit (17-19°C).
My first stop was Eataly Flatiron. What a place! It's a vibrant Italian marketplace with a huge selection of restaurants, cafes, and shops. I could have spent hours there exploring all the different food options. From fresh pasta to delicious pastries, it's a food lover's paradise. The atmosphere was buzzing and lively, making it a fun experience.
After indulging in some Italian treats, I headed over to Yeti. And I'm glad I did! I was on the hunt for a good tumbler, and I scored a great deal there. The prices were competitive, and the quality seems excellent. I'm excited to put my new tumbler to good use.
The Flatiron district itself is a cool area to explore, with its unique architecture and bustling streets. It's easily accessible by subway, and there are plenty of other shops and attractions nearby. Overall, I had a great time in the Flatiron district on this day. I highly recommend visiting Eataly for a culinary adventure and checking out Yeti if you're looking for quality outdoor gear."
Yuan John
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Flatiron Building is easily accessible via subway. Take the R or W train to 23rd Street, or the 6 train to 23rd Street. Several bus lines also stop nearby, making it a convenient destination within the Flatiron District.
The most direct subway lines to the Flatiron Building are the R and W trains to the 23rd Street station, or the 6 train to the 23rd Street station. These stations are just a short walk from the iconic structure.
While there are parking garages in the Flatiron District, they can be expensive and fill up quickly. It's generally recommended to use public transportation to reach the Flatiron Building due to its central location and accessibility.
Yes, you can walk to the Flatiron Building from Times Square, but it's a significant distance (about 1.5 miles). It's a pleasant walk through Midtown Manhattan, but taking the subway is a faster option.
The Flatiron District is a vibrant neighborhood in Manhattan, named after the Flatiron Building. It's known for its mix of historic architecture, trendy shops, restaurants, and proximity to Madison Square Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need tickets to see the Flatiron Building. It is an exterior landmark, and you can view and photograph it from the surrounding streets and public spaces.
Currently, going inside the Flatiron Building is not possible for public tours. The building has undergone a recent sale and is undergoing potential renovations. +1
The Flatiron Building can be viewed at any time, as it is an exterior landmark. However, the surrounding streets and Madison Square Park have their own operating hours.
There is no admission fee to view the Flatiron Building from the outside. It's a public landmark meant to be admired from the street.
The scaffolding has been a persistent feature for years due to extensive repair needs. There is no confirmed timeline for its removal, and it may remain for an extended period. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Excellent photo opportunities exist from the intersection of Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and 23rd Street, offering unique perspectives of its triangular shape. Madison Square Park also provides a beautiful backdrop.
While the scaffolding can obscure some views, photographers can still capture the building's unique form by focusing on angles that minimize the scaffolding or by embracing it as part of the urban landscape.
Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Evening twilight provides beautiful golden hour lighting, and the upcoming nighttime illumination will offer a new photographic dimension.
Drone usage in New York City is heavily regulated, especially in crowded areas like the Flatiron District. It is generally not permitted to fly drones over or near the Flatiron Building without specific authorization. Always check current FAA and local regulations.
Currently, public access inside the Flatiron Building is limited, making interior photography impossible. Future renovations may change this, but for now, focus on exterior shots. +1
🎫 📍 Location & Area
The Flatiron Building is located at 175 Fifth Avenue, at the intersection of Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and 23rd Street in the Flatiron District of Manhattan, New York City.
The Flatiron District is known for its iconic architecture, including the Flatiron Building itself, as well as its trendy shops, diverse restaurants, and proximity to Madison Square Park. It's a bustling hub in Manhattan.
Nearby attractions include Madison Square Park, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and numerous shops and eateries along Fifth Avenue and Broadway. The area is rich with New York City history and culture.
Yes, the Flatiron District is generally considered a safe and lively area of Manhattan, with consistent foot traffic and police presence. As with any urban environment, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
The best way to explore the Flatiron District is on foot. This allows you to fully appreciate the architecture, discover hidden gems, and enjoy the vibrant street life. Public transportation is also readily available.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making a day of it by combining a visit to the Flatiron Building with other nearby family-friendly attractions. The Children's Museum of the Arts is a short subway ride away, and the New York Transit Museum in Brooklyn is also accessible. Remember to check for any ongoing events or festivals in Madison Square Park that might appeal to younger visitors.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't let the scaffolding deter you; creative photographers can incorporate it into their shots, adding a layer of urban grit. Consider shooting during the golden hour for warm, dramatic lighting, or at twilight when the city lights begin to twinkle. The upcoming nighttime illumination promises even more exciting photographic possibilities.
Madison Square Park provides a softer, more natural backdrop, ideal for capturing the building within a broader cityscape. 🚶♀️ Walkers & Explorers
Combine your visit with a stroll through Madison Square Park, and then venture further to discover nearby gems like the Eataly marketplace or the shops along Fifth Avenue. The area is highly walkable, with plenty of cafes and benches to rest your feet. Public transportation options are abundant, making it easy to start or end your exploration at different points.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance and History
The building quickly became a symbol of New York City's ambition and modernity. Despite initial skepticism about its stability due to the wind currents created by its shape, it proved to be a durable and iconic structure. Over the decades, it has housed various businesses and offices, and its image has been immortalized in countless photographs and artworks, solidifying its status as a beloved New York City landmark.
Recently, the Flatiron Building has garnered attention for its sale at auction for $190 million. While the new ownership plans are still unfolding, the building's historical significance and architectural innovation continue to draw admiration from visitors and locals alike.
The Scaffolding Saga
The extensive scaffolding is primarily due to Local Law 11, which mandates regular facade inspections and repairs for buildings over six stories. For many building owners, it can be more cost-effective to maintain the scaffolding for extended periods rather than undertaking immediate, costly facade repairs. The Flatiron Building is reportedly in need of substantial repairs, estimated to be around $100 million, which was a factor in its recent public auction.
While the new owners may eventually address the repairs and scaffolding removal, there is currently no definitive timeline. This ongoing situation means that visitors hoping for unobstructed views of the building's iconic facade may be disappointed. However, some find a certain charm in the scaffolding, viewing it as another layer of the city's ever-evolving urban tapestry.
Exploring the Flatiron District
Madison Square Park, located just north of the Flatiron Building, is a must-visit. This expansive green space provides a welcome respite from the city bustle and offers fantastic vantage points for photographing the Flatiron Building. It's also a popular spot for lunch breaks, people-watching, and enjoying seasonal art installations. The park's lively ambiance complements the architectural grandeur of the surrounding buildings.
Beyond the park, the Flatiron District is a haven for shoppers and foodies. You'll find a curated selection of shops ranging from designer boutiques to unique specialty stores. The dining options are equally diverse, with everything from casual cafes to acclaimed restaurants. Exploring the streets of the Flatiron District is an experience in itself, revealing the layered history and contemporary energy of this beloved Manhattan neighborhood.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit