MetLife Building

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Grand Central Terminal

Step into the heart of New York City at Grand Central Terminal, a historic landmark that pulses with energy and elegance. Just a stone's throw from the MetLife Building, this iconic terminal invites you to marvel at its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture, indulge in a culinary adventure at its diverse eateries, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere that makes it a must-visit destination for travelers and locals alike.

Metropolitan Life Insurance Company Tower

Discover a piece of New York's architectural history at the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company Tower. Once the tallest building in the world, this Gothic Revival masterpiece stands as a testament to early 20th-century ambition and design. With its towering presence and intricate details, the Met Life Tower offers a glimpse into the past while housing modern luxuries like the New York Edition Hotel, making it a perfect blend of history and contemporary elegance.

MetLife Building

Experience the grandeur of mid-20th-century architecture at the MetLife Building, a defining feature of the New York City skyline. Originally the Pan Am Building, its unique hexagonal design and central location make it an unmissable sight. Whether you're admiring its impressive facade or exploring the lively surroundings, the MetLife Building offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's architectural evolution.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Originally known as the Pan Am Building, the MetLife Building, completed in 1963, was once the largest commercial office space in the world. Its history is deeply intertwined with the evolution of New York's skyline and the city's economic growth. The building is not just an architectural masterpiece but also a symbol of New York's historical skyline. Designated a New York City Landmark in 1989 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it reflects its importance in the city's cultural and historical narrative. The building has played a pivotal role in New York City's history, symbolizing the city's rich aviation history as the former headquarters of Pan American World Airways. Its transformation into the MetLife Building marks a significant shift in the city's commercial landscape.

Architectural Design

The MetLife Building features an elongated octagonal massing with a precast concrete facade, one of the first of its kind in New York City. Its design, by renowned architects Emery Roth & Sons, Pietro Belluschi, and Walter Gropius, reflects the International style of architecture and has been both criticized and praised, making it a subject of architectural debate and interest. In contrast, the Met Life Tower, designed by Napoleon LeBrun & Sons, is a testament to the Italian Renaissance Revival style. Its exterior is divided into three sections, resembling a classical column, and is topped with a pyramidal roof and a cupola, making it a standout feature in the city's skyline.