Discover Many Of New York City's Best Shops And Food Near This Unmissable Marvel Of A Building

Seen head-on, the Flatiron Building in New York City looks like an optical illusion. How could a 22-story building look so skinny? Is its narrowest really only 6.5 feet wide? How was this architectural masterpiece even constructed (way back in 1902), and did it really take only one year to complete?

As it happens, designer Daniel Burnham faced a lot of haters; many people at the time assumed that a strong wind would knock the building over. Luckily for us, the Fuller Building — as it was originally known — has stood at 175 5th Avenue in Manhattan for well over a century, filling visitors with awe. The name was officially changed to match its peculiar shape, and the facade has been endlessly photographed, painted, and replicated as desk ornaments. Even if you only have one day in New York City, the Flatiron Building is a great addition to your itinerary.

It's important to note that the building isn't open to the public, so you can't expect to just waltz inside and take in the views from its upper levels. The outside is beautiful, of course, with Greek columns, oriel windows, and ornate cornices, but it's hard to appreciate such a massive structure from the busy street below. That's why you might consider a tour with Viator, whose knowledgeable guides can explain the history and significance of this beloved landmark.

The Flatiron Building is so iconic that the surrounding neighborhood is actually called the "Flatiron District," and this section of Manhattan is packed with sights. For shopping, there's the literary emporium Rizzoli Bookstore and magical retailer Harry Potter New York, among countless other specialty shops. To step into New York's past, visit the Victorian-era Madison Square Park as well as the birthplace of Theodore Roosevelt, a house that looks almost exactly as it did in 1858. Visitors love to take a picture in front of the cast-iron clock at 200 Fifth Avenue, ideally with the Flatiron Building looming in the background; history buffs can add these to their list of old New York destinations.

When it comes to lodging in the Flatiron District, there's good news and bad news: This part of Manhattan is full of high-quality hotels, and romantic getaways to the local Hampton Inn or Springhill Suites could be worth the splurge. But in general, hotel rooms in this area are outrageously expensive, and even budget accommodations can cost a pretty penny. If you decide to stay a little farther out — in Brooklyn or Jersey City, for example — prices will drop precipitously, and you can take the R or W train (the "Yellow Line" on the subway map) to 24th Street Station. Take the steps to street level, and you spot the Flatiron Building right above you. If you've never taken the train in the Big Apple before, here's a visitor's guide to the New York City subway system.