1928 newspaper article featuring the new German Zeppelin Graf Zeppelin described as the Palace of the Skies, largest of all, with photos

Woolworth Building

Woolworth Building New York City: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Woolworth Building, often called the “Cathedral of Commerce,” is one of New York City’s most celebrated architectural icons. Completed in 1913, it was the tallest building in the world at the time and remains a stunning example of neo-Gothic design and early skyscraper engineering. Commissioned by Frank W. Woolworth and designed by Cass Gilbert, the building’s ornate terracotta façade and lavish interiors have captivated visitors for over a century. This comprehensive guide details Woolworth Building visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, tours, and the building’s historical and architectural significance, ensuring you enjoy a memorable experience in Lower Manhattan (archdaily.com, art-facts.com, nylandmarks.org, whitemad.pl, behindthescenesnyc.com).

Introduction
History and Origins
Architectural Style and Innovations
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Location, Transportation, and Accessibility
Guided Tours and Visitor Experience
Nearby Attractions
Visitor Tips and Photography
Preservation and Modern Adaptations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Aerial photograph of Lower Manhattan in New York City showing skyscrapers and urban landscape

Aerial view of World Trade Center Ground Zero ruins in New York City post-9/11 attack

Historic drawing of the American Hotel and Philip Hone's residence on Broadway, Manhattan

Battery Park with New York City skyline in the background in 1929

View of New York Downtown Hospital on Beekman Street looking northwest across Gold Street with the Woolworth Building in the background

Bird's-eye view of Woolworth Building under construction in New York City on June 22, 1912

Historical map of Broadway between Park Place and Barclay Street in New York City, 1825

Broadway street view from Bowling Green in New York City with tall buildings and bustling city life

Traffic on Broadway in New York City looking north from Wall Street in 1913

Traffic jam on Broadway with historic twin bracket lamppost visible

1911 detailed map of New York City's Manhattan Borough from the Atlas of the City of New York by George W. and Walter S. Bromley

Brooklyn Bridge view looking west towards Manhattan skyline

Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges over East River with Fletcher's Castoria advertising visible in Two Bridges area

Cass Gilbert's Woolworth Building towering in New York City with clear blue sky

Old Post Office corner with Woolworth Building in Manhattan

History and Origins

Frank Winfield Woolworth, founder of the F.W. Woolworth Company, envisioned a headquarters that would symbolize the success and ambition of American commerce. He chose architect Cass Gilbert, known for his Beaux-Arts public buildings, to realize this vision. Construction began in 1910, and the building was completed in 1913, reaching a record-breaking height of 792 feet (241 meters) and comprising 57 stories (art-facts.com, en.wikipedia.org).

Financed entirely by Woolworth himself, the project showcased both financial independence and architectural creativity. The Woolworth Building quickly became a symbol of New York’s economic power and an inspiration for future skyscrapers (archdaily.com).

Architectural Style and Innovations

The Woolworth Building is a masterpiece of American neo-Gothic architecture, with its design inspired by European cathedrals such as the Palace of Westminster. Notable architectural features include:

Exterior: Terracotta cladding, pointed arches, intricate tracery, and a copper-clad pyramidal roof adorned with gargoyles and finials. Vertical piers emphasize height, and glazed accents enhance the façade (archdaily.com, whitemad.pl).
Interior: The grand lobby is celebrated for its marble walls, vaulted ceilings, gold mosaics, stained glass, and whimsical plaster caricatures of Woolworth and Gilbert (archdaily.com, whitemad.pl).
Engineering: The building’s steel skeleton enabled unprecedented height and flexibility. Pneumatic caissons anchored the foundation deep in Manhattan’s bedrock, and high-speed Otis elevators, advanced heating/cooling, and a self-sufficient power system set new standards for skyscraper technology (art-facts.com, nylandmarks.org).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Public Access:
The Woolworth Building is primarily an office and residential building. Public access is restricted to guided tours, as the lobby and interior are not open for walk-in visitors.

Guided Tour Hours:
Tours are typically available during standard business hours, most often on weekdays between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Availability may vary by provider and season, and tours are not offered on major holidays or during private events.

Tickets:

Prices range from $20 to $40 per person, depending on the tour type and provider.
All tickets must be purchased in advance through official Woolworth Building Tours or authorized platforms.
Age restrictions may apply; check with providers for children’s policies.

Always check the latest hours and ticket availability before planning your visit.

Location, Transportation, and Accessibility

Address:
233 Broadway, New York, NY 10279 (between Park Place and Barclay Street, Tribeca/Lower Manhattan) (buildingsdb.com).

Getting There:

Subway: City Hall (R, W), Park Place (2, 3), Chambers St (A, C), and Fulton St (A, C, J, Z).
Bus: M5, M9, M22, M103 stop nearby (freetoursbyfoot.com).
Taxi/Rideshare: Drop-off on Broadway; expect heavy traffic during rush hours.

Accessibility:

The main entrance and lobby are wheelchair accessible.
Elevators and ramps are available for tours, but some historic features (like the mezzanine) may have limited access.
Notify your tour provider in advance if you require specific accommodations.

Guided Tours and Visitor Experience

Tour Options:

30-Minute Lobby Tour: Focuses on the lobby’s mosaics, sculptures, and history.
60-Minute Expanded Tour: May include vaults, additional exhibits, and deeper historical context.
VIP Tours: Occasionally led by Cass Gilbert’s descendants, offering enhanced historical insight (behindthescenesnyc.com).

Tour Content:

History of Frank W. Woolworth and the F.W. Woolworth Company
Architectural vision of Cass Gilbert
Construction and engineering highlights
Symbolism and cultural impact

Photography:
Permitted on tours, but flash and tripods may be restricted. Always follow guide instructions.

Booking:
Tours are limited in size (usually 12–15 guests). Book well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (klook.com).

Nearby Attractions

City Hall Park: Directly across the street; great for photos and relaxation.
Brooklyn Bridge: A short walk away.
One World Trade Center & 9/11 Memorial: Within 10 minutes’ walk.
St. Paul’s Chapel & Trinity Church: Historic churches nearby.
Tribeca & Chinatown: Neighborhoods for dining and shopping (Travellers Worldwide).

Visitor Tips and Photography

Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure the best photo spots.
Dress comfortably and wear suitable shoes for walking tours.
Security screening may be required; large bags and food/drinks are not permitted.
Restrooms are limited—plan accordingly.

Best Time to Visit:
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather and smaller crowds. Early morning or late afternoon tours are usually less busy (Travellers Worldwide).

Photography:
Capture the building’s exterior from City Hall Park and the intersection of Broadway and Park Place. Inside, use a wide-angle lens or smartphone with low-light capability to photograph the lobby’s soaring ceilings and ornate details.

Preservation and Modern Adaptations

Landmark Status: Designated a National Historic Landmark (1966) and New York City Landmark (1983) (nylandmarks.org).
Renovations: Major restorations in the 1970s and 1980s addressed the terra cotta façade; in 2012, the upper floors were converted into luxury residences (art-facts.com).
Legacy: The Woolworth Building continues to influence skyscraper design and serves as a living testament to New York’s commercial and architectural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Woolworth Building visiting hours?
A: Tours are typically offered on weekdays between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM; hours can vary, so always confirm with your tour provider.

Q: Can I visit the lobby without a tour?
A: No, access to the lobby and interior is restricted to guided tours only.

Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: All tickets must be purchased in advance through official or authorized tour operators.

Q: Is the Woolworth Building wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the main entrance and lobby are accessible, but some historic spaces may have limited access. Confirm with your tour provider.

Q: Are children allowed on tours?
A: Age restrictions may apply; check with your provider before booking.

Q: Are there restrooms available during the tour?
A: Restroom access is limited; use nearby public facilities before your tour.

Q: What else is there to do nearby?
A: Visit City Hall Park, Brooklyn Bridge, One World Trade Center, and other Lower Manhattan attractions.

Conclusion

A visit to the Woolworth Building offers an unparalleled glimpse into New York City’s architectural innovation and commercial history. Advance booking is essential, as guided tours are the only way to access the building’s breathtaking lobby and learn its storied past. Combined with its central location near other significant attractions, the Woolworth Building promises a rewarding addition to any New York itinerary. For the latest information on hours, tickets, and special events, consult official resources and consider using the Audiala app for personalized travel tips and exclusive offers.