City Hall
New York, NY 10007
Phone: (212) 788-6879
- Cross Street:
- Chambers Street
- Directions:
- J, M, Z at Chambers St; N, R at City Hall; 4, 5, 6 at Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall
- Hours:
- Mon-Fri 9am-4pm
Editorial Review for City Hall – by Sheila Kim
The Background
Constructed between 1803 and 1812 by architects John McComb Jr., and Joseph-Francois Mangin, City Hall is considered a fine example of American architecture with French Renaissance influence. The facade is clad in marble, which was originally not used for the building's rear, since no one foresaw the city expanding further north than Chambers Street. Standing proudly atop the building's cupola is the sculpture of Justice. Inside, 10 columns encircle the domed rotunda; just beneath the dome is the marble double staircase, known for its elegance, and also the public's irrational fear that it would collapse: It hasn't so far.
Features
Upstairs are the City Council chambers and the Governor's Room, which houses a desk that George Washington used and portraits of historical New York leaders. Group tours of the Hall are available for free by appointment only. Individuals wishing to tour City Hall may contact the office to join a scheduled group.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Save MoneyTours are offered at no charge, but an appointment must be made. Sign up online or by calling 311.
The ExtrasAsk for a combined tour will also give you an opportunity to check out Tweed Courthouse.
Fun FactThe Tweed Courthouse was meant to be the crowning achievement of the corrupt Boss Tweed-era; ironically Tweed was convicted here while the building was still under construction.
User Reviews for City Hall
05/15/2002 Posted by SimonSpelling_Citysearch
Visitors are always suprised to learn that this relatively small building is the City's center of power. It does look like it would be more at home in Colonial Williamsburg; but it's a reall architectural gem, and NYC is lucky to have it. Guiliani had it, and city hall park, all cleaned up. The result is somewhat precious--especially the Park. Did we really need those cheesy gas lamps and reproduction fence? Anyway, admire it from the outside. It's pretty unlikely you'll ever set foot in it.
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