The 13th floor of the Empire State Building is a fascinating and often overlooked part of this iconic New York City skyscraper. Located just above the famous observation deck on the 86th floor, the 13th floor has a long and intriguing history that has contributed to the building's legend and lore.
Built in the 1930s, the Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world at the time of its completion, standing at a towering 1,454 feet. The building's 13th floor was originally intended to be the observation deck, but due to superstitions surrounding the number 13, the deck was moved up to the 86th floor. Despite this, the 13th floor has still played a significant role in the building's history.
One of the most famous stories surrounding the 13th floor is the legend of the "phantom elevator." According to the legend, the 13th floor was once home to a secret, hidden elevator that could only be accessed by a select few. It was rumored that this elevator would take people to the top of the building, where they could enjoy panoramic views of the city from a private, secluded observation deck. While there is no concrete evidence to support this legend, it has persisted for decades, adding to the mystique and intrigue of the 13th floor.
Despite its reputation as a mysterious and somewhat haunted floor, the 13th floor of the Empire State Building has also played host to a number of important events and famous visitors over the years. In the 1950s, the 13th floor was home to a popular nightclub called the "Top of the Tower," which attracted celebrities and high society figures. In more recent years, the 13th floor has been used as a private event space, hosting everything from corporate meetings to wedding receptions.
Today, the 13th floor of the Empire State Building is still shrouded in mystery and legend, and continues to be an important and iconic part of this iconic New York City landmark. Whether you're a fan of ghost stories or just looking to learn more about the history of this iconic building, the 13th floor is definitely worth exploring. So, the 13th floor of the Empire State Building is a must-see for anyone visiting New York City.