The Empire State Building, completed in a record-breaking 410 days starting March 1930, remains an enduring symbol of ambition and resilience. Rising to 1,454 feet including its antenna, it held the title of the world's tallest building for nearly four decades. This 102-story Art Deco marvel is built on the former Waldorf Astoria site, employing over 3,500 workers, many of whom were immigrants. 

Its culture-defining presence includes a starring role in the film King Kong (1933) and a consistent draw of roughly 2.5 million annual visitors to its observatories. It also experiences around 25 lightning strikes per year, underscoring its power as a city landmark. An environmental pioneer, the building underwent a green retrofit: upgraded insulation, efficient cooling systems, and regenerating elevators reduced energy use by around 40%, saving millions annually. Designed with Art Deco elegance and built at astonishing speed, the Empire State Building continues to shine as both architectural triumph and sustainability leader.