Art Deco, with its sleek lines, geometric patterns, and luxurious materials, captured
the spirit of the Roaring Twenties and left an indelible mark on American architecture. From towering skyscrapers to quirky diners, the Art Deco style continues to captivate with its blend of modernity and elegance.
Ready to take a trip back to the Jazz Age? Let’s explore 25 of the most stunning Art
Deco landmarks across the United States that will transport you to an era of glitz, glamour, and innovation.
Chrysler Building – New York City, New York
The Chrysler Building is the crown jewel of Art Deco architecture in New York City.
Its gleaming spire and distinctive eagle gargoyles make it an iconic part of the Manhattan skyline.
While you can’t go up to the top, the lobby is open to the public and features stunning Art Deco details, including a ceiling mural depicting scenes from the building’s construction.
Eastern Columbia Building – Los Angeles, California
Known as the ‘Jewel of Downtown,’ this turquoise terra-cotta-clad building is a standout example of Art Deco in Los Angeles. Its four-sided clock tower, adorned with neon lights, is particularly striking at night.
Stroll around the building to admire its intricate geometric patterns and stylized sunburst motifs.
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Griffith Observatory – Los Angeles, California
Perched atop a hill overlooking Los Angeles, the Griffith Observatory blends Art Deco style with Greek and Beaux-Arts influences. The building’s concrete exterior features decorative panels depicting the signs of the zodiac.
Inside, don’t miss the stunning central rotunda with its Hugo Ballin murals.
Paramount Theatre – Oakland, California
Step into the golden age of cinema at the Paramount Theatre. This movie palace’s
interior is a feast for the eyes, with intricate mosaic tiles, bold geometric patterns,
and a stunning ceiling reminiscent of a peacock’s tail.
If you’re lucky, you might catch a classic film screening or a guided tour of this architectural gem.
Miami Beach Art Deco District – Miami Beach, Florida
Miami Beach is home to the world’s largest concentration of Art Deco architecture.
Take a stroll down Ocean Drive to admire the pastel-colored hotels with their ‘eyebrow’ windows and porthole designs.
Don’t miss landmarks like the Colony Hoteland the Breakwater Hotel, which capture the essence of Miami’s tropical Art Deco style.
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Hoover Dam – Boulder City, Nevada
Who says industrial structures can’t be beautiful? The Hoover Dam incorporates Art
Deco elements in its massive concrete facade and interior spaces.
Look for the stylized wings of the ‘Winged Figures of the Republic’ statues and the geometric patterns in the terrazzo floors of the powerhouse.
Guardian Building – Detroit, Michigan
Known as the ‘Cathedral of Finance,’ the Guardian Building’s exterior features a blend of Art Deco and Native American-inspired motifs. Inside, you’ll find a riot of color and pattern, from the Pewabic tile-lined banking hall to the Aztec-inspired murals.
Don’t forget to look up at the spectacular vaulted ceiling.
Buffalo Central Terminal – Buffalo, New York
Though currently undergoing restoration, the Buffalo Central Terminal is a magnificent example of Art Deco transportation architecture. Its towering main concourse and distinctive exterior make it a must-see for Art Deco enthusiasts.
Check for guided tours or events to get a peek inside this sleeping beauty.
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Wilshire Boulevard Temple – Los Angeles, California
This synagogue combines Byzantine-Revival architecture with Art Deco details. The
sanctuary’s dome is adorned with stunning murals, while the exterior features stylized Jewish motifs.
It’s a unique blend of traditional and modern design that showcases the versatility of the Art Deco style.
Cincinnati Union Terminal – Cincinnati, Ohio
Now home to several museums, the Cincinnati Union Terminal is a masterpiece of
Art Deco design. Its massive half-dome facade and colorful mosaic murals in the rotunda are awe-inspiring.
Take time to explore the building’s many Art Deco details, from light fixtures to drinking fountains.
30 Rockefeller Plaza – New York City, New York
The centerpiece of Rockefeller Center, this skyscraper is a testament to the grandeur of Art Deco. Admire the building’s limestone facade and the famous ‘Wisdom’ sculpture above the entrance.
Inside, the lobby’s ceiling mural and elevator doors are prime examples of Art Deco artistry.
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Bullocks Wilshire Building – Los Angeles, California
This former department store is a copper-topped Art Deco landmark. Its tower, adorned with glazed terra-cotta ornaments, is particularly striking.
While the interior is now part of a law school, the exterior remains a beautiful example of commercial Art Deco architecture.
Louisiana State Capitol – Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Unlike most state capitols, Louisiana embraces the Art Deco style. Its towering
skyscraper design is adorned with symbolic sculptures and reliefs.
Inside, marvel at the marble-clad Memorial Hall and the observation deck on the 27th floor for panoramic views of Baton Rouge.
Smith Center for the Performing Arts – Las Vegas, Nevada
A more recent addition to the Art Deco landscape, the Smith Center proves that the
style is timeless. Its 17-story carillon tower and limestone exterior pay homage to classic Art Deco landmarks while incorporating modern amenities.
Don’t miss the lobby’s terrazzo floors and stylized light fixtures.
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Empire State Building – New York City, New York
No Art Deco list would be complete without the Empire State Building. Its stepped
design and distinctive spire make it an enduring icon of the New York skyline.
Take the elevator to the top for stunning views, and don’t forget to admire the lobby’s
ceiling mural and gleaming metalwork.
Catalina Casino – Avalon, California
Don’t let the name fool you – this ‘casino’ was never used for gambling. Instead, it
housed a ballroom and movie theater.
Its circular design and vibrant murals make it a standout example of coastal Art Deco architecture. Take a guided tour to see the stunning Avalon Theatre and ballroom.
Sunset Tower Hotel – West Hollywood, California
This sleek tower on the Sunset Strip has been a favorite of Hollywood stars since the
1930s. Its zigzag patterns and setback design are classic Art Deco features.
Even if you’re not staying overnight, stop by the Tower Bar for a drink and a taste of old
Hollywood glamour.
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Fox Theater – Detroit, Michigan
Step into a Siamese-Byzantine fever dream at the Fox Theater. While its exterior is
impressive, the interior is where the Art Deco magic happens.
From the six-story lobby to the auditorium’s lush decor, every inch is a feast for the eyes. Try to catch a show for the full experience.
Nebraska State Capitol – Lincoln, Nebraska
Another unique state capitol, Nebraska’s Art Deco tower stands out on the Lincoln
skyline. Its exterior features symbolic sculptures, while the interior boasts colorful
mosaics and a domed rotunda.
Take a guided tour to learn about the building’s rich symbolism and artistic details.
Carbide and Carbon Building – Chicago, Illinois
This dark green and gold skyscraper looks like a champagne bottle – fitting for its Art
Deco pedigree. Now a hotel, the building’s lobby retains much of its original Art Deco
charm.
Even if you’re not checking in, it’s worth a visit to admire the exterior and peek at the ornate entranceway.
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Pantages Theatre – Los Angeles, California
The last grand movie palace built on Hollywood Boulevard, the Pantages is a masterpiece of Art Deco design. Its stunning auditorium features intricate geometric
patterns and a sunburst ceiling.
Catch a Broadway show here for the full glamorous experience.
Western Union Building – New York City, New York
This Lower Manhattan skyscraper features striking setbacks and a crown of golden
bells. While the interior isn’t open to the public, the exterior is worth admiring, especially the ornate entrance with its clock and bronze reliefs.
Bullock’s Wilshire Building – Los Angeles, California
This former luxury department store is a copper-clad Art Deco gem. Its tower, adorned with glazed terra-cotta ornaments, is particularly striking.
While the interior is now part of a law school, the exterior remains a beautiful example of commercial Art Deco architecture.
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Niagara Mohawk Building – Syracuse, New York
This building, with its gleaming metallic facade and distinctive winged figure, looks
like something out of a sci-fi film. At night, it lights up in a dazzling display that showcases the futuristic side of Art Deco design.
It’s a must-see for any Art Deco enthusiast visiting upstate New York.
U-Drop Inn – Shamrock, Texas
This restored gas station and cafe along Route 66 is a whimsical example of roadside Art Deco architecture. Its zigzag design and neon lights make it a standout attraction in the Texas Panhandle.
While no longer serving customers, it’s open for tours and makes for great photos, especially at night.
Visit an Art Deco Wonder
From towering skyscrapers to quirky roadside attractions, these Art Deco landmarks
provide a glimpse into a bygone era of American optimism and style. Each building
tells a story of innovation, luxury, and the changing face of American cities in the early 20th century.
So why not plan a road trip to see some of these Art Deco marvels?
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