Standing tall in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, 1221 Avenue of the Americas is a 51-story International Style skyscraper known for its distinctive facade of red granite piers alternating with glass stripes. This iconic building has been a defining feature of New York City’s skyline for over half a century, serving as a hub for major corporations, world-class dining, and premier office space.
What is 1221 Avenue of the Americas?
1221 Avenue of the Americas is an international-style skyscraper at 1221 Sixth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. The building reaches an architectural height of 673ft and has served mainly as commercial space since opening its doors to the public in 1972. As part of the Rockefeller Center expansion, this 2.6 million square-foot office tower Rockefeller Group offers premium workspace.
The History of 1221 Avenue of the Americas New York NY
Completed in 1969, 1221 Avenue of the Americas, formerly known as the McGraw-Hill Building, is a 51-story office tower that was part of the Rockefeller Center expansion during the 1960s and 1970s Fintechzoomus. Originally developed with McGraw-Hill, the building underwent a two-year revitalization project starting in 2014, resulting in over 1 million square feet of new leases and renewals Rockefeller Group.
The tower was designed by the architectural firm Harrison, Abramovitz & Harris Fintechzoomus, the same architects responsible for much of Rockefeller Center. The building was part of the later Rockefeller Center expansion (1960s–1970s) dubbed the “XYZ Buildings”.
Extensive renovations to the lobby and sidestreet plazas in 2016 coincided with the resurgence of Sixth Avenue as Manhattan’s most active location for large office leases between 2016 and 2018 Rockefeller Group. Most recently, in 2023, Rockefeller Group completed a $50 million renovation of its Sixth Avenue plaza Rockefeller Group.
Why is it Called the McGraw-Hill Building?
It served as the headquarters of McGraw Hill Financial from 1972 to 2015. The publishing and financial services giant occupied the building for over four decades, making the McGraw-Hill name synonymous with the address.
Where is 1221 Avenue of the Americas Located?
The building sits at the intersection of commerce, culture, and connectivity in Midtown Manhattan. Its strategic position between 48th and 49th Streets on Sixth Avenue places it within walking distance of some of New York City’s most recognizable landmarks.
1221 Avenue of the Americas New York NY 10020 Zip Code and Directions
The full address is 1221 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020. Positioned between 48th and 49th Streets Rockefeller Group, the building is in the heart of the Rockefeller Center district.
For those navigating the city, remember that Avenue of the Americas and Sixth Avenue are the same street. The building is set back 115 feet (35 m) from Sixth Avenue.
Getting There: 1221 Avenue of the Americas 6th Avenue New York NY
Positioned between 48th and 49th Streets, the building boasts tree lined plazas on all sides with seating for over 500 people Rockefeller Group. The surrounding neighborhood includes Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center, and the Museum of Modern Art, all within easy walking distance.
Is 1221 Avenue of the Americas New York New York Easy to Access by Subway?
Absolutely. Multiple subway lines serve the area with the B, D, F, and M trains stopping at 47th-50th Streets/Rockefeller Center. The renovated plaza provides in-building access to the Rockefeller Center subway concourse and connects to 21 million square feet of class-A office space in neighboring buildings Rockefeller Group.
Features and Amenities at 1221 Avenue of the Americas NYC
Office Spaces and Leasing Information
After extensive renovations in 2015, it now offers 2,686,479 square feet of Class A office space across 50 stories, each reflecting a commitment to excellence and sustainability Metro Manhattan.
Large windows pour natural light into spacious work areas, offering stunning views of Midtown Metro Manhattan. Notable tenants include White & Case, NBCUniversal, Sirius XM Radio, and Deloitte.
The Public Plaza and Architectural Design
The building’s entrance plaza, on Sixth Avenue, was renovated in 2023 at a cost of $50 million. The sunken courtyard formerly contained a 49-foot-tall (15 m) metal triangle designed by Athelstan Spilhaus, arranged so the Sun aligns with its sides at solstices and equinoxes.
The tower’s lobby is clad in dark red terrazzo and red marble, with aphorisms by Plato and John F. Kennedy.
Convene at 1221 Avenue of the Americas: Event Spaces
Quorum by Convene is located on Avenue of the Americas in Midtown Manhattan. With six unique meeting rooms across 40,000 square-feet, the highlight of this venue is the one-of-a-kind 270-degree 4K video display in the Grand Hall, perfect for events with immersive, highly visual, or interactive presentations Convene. A full buyout can accommodate up to 630 guests Convene.
Dining and Restaurants Near 1221 Avenue of the Americas
Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse: A Landmark at 1221 Avenue of the Americas
Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House is an energetic, luxurious three-story restaurant, located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan just a few blocks from Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall Rockefeller Center. This award-winning steakhouse has been at 1221 Avenue of the Americas since 1998.
In 2024, Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse renewed its lease for an additional 20 years. The lease renewal, for the massive 25,246-square-foot location, will extend the restaurant’s presence in Manhattan until at least 2045 Rockefeller Group.
Del Frisco’s 1221 Avenue of the Americas Menu and Reservations
The menu features classic steakhouse fare with premium ingredients. Signature offerings include USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, Japanese A5 Wagyu, and Certified Kobe Beef.
Hours: Monday-Friday 11 AM-11 PM, Saturday 4 PM-11 PM, Sunday 4 PM-10 PM. Reservations recommended at (212) 575-5129.
Zibetto Espresso Bar: A Quick Stop at 1221 Avenue of the Americas
The beans are a custom blend, specially roasted in Bologna. The baristas demonstrate skill and expertise, with at least four years of experience required to be hired Yelp. The menu includes expertly crafted cappuccinos, espressos, lattes, and Marocchinos.
Other Restaurants Near 1221 Avenue of the Americas
Notable tenants include restaurants Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse, Oceana, Zibetto Espresso Bar, Chipotle, and 48 Lounge Rockefeller Group.
Exploring the Area Around 1221 Avenue of the Americas NY NY
1221 Avenue of the Americas Photos and Architecture
The buildings are featured in the title sequence of Saturday Night Live. It was used for the exteriors and lobby of Elias-Clarke’s headquarters in the 2006 film The Devil Wears Prada and the interior shots for television show Suits.
Seasonal Events: The American Christmas Installation
During the holiday season, visitors gather here to see the festive decorations. The centerpiece is a towering 36-foot walk-through Christmas tree with 49,000 LED lights American Christmas. The installation requires more than 500 working hours from start to finish American Christmas.
Common Questions About 1221 Avenue of the Americas
What is the 1221 Avenue of the Americas Zip Code?
The zip code is 10020, covering much of the Rockefeller Center area in Midtown Manhattan.
I Have a 1221 Avenue of the Americas Charge on My Credit Card – What is It?
A charge likely comes from Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse, Zibetto Espresso Bar, Convene/Quorum event services, or other building tenants. Contact your credit card company for specific merchant details.
What Tenants Occupy 1221 Avenue of the Americas?
Major tenants include Sirius XM Radio, NBCUniversal, Deloitte, White & Case, plus restaurants Del Frisco’s, Zibetto, Oceana, Chipotle, and event space Quorum by Convene.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is 1221 Avenue of the Americas the same as the Rockefeller Group development?
Yes, it’s part of the Rockefeller Center expansion owned by Rockefeller Group, developed in the 1960s-1970s as one of the “XYZ Buildings.”
Are there public tours available for 1221 Avenue of the Americas New York?
The building doesn’t offer scheduled public tours, but lobby and plaza areas are accessible during business hours. Convene’s event spaces can be toured by prospective clients.
What is the architectural style of 1221 Avenue of the Americas NY NY 10020?
The building exemplifies the International Style with clean geometric forms, minimal ornamentation, curtain wall construction with alternating glass and stone, and emphasis on vertical lines.
Is there parking at 1221 Avenue of the Americas NYC?
While no dedicated public parking exists, nearby garages include Icon Parking at 666 Fifth Avenue and SP+ Parking at 25 West 48th Street. Public transportation is recommended.
1221 Avenue of the Americas stands as more than just an office building—it’s a landmark that embodies New York City’s architectural evolution, business prestige, and cultural significance. From its International Style design to world-class tenants, exceptional dining, and seasonal celebrations, this iconic skyscraper continues to play a vital role in the fabric of New York City.
