I have read on this site that one of the sites to see while in NYC is the Chrysler Building. I have seen it from afar -- is it worth the trip to get nearby? What's there? Thanks for the input!

A magnificent lobby! Classic Art Deco. Worth seeing? Yes. But, it is just a lobby.

Thanks Howard R -- we'll stop by and have a look!

Before or after you check out the lobby, stand across the street and look up at the building. There are several parts of the building that were designed based on car parts; the spire resembles a car radiator grill, the stepped setbacks are emblazoned with winged radiator caps, wheels and stylized automobiles, and there are gargoyles that look like hood ornaments from a 1929 Plymouth. Inside be sure to have a look at the elevator doors. If you have time, participate in the free tour given by the Grand Central Terminal Partnership. It meets in the sculpture court of the Whitney on 42nd Street. The guide will include information about the Chrysler Building and take you over to it to point out the significant architectural details if you ask him. The tour meets at 12:30 every Friday - no 2 tours are the same and they are very interesting.

I don't know what the security is like these days, but if you can, you might want to have a look INSIDE the elevators. They are each different, I think, and have beautiful inlaid wood marquetry.

In response to Mclaurie's suggestion, there is a guard at the elevator, and I don think you can get past them just to look at the elevator interiors. However, you can see the elevator doors, which are part of the magnificent decor.
Also, Margie has made some good suggestions. Check out both outdoor entrances on Lexington Avenue and 42nd Street.