Empire State Exhibits: What to See and Why

Highlights

• Floor‑by‑floor build sequence.
• Mohawk ironworker photography.
• Lobby plaques and reliefs with historic context.

Start with exhibits before the deck; they prime your eyes for details.

Recommended Order (25–35 Minutes)

1. Lobby relief + plaques (5–7 min).
2. Construction sequence + worker portraits (10–12 min).
3. Design/Art Deco panels (5–7 min).
4. Pre‑deck glance at safety/engineering notes (3–5 min).

What to Notice

• Sequencing diagrams: how speed and order made 410 days possible.
• Tools: rivet buckets, tongs — tiny objects that imply huge effort.
• Worker names and crews — the human network behind the skyline.

Photo & Learning Prompts

• Take a “before” shot of the relief; compare to the real crown later.
• Ask kids to find three construction steps in order.
• Sketch a Deco motif you see repeated (doors, ceilings, borders).

Bottom Line

The exhibits turn facts into feelings — you’ll see the deck differently after, with new eyes for sequence, craft, and courage.