September 3rd is World Skyscraper Day
When the first skyscrapers were built in Chicago and New York in the 19th century, no one could imagine how this new trend would end up transforming the urban skyline of cities across the globe. In fact, the success of skyscrapers is such that many of them have become must-see attractions, especially if they have incredible viewpoints at the top.
September 3rd marks World Skyscraper Day and to commemorate this date Musement, has compiled a ranking* of the world's most Instagrammed skyscrapers. Skyscapers in the US make up half of this list - see where they ranked:
#2. Empire State Building (New York)
More than 4,200,000 mentions
This symbol of the Big Apple was the first building to have more than 100 floors in the United States. In addition, it was also the tallest skyscraper in the world between 1931 and 1972. Built in a record time of 410 days, the Empire State Building attracts more than 4 million visitors each year. It’s now open 365 days a year, and the 360-degree views of the city from the observatories on the 86th and 102nd floor are a pleasure for tourists and locals, both day and night.
#4. One World Trade Center (New York)
More than 797,000 mentions
One World Trade Center is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. It’s part of the World Trade Center, the new complex built after the tragic attacks of September 11. Its height of 1,776ft (547m) is a nod to the year the United States Declaration of Independence was signed. Visitors can ride the Skypod elevators to the observation deck between floors 100 and 102 in just 47 seconds. Once there, in addition to enjoying the views, the interactive exhibitions allow you to delve both into the history of the building and the city itself.
#5. Willis Tower (Chicago)
More than 561,000 mentions.
Located in the heart of Chicago, after its completion in 1973, the Willis Tower held the title of tallest building in the world for 25 years. Its enormous success on social media is due in large part to its Skydeck, the observation deck on the 103rd floor, which attracts more than 1.7 million visitors a year. And as if this weren’t impressive enough, in 2009 The Ledge was unveiled. This glass balcony offers a unique perspective of the Windy City at more than 1,300ft high. On a clear day it’s possible to see up to four different states: Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin.
#9. 30 Hudson Yards (New York)
More than 74,000 mentions
The popularity of this building located at number 30 in the Hudson Yards neighborhood, west of Midtown Manhattan, is due in large part to the Edge, the incredible outdoor deck opened in March 2020. At 1,100ft high, it’s the highest viewing platform of its kind in the western hemisphere. From here, visitors can admire some of the Big Apple's most iconic attractions, including Central Park and the Statue of Liberty. The brave will get a thrill from seeing the city far below them, as they walk on the glass-bottomed area of the observation deck.
#10. One Vanderbilt (New York)
More than 59,000 mentions
Although it opened only two years ago, One Vanderbilt has already carved out a deserved place in our top 10 ranking. At 1,401ft tall, it’s one of the newest skyscrapers in the ever-changing New York skyline, and the observatory between the floors 91 and 93 has become one of the most popular attractions in the city. The transparent glass cubes jutting out 1066ft above Madison Avenue, also offer a rare thrill for those unafraid of heights. In addition to the dreamy views, the combination of art and technology explains its success and the installation by Kenzo Digital offers visitors a one-of-a-kind, immersive experience.
Complete Ranking:
1. Burj Khalifa (Dubai), more than 6,300,000 mentions.
2. Empire State Building (New York), more than 4,200,000 mentions.
3. Taipei 101 (Taiwan), more than 816,000 mentions.
4. One World Trade Center (New York), more than 797,000 mentions.
5. Willis Tower (Chicago), more than 561,000 mentions.
6. Petronas Towers (Kuala Lumpur), more than 221,000 mentions.
7. Lotte World Tower (Seoul), more than 110,000 mentions.
8. Shanghai Tower (Shanghai), more than 104,000 mentions.
9. 30 Hudson Yards (New York), more than 74,000 mentions. \
10. One Vanderbilt (New York), more than 59,000 mentions. \
*Methodology: To carry out the study, the 100 tallest skyscrapers in the world have been taken into consideration and the number of mentions on Instagram of the two most popular hashtags of each building has been analyzed. Data from July 2022.
