Although the formal designation of the Flatiron District dates back to only the mid-1980s, its namesake building has been a fixture for far longer. The distinctively triangular Flatiron Building rises above the area, an unmistakable landmark and indelible icon of NYC architecture. It stands as one of this city’s oldest skyscrapers and was the tallest building in the world for a brief period following its construction in 1902. While various industries previously defined the neighborhood — namely, toy manufacturing and photography — present-day Flatiron is bustling with restaurants and shopping, and residents living in Beaux-Arts, Neo-Renaissance, and Romanesque Revival apartment and loft buildings. Madison Square Park provides that leafy green peace everyone desires in their neighborhood. Finding a patch of grass to relax on after a long day is impossible to underrate.