When presented the option, I always take the stairs (if it’s not in a high rise), but they are often dirty and dimly lit.
My Dad’s advise on keeping fit was never sit when you can stand, never walk when you can run, and never take an elevator when you can take the stairs.
My Mom’s advice was a bit more practical. Never pass up a bathroom or a water fountain.
Walking downstairs is fine. People with dicky hearts, obesity and other health problems, should not be walking upstairs. It is very hard on the heart. And, yet again, Bloomberg needs to get out of town. Forever.
When I worked (70s & 80s) at Rock Center (GE Bldg) on 32nd floor, at an ad agency, that was quite a hike up to 32, especially in a 3-piece suit, Burberry trenchcoat and w/ briefcase. I did it a few times just for grins at 6-7am. Mostly, we waited at the street level bank of elevators for a ride up. I’d also walk north from Penn Station to Rock Ctr, daily, all year long, regardless of weather. Great little food shops along the way.