Things to do / Travel Guide
Address:43 New York Plaza
New York, New York
Tel:
(212) 963-8687
Welcome to the 18 acre site of the United Nations Headquarters, the home to international law and politics. While the United Nations Headquarters Building may SEEM like it's in New York City, it's actually located on International Territory that just happens to be on Midtown Manhattan's East Side. So while you certainly don't need your passport to get in, you should enjoy the thrill of stepping out of the U.S. while you tour the premises!
Overlooking the East River, the United Nations Headquarters complex was built in 1949 and is comprised of a number of major buildings filled with offices, conference rooms, and a visitor center. The three most famous buildings are the domed General Assembly Hall, the UNICEF House, and the Hammarskjold Library. Gardens and outdoor sculptures decorate the grounds at the United Nations Headquarters, as well as a Marc Chagall stained glass window, which adds added beauty to the buildings. You'll also be able to see the Japanese Peace bell which is rung on the vernal equinox and at the opening of General Assembly sessions.
Daily guided tours are available of the United Nations Headquarters and depart often from the General Assembly Public Lobby. Tours last about 45 minutes and are conducted in English unless otherwise noted. Tickets (which cost about $10) sell out early, so get your tickets as soon as you get to the complex or call in advance. Children below five years of age are not admitted on the tours. If you don't want to take a guided tour, guests are welcome to enter the complex for free and wander around to the different exhibits (lots of international photography and artwork), gardens, gift shop, bookstore, and café. Please note, however, that if you are on your own (i.e. not on an organized tour), you will not be able to enter the General Assembly Hall, Security Council room, and all of the other meeting rooms.