United Nations Headquarters Tours

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A riverfront gathering place for the world’s most powerful political leaders, this building is also home to a surprisingly diverse array of tourist attractions.

For some people it is synonymous with power, for others the United Nations Headquarters is simply a beautiful place to walk around. Next to the East River and just across the water from Brooklyn, this is an area filled with sights.

The main building of the complex, the Secretariat, was designed by an international cohort of architects first to employ what is now known as the International Style of architecture. Even the design of this building was an act of diplomacy. Notable German architect Mies van der Rohe, for instance, was barred from participating in the project, due to his ties to Germany during World War II.

Take a guided tour of the building, which includes a visit to the General Assembly Hall and the Security Council Chamber. See remnants of the atomic bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima in 1945. They include coins, bottles and a statue. Browse exhibits in the building's public spaces, featuring photographs and multimedia presentations covering the U.N.’s mission.

Stroll through the grounds and gardens for the many works of art. Watch light pour through a Marc Chagall stained glass. Get close to the famous knotted revolver sculpture, Non-Violence. View historic diplomatic gifts from the Soviet Union, Japan and Brazil. Among them is a large bronze sculpture from the Soviet Government to mark the 45th anniversary of the U.N.’s founding.

The headquarters is open every day, except for some major holidays. To find out more about the tours, including ticket prices and discounts, visit the U.N.’s website.

Subway access to this part of Manhattan is limited, but Grand Central Station is directly west of the United Nations Headquarters by a few blocks. While the neighborhood surrounding the U.N. is mostly residential, Murray Hill is walking distance southwest of here. Savor some of the best Indian cuisine in Manhattan that the neighborhood is known for and why it’s nicknamed “Curry Hill.” Finish the evening with a movie at the AMC Loews Kips Bay 15-screen theater, just a few blocks away, or enjoy a stroll along the East River walkway.

Plan a trip to see United Nations Headquarters

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Reviews of United Nations Headquarters

4.4
Top Destination
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5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Jan 29, 2020

Go inside the building before your tour time to view the exhibits and there is a tea shop and other stores in the lower floor.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Jan 28, 2020

If you have a good command of the Spanish language, sign up for a Spanish-language tour.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Jan 19, 2020

This is an awesome and informative tour. It provides great information on how the UN started, what it does and how it has transformed over time. Read all the information on the UN website for visitors before you. While you can get tickets sometimes when you arrive, it is best to book on the website. You will also need ID to enter. The garden views on the river are spectacular. The artwork from around the world is great.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler
Sep 25, 2019

There was a huge event happening there during our stay, so we were outside and glad to be walking, as there were cops everywhere, closed streets and lots of black SUVs with flashing red lights. Walkability was especially important under the circumstances.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Mar 25, 2019

Check-in is across the street from UN and you need a photo ID. The sculpture plaza was unexpected and delightful. Exhibits on inside were on point. Most folks don't visit the UN on tourist trips, but we were on business trip for CSW so it was a great stop for us.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Feb 25, 2019

It was great!!

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