New York Public Library Tours

Photo provided by Max Touhey Photography
New York Public Library
New York Public Library
Photo provided by Max Touhey Photography
New York Public Library


Meet the iconic library lions, explore the Rose Room and marvel at millions of books at New York City’s flagship library.

Whether you visit to read, research or simply roam around, the New York Public Library provides an interesting visit. Although the main branch was renamed the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building in 2008 to honor the famed New York financier, most people still refer to this impressive building along Bryant Park by its original name. Since it opened its doors in 1911, the library has been a welcoming public space and learning center for millions of visitors. Discover famous documents, historic publications and stunning settings at the library.

Find the library in Midtown Manhattan, near Bryant Park. Admire the white marble building, built in an imposing Beaux-Arts style. The celebrated building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966 and named a New York City Landmark in 1967.

Discover beautiful public spaces at every turn. Don’t miss the famous Rose Main Reading Room, an opulent space bedecked with sparkling chandeliers, lavish wood paneling and an intricately coffered ceiling. Marvel at the McGraw Rotunda, a sweeping space decorated with Edward Laning’s murals illustrating the history of the written word. Discover many of the English language’s most important manuscripts, such as a Gutenberg Bible and an original copy of the Declaration of Independence.

Say hello to the “library lions,” Patience and Fortitude. These regal marble statues have been guarding the library stairs overlooking Fifth Avenue for over a century. The lions were named by Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia in the 1930s to champion the characteristics New Yorkers would need to survive the Great Depression. Their names stuck and today the lions are the mascots and symbols of the New York Public Library.

Join a docent-led Building Tour to learn about the architecture and history of the library. Get an overview of its collections and discover other fun facts. Embark on an Exhibition Tour to explore the library’s current exhibits. All tours are complimentary and meet on the first floor.

Visit the New York Public Library daily, barring special holiday closures. It has reduced hours on Sundays and extended hours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

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Best Lodging Options Near New York Public Library

Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel

Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel

4 out of 5
811 7th Ave, New York, NY
Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel
Hyatt Grand Central New York

Hyatt Grand Central New York

4 out of 5
109 East 42nd Street, at Grand Central Terminal, New York, NY
Hyatt Grand Central New York
Hotel St. James

Hotel St. James

2.5 out of 5
109 W. 45TH ST., New York, NY
Hotel St. James
Lotte New York Palace

Lotte New York Palace

4.5 out of 5
455 Madison Ave, New York, NY
Lotte New York Palace
Hotel Edison Times Square

Hotel Edison Times Square

4 out of 5
228 W 47th St, New York, NY
Hotel Edison Times Square
THE NEW YORKER HOTEL BY LOTTE HOTELS

THE NEW YORKER HOTEL BY LOTTE HOTELS

4 out of 5
481 Eighth Ave., New York, NY
THE NEW YORKER HOTEL BY LOTTE HOTELS
Arlo Midtown

Arlo Midtown

4 out of 5
351 West 38th Street, New York, NY
Arlo Midtown
The Shelburne Sonesta New York

The Shelburne Sonesta New York

4 out of 5
303 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY
The Shelburne Sonesta New York
Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square

Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square

4 out of 5
145 W 44th St, New York, NY
Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near New York Public Library

While visiting the New York Public Library, you can enjoy a variety of activities including engaging public programming and informative building tours. Additionally, the library's location offers easy access to nearby theaters and entertainment options, making it a perfect spot to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of New York City.

Shopping

The nearest shopping experience is Macy's, located 0.4 miles from the New York Public Library, offering a variety of family-friendly options. Tiffany & Co. is 0.8 miles away for luxury gifts. Grand Central Market, also 0.4 miles away, provides a vibrant mix of local vendors and foods.

Recreation

Experience the enchanting sounds of live performances at Carnegie Hall, just 0.8 miles from the library. For a fun-filled day, enjoy ice skating at the Rink at Rockefeller Center, located 0.4 miles away. Relax in the luxury of the University Club, 0.7 miles from the library.

Adventure

Embark on an adventure at the ExtraVertical Climbing Center, located 1 mile from the library, where you can challenge yourself on various climbing walls. For a relaxing outdoor experience, visit the Sixth Street and Avenue B Community Garden, just 2 miles away, filled with greenery and tranquility.

For a splash of fun, head to DreamWorks Water Park, 6 miles away, where thrilling water rides and attractions await, perfect for families seeking excitement and entertainment.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the New York Public Library! Visit the Museum of Sex for an adults-only adventure, catch a show at the intimate Town Hall theater, or enjoy drinks and games at Dave & Buster's for a fun-filled evening.

Find the best attractions near New York Public Library

When visiting the New York Public Library, explore the surrounding urban parks, art museums, and iconic skyscrapers. These attractions offer a rich blend of culture and city life, making it perfect for families and travelers seeking a memorable experience. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and artistic treasures that define this remarkable area of New York City.

  • Times Square: Experience the vibrant energy of Times Square, known for its dazzling lights and bustling atmosphere. Just a short walk from the New York Public Library, this iconic square is the heart of New York City's entertainment district, filled with shops, theaters, and street performers.
  • Central Park: A peaceful retreat in the urban landscape, Central Park offers beautiful greenery, walking paths, and recreational activities. Located 2 miles away, it's perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind amidst the city's hustle and bustle.
  • Grand Central Terminal: As a historic architectural gem, Grand Central Terminal showcases stunning design and rich culture. Located 0.3 miles away, visitors can admire its celestial dome and bustling concourse while enjoying various dining and shopping options.

Best time to go to New York Public Library

Visitor numbers around New York Public Library is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit New York Public Library is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January31.6°F (-0.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February33.1°F (0.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.2°F (21.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July76.8°F (24.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August75.4°F (24.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October57.9°F (14.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December37.9°F (3.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for New York Public Library

To save money during your visit to the New York Public Library, plan your trip between January and March for lower hotel rates. Booking about a month in advance can yield better prices, and Sundays are typically cheaper than Saturdays. Use Expedia to find affordable accommodations by filtering results based on your budget and preferences. Consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Lastly, join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around New York Public Library are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to September to October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around New York Public Library is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around New York Public Library is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around New York Public Library is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool empowers you to customize your travel experience by selecting your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort your results to display hotels from the lowest to highest price, ensuring you find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you have the ability to refine your choices by hotel type—if you check the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are ready for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation near the New York Public Library with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.