The United Nations Organisation is a place where the nations of the world come together to discuss common problems and bring out the best solutions. This organisation was founded in 1945 and currently has 193 Member States. This body is guided by the crisp and clear principles and purposes mentioned in the founding charter. To keep up with the changing dynamics of the world, the UN Organisation has continuously evolved and prospered. Along with being a prestigious organisation, the council also holds several in-person guided tours.
The standard tour involves exploration through the UN headquarters. It helps you learn about the UN's functioning and history. This 1-hour guided experience is scheduled in six official languages for every traveller’s convenience. Along with that, garden, art, architecture, and children’s tours are also scheduled. Black History and Focus on Women tours are also arranged within the UN premises to give you a glimpse into the current problems of the world.
Highlights
• Discover the headquarters of the United Nations in one of the six official languages and learn about the work and history associated with it.
• Walk through the beautiful gardens of the North Lawn offered between May and August, and explore the cherry trees and roses collection.
• Explore the curated art collection of architectural components, artworks, and historical artefacts donated by member states in the art gallery of the UN organisation.
• Take your children on an educational tour within the UN premises and help them learn about how the organisation works and what it strives for.
• Celebrate Black History by booking the famous Black History Tour at the United Nations Organisation; a theme which gives you a unique perspective into the Ark of Return.
How To Reach
By Car: The United Nations Organisation is approximately 2.9 km from the New York City Centre. It is a 10-minute drive to the destination.
By Bus: The UN Organisation is easily accessible via bus. You can take the M42 bus and deboard at 1st Avenue and East 42nd Street. From there, the premises are within walking distance.
By Subway: Take the 7 train from the 42nd Street-Times Square Station. Deboard at the Grand Central-42nd Street and walk east towards the UN headquarters.
Best Time To Visit
The United Nations Organisation is open to the public throughout the year. The best time to visit New York’s UN Organisation is between April and June when the weather is mild and pleasant. Visit during the weekdays as the crowd is minimal and you will get a well-guided tour. Visit early in the morning when the guided tours start to catch the most refreshing experience of the premises.
Other Essential Information
- Book a guided tour in advance to gain valuable insight into the functioning of the UN.
- Arrive at early hours to skip long security lines and explore the visitor areas properly.
- Bring a valid photo ID, such as a passport or driver’s license as the security is tight there.
- Look up the schedule for any special events or sessions happening during your visit.
- Dress in business casual attire, as the UN is a professional environment.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the tour will involve a lot of walking.
Explore the General Assembly Hall
The assembly hall is the largest sector of the organisation headquarters. It is also the central room where representatives from all countries (139) gather to debate and discuss global problems. This hall has a unique green marble background and sophisticated seating for the observers and delegates. You can take a standard guided tour of this room. It will give you a deep insight into the significance and history of the UN’s functioning. As a visitor, you can also witness international diplomacy conducted here.
Visit the Security Council Chamber
The security chamber is another important part of the UN headquarters. It was designed by Arnstein Arneberg, a famous Norwegian architect. This room has a mural which conveys the promise of peace and the fight against global issues. Being one of the most powerful bodies of the United Nations, the chamber is used to address ongoing international conflicts and security threats. You can learn a lot about the role of the chamber as it helps maintain peace at a global level.
Take a look at the UN Art Collection
Within the UN headquarters lies an extensive art collected since 1950. It has been donated by foundations, member states, and individual donors. Some famous figures like Candido Portinari, Marc Chagall, Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore, and Arnaldo Pomodoro are presented in the collection. As you take the tour of the art gallery, you will get to explore the age-old murals, sculptures, and tapestries from across the globe. An art tour is scheduled every 2nd Thursday at 1:15 p.m.
