Discover the historic and botanical treasures at the UN Headquarters' gardens, a peaceful oasis in NYC. Learn about its monuments and enjoy a lush escape in the city.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, with minimal physical effort required.
Wildlife
History
The gardens include a segment of the Berlin Wall, symbolizing peace and diplomacy since the Cold War era.
Conservation
The UN gardens practice sustainable landscaping, utilizing native plants and eco-friendly maintenance methods.
United Nations Visitors Centre
Discover the historic and botanical treasures at the UN Headquarters' gardens, a peaceful oasis in NYC. Learn about its monuments and enjoy a lush escape in the city.
The United Nations Visitors Centre at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City provides guided tours, educational briefings, and outreach programs that introduce visitors to the work, history, and art of the United Nations. Tours on offer include the Guided Tour (English), language-specific guided tours in French, Spanish, Chinese and Russian, and specialist itineraries such as the Art Tour, Focus on Women Tour, Architecture Tour, Garden Tour, Black History Tour, and Children's Tour.
Several tours grant access to key chambers, including the General Assembly Hall and the Security Council Chamber, and select experiences highlight notable artworks—such as the Mola tapestry by indigenous Kuna women featured on the Focus on Women Tour. The Visitors Centre also offers Online Briefings, In-house Briefings, Outside Speaking Engagements (UN4U), Virtual Events, and an on-site Virtual Reality Experience that complement in-person visits.
Programs accommodate individuals, guided groups, school groups, and community organizations. Group Tours and tailored in-house briefings focus on topics such as peacekeeping, human rights, and the Sustainable Development Goals and can be adapted for educational audiences. Several guided tours list a 45–60 minute timeframe; language availability and specific content are noted for each offering.
Located at the UN Headquarters in New York, the Visitors Centre facilitates direct learning about international cooperation and diplomacy through accessible, multilingual experiences and expert-led briefings that bring United Nations priorities to visitors of all ages.
Location
New York, NY
United Nations Headquarters
Tours Offered
23
Multiple guided and specialist tours
Typical Duration
45–60 min
Featured tours list this duration
Languages
EN, FR, ES, 中文, Русский
Guided tours in several languages
Choose a guided tour, specialist briefing, or online session to explore international diplomacy, art, and global issues firsthand.
Visit early or late in the day
For fewer visitors and better lighting, consider touring during off-peak hours.
Wear comfortable shoes
The gardens involve walking on paved paths and some uneven surfaces.
Bring a camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning flowers and historic monuments throughout the grounds.
Respect security protocols
Follow the UN's safety guidelines and respect all posted signs during your visit.
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides comfort for walking through the gardens and standing during the tour.
Camera or smartphone
Capture scenic views and memorable moments during your visit.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated while walking around the outdoor gardens.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protect yourself from sun exposure during daytime visits.
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