Discover how the United Nations Visitors Centre provides vital insights into wildlife conservation efforts and environmental sustainability. A perfect stop to deepen your understanding of protecting nature while in New York.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, no physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
Established as part of the UN's efforts to promote global sustainability education since its opening in 1999.
Conservation
The centre emphasizes international cooperation in wildlife protection and sustainable development, encouraging visitors to participate in local and global conservation initiatives.
United Nations Visitors Centre
Discover how the United Nations Visitors Centre provides vital insights into wildlife conservation efforts and environmental sustainability. A perfect stop to deepen your understanding of protecting nature while in New York.
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.
Plan for virtual visits
Take advantage of the online programs and interactive exhibits even if you're short on time.
Bring a notebook for insights
Capture key conservation facts and inspiring stories to reflect on after your visit.
Check exhibit schedules
Look up virtual sessions or live presentations happening during your visit for an immersive experience.
Engage with staff
Ask questions about local and global conservation initiatives for personalized insights.
Comfortable walking shoes
Important for navigating the exhibit areas and stairs comfortably.
Notebook and pen
For jotting down interesting facts and ideas during the visit.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated as you walk through the exhibits and attend virtual sessions.
Headphones for virtual programs
Enhance your experience with clear audio during online presentations.