United Nations Visitors Services — Attraction in New York

We did a tour of the United Nations Building last week. A few things to know. You need to check in at the building across the street from the UN bldg. Ask security when you arrive. We, and many others, were in the wrong line. A security officer came up and explained this, and told us we needed ONE person from our party with an ID to check in. The rest of your party can go across the street and get in the line for the tour @ the UN Bldg. The person checking in will receive a name tag they must wear, which has the number of people in your party. They are given wrist bands for the rest of your party that you must wear for the duration of your time in the building. You'll go through security, similar to airport security, prior to entering. Once you get through security you'll be in the plaza. Great views and sculptures there. You'll then proceed into the building and you need to check in again for your tour. They'll have you wait for your tour time to be called. Be on time! They leave immediately when they call it up. We had a very nice Ukrainian gentleman do our tour. He was a bit difficult to understand at times due to his accent and he spoke quickly, but he was very knowledgeable! We were able to see a couple of the meeting rooms, which was interesting. There are many displays, exhibits, and gifts from other member countries throughout. Our tour guide didn't stop at all of them, and there were some I wish I had seen. I did, however, pop out of the group a couple of times to grab photos of some things that he didn't point out. (I didn't leave the group - just walked around the area he was speaking of). It's certainly worth a visit. They have clean restrooms, vending machines, a cafe, and a gift shop. Near the gift shop there were also two small "shops" that we stopped into. Don't miss these as your purchase goes directly to these groups. One is a women's organization, the other is an organization that trains young college students. I can't remember the names of the organizations, but both shops are run by volunteers. We purchased an item from each shop. They are right near the staircase. I'll update my review with the names once...

Was looking forward to this as I studied a great deal about it during school and after. Had built it up in my head with such respect and regard. Unfortunately, wasn't very impressed with the tour. A lot of sections were closed to visitors. The very few exhibits displayed were good but the tour was so rushed that one doesn't have enough time to fully appreciate the artwork.( Not the fault of the tour guide; it was designed as such). Also, wasn't allowed to look around after the tour concluded. ( To read and study things that were set aside due to the rushing tour) So that was disappointing. The narrative, I thought, was lacking. It neither inspired awe or appreciation. I forgot all about it as soon as I walked out of the UNO. It was that memorable. The gift shop was a bit of a saving grace. Though didn't buy anything other than post cards, the collection of jewellery for sale from different countries was delightful. Book section was good as well. Can't say the disappointment was because of reality not meeting expectations or because it was genuinely poorly designed tour. Over all, it was not satisfying. It felt incomplete and unimpressive. If they were going to close off so many sections to the public, why bother opening it at all? I guess the philosophy they operated on here was "very little is better than...

Embark on an enlightening journey at the United Nations Visitors Services in New York City, where you can dive into the heart of global diplomacy. This is your chance to explore the inner workings of the UN, a place where world leaders come together to forge solutions for peace and progress. The Visitors Services offers guided tours that provide a unique perspective on the UN’s role in addressing international challenges. You’ll see the General Assembly Hall, where pivotal decisions are made, and learn about the Organization’s work through exhibits and presentations. It’s not just a tour; it’s an educational adventure that brings you face-to-face with the efforts to improve our world. Whether you’re a student, a tourist, or a local, the United Nations Visitors Services presents an opportunity to connect with global issues and understand the impact of the...