The United Nations

Dignitaries from countries around the world come to the United Nations to discuss important matters, such as diplomacy, human rights, humanitarian efforts and how to best counter terrorism. The United Nations was founded in 1945, just after the close of World War II, and there are currently 193 participating members of the United Nations.

Many foreign officials reside near the UN. Countries’ consulates line the streets just west of the international meeting place. Because the United Nations is home to a significant amount of different cultures, food options in Midtown East and Tutor City are many and diverse.

If interested in diplomacy or in simply learning more about how the United Nations functions, public tours are available. The tour, which lasts about an hour, explores the different chambers of the UN, including the General Assembly Hall and the International Court of Justice. Visitors are escorted by a knowledgeable guide who is willing to answer questions.

The United Nations sits on the east side of Midtown in between First Ave and FDR Drive and 42nd and 48th streets. The rectangular shaped building is backed by the East River. Once you step inside the gates of the UN, you are considered to be in international territory.

The closest subway stop to the United Nations is Grand Central Station. As you exit the 42nd street subway, you can walk east on 42nd to First Ave. From there, you can walk north two blocks to reach the gates of the UN. The United Nations public gate access sits between 45th and 46th.

Because of the demand for tickets, it is suggested that you book your tour at least a week in advance. Tickets can be found here. Students can buy tickets for 13 dollars, along with a two dollar online service fee. Those who go on the tour also get 10% off anything bought in the UN bookstore. Also, because the UN is considered national territory, those who bring their passports with them to the United Nations can get their passports stamped.