Housing the world's largest international governmental organization, the U.N. headquarters was designed by a worldwide team of architects. Its three connecting buildings—the boxy Dag Hammarskjold Library, the glass-walled Secretariat tower and the low-slung General Assembly—dominate the site, which is considered international territory. The colorful flags from 192 countries flying along First Avenue are one of New York's best photo ops. There is a bookshop. The Delegates' Dining Room has a very good lunch buffet with spectacular views of the East River (business attire, including jackets for men, and security screening are required). Weekdays only. US$25, not including drinks. Reservations required. Phone 212-963-7626.
One-hour guided tours are offered every half-hour Monday-Friday 9:30 am-4:45 pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm (in January and February, tours are offered Monday-Friday only). Reservations are required for groups of 12 or more. Tours cost US$13.50 adults, US$9.50 for seniors, US$9 for students, US$7.50 children ages 5-14. Children younger than age 5 are not permitted on tours. The visitors' entrance is on First Avenue at 46th Street (subway line 4, 5, 6 or 7 to 42nd Street-Grand Central), Manhattan, New York City. Phone 212-963-8687. http://www.un.org/tours.
