New York Public Library Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Max Touhey Photography
New York Public Library
New York Public Library
Photo provided by Max Touhey Photography
New York Public Library


Meet the iconic library lions, explore the Rose Room and marvel at millions of books at New York City’s flagship library.

Whether you visit to read, research or simply roam around, the New York Public Library provides an interesting visit. Although the main branch was renamed the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building in 2008 to honor the famed New York financier, most people still refer to this impressive building along Bryant Park by its original name. Since it opened its doors in 1911, the library has been a welcoming public space and learning center for millions of visitors. Discover famous documents, historic publications and stunning settings at the library.

Find the library in Midtown Manhattan, near Bryant Park. Admire the white marble building, built in an imposing Beaux-Arts style. The celebrated building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966 and named a New York City Landmark in 1967.

Discover beautiful public spaces at every turn. Don’t miss the famous Rose Main Reading Room, an opulent space bedecked with sparkling chandeliers, lavish wood paneling and an intricately coffered ceiling. Marvel at the McGraw Rotunda, a sweeping space decorated with Edward Laning’s murals illustrating the history of the written word. Discover many of the English language’s most important manuscripts, such as a Gutenberg Bible and an original copy of the Declaration of Independence.

Say hello to the “library lions,” Patience and Fortitude. These regal marble statues have been guarding the library stairs overlooking Fifth Avenue for over a century. The lions were named by Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia in the 1930s to champion the characteristics New Yorkers would need to survive the Great Depression. Their names stuck and today the lions are the mascots and symbols of the New York Public Library.

Join a docent-led Building Tour to learn about the architecture and history of the library. Get an overview of its collections and discover other fun facts. Embark on an Exhibition Tour to explore the library’s current exhibits. All tours are complimentary and meet on the first floor.

Visit the New York Public Library daily, barring special holiday closures. It has reduced hours on Sundays and extended hours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Plan a trip to see New York Public Library

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Best Lodging Options Near New York Public Library

Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel

Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel

4 out of 5
811 7th Ave, New York, NY
Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel
Hyatt Grand Central New York

Hyatt Grand Central New York

4 out of 5
109 East 42nd Street, at Grand Central Terminal, New York, NY
Hyatt Grand Central New York
Hotel St. James

Hotel St. James

2.5 out of 5
109 W. 45TH ST., New York, NY
Hotel St. James
Lotte New York Palace

Lotte New York Palace

4.5 out of 5
455 Madison Ave, New York, NY
Lotte New York Palace
Hotel Edison Times Square

Hotel Edison Times Square

4 out of 5
228 W 47th St, New York, NY
Hotel Edison Times Square
THE NEW YORKER HOTEL BY LOTTE HOTELS

THE NEW YORKER HOTEL BY LOTTE HOTELS

4 out of 5
481 Eighth Ave., New York, NY
THE NEW YORKER HOTEL BY LOTTE HOTELS
Arlo Midtown

Arlo Midtown

4 out of 5
351 West 38th Street, New York, NY
Arlo Midtown
The Shelburne Sonesta New York

The Shelburne Sonesta New York

4 out of 5
303 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY
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Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square

Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square

4 out of 5
145 W 44th St, New York, NY
Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near New York Public Library

A trip to the New York Public Library offers a rich blend of activities, including public tours that showcase its stunning architecture and cultural significance. Nearby, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant theatre scene and other entertainment options. This iconic landmark is a must-see for anyone exploring New York City, providing a unique cultural experience that reflects the city's diverse heritage.

Shopping

The nearest shopping options near New York Public Library include Macy's, only 644m away, offering a variety of family-friendly stores, and Tiffany & Co., located 1.3km away for luxury gifts. Grand Central Market, also 644m away, presents a vibrant atmosphere for fresh produce and local goods.

Recreation

Experience the magical sounds of Carnegie Hall, known for its vibrant music concerts, located 1.3km from the library. Enjoy skating at the Rink at Rockefeller Center, only 644m away, or unwind in luxury at the University Club, situated 1.1km from the library.

Adventure

Experience the thrilling DreamWorks Water Park, located 9.7km from New York Public Library, offering fun for the whole family. For a serene outdoor escape, visit the Sixth Street and Avenue B Community Garden, 3.2km away. If you're seeking adventure, try the ExtraVertical Climbing Center, only 1.6km away.

Nightlife

After visiting the New York Public Library, enjoy a show at Town Hall, just 0.3.2km away, for a cultural evening. For a fun night, head to Dave & Buster's 644m away for drinks and entertainment, or try Bowlmor Lanes for an adventurous family experience.

Find the best attractions near New York Public Library

The New York Public Library is surrounded by an array of attractions including urban parks, art museums, and iconic skyscrapers. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture of the city while enjoying family-friendly experiences. Whether you're exploring the library itself or venturing to nearby points of interest, there's plenty to do and see in New York City to enhance your visit.

  • Times Square: Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Times Square, located 483m from the New York Public Library. Known for its dazzling lights and bustling atmosphere, this iconic square is a true representation of the city's lively spirit.
  • Central Park: A 3.2km stroll from the library, Central Park offers a serene escape with its picturesque landscapes, family-friendly activities, and outdoor spaces, making it a perfect spot to relax amidst the urban hustle.
  • Grand Central Terminal: Just 483m away, this symbolic landmark is a cultural gem. Admire its stunning architecture, intricate details, and the iconic celestial dome that captures the essence of New York's history.

Best time to go to New York Public Library

Visitor numbers around New York Public Library is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit New York Public Library can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around New York Public Library falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around New York Public Library falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January31.6°F (-0.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February33.1°F (0.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.2°F (21.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July76.8°F (24.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August75.4°F (24.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October57.9°F (14.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December37.9°F (3.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for New York Public Library

Visiting the New York Public Library can be budget-friendly with several money-saving tips. Enjoy free entry to the library and nearby attractions like Times Square, Central Park, and Broadway. For accommodation, consider visiting between January and March for lower prices, and book a month in advance for the best deals. Monday stays are typically cheaper than Fridays. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Don’t forget to check reviews to ensure you’re getting great value for your stay!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around New York Public Library are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to September to October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around New York Public Library is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around New York Public Library is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around New York Public Library is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the New York Public Library with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.