New York City: Public Library Hidden Gems Audio Tour

Step out of the hustle of New York's Fifth Avenue into the New York Public Library guided by your personal in-app audio tour! Note! Admission to the library is free—with this tour, you get audio commentary along a planned route. You can use this tour anytime during the opening hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Built in the late 1890s, the New York Library's Main Branch is a perfect example of classical architecture and a treasury of 2.5 million volumes and artifacts. The tour starts outside so you can examine all the details of this Beaux-Arts building: impressive columns, beautiful sculptures, and famous lions. Get to know their names and take a picture with these favorites of the public. Inside, you'll be carried away by the breathtaking interiors of Astor Hall. You'll be able to visit the Polonsky Exhibition of The New York Public Library's Treasures and hear the stories behind artifacts such as Thomas Jefferson's handwritten copy of the Declaration of Independence, the Gutenberg Bible dating 1450, Charles Dicken's desk, and more. Next, ascend to the 3rd floor to hear the story of the McGraw Rotunda and marvel at its stunning murals celebrating the history of the written word. Holders of the Library Card may visit the iconic Rose Main Reading Room with its authentic atmosphere. Finish the tour in the shades of Bryant Park. There's always something interesting going around! This tour is not affiliated with the NYPL and is provided by an independent creator.