Landmark
Unisphere
Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The Unisphere is a iconic 140-foot-tall stainless-steel globe located in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens. Built as the centerpiece of the 1964 New York World's Fair, it represents the fair's theme 'Peace Through Understanding' and stands as a symbol of global unity. The sphere is surrounded by three orbital rings that represent the first man-made satellites, and its continents are depicted in relief. Visitors can walk around the base, which features fountains and a reflecting pool, and admire the structure from all angles. The park itself offers expansive lawns, the Queens Museum, and the New York Hall of Science nearby. The Unisphere is particularly striking at sunset when the steel catches the light, and it's a popular spot for photography and picnics. Despite being a major landmark, it remains a relaxed, open-air attraction free of charge.
Don't miss
- The 12-story-high stainless-steel globe with three orbital rings
- Illuminated fountains and reflecting pool at the base
- Panoramic views of the park and Manhattan skyline from the surrounding area
- Proximity to the Queens Museum, which houses the Panorama of the City of New York
- Seasonal events and cultural festivals held in the park
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Unisphere
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Unisphere with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inCentral Park Bicycle Rentals New York City4.9★ · 118 travelers1–24 hoursFree cancellationFrom$6 per personSee dates →
Best full dayNew York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour4.8★ · 13,601 travelers~6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$99 per personSee dates →
Top ratedStatue of Liberty and New York City Skyline Sightseeing Cruise4.8★ · 828 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$79 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- The Unisphere is outdoors and always accessible, but the park closes at dusk.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
- Public restrooms are available at the nearby Queens Museum and park facilities.
- The best photo spot is from the south side, with the Manhattan skyline in the background.
A bit of history
The Unisphere was designed by structural engineer Gilmore D. Clarke and fabricated by U.S. Steel for the 1964/1965 New York World's Fair. It was intended as a symbol of the fair's theme and later became a permanent fixture in the park, undergoing restoration in the 1990s.
Common questions
Can I go inside the Unisphere?
No, the structure is purely a sculpture and cannot be entered.
Is there a fee to see the Unisphere?
No, it's free and open to the public in the park.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather; summer can be hot, but the park has shade.
Are there guided tours?
No official tours, but the Queens Museum offers guided tours of the park occasionally.
Is the Unisphere lit up at night?
Yes, it is illuminated in the evening, making for a dramatic sight.
More attractions in New York City
