Columbia University Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience Columbia University. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• NY Helicopter Tour: Ultimate NYC Sightseeing

• NY Helicopter Tour: New York City Skyline From New Jersey

• NY Helicopter Tour: Manhattan & Brooklyn

• New York City Skyline Helicopter Tour From New Jersey

• The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City

It’s free to visit Columbia University if you want to take a self-guided walk around the campus, located in Upper Manhattan. However, for security reasons, access is often restricted to current students, staff, and registered guests, or those booked onto a registered tour. One-hour campus tours are offered free of charge to prospective students, their families, and educators, but prior registration is required.

Yes, Columbia University is definitely worth visiting or passing by if you're interested in higher education in the United States. The university is one of the top educational institutions in the country, and the campus is attractive. While campus access is often restricted, it's worth looking out for special events at Columbia University while you're in New York City. You can also walk, drive, or fly past on many city tours.

Per one customer who booked the NY Helicopter Tour: Ultimate NYC Sightseeing, "Unbelievable. There is not a bad seat on the helicopter, and fewer passengers were on board than I expected, which was very nice. The entire thing was professional and an amazing way to see NYC. Loved it!"

Yes, Columbia is open for public tours. As a top US university, Columbia often welcomes prospective students and travelers for guided tours. Student-led tour groups meet on Prospect Street and provide glimpses into life at Columbia.

Tours of Columbia typically last 1–2 hours, depending on the group’s interests and level of engagement. During your visit, you’ll explore the campus and see what student life is like at a bustling New York City college.

Sadly, it is not as simple as just walking into the school. If you are interested in joining a formal guided tour, make sure to book your place ahead of time. However, there are some options for independent visitors who’d rather explore on their own.

Start with checking out the Low Library steps, then catch a game or performance at Columbia’s athletic complex. Take time to visit the Columbia University Bookstore and grab some souvenirs. Also, don’t miss out on the opportunity to join one of the free, twice-daily, student-led guided campus tours.

Yes. Columbia University proudly offers a number of ways for prospective students, scholars, tourists, and individuals to visit the campus. Visitors can choose from daily guided tours offered year-round and led by current Columbia students. Self-guided audio tours available for those who prefer to explore on their own.

There are tons of fun things to do when you're done visiting Columbia University. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in New York City:

• Statue of Liberty

• Empire State Building

• Ellis Island

• Central Park

• National September 11 Memorial & Museum

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in New York City.