View northeast up West 60th Street showing Lander College for Women building

Touro University

Touro University New York City: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Touro University, situated in Midtown Manhattan at the heart of New York City, is a premier academic institution that seamlessly blends a rich Jewish heritage with cutting-edge educational innovation. Established in 1970 by Dr. Bernard Lander, Touro has evolved from a small college with just 35 students into a comprehensive university system serving over 19,000 students across multiple states and countries. Its flagship campus at 3 Times Square—known as the “Crossroads of the World”—offers not only a vibrant learning environment but also prime access to the city’s cultural and historical landmarks (Touro University Official Website).

Visiting Touro University presents an opportunity to discover its state-of-the-art vertical campus, which spans eleven floors and features advanced research labs, simulation centers, and spaces dedicated to Jewish culture. The university’s mission, founded on intellectual inquiry, community engagement, and the promotion of Jewish values, is reflected in its diverse academic programs and welcoming public events (Graduate School of Business Visit Info). This guide provides essential information on visiting hours, admission, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions to ensure a smooth and enriching visit (Touro University Events Calendar).

Touro’s strategic Midtown location places it within walking distance of world-renowned sites such as Broadway theaters, Bryant Park, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and Rockefeller Center. This guide will also offer practical advice on transportation, amenities, and answers to frequently asked questions, making it a comprehensive resource for anyone planning a visit.

Touro Nursing Program building on 54th Street during a sunny late afternoon

Touro College Graduate School of Education and Psychology building at 43 West 23rd Street on a cloudy afternoon

View of Tuoro College Kings Highway from East 14th Street on a sunny afternoon

Historical Overview
Founding and Early Development
Expansion and Growth
Transition to University Status
Planning Your Visit
Visiting Hours and Admission
Guided Tours and Special Events
Transportation and Amenities
Exploring Nearby Attractions
Campus Highlights and Facilities
Main Campus Design
Academic and Community Spaces
Additional Campuses in NYC
Visitor Information
Accessibility
Parking
FAQ
Visual and Interactive Resources
Community Engagement
Recognition and Achievements
Practical Visitor Tips
Dining and Local Amenities
Conclusion and Resources

Historical Overview

Founding and Early Development

Touro University was founded in 1970 by Dr. Bernard Lander with the aim of strengthening Jewish heritage while providing accessible, high-quality education to a diverse student body. The institution honors Isaac and Judah Touro, prominent Jewish-American philanthropists. The inaugural class began in 1971 with 35 students, and the school quickly grew, reaching over 1,000 students by 1975 (Learn More; History Details).

Expansion and Growth

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Touro expanded its academic offerings and established new campuses and programs, including divisions for women, general studies, and health sciences. The university’s reach widened to serve immigrants, Yeshiva students, and non-traditional learners, attracting a multicultural and international student body (About Touro).

Transition to University Status and Global Reach

In the 21st century, Touro extended its presence nationally and globally, with campuses in California, Nevada, Illinois, Berlin, Moscow, and Jerusalem, as well as the launch of Touro University Worldwide for online education (Touro Worldwide History). In 2022, the institution officially became Touro University, reflecting its expanded academic and research programs. Today, it stands as the largest Jewish-sponsored higher education system in the U.S. (Official Site).

Planning Your Visit

Visiting Hours and Admission

Location: Cross River Campus, 3 Times Square, New York, NY 10036
Visiting Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (hours may vary by department; closed on weekends and public holidays)
Admission: Free; no ticket required for general visits
Accessibility: Fully accessible for visitors with disabilities

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided tours can be arranged by appointment, providing insights into Touro’s history, academic life, and facilities. Prospective students may audit select courses for free, especially at the Graduate School of Business (Schedule a Tour). The university hosts open houses, cultural lectures, and public events throughout the year (Touro University Events Calendar).

Transportation and Amenities

Transportation: Easily accessible via subway lines A, C, E, 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, S to 42nd Street/Times Square; numerous bus routes are also nearby
Parking: Limited metered parking and nearby public garages; public transit is recommended
Amenities: Modern classrooms, research labs, lounges, a Career Resource Center, and an in-store pharmacy

Exploring Nearby Attractions

Touro University’s Midtown location allows visitors to explore Times Square, Broadway theaters, Bryant Park, MoMA, the New York Public Library, and Rockefeller Center—all within walking distance. The Harlem campus, home to the Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, is close to the historic Apollo Theater and the Studio Museum in Harlem.

Travel Tips:

Visit on weekdays for a less crowded experience
Use public transportation
Wear comfortable shoes
Stay vigilant in busy areas

Campus Highlights and Facilities

Main Campus Design

Touro’s 3 Times Square campus is a vertical, 11-floor facility in a modern skyscraper, with entrances at 7th Avenue and 43rd Street (Times Square campus article). The campus features open, light-filled spaces, panoramic city views, and a secure, welcoming environment.

Academic and Community Spaces

Schools and Programs: Graduate School of Education, Social Work, Technology, Jewish Studies, NYSCAS, School of Health Sciences, Pharmacy, Business
Facilities: Classrooms, lecture halls, research labs, simulation centers, an operational pharmacy (Jewish Link)
Community Spaces: Student center, kosher dining area, lounges, library with print and digital resources

Additional Campuses

Harlem Campus: 230 West 125th Street (Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine) (TouroCOM)
Flatbush (Brooklyn): Avenue J and East 16th Street (LAS Touro)
Kew Gardens Hills (Queens): 75-31 150th Street (LCM Touro)

Each campus is accessible by subway and bus, with facilities tailored to their specialized academic programs.

Visitor Information

Accessibility: All campuses are ADA-compliant, with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms
Parking: Limited street parking and nearby garages; public transit is encouraged
Entry: All visitors must present photo ID; allow extra time for security

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Touro University’s visiting hours?
A: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (Times Square campus); check official site for specific hours by department.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No—general visits and campus tours are free.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment through the admissions office or Graduate School of Business website.

Q: Is the campus accessible?
A: Yes, with full ADA compliance.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Photography is permitted in public areas but may be restricted in classrooms or during events; ask for permission.

Q: What is the best way to reach the campus?
A: Public transportation is strongly recommended due to Midtown traffic and limited parking.

Visual and Interactive Resources

Explore Touro University virtually through online tours and photo galleries on the official website. Optimized images and alt tags support accessibility and search engine visibility.

Community Engagement and Achievements

Touro University is known for its scholarly impact and community service. It hosts public lectures, symposia, and forums, such as the Forum on Life, Culture & Society (FOLCS) (Touro Law Conference), and consistently receives recognition for academic excellence (Touro News & Events).

Practical Tips for Visitors

Schedule tours in advance
Check event calendars before visiting
Dress smart casual and wear comfortable shoes
Download official transit apps for navigating NYC
Review the campus map and security protocols in advance

Dining and Local Amenities

There is an automated kosher café on campus, and the surrounding Times Square area offers countless dining options. For quieter meals, consider exploring nearby neighborhoods outside the main tourist zones.

Conclusion: Plan Your Visit

Touro University in New York City offers a unique blend of academic tradition, modern facilities, and urban vibrancy. Its central Midtown location makes it an ideal destination for prospective students, visitors, and anyone interested in exploring New York City’s educational and cultural landscape.

For the most current information, visit the Touro University website and follow the university’s social media channels. Download the Audiala app for audio tours and exclusive content to maximize your visit (Audiala App).