NYC Arts: The Complete Guide to Art and Culture

Newly renovated in late 2008, the Official NYC Information Center provides the most high-tech, interactive ways to plan a visit to New York City.  In addition to the copious print materials on New York City events and attractions, touch-screen FAQ stations allow users to view information on New York City's museums, performances, shops, parks, restaurants, and other places and activities.  The screens show all the locations on an interactive map with descriptions and information on public transportation.  By moving the disc across the touch-screen tables, you can explore a large interactive map of the five boroughs. When categories of interest like "Museums & Galleries" or "Dining" are selected, flags pop up on the map to show relevant matches. Flags can then be touched to open up a box with a description, info and photos for each place. Special sections include "Free Attractions" or Just Ask The Locals,™ which gives recommendations from famous New Yorkers. Users can save favorites to a disc, and then take it over to the Disc Reader for the Video Wall, where an incredibly detailed three-dimensional Google Earth map of the city will highlight the spots that were selected on the disc. The itinerary can be sent to your cell phone or email address, or printed out by placing the disc on the Disc Reader for the Printer Station.

Friendly, knowledgeable, multilingual information specialists offer insider information about what to see and do. They can also help you with directions and even booking tickets or reservations. Free Official NYC Visitor Guides, brochures, maps and discount coupons are available along the Brochure Wall. The Touch-Screen Wall features FAQ screens with helpful resources and advice, like how to get around and how to tip for different services, in 10 languages. A vending machine sells MetroCards for those who want to travel by subway or bus.     

The Official NYC Information Center uses technology to make information accessible and customizable.

• Directions: Subway: B, D, E to Seventh Avenue; 1 to 50th Street; N, Q, R to 49th Street