Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice
320 E 43rd Street, Manhattan, New York City, NY, 10017
Home to a private foundation set up by automobile moguls Henry and Edsel Ford, the Ford Foundation Building—now better known as the Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice—is a 12-story office building in Midtown Manhattan. Unveiled in 1967, the landmark is known for its iconic mid-century architecture. It's home to a publicly accessible garden atrium, as well as the Ford Foundation Gallery.
The Basics
A much-loved example of midcentury design, the Ford Foundation building is a designated landmark of the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission. Explore the interior garden courtyard, where a reflecting pool, plants, and shrubbery offer a peaceful reprieve from the busy streets of midtown Manhattan.
The building also features a gallery space that showcases work that tackles social justice issues. Many architecture-focused tours of Manhattan visit the Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice, in addition to other NYC landmarks such as the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Station, and the United Nations Headquarters.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Ford Foundation building is a must-visit for architecture and design enthusiasts.
The building and the garden are wheelchair-accessible.
The garden features a sensory section with braille signage and audio interpretation.
How to Get There
The Ford Foundation Building has entrances on East 42nd and East 43rd streets between First and Second avenues. The nearest subway stop is Grand Central–42nd Street, served by the 4, 5, 6, 7, and S trains.
When to Get There
The garden is open during office hours Monday through Friday, and on Saturdays when the gallery has an exhibition on view. The garden is a hidden gem, so it’s generally calm and uncrowded.
Where to Find Nearby Architectural Landmarks
The Ford Foundation Building is one of several landmarks in Midtown West. The United Nations Headquarters complex—a collaborative effort from a group of architects that included Le Corbusier and Oscar Niemeyer—is less than five minutes from the Ford Foundation building on foot, as are the art deco-style Daily News and Chrysler buildings, and the lavish Beaux Arts-style Grand Central Terminal.
Ways to explore
Visitors to the Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice are welcome to explore the atrium garden, where a reflecting pool, dozens of plant species, and a fountain offer a peaceful reprieve from the busy streets of Midtown. The building also features a gallery space, which showcases work that tackles social justice issues.
Many architecture-focused tours of Manhattan visit the Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice, in addition to nearby NYC landmarks such as the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Station, and the United Nations Headquarters.
Accessibility
The Ford Foundation Building is wheelchair accessible, and the atrium garden has an accessible path. Service dogs are welcome.
Age limits
None
What to pack
A small handheld bag, camera
What to wear
Wear comfortable layers, as temperatures may vary in the garden.
Not allowed
Pets, large bags and suitcases, smoking, tripods and selfie sticks
Amenities
Public restrooms, Wi-Fi
Address
The Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice is located in Midtown East, near the intersection of 43rd Street and 2nd Avenue. It is close to Grand Central Terminal and is well-served by public transportation.
Driving
Driving in Midtown is not recommended, owing to congestion and traffic restrictions (especially when the neighboring United Nations is in session). If you prefer to arrive by car, use taxis or rideshare services instead.
Public transportation
The nearest subway station is Grand Central–42nd Street, served by the 4, 5, and 6 trains. You can also take Metro–North, the New York Metropolitan Area’s commuter rail service, to Grand Central Terminal.
Best times to visit
The building is open to the public from late morning until early evening. Expect lunchtime to be a little busier.
Best days to visit
The Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice is publicly open Monday through Friday, as well as on select Saturdays when exhibitions are held. Aim for weekdays for a quieter visit.
Best months to visit
There’s no bad time of year to visit the Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice, although it’s worth checking whether your trip overlaps with one of the center’s art exhibitions.
Special events
The Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice hosts a range of gallery shows, talks, and events throughout the year—consult its calendar for more.
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