Israeli Tourists Increasingly Visit Chabad Sites in New York

A growing number of Israeli tourists, including many who do not identify as religious, are incorporating visits to the Lubavitcher Rebbe's Ohel in Queens and the global Chabad headquarters at 770 Eastern Parkway in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, into their New York vacations. While classic attractions like the Empire State Building and Times Square remain popular, Chabad officials report a significant rise in visits to their spiritual sites.

This trend is partly driven by outreach efforts from the youth wing of Agudat Chabad, which encourages Israelis traveling to the U.S. to visit locations associated with the Rebbe and Chabad. The 770 building, the former central hub of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, now hosts guided tours in Hebrew, including visits to the Rebbe's personal room and other historical areas.

The Ohel in Queens, located near JFK Airport, is the resting place of the Rebbe and his predecessor and is open 24/7, attracting thousands of visitors daily who come to write personal prayer requests. Chabad notes that the influx of Israeli visitors, particularly during the summer, highlights the growing appeal of these sites even to those without a religious background.

As the summer travel season concludes, Chabad anticipates a shift in focus to the High Holidays in September. Crown Heights is preparing to welcome tens of thousands of Hasidim and guests from around the world for the holiday period.