best nyc history tours

5 Fascinating Historical Tours of New York City

Discover Manhattan's Long & Curious Past on 5 Guided Tours

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New York City tells the tales of its past through art, architecture, food, and landmarks. Yet with the fast pace of the city, it can be hard to truly take it all in. That’s where historical tours come in. Across Manhattan, knowledgeable guides are bringing the history that surrounds us (and that we often walk right by) to life. From the earliest history of New York as a Dutch settlement to the opportunity to board a historic aircraft carrier, here are five favorite historical tours in NYC .

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour

New York is a city of immigrants, and for many new Americans, their story began on Ellis Island. Follow in their footsteps with this 4 1/2-hour guided tour with ExperienceFirst , kicking off with a boat ride in New York Harbor. The first stop is Liberty Island, home to the Statue of Liberty, which served as a symbol of welcome to millions of immigrants. After a guided tour of the museum in the statue’s pedestal and a stroll around, the tour continues back on the boat as it sails toward Ellis Island. The original building still stands where millions of immigrants over five decades were processed before officially entering the United States. After your guide provides context about the buildings and the island’s history, it’s time to explore. You can look up the records of your own ancestors, wander through the Ellis Island Museum, and roam the grounds before boarding the boat back to the tip of lower Manhattan. Meets at the bookstore inside Castle Clinton National Monument in Battery Park, from $57/adult.

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Tenements, Tales, and Tastes: A Tour of New York’s Lower East Side

For many immigrants, their story continued on from Ellis Island to the tenements of New York’s Lower East Side . This 3-hour tour with Urban Oyster is an on-foot exploration of one of Manhattan’s largest melting pots, home to Italian, Irish, Chinese, and Jewish settlers, among many others, over the years. This tour begins at City Hall with a Dutch snack before winding through the narrow streets of Chinatown and Little Italy. Stops will include everything from historic synagogues to a century-old bakery to the revitalized Essex Street Market. Historical sites are also included; expect to see both an African burial ground and the Lower East Side Tenement Museum. Snacks from a variety of cultures are included in this tour, so bring an appetite. Meets at the fountain at City Hall Park, from $69/adult.

Wall Street and 9/11 Memorial Tour

The most comprehensive history tour of New York City is found downtown, in today’s Financial District, where Manhattan as we know it first began. This 90-minute walking tour with Wall Street Walks begins on Wall Street—named by the Dutch during the 17th century when Manhattan was still New Amsterdam. The street today marks the northern extremity, or “wall,” of that original settlement. This neighborhood is also dense with landmarks dating back to the American Revolution, including Federal Hall, where George Washington took the oath of office as the first President of the United States. Jumping forward in time, this tour covers Wall Street as the home of the American financial sector, including the imposing New York Stock Exchange. A stroll through the neighborhood concludes at the 9/11 Memorial, now home to two striking pools in the footprints of the former World Trade Center Twin Towers. Meets at 55 Wall St., from $35/adult.

Rockefeller Center Tour

In Manhattan, a rich history is often right under our noses. One of the best examples is Rockefeller Center, known today for its annual Christmas tree lighting and iconic ice-skating rink, but actually an important historical site in its own right. This 75-minute walking tour offered by the Rockefeller Center is led by a local historian and explores the history of Rockefeller Center from its Art Deco buildings to the Radio City Music Hall to its extensive displays of art, including sculptures and murals. This tour is a particularly good fit for art and architecture enthusiasts, with in-depth coverage of 30 Rockefeller, formerly called the GE Building, which is home to the viewing decks of Top of the Rock and a major Art Deco landmark dating back to 1933 (it was here that the famous photograph of workers sitting on a beam high above the New York City skyline was snapped). Meets at West 50th Street, between Fifth and Sixth avenues., from $25/adult.

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Tour

History is brought to life aboard a floating landmark at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum . The USS Intrepid , a 900-foot-long aircraft carrier, is docked in the Hudson River and contains a wide range of exhibits spread throughout four decks, including a space shuttle, spy plane, submarine, and a hands-on flight simulator. Take your museum visit to the next level by joining a guided tour . Several different options are available, including tours that cover the USS Intrepid in World War II, Intrepid 101 (that covers the basics, including the flight deck), Concorde: A Supersonic Story (an exploration of the fastest airplane to ever cross the Atlantic Ocean), and Space Shuttle Enterprise: Up Close and In Depth. Pier 86, 12th Avenue & 46th Street, from $15/adult in addition to museum ticket.

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The 19 best tours and walks in NYC

Take one of the best NYC tours and let an expert show you the city like never before

With so many must-see attractions in NYC , a visit to the city can be overwhelming. The best NYC tours — whether by land, sea or air — can help you make the most of your visit. Even locals will enjoy these tours and maybe learn something new (or discover a few secret NYC destinations) by taking an off-the-beaten-path tour . Choose your own adventure: walking tours, boat tours, bike tours and helicopter tours are all great ways to see the city, and the expert guides will leave you with a satisfying taste of the city. Looking for something more specific? There are food tours, movie tours, art tours, architecture tours and more. Whatever part of NYC you want to explore, there’s a tour for you, and you’ll have fun while learning everything you need to know about the Big Apple.

Recommended:  the best lesser-known attractions in NYC   Recommended: the best non-touristy things to do in NYC Recommended: the best parks in NYC Recommended: the best food tours in NYC  

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Best NYC tours

1.  Big Bus New York Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

The quintessential city tour of all tours, hop-on hop-off's get some major props for ease, accessibility, and price. Map-reading and subway-taking not your strong suit? No worries — even the most directionally-challenged traveler can enjoy Big Bus Tours, condensing a sightseeing fest including thirty landmarks into one trip. Be sure to watch out for famous points of interest as you go with the aid of a live tour guide (and go-to know-it-all about New York attractions). And if something catches your eye? Just hop off wherever you fancy — simple. Choose from routes running in downtown, uptown, Harlem, and Brooklyn and get from Wall Street’s Charging Bull statue to the green meadows of Central Park with ease. Basically, it's an easy option for seeing as much or as little as you want of the city in one day – and not stress out about maps or super expensive Uber fairs.

2.  Small Group Central Park Bike Tour

You’ll cover much more of Central Park’s 843 acres of meadows, woods, and ponds on a bike than you ever could on foot. Meet up with the guide from Central Park Tours Inc. to pick out your wheels for the day, then set off from the south end of the park. You’ll spy iconic landmarks, plus a few lesser-known gems. And since the tour is always capped at just eight people, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions along the way and maybe even make a new friend or two. Oh, and you know, we could think of worse ways to stay fit and save the planet. 

3.  Circle Line: New York Landmarks Cruise

As far as skylines go, Manhattan's is a hard one to beat. There's the Statue of Liberty leading the way from Ellis Island, Brooklyn Bridge showing off its architectural beauty, and the Empire State standing tall – all of which make for a stunning view from the water. Sail around New York harbor on the Circle Line cruise, which heads up the Hudson, as well as rounding the Brooklyn bay areas. You'll also hear the history and stories behind all of the sights, so fill up on the facts and don't hesitate to ask a question or two. 

4.  9/11 Memorial and Ground Zero Walking Tour

Remember the lives lost during the tragedy that was 9/11 by visiting the site where the World Trade Center once stood. Now known as Ground Zero, your guide will share facts, figures, and real-life stories with you – making for a trip that is insightful, informative, and moving all at once. Starting at City Tales Sightseeing, you'll also stop at the  Fireman’s Memorial,  twin reflecting pools, One World Observatory, and  St Paul’s Chapel .

5.  Central Park TV and Movie Sites Tour

With 843 acres of meadows, woods, and streams, Central Park offers a gorgeous green backdrop for filmmakers. So perhaps it’s no surprise that countless movies have been set here, from When Harry Met Sally to Ghostbusters . Movie buffs will recognize the skating rink featured in Serendipity , the people-watching scene from Annie Hall, and the path that Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, and Jules Munshin biked along in On the Town . This two-hour walking tour takes you to 30 film locations within the park, though hundreds more exist.

6.  Champagne Brunch Sail

Fresh air, ocean waves, unlimited prosecco, and a massive brunch spread of bagels, lox, cream cheese, quiche, fresh fruit, and more—it’s fair to say that this midday cruise on the Shearwater really does have it all. Sit back and relax and the crew guides the restored 1929 sailboat out into the harbor. If you’re lucky, the captain will even let you take a turn at the helm.

7.  Brooklyn Bridge Bike Tour

Boasting some of the most jaw-droppingly spectacular views in the city, the Brooklyn Bridge is a beacon for snap-happy tourists. But don't let your only experience of this stunning structure and its incredible views be through the viewfinder of your camera. Put the gadgets down and take a bike ride across the bridge to really soak up the scenery. This 'Bike and Roll' tour takes about three hours, running at a  leisurely pace with  plenty of time for photo stops. Make sure you make the most of your guide, who is sure to have bags of knowledge about the bridge's history and architectural details. 

8.  Sugar Hill and Washington Heights Tour

Sugar Hill got its name during the Harlem Renaissance, as “life was sweet” for the wealthy African Americans who lived in the district. Thurgood Marshall, Langston Hughes, and Duke Ellington all spent time in the row houses here. Peep the stunning Queen Anne–style architecture and immerse yourself in the vibrant community on this walking tour of the area.

9.  Lower East Side Bagel Tour

Come hungry: You start this walking tour of the Lower East Side with a piping hot bagel smeared with cream cheese. The eats only get better as you visit venerable New York institutions like Katz’s Delicatessen, Russ and Daughters, The Pickle Guy, and Economy Candy. It’s not all about the food either: Your guide will explain how immigrants shaped both this neighborhood and its cuisine as you walk.

10.  Roosevelt Island Tour

Few visitors know anything about Roosevelt Island, a secluded residential community that feels worlds apart from the rest of the city. Once used for insane asylums and hospitals, Roosevelt Island is now home to a thriving population of about 14,000 residents. But, if you have the stomach for it, revisit the island's troubled past on the 'Island of Lost Souls' tour. Pass eerie sites, like the neo-Gothic ruins of the smallpox hospital, the first pathological and bacteriological research lab, and the NYC Lunatic Asylum which opened in 1841. After you learn about the island’s history, board the aerial tram for a sky-high trip over the East River into Manhattan.

11.  Best of Brooklyn Half-Day Food and Culture Tour

Despite Manhattan's abundance of white-clothed, Michelin-starred dining rooms, some are now touting Brooklyn as the epicenter of food culture in NYC. Either way, it's impossible to deny that Brooklyn's dining scene is incredible, from pierogis in Greenpoint's Polish stronghold to tacos and pupusas in Sunset Park and trendy farm-to-table newcomers in Williamsburg. To provide a thorough understanding of the borough's eats, this half-day tour will take you through all those neighborhoods, as well as Dumbo, the waterfront neighborhood where you'll enjoy sweets from the renowned Jacques Torres chocolate factory.

12.  Sex and the City Hotspots Tour

What Sex and the City fan hasn’t daydreamed about switching lives with Carrie, Samantha, Miranda, or Charlotte for the day? The over-the-top outfits, glamorous parties, and outrageous dates might be too good to be true, but at least the scenery is true to life. Visit Carrie’s brownstone, some of the girls’ favorite bars, and an X-rated store featured on the show on this epic bus tour. There might even be time to stop for a Cosmo.

13.  Statue of Liberty Express Cruise

Perfect for the sightseer who knows exactly what he or she wants, this Circle Line express tour goes right to the Statue of Liberty – no pit stops this time. Listen to an expert guide point out some lower Manhattan landmarks before pausing for photos right next to Lady Liberty. And since this cruise only takes an hour, it’s easy to fit into even the busiest itinerary.

14.  High Line and Chelsea Walking Tour

What started life as an unremarkable elevated railway is now famous across the world and one of New York's most photogenic landmarks. The High Line is a public park, rotating art gallery and perennial tourist attraction stretched, as the name suggests, high over the bustling city streets below. Take a two-hour walking tour hosted by New York Tour 1 to explore the full span of this green oasis and take in the architecture and unique history of Chelsea and the Meatpacking District. Make sure you save some time to shop in Chelsea Market afterward and don't forget to snap a pic of the lush greenery. 

15.  Lower East Side Food and Culture Tour

This is one for the foodies. The Lower East Side’s culinary scene is as vibrant as its culture. It's impossible to separate the two: as different immigrant communities moved in over the decades, each brought the foods of their homelands with them. These days, you can find everything from knishes to stroopwafels to fresh mozzarella within a few blocks. This three-hour walking and eating expedition around the neighborhood lets you t aste all the foods it has to offer – and learn about their origins. 

16.  Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village

You’d never know it from the looks of Washington Square Park, but Greenwich Village has a sinister past. At the northwest corner of the park is the Hangman’s Elm, one of the oldest trees in the city and the site of at least one public execution. Master of horror Edgar Allan Poe once lived in the neighborhood and rumor has it that artist John La Farge still haunts the nearby Church of the Ascension. Delve into the neighborhood’s gruesome past on this two-hour ghost tour, and discover all of its haunting secrets. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes!

17.  The Sopranos Sites Tour

Technically speaking, this tour takes you outside the five boroughs, but The Sopranos is such an iconic New York show that we couldn’t leave it out. After you board the bus in Midtown, you’ll go through the Lincoln Tunnel – the site of the show’s unforgettable opening sequence – on your way to the New Jersey suburbs. There, you’ll check out the Bada Bing! strip club, Big Pussy’s auto body shop, and the restaurant featured in the final scene of the series.

18.  Alternative New York Street Art Tour

There's much more to art in New York than just the paintings, photography, and sculptures exhibited in its many prestigious museums. Graffiti started life in the Big Apple and NYC remains at the very forefront of the street art world to this day. Discover some of the city's very best outdoor artworks and murals on an Inside Out Tour of either the Lower East Side or Bushwick and Williamsburg. You won’t find these artists hanging in any gallery. Yet.

19.  New York City Lights Sail

There's only one thing more spectacular than New York's skyscrapers glimmering in the sun – the famous skyline dramatically lit up against the night sky. Board the Shearwater for a cruise around the harbor after dark. The 105-minute trip is a great way to get awe-inspiring views of the city and a much-needed moment of calm out on the water.

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Best Historic Walking Tours in New York

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New York City is the perfect walking town. The streets are laid out in a grid pattern so it’s easy to navigate and if you get lost or have questions, locals love to pave the way with directions and advice. (They may keep walking while tawking but they’ll go out of their way to help.) Still, while many will happily tell you where to find the best Chinese food, if you want to learn about the city’s history, best to go with an organized walking tour that will embellish the walk with insider knowledge. These tours take 2 steps forward and 1 step back into New York’s past, sharing anecdotes about neighborhoods, residents and iconic buildings. Personal History Tour Joyce Gold , a New York history teacher at New York University and The New School, has been giving visitors walking history lessons for 25 years. Her 2- to 2 1/2- hour “field trips” include tours about the bohemian and flamboyant Greenwich Village, the Irish in Hell’s Kitchen and New York gangs. Gold leads most of the tours herself, which she enlivens with insights culled from her years of teaching history. Central Park Tour The Central Park Conservancy offers several free walking tours that delve into the park’s fascinating history. The “Views from the Past” tour gives a glimpse into how the park was designed by landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux in 1858. The tour, “A Road Once Traveled,” explores the role of the park’s wildlife habitat, Harlem Meer, during the American Revolution and the War of 1812. Custom-Made Tours The popular Big Apple Greeter tours are led by more than 300 volunteers who lead custom-made tours of the city in over 30 languages. The guides will meet you at your hotel, or wherever else you want in any of the boroughs, and show you whichever neighborhoods you’d like to explore. The tours vary in time. Oh, and they’re free. Tip: You must book at least 1 month in advance. New York Food Tour Foodies will eat up the Foods of New York Tours that take a bite into the Big Apple’s historic neighborhoods including Chinatown and Greenwich Village. Experienced guides feed you tidbits of info about the culture, architecture and history -- as well as food tastings from specialty and ethnic foods shops and restaurants. Grand Central Tour Grand Central Terminal isn’t only the world’s largest train station; it is also an architecturally stunning building with a past that most commuters don’t even know. Take the self-guided audio tour (the 30-minute “local” or 1-hour “express”) or free guided walking tours. On Wednesdays, the Municipal Art Society runs a tour that highlights the architecture and history of the Beaux-Arts landmark. On Fridays, a tour of the terminal and surrounding neighborhood, led by urban historians, is offered by the Grand Central Partnership. Neighborhood Tours The Big Onion Walking Tours offer 30 neighborhood history-based tours led by guides who hold an advanced degree in American history or related fields. The 2-hour tours, spanning 1 to 2 miles, include explorations of neighborhoods like Brooklyn Heights where you’ll see the former homes and haunts of many literary types including Truman Capote and Walt Whitman. The Free Historic Districts Walking Tour by NYC by Foot explores a couple of the city’s oldest neighborhoods from a historical perspective -- SoHo, Little Italy, Lower Manhattan and Chinatown. Bonus: Your well-behaved dog can hoof it, too! The guides function as “part professor, part performer” and while the tours are free, the company’s motto is “We’re so hip, we know you’ll tip.” Ghost Tours There’s nothing too scary about the Haunted Greenwich Village tour offered by Gotham Walking Tours. Instead, this history tour led by Lina Viviano, a native New Yorker who taught American history and politics at Harvard, tells tales about sites linked to famous residents and events where ghosts are said to roam, like Mark Twain (who knows, maybe he had a ghostwriter) and the devastating Triangle Shirtwaist Company fire that still haunts New York. Walking is not only a great way to discover the Big Apple but ideal for working off those extra calories and getting some fresh New York air (well, okay, maybe not fresh.) So, bring some comfy walking shoes and explore away. Laurie Bain Wilson writes often about New York City and is the author of several travel guidebooks, including New York City Made Easy and New York City with Kids .

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24 Best NYC City Tours for an Unforgettable Exploration of the Big Apple

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It’s America’s tourism posterchild — and the best NYC city tours manage to communicate the raw, unique essence that has made New York the city of all cities.

With so many things to do in NYC , you could spend weeks here and barely scratch the surface. That’s exactly why first-time travelers opt for guided city tours; in the space of just a few hours, you’re treated to a highlight reel of New York City – its art, history, food and architecture.

See my top 3 New York City tours below, or keep reading for a thorough breakdown of the tours and their offerings.

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• NYC city tours

1 – Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Cruise

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 6011 reviews )

“Nice quick ride to the Statue of Liberty and back. Good guide and good music and good boat.” Jeffrey, Getyourguide

Once a gift from France, the Statue of Liberty has become an iconic symbol of freedom and democracy. On this hour-long sightseeing cruise , you’ll sail past Lady Liberty herself, getting an up-close look at her stunning features and learning all about her transformation into a national monument.

You’ll also cruise past Ellis Island, the gateway for over 12 million immigrants, with plenty of stories to be told by the Statue Walks LLC team. Besides being blessed with a unique perspective of these two historical landmarks, you’ll also be treated to wonderful views of the Lower Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. What’s not to love?

Summary of tour:

• 1-hour cruise
• See Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and Freedom Tower
• Cash bar on board
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No visit to NYC is complete without the Statue of Liberty. So you might as well see her on a wonderful boat ride! The crew are extremely friendly (sometimes they let you steer the boat), the boat has restrooms and a bar, and views across the harbor are spectacular. Given the reasonable price, this gets out tick of approval.

Read more: Best boat tours in NYC

2 – New York City: Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 2493 reviews )

“It was very cool not having to worry about transportation all day and just being able to get on and off pretty much anywhere and at any time. This way you can get a good overview and check out the most famous sights. It was really fun!” Sam, Getyourguide

The big, double-decker buses are touristy for good reason: they hit up almost all of the best tourist attractions in New York City , with the bonus of being able to hop on and off whenever and wherever you like.

The Big Bus Tours sightseeing adventure is all about convenience and flexibility. Whether you opt for the Downtown Loop (which passes places like Battery Park, SoHo , Chelsea and Greenwich ), the Uptown Loop (Grand Central Terminal, Central Park and more), or both, you’ll see a huge range of notable landmarks.

All buses come with an audioguide to give you the rundown about each attraction too. What’s not to love about a classic NYC bus tour ?

• Hop on and off at your leisure
• Choose between 2 different routes
• Choose between a 1 or 2-day ticket
• book this tour
• Prices vary depending on which route you choose and any extra add-ons you wish to purchase.
• The classic 1-day Downtown Loop ticket is the cheapest, at US$54 for adults and US$45 for kids (3-12).
• The 1-day Downtown and Uptown loops combo costs US$72 for adults and US$63 for kids.
• The 2-day Downtown and Uptown loops combo ticket costs US$90 for adults and US$81 for kids.
• Add-on: A 1-day Downtown and Uptown loops combo plus a cruise around Liberty Island costs US$100 for adults and US$90 for kids.
• Add-on: A 1-day Downtown and Uptown loop combo plus entry to the Empire State Building AND a ferry to Liberty and Ellis Islands (museum access not included) costs US$130 for adults and US$120 for kids.

A fantastic way to get your bearings! These are more affordable than small group tours AND you can also see the sights at your own pace. You won’t get the personalized feeling of a private tour, but you can spend more time at the places that interest you most.

We recommend the Uptown+Downtown loops at the beginning of your NYC trip.

3 – 20-Min Ultimate NYC Helicopter Tour from Downtown Manhattan

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 2591 reviews )

“This was a brilliant experience, a unique birds eye view of the Big Apple.” Theodore, Headout

Short, sweet, and serving up incredible views of America’s posterchild, helicopter rides invite you to ditch the foot traffic and see the entire Manhattan Island from a whole new perspective.

Taking off from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport, the chopper soars high above famous sights like the Statue of Liberty , Central Park , the Brooklyn Bridge , and the Palisade Cliffs.

But it’s not just sightseeing; with a professional pilot doubling as your VIP tour guide, you’ll learn all about the city’s major landmarks too.

Being such a quick experience, you’ll have stacks of time to do a few of the other top things to do in Manhattan afterward.

• Spend 20 minutes in the air
• Aerial view of over 12 attractions
• Shared helicopter

A bucket list activity worth splurging on, this exciting helicopter tour is worth every penny. The views are second to none, and the insightful pilot comments make this experience even more special. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned NYC veteran, seeing the Big Apple from above is worth doing once in everyone’s life. 10/10.

4 – Guided Bus and Walking Tour with Staten Island Ferry

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 152 reviews )

“We saw and learned so much. Hit so many iconic sights and loved the walk in Central Park.” Marcia, GetYourGuide

See all the best New York City has to offer on this whirlwind excursion by USA Guided Tours that will see you covering both land and sea. Tour some of the most iconic locations in Manhattan including the Rockefeller Center and the Flatiron District . Then, board the Staten Island Ferry for the best perspective of the Statue of Liberty and the New York skyline.

On your return, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the 9/11 Memorial Pools by bus to pay your respects. End off your experience with a sightseeing walk down glittering Fifth Avenue. All along the way during your tour, you’ll benefit from the insightful commentary of an expert guide who will open your eyes to a different side of NYC.

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If you’re short on time and want to squeeze in as many iconic New York City as possible into a day, this tour is a great option! Your guides are experts in all things NYC – history, architecture and local lore – so you’ll learn plenty as you cover most of Manhattan.

5 – Boroughs of NYC: Harlem, Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn & Coney Island

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1378 reviews )

“As a first timer to New York, this is a great tour to give you a high-level understanding of 4 of the 5 boroughs.” Jack, Viator

With skyscrapers aplenty, Manhattan steals the spotlight. But in reality, it’s only one of five boroughs that make up New York City, and each boasts its own energy, landmarks and fantastic attractions.

On the Amigo Tours USA Boroughs Tour , you’ll get to discover Harlem , the birthplace of jazz and hip hop, Queens , home to the most diverse population in the world, the Bronx , renowned for its eccentric street art and Brooklyn , the NYC hipster capital.

Throw in an optional stop at historic Coney Island (widely considered to be one of the best things to do in Long Island ) and you’ve got yourself an all-encompassing, highly educational day out!

• After meeting your group near Grand Central Terminal, your local guide will first take you up to Harlem, where you'll see the iconic Apollo Theater. Next stop is the Bronx, where you'll pass by the Big Pun Mural and the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge.
• You'll then head toward Queens where you'll have some time to explore the Flushing Meadows Corona Park before crossing the Kosciuszko Bridge to Brooklyn. After wandering around Crown Heights, Williamsburg and DUMBO, you'll then either cross the Brooklyn Bridge and finish your tour or head to Coney Island.
• The tour's finishing point is up to you: choose from Coney Island, DUMBO, or Grand Central Terminal.

Very few tours cover as much ground as this one. With stops in all 4 boroughs, you’ll get a real taste of the distinctly different vibes that, when put together, make up the NYC charm. The guides are professional and humorous too.

If you want to learn about the history and culture of each neighborhood, plus see the sights, we’d certainly recommend this tour.

6 – Private Custom New York City Tour by SUV

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 387 reviews )

“Absolutely great experience, my kids will remember it for ever. Even the car was perfect Thank you Ryan!!!” Manuel, Viator

All about that VIP feeling , this tour ditches the touristy big buses and cookie-cutter itineraries; you choose the route and the duration, and then your very own tour guide will make sure that your day is as fun and insightful as possible — that’s the beauty of New York City private tours .

Of course, you’re more than welcome to leave your destiny in the guide’s hands, who’ll happily whisk you to iconic landmarks and hidden gems while sharing insights into each neighborhood.

Whether you want to spend your day shopping at designer boutiques, indulging in delicious food, or snapping selfies at famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square, Best New York Tours ‘ SUV adventure has got you covered.

If you want to craft your own experience, the private SUV tour is ideal. Bernice, Sheldon, Ryan and the team are so incredibly caring and helpful. It’s amazing how much sightseeing and storytelling they can squeeze into half a day.

The downside is the price; however, if you’re traveling with a large group it becomes much more reasonable. A fantastic option!

7 – SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown Walking Tour in New York

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1592 reviews )

” would highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in the history of these 3 very unique neighborhoods!” Judith, Viator

A huge part of Manhattan’s charm comes from the dynamic subcultures scattered throughout its streets, and this walking tour shows off three of the most unique enclaves one after the other.

Led by knowledgeable guides from ExperienceFirst , you’ll wander through SoHo , a neighborhood renowned for its high fashion and trendy stores, before heading to Little Italy where you can indulge in authentic Italian cuisine and learn about the area’s 19th-century architecture as well as the decades of gang violence.

On top of Soho and Little Italy , throw in Chinatown , where buzzing markets and bustling streets will immerse you in Eastern culture and tradition, and you’ve got yourself quite the whirlwind tour!

Affordable, enjoyable, and an excellent way to dive into the NYC cultural melting pot, this walking tour is a must-do. Mindy, Andrea, Esa, Tim and the ExperienceFirst crew know so much about SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown – not just their modern sides, but also about their rich histories. We would certainly recommend this activity.

Read more: Best walking tours in NYC

8 – Private New York Walking Tour with Photoshoot

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 28 reviews )

“I had the best time with photographer Mike, he made cool shots for me in spite of the heavy weather, and Sasha made amazing photo works. It became one of my wonderful experiences in New York City.” Toshifumi, Viator

If crowded walking tours and cliché big buses give you the ick, a private tour is the perfect antidote. Sure, you’ll get to witness quintessential landmarks, but you’ll do it in style, with your very own passionate guide.

The other standout part of this tour is the photos . Forget about selfies all day; your private guide doubles as a professional photographer . You’ll end up with around 30-90 high-quality snaps when it’s all said and done!

The best part? The tour is completely customizable based on what YOU want to see. Pick locations such as the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, Times Square and Grand Central to be your incredible backdrop.

• A 1-hour photo shoot costs $350 per group and includes 30 photos at 1 location.
• A 2-hour photo shoot costs $595 per group and includes 60 photos at 2 locations.
• A 3-hour photo shoot costs $700 per group and includes 90 photos at 3 locations.

It may seem a little touristy to have your own photographer, but make no mistake, this tour is one of the best for tourists wanting to capture their time in NYC! For first-timers, it’s a fantastic way to get your bearings and to also memorialize your journey.

9 – NYC TV & Movie Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1053 reviews )

“Loved this tour! Comfortable ride, awesome sights, and Benji was so knowledgeable and kind! I would highly recommend this tour!” Heather, Viator

Forget about Tinseltown because when it comes to movie and TV filming backdrops, New York City is the real star.

From the iconic Central Park Home Alone bridge to the Empire State Building (King Kong, When Harry Met Sally, and dozens more), and countless locales featured in titles like Seinfeld, Friends, and SATC (see #20), this movie tour lets you relive all your favorite cinematic moments.

Led by an On Location Tours actor-guide, you’ll get to drive around Midtown and Central Park, checking off places like the Wollman Rink, Fifth Avenue, the Friends Building , and even the GhostBusters Firestation . All the while, you’ll hear stories and fun facts about the movie sets, characters and actors. How good!

Cinephiles, this one is a non-negotiable afternoon activity! Benji, Chris and the team have phenomenal energy and are undisputed experts in all things NYC film and TV.

Besides snapping selfies at dozens of famous movie locations, you’ll also hear all the insider gossip about your favorite shows. Highly entertaining and certainly worth doing!

Read more: Best TV & movie locations tours in New York City

10 – New York City: Highlights of Central Park Bike Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 414 reviews )

“We stopped at the sights and were given some time to take a better look around. It was definitely worth it and you get to see the park well at a fast pace.” Ricardo, Getyourguide

If you’re on the hunt for family things to do in New York City with kids , you can never go wrong with Central Park . Spread across 843 acres, this slice of world-famous greenery acts as a much-needed breath of fresh air from the loud, crowded city streets.

Due to its size, you’d need at least an entire day to cross off all the main things to do in Central Park . Instead, why not speed things up with Unlimited Biking ‘s Central Park Bike Tour ?

Led by local New Yorkers, you’ll pedal through the park, stopping at locations like Strawberry Fields , the Bethesda Terrace , and The Central Park Zoo , as well as lesser-known gems like the Alice in Wonderland statue and Belvedere Castle .

Central Park is world-famous, but it’s hard to cover all of it on foot, especially in just a few hours. That’s why Unlimited Biking’s tour is a great option. On top of the amazing sightseeing, the tour guides are also super knowledgeable about the history and fun facts of the park. We recommend this tour, especially for families.

Read more: Best bike tours in NYC

11 – Broadway Theaters and Times Square with a Theater Professional

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 435 reviews )

“Loved learning about the history of the theater district! Our guide was very informative! I will look at the theaters in a new light now.” Jennifer, Viator

NYC’s beating heart is its Theatre District – from Times Square to the dozens of Broadway theaters , the energy and excitement is palpable year-round.

Led by the theater-obsessed ExperienceFirst crew, this walking tour shows off the history, the culture, and the behind-the-scenes magic of Broadway . From the first show in 1866 to today’s record-breaking hits, you’ll learn about the evolution and impact of Broadway on New York City – and hear all about the best Broadway shows to see right now as well.

Tours usually run at 4pm, leaving you with plenty of time to catch a show afterwards (one of the quintessential things to do in New York City at night ) or check off some of the other things to do in Times Square .

Keith, Chris, Tim and the ExperienceFirst crew make sure this tour is well worth your time. For budding performers and theater enthusiasts alike, it’s one of the best city tours in NYC.

Times Square can get very chaotic, so having a local by your side to navigate the crowds is a huge plus. If you don’t mind the hustle and bustle, it’s a great option.

Read more: List of Broadway theaters – which one is best?

12 – Manhattan Architecture Yacht Cruise

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 702 reviews )

“This was a great way to look at all of New York famous buildings and learn about their history! I would go again!” Jessica, Viator

All about luxury, sophistication and (as the name suggests) architecture, this NYC cruise is definitely one for those who like to travel in style. Once on board the 1920s-style yacht, you’ll spend almost 3 hours cruising around the Hudson and East Rivers while taking in stunning views of staple Manhattan landmarks .

While you’ll pass by the Freedom Tower, the Chrysler Building , the Brooklyn Bridge , Roosevelt Island and more, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill sightseeing boat cruise. The expert American Institute of Architects guide waxes commentary about the city’s rich history, making it a thorough architectural tour .

With an architectural landscape that changes daily, if there were ever a city to study the different styles of buildings, bridges and monuments, it’s this one.

While more expensive than regular cruises, the architecture yacht tour dives into themes of which other tours barely scratch the surface. The crew are experts, and the boat itself is stunning. Highly recommended!

13 – New York City Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 331 reviews )

“My friends and I loved the tour, it was very interesting! I definitely have some new facts to share with my family 🙂 The tour guide was amazing and was able to answer all of my dumb questions about the city!” Caroline, Viator

Modern-day Greenwich is known as the home of Manhattan counterculture; a hipster, groovy district with art galleries and trendy bars around every corner. But dig beneath the glamorous surface and you’ll discover that this neighborhood also has a long history of hauntings, crime and paranormal activity.

And there’s no better group to share the spine-tingling stories than Top Dog Tours . Taking a moonlit walking tour through the Village’s winding streets, you’ll hear tales of murder, mystery, and mayhem as you visit haunted places like Washington Square Park, the Jefferson Market Library, and the Cherry Lane Theatre, to name a few.

A refreshing alternative to the traditional sightseeing tour, this bone-chilling Village walkthrough truly brings the spooky history of Greenwich to life. Luke, Katie and Rory are expert storytellers, keeping the tour engaging from start to end. If you want to venture off the beaten path, we highly recommend this tour.

14 – Private Harlem Soul Food and Jazz Evening Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 127 reviews )

“Extremely knowledgeable regarding Harlem; very pleasant personality; enjoyed the music and atmosphere; food excellent!” Melody, Viator

Undeniably one of Manhattan’s most fascinating neighborhoods, Harlem is renowned for its rich history as the birthplace of jazz , hip hop and everyone’s favorite soul food. On this private evening tour (run by the great team at Harlem Spirituals ), you’ll get to wander through the lively Harlem streets, popping into jazz clubs , passing by well-known landmarks and, of course, tasting some traditional soul food dishes at the one and only Sylvia’s restaurant.

All the while, you’ll learn all about how this dynamic enclave rose to fame in the 1920s, becoming a hub for African-American culture. Being a private tour, you can guarantee a more personalized, intimate experience too.

If you prefer budget-friendly experiences, look elsewhere. If you don’t mind spending a few extra bucks for a personalized tour that covers everything from history and culture to music and food, then this Harlem walkthrough is unbeatable. The live show at the Cotton Club, in particular, is top-notch. Worth doing!

15 – NYC: 3-Hour Gossip Girl Sites Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 321 reviews )

“It was a very nice experience for my family to be able to enjoy this experience and see serious places that I liked so much.” Cesar, Getyourguide

Calling all Gossip Girl fans ! Get ready to step into the glamorous world of Manhattan’s elite, following in the footsteps of Blair and Serena as you make your way to a stack of the 40+ NYC locations (!) featured in the hit TV series.

From Grand Central Terminal to the beautiful Upper East Side, you’ll be whisked away to the Vera Wang boutique where Blair tried on her wedding gown, the candy store where Dan helped Vanessa shop, Chuck Bass’ new business, and a whole lot more.

And since the Gossip Girl tour guides are usually diehard fans of the show, you’ll hear all sorts of insider trivia along the way.

This tour isn’t for everyone, but if you’re a fan of the show, it’s as bucket list-worthy as they come. Abby and co. are nice, engaging and funny (doubling as photographers) and the sites are all really interesting. The macaroons at Ladurée are a bonus! The verdict? Worth doing for diehard fans.

Read more: Gossip Girl tours in New York – everything you should know

16 – The Original Best of Brooklyn Half-Day Food and Culture, Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 737 reviews )

“This was a great tour of Brooklyn. We learnt so much about the culture and history from our amazing tour guide Laurie. And to top it all off, the food stops were absolutely delicious!” Ian, Viator

Move over, Manhattan! NYC’s most hipster borough is a smorgasbord of cultural and culinary delights waiting to be discovered. Renowned as one of the best NYC food tours , this half-day foodie adventure (led by the experts at New York Fun Tours ), takes you on a lip-smacking journey through the premier Brooklyn eateries.

Sure to tantalize the tastebuds, you’ll get to dig into shawarma , pierogies , pizza , cannolis , and French bonbons . But it’s not exclusively about eating. You’ll get your fair share of sightseeing too, passing by the likes of the Brooklyn Bridge (one of the top things to do in Brooklyn ), Prospect Park, DUMBO, and Williamsburg.

The Best of Brooklyn excursion is a non-stop highlight reel of the city’s biggest, most dynamic borough. Regardless of where you go on any given day, expect exceptional food tastings from all kinds of international cuisines. For the amount of food you get, the price is very reasonable too. We consider this a must-do tour for foodies!

Read more: Best food tours in NYC

17 – Free Walking Tour: VIP Financial District Stroll

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 1008 reviews )

“Omar was a great guide. It was a great introduction to the city. I will highly recommend this tour to everyone visiting NYC for the first time.” Sameer, Guruwalk

Where modern skyscrapers contrast centuries-old churches and taverns; where the oldest immigration hub meets Wall Street ; where the sobering 9/11 Memorial stands, the Financial District is so much more than finance.

This tour highlights the district’s most iconic landmarks — think the New York Stock Exchange , Trinity Church, Federal Hall and the Freedom Tower . Like you would on Wall Street tours , you’ll wander through the story-filled streets, hearing all about the city’s rich history, its status as the nation’s economic heart, and the impact of major events like the 9/11.

The best part? It’s a totally free walking tour, making the Guru Walk one of the best cheap things to do in New York City .

• free walking tours in NYC

Informative, entertaining, and totally free! What’s not to love? Besides being experts in local history and culture, Omar, William and the Guru Walk team are also happy to give recommendations on what to do later on. If you’re on a budget, we couldn’t speak any higher of this tour.

18 – High Line and Chelsea Small Group Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 699 reviews )

“We loved the entire tour. Especially the stories about the meatpacking district were fascinating. Great mixture of History, current facts and humour.” Clara, Viator

A former elevated railway line transformed into a modern urban park , the High Line has rapidly risen the ranks to become one of the Big Apple’s must-visit attractions.

The ExperienceFirst small group tour reveals the history and architecture of the area, showing off the hidden gems in gentrified Chelsea and the Meatpacking District too (where great food, quaint bars and designer boutiques are aplenty).

Come hungry; a highlight of the tour is a walkthrough of the buzzing Chelsea Market – a hundred-year-old former factory that’s now home to more than 50 shops and eateries.

Based on the flawless 5-star ratings, the people have voted this one of the best NYC city tours.

Chelsea and the Meatpacking District have so much character! Jon, Ben, Evan, Maki and the whole ExperienceFirst team share great stories as you stroll through the charming streets.

You’ll learn about the economy, the architecture, the history and the culture all in one — we’d definitely suggest giving this tour a go!

19  – New York City: The Sopranos Filming Locations Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 146 reviews )

“Great tour which took us to most of the sopranos regular filming sights! Would recommend to get better insight and little places you wouldn’t think of as we had considered hiring a car and doing ourselves but never would have spotted so much.” Katie, Viator

Walk in the shadows of Tony, Jennifer, Christopher and the rest of the Soprano gang on this fascinating Sopranos tour that takes you to all of their famous filming locations .

With the On Location Tours experts (read: diehard Soprano fans) leading the way, you’ll see fan-favorite spots like the Bada Bing, Pizzaland, Fr. Phil’s Parish, and no less than 40 more TV-featured haunts. Along the way, expect to hear all kinds of behind-the-scenes stories about the making of this beloved show.

If you love the Sopranos, this is easily one of the best NYC city tours.

If you’re a Sopranos diehard, this tour is truly unmissable. You squeeze heaps into 4 hours but everything runs seamlessly. The major haunts are well-documented, but this tour shows off stacks of little places you wouldn’t even think of visiting (or know where to find).

20 – Sex and the City Hotspots Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1119 reviews )

“Seeing all the places that were important, the tour covered all the seasons. The behind-the-scenes stories were very entertaining. Having a Cosmopolitan at Steve and Aiden’s bar was the best.” Joni, Viator

Whether you’re a Samantha, Carrie, Miranda, or Charlotte, this Sex and the City tour screams out “join me!” for any true fan.

From Steve and Aidan’s Scout Bar (Onieal’s) where the girls have gossiped to cupcake stores they’ve shopped at, even Carrie’s West Village brownstone, you’ll get to see over 40 locations featured in the beloved show.

The On Location Tours team aren’t just chaperones either; they’re SATC fanatics who have carefully crafted this tour to be the ultimate experience for diehard fans – and they’ll share countless behind-the-scenes tidbits along the way.

This is a fantastic way to see lovely parts of Manhattan and discover locations from the beloved series at the same time. Expect loads of interesting trivia, plenty of jokes, and a few delightful SATC surprises. The highlight? Having a Cosmopolitan at Steve and Aiden’s bar, of course! Definitely a must if you love the show❤️

Read more: Sex and the City tours in New York – which one is the best?

21 – Brooklyn: Bushwick Street Art Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 264 reviews )

“Great tour of Brooklyn street art. The guide was superb and introduced us to the origin of graffiti in this legendary district of New York. My teenage son loved doing this activity.” Kia, Getyourguide

While Manhattan sits in the spotlight, its East River neighbor flies under the radar. With world-class eateries, stunning waterfront views and a hipster art scene that’s as colorful as its street murals, Brooklyn deserves your daytime attention.

On this street art tour of Bushwick , you’ll uncover the secrets of what’s dubbed the “largest outdoor street art gallery” in NYC , checkout out graffiti (by Fumero, Giz, Dasic and Danielle Mastrion), colorful murals and thought-provoking installations that liven up the area.

You’ll get to meet a real graffiti artist as well, and the Wandering Barman coffee is the cherry on top.

If you like to venture off the beaten path and discover the cultural gems of a city, then this Bushwick street art tour is a great shout.

You’ll learn about the history of graffiti art in New York and don’t have to walk too much to do so! Audrey and the team are knowledgeable and enthusiastic with a sense of humor too. Affordable and worthwhile!

22 – New York City: The Ride Interactive Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 210 reviews )

“The Ride experience totally made our trip to NYC. The reviews and photos on line do not do it true justice. (…) I would recommend this to all ages and guarantee a great time. I would do it again tomorrow.” Clare, Getyourguide

Part city tour, part Broadway musical, and collectively a whole lot of fun!

Combining sightseeing with music and theater, The Ride is an interactive 75-minute bus tour that whisks you through the characteristic streets of Manhattan while entertaining and educating you with live performances .

Unlike typical bus tours, you actually face sideways , with the streets becoming the stage. That means one moment you’ll be serenaded in front of Grand Central, and the next you could be seeing a live ballet show at Bryant Park or a freestyle rap performance at Columbus Circle!

With 3 rows of stadium-style seats, unlike your typical Broadway theater, there’s no bad seat in the house on The Ride .

Embodying the essence of New York, The Ride is one of the best ways to experience the city’s deep-rooted musical theater culture. It combines the best of both worlds – Broadway talent and landmark sightseeing – to show off the city in a way you’ve never seen before.

It’s one of our top picks for NYC city tours!

23 – NYC: Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 297 reviews )

“The speakeasy tour was a highlight of our trip for sure! Our guide Jack was awesome and had great drink recommendations. The three bars we went to had great atmosphere and delicious drinks and weren’t places we would have found on our own. Highly recommend!” Brianne, Getyourguide

These days, NYC is chock-full of craft breweries and lavish cocktail bars. But it wasn’t always this way. In the 1920s, Prohibition forced New Yorkers to drink in hiding.

On this NiteTables Experiences walk down memory lane, you’ll travel back in time to experience the roaring ’20s , popping into 3 historical watering holes around Midtown Manhattan.

Unlike most pub crawls in New York City , this one’s heavily educational. Cocktails in hand, you’ll learn about infamous bootleggers, notorious gangsters and the women of the Gilded Age. Overall, not only is it one of the best New York City night tours , it’s one of the best NYC speakeasy tours , period.

The perfect combination of fun and educational, this thirst-quenching tour makes a point to venture away from the cliché tourist spots.

Since drinks aren’t included you have the freedom to order whatever libations take your fancy too. Thanks to Jack, Ariel and the guides being so welcoming and insightful, this tour is an excellent option.

24 – Dyker Heights Brooklyn Christmas Lights Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 486 reviews )

“After Dyker Heights we got to stop at a great photo spot for the Brooklyn bridge perfect quick pit stop to get some photos before heading back. Highly recommend and would do it again!” Nicole, Viator

When the annual festive season rolls around, the Big Apple lights up like no other city. But there’s one quiet Brooklyn neighborhood that puts the rest to shame: Dyker Heights .

Sure to ignite the holiday cheer , the Tour America excursion whisks you to the most elaborately decorated streets in Dyker Heights and Bay Ridge, passing by hundreds of animatronic and inflatable toy soldiers, Santa Clauses, elves and reindeer.

But you’re not just stuck on the bus – on foot , you’ll wander through the neighborhood and get to witness the dazzling, often music-synced houses up close.

The view of the lit-up Brooklyn Bridge at tour’s end is the cherry on top of this Christmas lights tour .

A lovely way to embrace the holiday season magic, this tour shows off a typically unseen part of NYC. Luiz, Alan and the team make it fun, entertaining and insightful, and the lights – well, they’re on another level! We rate this as one of the best NYC Christmas tours.

How to book city tours in NYC?

Don’t wait until you’re in NYC to book your tour. To secure the best price and your preferred timeslot, you need to book in advance.

But rather than spending hours scouring different tour companies, make your life easier by using an all-in-one search engine like TourScanner.

With TourScanner, you can compare all of the tours, prices, reviews and discounts to ensure you’re scoring the best possible deal.

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Blue Shoes Tours is now NY History Tours

Welcome to ny history tours.

Expert Tours of New York City

The Village: History, Music & Activism 2

The most iconic neighborhood in NYC

Saturday May 18

Private customized tours start at $150 for up to 8 people.

The Village: History, Music & Activisim

Gangsters of the Lower East Side

The sites and stories of the rise of organized crime in NYC

Hamilton's New York

Experience the true details and life of this favorite Founding Father

The Gilded Age: The Plaza to the Met

Opulent homes and interesting stories of New York's elite

The Village: Epic Food & History Too

A great neighborhood with great food

Synagogues of the Lower East Side

Explore the evolution of the Lower East Side through the fate of its s...

American Museum of Natural History

See the best exhibits at this large and daunting fabulous museum

The High Line

The High Line: Unusal Streets, Stories and Star-chitects

The Village: Sites, Stories & Synagogues

The Rich Jewish History of Greenwich Village and NYC

Born on the Lower East Side Walking Tour

Hear the stories and secrets of this transformative neighborhood

Discover the History of New York City

Our tours are designed to give you an immersive experience of the city's rich history. The city will come alive with stories and sites reminding us of days gone by. See NYC with a local historian and licensed NYC tour guide

Expert Guides

Customized Tours

Memorable Experiences

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New Tour Alert! SWEETS AND SCREAMS: A SUGARY SWEET GHOST WALK OF GREENWICH VILLAGE

MANHATTAN WALKING TOUR

It’s like having a friend show you around, you deserve the best nyc experience.

Embark on an exclusive journey with Manhattan Walking Tour and discover the finest food tours in NYC and captivating historic walking tours of New York. Immerse yourself in the vibrant history and culinary delights of New York City, a true paradise for food enthusiasts. Our meticulously designed tours guarantee an unforgettable sensory experience, unveiling hidden gems and untold stories of the city’s diverse neighborhoods. Prepare to indulge in mouthwatering flavors on our delectable food tours, where you’ll savor local delicacies while immersing yourself in captivating anecdotes and fascinating historical insights. Experience the authentic spirit of the Big Apple as our expert guides lead you through the bustling streets, sharing their insider knowledge and revealing the city’s best-kept secrets.

To ensure an intimate and personalized adventure, our tour groups are limited to a maximum of 8 guests. With such a small group size, you’ll enjoy an exclusive and immersive experience like no other. Join our semi-private tours and embark on a captivating journey filled with culinary delights, entertainment, and enriching facts as you explore the mesmerizing cityscape. Our exceptional guides will be there every step of the way, ensuring that you have an unforgettable NYC food and walking tour. Let us be your friendly and knowledgeable companions, showcasing the top spots and hidden treasures of the city.

Choose from our captivating historical tours or tantalizing food tours of New York City below, and get ready to satisfy your appetite while unraveling the wonders of New York. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to be part of an intimate group of 8 guests or less, allowing for a truly personalized and immersive experience. Join Manhattan Walking Tour and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Historic Walking Tours, Food Tours, Half and Full Day Combo Tours

Midtown architecture, historic tours, double combo tours, triple combo tours, why manhattan walking tour, 8 people or less guaranteed, great local guides.

It’s like having a friend show you around. What better way to experience all that Manhattan has to offer than with real New Yorkers! Our licensed tour guides have years of experience helping guests learn the history and culture that is NY. We can also accommodate Spanish speaking guests if requested with advance notice.

Semi Private Tour

Never more than 8 people on a tour. Your guide is always standing right next to you and interacting with the group. He/she not only gives you great information but is available to answer all your questions, from the history to where to get the best cocktails. This is a unique intimate personal experience.

Discounts on Combos

We offer eight individual tours. You can combine them to be a 2, 4, or 6 hour tour. We’ll travel with you from one neighborhood to another. Our combo tours are a combination of historic tours as well as a food tour. All of our food tours include the price of the food and are enough for a full lunch. Nothing comes on little toothpicks, we feed you well!

CUSTOM TOURS

Private • corporate • school groups.

Whether you want to spice up your night with a few drinks in some of the best bars in NY or you’re a group wishing to see NY in a different way than our standard tours, these custom tours will fit all your needs. Check out why our tours have been joined by companies such as Microsoft, IBM, TTS Energy and many more…

Custom Tours

Read what our happy guests have said.

Just returned from a family reunion in New York with my two sisters and their families (ages ranged from 18-65 years old). The highlight of our trip was the Greenwich Village food tour with Alex. This was my third food tour with Alex and my daughter’s fourth. […] We had a larger group than normal and Alex was able to manage all the different personalities while making each person feel special. Read full testimonial (opens in a new tab)

This tour was a great way spend the afternoon. Since we had such a small group, our guide Nancy was able to answer everyone’s questions. She treated us like we were her friend’s visiting. I was not expecting such a large amount of food at every stop. Read full testimonial (opens in a new tab)

January 2019

We went on the Hells Kitchen food tour during our recent visit. Our guide was Annabel and she was awesome. I’m so glad we got to go with her. She was very knowledgeable and friendly. She remembered everyone’s names, which is very impressive as our group had 8 people on it. […] If you are looking for a Hell’s Kitchen food tour, this is the one you want. Read full testimonial (opens in a new tab)

Kudos to Alex and Manhattan Walking Tours for an excellent afternoon spent touring Greenwich Village

What a great experience for the Leadership Team – after two long days of meetings, this tour gave them energy and they were really thrilled to learn more about Greenwich Village

WHO ARE WE?

Here at Manhattan Walking Tour, we are New Yorkers through and through. We love New York City, and have been sharing our passion with visitors from around the globe since 2010. Our guided walking tours are like having a good friend show you around their NYC neighborhood, sharing all of their favorite places and the stories that go along with them. What makes a Manhattan Walking Tour so unique is our 8 person or less guarantee, resulting in an intimate, engaging New York City activity.

Dialogues with Gods of Beaux-Arts and Art Deco New York

Finding seneca village in central park, new york city’s historic downtown (pt. 1), check us out on instagram, @manhattanwalkingtour, manhattanwalkingtour.

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One of everything please 😍🍕 @villagesquarepizza 🎟 Book your spot on our East Village Food & History Experience using the Linktree in bio ⬆️ #mwtnyc #manhattan #nyc #eastvillage #eastvillagehistory #eastvillagefoodtour ...

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Come have fun with @meatballers on our Hell's Kitchen Food Tour 😍🤤 🎟 Use the link in bio to book your tour ⬆️ #mwtnyc #manhattan #hellskitchen #nyc #meatballs #mozzysticks ...

Come try these marvelous pastries on our Greenwich...

Come try these marvelous pastries on our Greenwich Village food tour 😍 @auxmerveilleuxdefrednyc 🎟 Linktree in bio for tickets ⬆️ #mwtnyc #manhattan #newyorkcity #foodtour ...

@crifdogs #iykyk 🌭🍸

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The 15 Best New York City Tours you Have to Take!

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Covering over 300 square miles, New York City is pretty massive. And exploring it on your own may mean missing some of the very best the city has to offer. As a city rich with culture, you can spend your days exploring world-famous art museums, seeing landmarks that some people only dream of seeing, or even stepping into the pages of your favorite comic books.

And with such an eclectic food and drink scene, you can tour the city’s many neighborhoods to taste your way around the world. Or just chow down on some of the best pizza in the world!

With so many ways to see the Big Apple, you might not know where to start. So, we’ve compiled a list of the best NYC tours to help you become immersed in the city. Choose your favorite tour off this list, and you’re bound to have an incredible time in the City That Never Sleeps. 

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The 15 Best Tours in New York City, NY

1. become immersed in art with a guided tour of the met.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art , known simply as the Met, is a true New York City gem, which is why a guided tour of this impressive museum is one of the best NYC tours. The Met showcases over two million works of art and unique artifacts from Ancient Greece, Egypt, Europe, the Americas, and beyond. During this two-and-a-half-hour tour, you’ll skip the lines to see these famous works with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

Your guide will tell you tales of the museum and what’s inside that most visitors will never get to hear. From historical information to scandalous stories, you’ll dive deeper than any art history class you’ve ever taken. 

While you’ll learn about historical figures, everyone from King Henry VIII to Vermeer, you’ll also uncover the little-known stories of the museum itself. And your guide is more than knowledgeable about art history. They’re also well-versed in life in the museum, so every tour guide brings something a little different as they tell their personal favorite anecdotes and tips on the best ways to see the museum. 

Take a Guided Tour of the Met

2. Learn Why New York City Has the Best Pizza on a Pizza-Tasting Tour

Every city from Portland to Detroit to Chicago claims to have the best pizza. But there’s nothing quite like a slice of real New York-style pizza. On this unique four-and-a-half-hour pizza tour , you’ll hop aboard a big yellow school bus and feel like a kid again while you eat your way around four of New Yorkers’ favorite pizzerias. 

Along the way, you’ll get a unique tour of Manhattan and beyond. Tour stops change weekly, but you can always guarantee that you’ll get four incredible slices from some of the best pizzerias in the city. Your tour guide also makes a point to show visitors that there’s more to New York than Manhattan, which is why some of your stops will take you to see the other boroughs, giving you an even more expansive tour of the city.

And you couldn’t ask for a better pizza-loving host. Tour founder Scott Wiener is so renowned for his love of pizza he’s been featured in “The New York Times,” “Live with Kelly and Ryan,” and throughout the “Food Network.” He’s also the host of Thillist’s “Really Dough” series. 

Discover the Finest Pizzerias in NYC

3. Uncover the History of NYC’s Greatest Landmarks on an Architecture Tour

Manhattan is filled with some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, from Grand Central Terminal to Rockefeller Center, but how much do you know about these famous buildings? This two-and-a-half-hour architecture tour is one of the best tours in New York City if you want to dive deeper into the history of midtown Manhattan’s Art Deco treasures.

Starting from Bryant Park, you’ll walk around Manhattan as your knowledgeable guide shares the history of the buildings all around you. In addition to landmarks you already know, like the Chrysler Building, you’ll also uncover lesser-known hidden gems that are just as stunningly beautiful.

Along the way, you’ll also learn about the movement to protect New York City’s architecture and be given reference photos to see what these buildings looked like at different moments in history. This unique NYC tour is as much an architecture tour as it is a history tour.

See the Best of NYC’s Architectural Landmarks

4. Get Up Close to Lady Liberty on a Guided Tour

There is perhaps no greater symbol of NYC or the United States in general than the Statue of Liberty, which is why a tour of Lady Liberty and Ellis Island is a must-do NYC tour. When you purchase this tour option, you get quite a bit, including round-trip ferry service, admission to the Statue of Liberty Museum, admission to Ellis Island, admission to the National Museum of Immigration, and, of course, the tour itself. 

If you plan on seeing Ellis Island and Liberty Island during your NYC trip, taking this tour is a great way to do it because you won’t have to worry about paying for all the extra admission costs and the ferry service. Plus, you get the added benefit of a guided tour, rather than seeing it all for yourself without a guide to help you dive deeper into the history.

You’ll start your tour on the ferry, then continue on to Liberty Island, where your guide will help you avoid the crowds and get you up close to Lady Liberty herself. Then, you’ll continue on to Ellis Island, which more than 12 million immigrants passed through between 1892 and 1954. You’ll follow in their footsteps as you explore the island and its immigration museum. 

Take a Ride on the Liberty Island Ferry

5. Discover NYC’s Hidden Speakeasies During a Prohibition History Tour

During Prohibition, organized crime blossomed in New York City, with bootlegging funding the empires of crime bosses like Charles “Lucky” Luciano. At the height of Prohibition, there were over 32,000 speakeasies operating in the city. And some of them are still around today.

With this three-hour Prohibition-themed walking tour , you’ll explore the history of this time period as you sip your way around three historical bars, pubs, and speakeasies. While you get tipsy, you’ll dive deep into how Prohibition affected New York City. 

Learn about the immigration process during Prohibition, listen to tales of the most notorious bootleggers of the time, hear about the women of the Gilded Age, and finish your night off with a cocktail as you learn about why and how Prohibition ultimately failed.

More than a drinking tour, this guided journey takes you deep into one of the most talked about yet misunderstood eras of American history. You’ll walk away with a greater understanding of just how much Prohibition affected our nation’s cities. 

Visit NYC’s Historic Bars and Speakeasies

6. Dive into the Vibrant Cultures of Chinatown and Little Italy on a Food Tour

New York City is filled with incredible food, and one of the biggest reasons why is because of how it celebrates and embraces different cultures. We can learn a lot about a culture through its food, which is why this two-hour guided food tour of Chinatown and Little Italy is one of the best NYC tours if you’re looking to learn about the diverse cultures of the city’s many residents. This unique food tour of New York City focuses on showing you places that are off the beaten path, with family-owned restaurants at its heart.

As you wander through the lively streets of these districts, you’ll learn about the history of the areas and the heritages of those who call them home. You’ll begin in Chinatown, where you’ll dine on Hong Kong-style sponge cake and visit a hidden dumpling spot. 

Then, you’ll experience the romance of Little Italy as you stroll down the famous Mulberry Street. You’ll enjoy a slice of hot pizza before heading over to a 130-year-old bakery for their famous cannoli. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of NYC’s mafia crime and the only slightly more tame lore of NYC’s pizza scene. 

Chinatown and Little Italy Food Tour

7. Step Inside a Comic Book on a Superhero Walking Tour

If you’re looking for one of the coolest NYC tours, you’ll hardly find a better option than this two-hour guided tour to NYC’s superheroes . Both DC and Marvel Comics got their start in New York City, which is why you can see the city’s influences throughout their comic books. Many of the most famous comic book writers and illustrators called the city home, and they decided to make their characters New York City natives as well.

On this tour, you’ll journey into the comics to learn about the history of your favorite superheroes, as well as the history of the companies that created them. You’ll also visit the sites where your favorite superhero movies were filmed and iconic landmarks that feature in the comic books. 

This tour also doesn’t pick sides. You’ll see where Christopher Reeve first flew as Superman and where the Avengers left a keepsake for the city. You’ll view the Green Goblin’s apartment and the Daily News building, as well as real-life landmarks like the bar where history’s greatest comic book artists congregated and the historic Publishers Row. If you love all things superheroes, this tour is a must-do!

Check out Iconic Superhero Movie Sites

8. Uncover the Darker Side of the City on a Gangsters and Ghosts Tour

Love a good ghost story? Then, you’ll love this two-hour tour of the underbelly of New York City . On this unique NYC tour, you’ll discover the dark side of the City That Never Sleeps as you take a guided trek through its famous neighborhoods. Along the way, you’ll hear about the city’s biggest and baddest gangsters and the ghost stories that haunt NYC’s halls.

Along your walk, you’ll visit haunted locations, like the famous haunted houses of the West Village, and old crime scenes with a historian to guide you. You’ll stop at the Five Points, known for hosting some of the most infamous gangs in New York City history. You’ll also see Chinatown’s Blood Alley and the many restaurants where mafia murders occurred in Little Italy. 

You’ll discover the locations where gangsters like Lucky Luciano and John Gotti once used to gather. If you’re taking the tour during the day, you’ll also step inside the Basilica of St. Patrick, which is sure to be a highlight for any “Godfather” fans. 

Explore Notable Ghost and Gangster Sites

9. Meet a Rockette on a Radio City Music Hall Tour

Many people associate Radio City Music Hall and the Rockettes with the holiday season. There is nothing quite like seeing its famous tree with hot cocoa in hand, bundled up to protect yourself from that chilly New York air. 

But Radio City Music Hall is a New York City icon, no matter what time of year you visit, which is why this one-hour tour of the beloved building is one of the coolest NYC tours. On this tour, you’ll step inside the “Showplace of the Nation” to discover the home of the Grammys, MTV Music Awards, and, of course, the Rockettes. 

Here, you’ll go behind the scenes to explore the venue’s opulent Art Deco decor and even see the guest book with all the signatures of the talented acts that have graced the stage. You’ll hear stories and secrets of this iconic venue. To finish off your tour, you’ll even get to have a meet and greet with a world-famous Rockette!

Learn the Secrets of Radio City

10. Cycle Across Two of the Most Iconic Bridges in NYC on a Bike Tour

Want to see some of the most incredible views in New York City? This two-hour bike tour gives you everything you need to take in amazing panoramas from the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, making it one of the best tours of New York City. But you’ll do much more than ride over the bridges on this journey.

Your tour guide will provide you with a top-quality bicycle and helmet before you begin your journey on the waterfront in Dumbo. From there, you’ll venture across the Manhattan Bridge, taking in the sights of the East Side, Williamsburg, and Wallabout Bay. 

Then, you’ll head into Chinatown and ride along a protected bike path on the East River Esplanade, continuing on to see the Freedom Tower and One World Trade. Your next stop is City Hall Park, where you’ll see landmarks like the Woolworth Building and the Tweed Courthouse.

It’s on to the Brooklyn Bridge, providing views of the Statue of Liberty herself and the downtown Manhattan skyline. You’ll then see more landmarks, like the first historically preserved neighborhood in the US, Brooklyn Heights, before ending back where you began in Dumbo.

Cycle across the Iconic Bridges in NYC

11. See Central Park on a One-of-a-Kind Pedicab Tour

Riding in the back of a pedicab is an experience you can’t miss when you visit New York City. And this hour-long Central Park tour is one of the best ways to do it!

Central Park is truly massive, covering 843 acres. It’s not uncommon to visit the famous park and find that the sights you want to visit are quite a trek apart. Pedicabs make it easy to see those landmarks all in one day. 

This tour will show you some of the most well-known locations in the park, including the Strawberry Fields and the Bow Bridge. While you ride, your tour guide will explain the historical significance of what you’re seeing and drop in fun facts you’ve never heard before.

You’ll also be taken to some spots you’ll recognize from your favorite movies and shows, from “Elf” to “Spider-Man” to “Gossip Girl.” Want to act out those iconic moments? Lucky for you, this tour comes with your own private photographer to help you relive your favorite scenes.

Ride a Pedicab around Central Park

12. Walk in the Footsteps of a Founding Father on a Hamilton Guided Tour

No, this tour is not a journey through where the musical “Hamilton” was conceived and created. But this two-hour walking tour of the life of Alexander Hamilton was certainly inspired by the international success of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hit show. And if you’re a fan of Hamilton, either the person or the show, this NYC tour is a can’t-miss thing to do in the city.

Along this journey, you’ll learn about one of the most controversial founding fathers and how he paved the way for the world as we know it today. You’ll begin in Trinity Church. Here is where your story starts and Hamilton’s ends, as you’ll be able to pay your respects at his final resting place.

From there, you’ll learn about Hamilton’s role in revolutionary movements across time, as well as the creation of the New York Stock Exchange. You’ll end your tour at one of the oldest bars in town, where you’ll grab a drink in the same place where Hamilton and Aaron Burr last met before their infamous duel that took Hamilton’s life. 

Walk in the Footsteps of Alexander Hamilton

13. See the City That Never Sleeps at Night on a Skyline Tour

There’s nothing like seeing the famous New York City skyline at night. It’s a truly spectacular view, and this four-hour tour lets you see as the buildings begin to light up the night as the sky darkens.

But this tour might be a controversial pick as you’re actually not in New York at all. You can’t really see the full skyline if you’re standing in Manhattan itself. It actually takes place across the water over in New Jersey. Luckily, you don’t have to travel to New Jersey on your own for the tour. The tour guide can pick you up over in midtown Manhattan.

From there, you’ll take in stunning sights of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, and much more, with a professional guide to help make sure you know the history of everything you’re seeing. You’ll also visit Liberty State Park, the Empty Sky Memorial, and the famous Carlo’s Bakery, known for the TLC show “Cake Boss.”

Admire a Picture-Perfect Evening in NYC

14. Taste Your Way Around Hell’s Kitchen on a Food Tour

Hell’s Kitchen is one of the best and most famous culinary neighborhoods in New York City, which is why eating your way around it is one of the best tours in New York City. On this two-hour Hell’s Kitchen walking tour , you’ll dive deep into the history of the neighborhood as you sample dishes at five unique locations.

As you savor everything from khinkali to fresh-baked cookies, your host will immerse you in stories of Hell’s Kitchen’s past. Learn about the Irish Americans who once built the neighborhood and the difficult immigration history of the area. 

Uncover just why it’s called Hell’s Kitchen and how the neighborhood inspired art like the iconic musical “West Side Story.” At the end of your tour, you’ll come away full and happy, as well as leaving with a deeper understanding of the evolution of this unique NYC neighborhood. 

Eat around Hell’s Kitchen Neighborhood

15. Remember the Fallen at a 9/11 Memorial Tour

There’s no denying that September 11, 2001, changed not just New York City but the world forever. But those living in New York City at the time know a side of this tragedy that few people could even imagine. This unique NYC tour may have quite a bit heavier content than the other tours on this list, but it’s a tour you’ll never forget. 

On this 90-minute 9/11 memorial tour , you’ll hear stories of triumph and tragedy told to you by a real New Yorker with personal ties to the events of 9/11. You’ll begin your tour at St. Paul’s Chapel, the oldest public building in NYC in continuous use that miraculously survived the 9/11 attacks despite being so close to Ground Zero. It became a makeshift rescue center and community bulletin board in the aftermath of 9/11 and now serves as a tribute site to the fallen.

You’ll also see the Firefighter’s 9/11 Memorial Wall and Engine and Ladder Company 10/10, the fire station at Ground Zero. From there, you’ll enter the memorial itself, where you’ll see the Reflecting Absence Memorial, symbolizing the vast void left behind in the wake of the tragedy, and learn the names of the nearly 3,000 victims written around the waterfall.

At the end of the tour, you have the option to also visit the One World Observatory. The observation deck is where you’ll find interactive displays filled with more stories, but it’s also where you’ll find one of the best views in all of New York City!

Visit the 9/11 Memorial

There you have it! The 15 best tours in New York City. What’s your favorite NYC tour? Let us know in the comments!

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About the Author:

Jacqueline is a writer and editor pursuing the freelance life to explore the world. Born and raised in New Jersey, she spent her college years in Boston before settling down with her partner and puppy in Monterey, California. When she’s not writing, you can often find her planning her next trip. Road trips are her favorite, whether it’s driving across the country or simply exploring a new city in her own backyard. She loves uncovering the history of every new place she goes. Jacqueline has a restless passion for learning and makes it a goal to pick up a new skill every year. She’s picked up embroidery, crocheting, knitting, and cross-stitching, but she’s hoping to master more languages to help her in her travels. She’s also a published author, with short stories and poetry appearing in several anthologies.

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The 27 Best Walking Tours of NYC (Ranked & Sorted)!

Among the most popular ways to experience the Big Apple are guided walking tours, which offer something for everyone. Here I show you the best walking food tours , street art walking tours , the best  Hamilton Musical Walking Tour , Haunted Walking Tours and (of course) the best walking tours through neighborhoods like Soho, Chinatown, the Lower East Side or the Theatre District.

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• Things to Do in NYC
• 30+ New York City Neighborhood Guides

The choice is huge and unfortunately not every tour is really worth the money. All walking tours that made it to our best list are really really good! Many of them we have done ourselves (several times) – which ones we show you here in our personal recommendations .

New are Self Guided Walking Tours , where you can explore the city at your own pace and at any time of day, private walking tours  and last but not least, here is an overview of free walking tours .

Table of Contents

The Best Walking Tours of NYC

01 A Slice of Brooklyn Pizza Tour

The A Slice of Brooklyn Pizza Tour is a combination of sightseeing tour, bus and walking tour. It starts not far from Union Square Park in Manhattan: with your New York guide you drive to Brooklyn to get to know one of the most important neighborhoods like  Sunset Park, DUMBO, Bay Ridge and also Coney Island. 

On this sightseeing tour you will learn where movies like Goodfellas, Once Upon in America or Annie Hall were filmed and you will stop at two of the best pizzerias in Brooklyn. Because pizza and New York simply belong together!

02 Best of Brooklyn Walking Tour

Brooklyn is known for its good pizzas and great coffee. You can go on a journey of discovery through different countries like you can in hardly any other borough. There are many different cultures that have brought their recipes from home to the Big Apple. This Food on Foot tour offers the best of everything: from savory to sweet, from European variations to Mexico and Asia.

03 Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO Walking Tour

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and learn about the exciting and dramatic history of this world-famous New York City neighborhood, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. On the other side of the Brooklyn Bridge you will discover DUMBO, a newly popular and up and coming part of Brooklyn. 

Meeting point is 52 Chambers Street in front of the Tweed Courthouse.

04 Chinatown and Little Italy Food Fest

Explore the flavors and traditions of  New York’s Chinatown and Little Italy during this exciting food tour. You’ll leave with a full stomach and lots of interesting information about the history and culture of these two neighborhoods.

05 Food on Foot Tours

This is one of the best ways to discover the culinary highlights of NYC! Taking you around the city to explore the best of the best in terms of food, this award winning tour is an excellent way to explore the taste of different areas of NYC.

06 Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in NYC

Immerse yourself in the rich history of New York City with an intriguing Gangsters and Ghosts walking tour. Join your guide for a unique journey into the city’s past, exploring its infamous crimes, notorious gangsters, clandestine deals, and haunted structures. Meander through a variety of downtown neighborhoods, including Little Italy, Chinatown, and the West Village, as you soak up chilling tales of spirits and mobsters. Experience downtown Manhattan’s history on this one-of-a-kind tour, gain insightful knowledge about local history from your guide, and explore several neighborhoods all in one fascinating journey.

07 Hamilton Musical Walking Tour

Did you know that Alexander Hamilton spent most of his life in New York? He is the main character in the musical “Hamilton”, which is one of the most successful shows on Broadway (it won 16 Tony Awards!). This Walking Tour will take you to the most important stages of his life and show you which spots have made an impact on the story. 

Highlights of the Walking Tour include many important historical sites such as Thomas Jefferson’s home, Kings College and Trinity Church. It’s the perfect tour for anyone looking to get in the mood for an evening on Broadway – and for all fans of the musical “Hamilton.”

08 High Line and Chelsea Small Group Tour

This is the most popular walking tour along the High Line, starting in the Meatpacking District at the Whitney Museum, running through Chelsea and ending at Hudson Yards. The High Line is my personal favorite park in NYC and always worth a visit. I find the High Line and Chelsea Small Group Tour really exciting because you get told the history and significance to New York. Your guide will tell you many secrets that the High Line, the Chelsea Market and the Meatpacking District has to offer.

For me personally, this tour is one of the best walking tours in NYC ever, because you see a lot of the old and the new New York City. That’s what makes this district so interesting for me!

09 High Line Park and Greenwich Village Food Tour

This walking tour through Greenwich Village and Chelsea is one of the best food tours New York City has to offer! Because in this part of the city there are many wonderful little food spots that you must discover. 

In addition, you will learn many exciting anecdotes about the High Line, which connects the Hudson Yards with the Meatpacking District. This former elevated railway line was saved from demolition due to an initiative and is now one of the most popular sights in New York. All the more reason to book this awesome walking tour!

10 High Line, Chelsea & Meatpacking Tour

Go on a fun adventure in New York’s only park above street level- the Highline. Experience the Chelsea neighborhood from a whole new vantage point and find out more about the history of the famous Meatpacking District including how it developed into one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in the world.

11 New York City Slavery and Underground Railroad Tour

Learn more about the dramatic history of slavery and its connection to the New York subway. Listen to the stories of those New Yorkers who risked their lives and property to help others escape. During this Walking Tour you will gollow the NYC Freedom Trail, and learn how a group of brave men and women forged the network that became the Underground Railroad. View the former city stations that were included on the Underground Railroad, and discover how New Yorkers risked their lives to help people escape slavery.

12 New York: Central Park Movie Sites Walking Tour

On the tour she passes countless locations of TV series and movies: feeds the pigeons like Macaulay Culkin in Home Alone 2, takes pictures in front of the Wollman Rink, as seen in Serendipity, and visits the Boathouse Café, where Harry and Sally have already sat. Also on the tour are locations from comedies such as Date Night – Gangster for a Night, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Gossip Girl, Ghostbusters and more.

13 NYC Lower East Side Food and Culture Small-Group Tour

This is a really unique walking tour in NYC that will introduce you to the wonderful Lower East Side. The Lower East Side Food and Culture Tour shows you the many lovely little delis, Jewish specialties, bakeries and everything that makes up the soul of the city. 

You’ll visit places that are an important part of the community, having operated in the same spot for generations. You’ll get a glimpse of authentic life and become part of the real New York. 

With nearly 500 positive reviews, it’s the most popular walking tour in New York of them all!

14 NYC Lower East Side Walking and Food Tour

The Lower East Side is still an absolute insider tip among the neighborhoods of New York City and a part of Lower Manhattan that I love to visit. There are countless authentic bars and delis, some of which have been family-owned for more than 100 years and are thus an important part of the community.  

The NYC Lower East Side Walking and Food Tour deals exactly with these small spots and stores and is therefore a TOP Thing to do for foodies!

15 NYC Private Walking Tour

If you are traveling as a family or small group and already know exactly what you want to see in New York City, then this private walking tour with Oli is a great option. Here you can let a New York guide show you the best parts of the city and sights from a local’s point of view. You can decide individually which attractions you want to see, because together with Oli you can build your perfect itinerary!

As a bonus, you can even be picked up directly from your hotel, so that the sightseeing program starts directly from your accommodation. And the best part? I personally know Oliver and can only recommend him to you: he loves New York and you will notice that 200% during your tour with him!

16 Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour

The Stage Door tour is great for everyone who is interested in theatre and the entertaining arts. Find out everything about the Rockettes and their history as well as a lot of behind the scenes information about the Radio City Music Hall.

17 Soho, Little Italy & Chinatown Walking Tour

Now known for their many excellent restaurants, shops and tourism, Manhattan’s SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown neighborhoods offer the most varied stories of New York City. Take a 2-hour tour with a local guide and discover hidden gems and 19th century buildings.

18 Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: 4-Hour Guided Tour

Enjoy a guided tour of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. You will have reserved access to the ferry to get to the statue and then you can explore these 2 major attractions with a 4 hour guided tour.

19 Statue of Liberty Pedestal, Ellis Island & Pre-Ferry Tour

A 30-minute English-language guided tour of Battery Park followed by a transfer to the Statue of Liberty with a German audio guide and guaranteed admission to the base of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

20 The Secrets of Grand Central Terminal

The Secrets of Grand Central Terminal Walking Tour not only shows you the most important parts of New York’s famous train station, but focuses on the secrets and special features that only a New York guide would know. Did you know that there is a hidden tennis court in Grand Central Terminal? Or that the painting of the ceiling is mirror-inverted? You will learn much more on this exciting walking tour in NYC!

My Recommendations

I’m a big fan of the

• the 4-Hour Guided Tour of Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
• Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO Walking Tour as well as the
• High Line and Chelsea Small Group Tour , because you can do sightseeing and learn a lot of interesting things from a local guide at the same time.

And then I would like to recommend the

• NYC Slavery and Underground Railroad Walking Tour and the
• Lower East Side Food and Culture Tour .

If you want to customize a walking tour to your own preference and schedule, I recommend this private walking tour with Oli, who I also know personally!

The 13 Best Walking Food Tours

Walking Food Tours bring together several things I like: you learn about the food culture and the neighborhoods of NYC through a local guide, and you get to eat delicious food!

Here you can find the best food walking tours of NYC :

NYC Lower East Side Food and Culture Small-Group Tour

Best of brooklyn walking tour, high line park and greenwich village food tour, chinatown and little italy food fest, flatiron food, architecture, and history tour.

The Flatiron Building is one of the most photographed buildings in the city. But there is much more to discover in the direct neighbourhood. Thanks to the organization “Flatiron 23rd Street Partnership” you will be guided through the district every Sunday by a free guide. Meeting point is the southwest corner of Madison Square Park.

NYC Lower East Side Walking and Food Tour

2-hour cupcake tour of greenwich village.

If you’re into sweets and desserts you should try the famous Cupcake Tour. Sample colorful cupcakes at boutique bake shops, and build your own custom cupcake during this 2-hour tour in Greenwich Village. New York clearly has the best cupcakes and this will be the chance to try the best of them.

Greenwich Village Pizza Walk

Pizza and New York simply belong together! Next to the famous Brooklyn Pizza Walking Tour, this tour through Greenwich Village and Little Italy is one of the most popular food tours in NYC. Included in the price are 3 slices of pizza from different stores and during the tour you will also learn a lot about these neighborhoods from a New York guide.

A Slice of Brooklyn Pizza Tour

New york west village food tour.

Go on one of the famous Food on Foot Tours. During the 3-hour tour, you will discover many great little restaurants and bakeries. A total of 6 of them are on your program on this walking tour, which is one of the most popular in the West Village. For foodies this tour is a must!

New York: Midtown Manhattan Street Food Walking Tour

Food trucks are very popular with New Yorkers: as a quick snack between meals or as a lunch. The Gourmet Snack Truck Tour takes you either through the Financial District or Midtown. From Korean short ribs to souvlaki, curry, falafel, hot dogs or brownies – you will be surprised!

Williamsburg Brooklyn Food Tasting and Walking Tour

The Williamsburg neighborhood has a lot of bars, restaurants, pubs and delis and for me is one of the most interesting neighborhoods in Brooklyn (one of our favorite BBQ spots called “Die Fette Sau” is located here). A visit to Williamsburg should definitely be on your itinerary because it’s a nice contrast to hectic Manhattan.

On the Williamsburg Brooklyn Food Tasting and Walking Tour, a New York guide will show you the most important corners of the neighborhood and where to get the most authentic and best food. 

The 3 Best Street Art Walking Tours

Street art is an expression of art that is very common and popular in New York. If you keep your eyes open while walking around the city, you will see a lot of them.

Especially Brooklyn with the Bushwick and Williamsburg neighborhoods are known for their variety of graffiti and street art. These street art walking tours will take you to the most important spots – and you will learn a lot about the artists and the context of the motifs.

Graffiti & Street Art Walking Tour

Brooklyn is famous for its bold and bright street art, but it’s not easy to know where to find these creative works. With this walking tour of the Bushwick neighborhood, take in the diversity and culture of the neighborhood’s urban street artists. Check out massive murals and intricate designs as you take to the streets to learn how Brooklyn’s best can turn anything with a surface into a stunning work of public art.

Sidewalks and Skyscrapers: Street Art Is This Way

This walking tour shows that there is also street art and graffiti worth seeing in Manhattan. You start your exploration in Soho , and then in two hours learn the stories behind the large and small works of art. Some of the graffiti is an impressive 20 meters high, so always have your cameras ready!

Private Graffiti & Street Art Walking Tour

The Bushwick district is probably the most famous part of New York when it comes to street art and graffiti. Here there are many colorful, very elaborately designed and creative murals. You will see the different techniques that the artists have to master and learn a lot about this own culture and art. 

For many artists, this is their main profession and their graffiti just look awesome! For this reason, take a look at this Start Art Walking Tour!

The Best Hamilton Walking Tour NYC

The musical Hamilton on Broadway has broken many records: it has won the most Tony Awards, the visitors are enthusiastic, the story is unique and until today it is not so easy to get tickets for this musical. The reason? It is always fully booked!

Alexander Hamilton was one of the founding fathers of the United States and spent most of his life in New York City. Reason enough to take a closer look at the Hamilton Walking Tours, where you will learn a lot about his life, his works but also a lot about the history of NYC, which is strongly associated with him.

Hamilton Musical Walking Tour

Alexander hamilton's haunts and hangouts tour.

This walking tour is the second tour that deals with the life of Alexander Hamilton. While the first one has a focus on historical sites, here you will learn more about the person himself. From his favorite pub to his grave, everything is included. Nevertheless, the New York Stock Exchange and Wall Street are not missing from the program!

The 4 Best Haunted Walking Tours

If you’re looking for Ghost Tours or Haunted Walking Tours, you definitely need to check out these tours (not only during Halloween in NYC !):

01 Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in NYC

02 Ghost Stories: A Mysterious, Macabre Interactive Tour at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Dive into a world of the spectral and spine-chilling with our Ghost Stories adventure, encompassing everything from the eerie to the unnerving, the morbid to the enigmatic, and the phantasmal to the monstrous. This immersive journey at the Metropolitan Museum presents a spine-tingling exploration of all things terrifying. Attendees will traverse through different eras and cultures to explore the myth of the Flying Dutchman, enigmatic funerary masks, captivating still life art, and striking sculptures. 

Knowledge about the works of art from Egypt, America, and Europe, among others, will be imparted, along with tales of supernatural occurrences within the museum itself. Throughout this experience, we’ll delve into how various cultures portray the daunting and the macabre, seeking to understand the essence of our fears and their origins.

When? Fridays: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. and Saturdays: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Important note: Upon your arrival, the guide will provide your tickets (avoiding the need to queue for purchase!), which remain valid for all the exhibitions in the museum after the conclusion of the tour.

03 Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village NYC

Greenwich Village is for me one of the most beautiful neighborhoods of New York and has a lot to offer. But it also has a haunted side in stories, which will be shown to you on this walking tour. This ghost tour through Greenwich Village is full of spooky tales of lost children, phantoms and celebrity ghosts – and not only at Halloween a popular tour. 

Along the way, you’ll learn many interesting anecdotes as you stroll through Washington Square Park, West 10th Street and the campus of New York University. The Greenwich Village Ghost Tour is a real highlight!

04 East Village Haunted Manhattan Walking Tour

On this haunted walking tour you’ll explore one of the oldest neighborhoods in Manhattan: the East Village (and Alphabet City). And at night! There are 13 haunted locations on the list – from historic pubs to the Public Theater to a subway stop known for its “ghost train”.

05 Ghosts of Greenwich Village: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour

Do you like stories about ghosts? Then this private haunted tour of Greenwich Village in the evening is a great option! In two hours, you’ll hear lots of haunted stories about people who have suddenly disappeared or are haunted around Washington Square Park and New York University. And of course: also a lot about this beautiful neighborhood of NYC!

06 Alexander Hamilton's Haunts and Hangouts Tour

07 West Village Ghost Pub Crawl

The West Village Ghost Pub Crawl presents an exciting journey through the haunted corners of the bohemian West Village. Meander through charming, tree-lined streets with 19th-century brownstones, engaging in a thrilling ghost hunt throughout the neighborhood. Your guide will lead you through a series of haunted landmarks including a piano bar, a famous speakeasy, a popular inn, and a historic carriage house, each harboring its own spectral inhabitants. Embark on this spirited expedition to uncover the ghostly mysteries hidden in one of New York’s spookiest neighborhoods.

My Tip: Here you find my comparison of the best ghost tours in NYC !

The Best Private Walking Tour

Nyc private walking tour, manhattan neighborhood private customized walking tour.

You already have an idea of which neighborhoods and sights of New York you want to see? Then this walking tour is perfect for you, because you can create your individual route with your New York guide. 

Each of the many neighborhoods has its own charm and character, which is what makes New York so charming and interesting. Therefore, the right mix can show you the best picture of the city. Combine Times Square and Broadway with Greenwich Village and Soho, or schedule Greenwich Village or Chelsea with the High Line. The beauty of this private tour is that you set the schedule. If you particularly like a place, you can just stay longer!

With over 350 positive reviews, this private walking tour of NYC is one of the best!

The Best Self Guided Walking Tour

Nyc grand central terminal self-guided walking tour.

With its majestic cieling, a series of roman-inspired walk ways, and 18-metre high arched windows, the Beaux Arts style terminal is one of the busiest and most beautiful stations in the world. A comprehensive restoration in 1998 restored this jewel to its former splendour for thousands of passangers to enjoy daily.

Free Walking Tours

Central park conservancy.

Free Central Park tours are offered by the Central Park Conservancy. Here you will learn all kinds of interesting facts about the history of Central Park, its highlights and most important corners. The meeting point depends on the tour.

Grand Central Partnership

If you want to know what makes the Grand Central Terminal so special, the 90-minute free walking tour from the Grand Central Partnership is something you should definitely consider. With a historian as your guide, you’ll learn lots of exciting things about the beautiful building every Friday from 12.30 p.m.

Friends of the High Line Walking Tours

The High Line Park takes you along the old tracks of the elevated railway to the Meatpacking District. Thanks to the initiative “Friends of the High Line” the park exists at all, because originally the construction was supposed to be torn down. And the best thing? They offer free tours!

Things To Do

New York Neighborhood Guides

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Get exclusive content, real insider tips, and the best deals in NYC for FREE!

Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

Watch CBS News

Best Historic Walking Tours In NYC

August 25, 2016 / 9:05 AM EDT / CBS New York

More: Best Historical Sites In NY | Historic Military Sites In NYC

New York Historical Tours New York, NY www.newyorkhistoricaltours.com

New York Historical Tours run about two hours in length and the groups are kept small in order to help everyone experience New York City fully. Participants can choose from a variety of different experiences, ranging from tours of specific neighborhoods, the High Line, Central Park, and experiences surrounding different periods of history.

Free New York Tours By Foot 112 Suffolk St. New York, NY 10002 (646) 450- 6831 www.freetoursbyfoot.com

The name "Free New York Tours" might be a little misleading. The tours are provided with no upfront costs and you can pay whatever price you feel appropriate, but note that the freelance and licensed tour guide usually expect some form of payment. It offers 30 different New York City tours. We suggest the "Lower Manhattan" tour for those looking for a more traditional historical experience.

Real New York Tours 40 Monroe St. Suite FD6 New York, NY 10002 (917) 572- 7017 www.realnewyorktours.com

Run by Luke and Amber Miller, Real New York Tours strives to have its guests experience New York off the beaten path. According to its website, it has even been voted #2 out of the top 10 Best Tours in the County by Trip Advisor. The group tours can be a little pricey, ranging from $45 - $80, but run for several hours and explore many areas of Manhattan and Brooklyn. The private tours are six hours in length and have fun themes, like their "Christmas in New York" experience.

Sandeman's New York New York, NY 10004 (347) 853-5713 www.sandemansnewyork.com Sandeman's New York tours are provided completely free of charge. Its tour guides work on a tip basis with no pressure to pay. These free tours start every day at 11 a.m. at the Museum of the American Indian. From there, a guide will lead you on a two-hour historical tour of New York City. Sights on the tour include Wall Street, Broadway and Frauces Tavern. Private tours can be done on foot or by bike.

More: Best Under The Radar Museums In NYC

Manhattan Walking Tour New York, NY 10028 (914) 564-0461 www.manhattanwalkingtour.com

The Manhattan Walking Tours is small and tailored to each person on the tour. It promises that each tour will have no more than eight people and a personalized experience. The roughly 75-minute tours are specifically geared towards history are priced at about $50. Historic sites include Grand Central and downtown Manhattan.

Related:  5 Historical Facts You Didn't Know About New York City

Tracy lives in the downstate area of New York. Some might call her an avid graduation affectionate (MA, Fordham University & MLS, SUNY Buffalo). She'd say she's just waiting for the right degree to come along with a promise and a ring someday. Her work can be found on Examiner.com .

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Unveil the mysteries of one of the most alluring cultural enclaves in New York City

A Tight Knit Community

Immerse yourself in this 90 minute walking tour that will pull the curtain back and give you a glimpse into the magic that makes this neighborhood so unique.  In partnership with Two Bridges Neighborhood Council and the Chinatown Little Italy Historic District Association,  We now has exclusive access to places in this community that are normally off-limits to the public.  We tour the southern portion of the Historic District from Canal Street to Kimlau Square; the infamous Doyers Street ‘aka’ the bloody angle, Confucius Plaza, a Taoist Temple and we’ll see the largest Buddhist statue in NYC.  The grand finale in a peek inside the CCBA (Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association)

A Living Tapestry of Culture

Within the borders of this Historic District is a living breathing tapestry of Chinese American Culture.  In addition, there are also enclaves of Taiwanese, Thai and Vietnamese.    As you wind your way through Chinatown you will find it to be an epicenter of fashion, food, technology and culture.  A well greased machine, you’ll be sure to encounter members of the Chinatown Business Improvement District keeping the streets cleaned.  The parks within the district are always filled with neighborhood residence engaging in social activities like group dancing and tai chi, or playing cards and majhong.  You will always find a very strong sense of community here.

We bring the History Alive

Today’s Manhattan Chinatown in lower Manhattan is a thriving community of Chinese American immigrants that first started taking root here in the late 1860’s.  Restricted in size as a result of the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, this community did not see substantial growth until after 1965 when the Immigration and Nationality Act was finally passed.  Today, the Manhattan Chinatown in Lower Manhattan is 1 of over 9 different Chinese American Communities throughout the 5 boroughs of New York City.  Combined they represent the largest representation of Chinese outside of China.  And it all began right here on Mott Street in what was once known as Little Hong Kong.

In partnership with the Chinatown Little Italy Historic District and Two Bridges Neighborhood Council

Book Public Tour

Click here to buy tickets for one of our daily time-slots Monday to Friday at 11:30am.  This Tour is 90 minutes long and under 2 miles of walking.  We operate rain or shine so please come prepared for the weather.

Passholder Reservations

If you  have a Go City Pass or New York Pass then click here to make your pass reservations.

Private and Corporate Chinatown Tours

We offer Private and Corporate Group Tours of the Chinatown Official Historic District Tour.  Click here to learn more.

CHINATOWN CHECK-IN LOCATION

CHECK-IN AND STARTING POINT

Please check-in for the Chinatown Official Historic District Tour at the red pin on the map above. We are located at Chinatown Little Italy Information Kiosk in-between Canal, Baxter and Walker streets. See the photo of the Kiosk where we will be.

CHECK-IN HERE

Chinatown Little Italy Information Kiosk

Corner of Baxter, Canal & Hester Streets

Travelers' Choice Award 2023! TripAdvisor Hall of Fame! 130,000+ Happy Customers Since 2009.

African American & Black Heritage NYC Tours

Inside Out Tours is an award-winning, certified minority and women owned business that is dedicated to presenting the histories of people of color in an engaging, sensitive and in-depth manner. Our African American Heritage tours are carefully researched to highlight the hidden history and contributions of black people in New York City.

African American Heritage Tour of New York City

Discover the African American Heritage of Lower Manhattan and Harlem in this comprehensive tour from the establishment of New York to present.

African American Heritage Tour of Brooklyn

Brooklyn has long been one of the great centers of African-American culture in the United States, boasting the largest black population in New York City. Explore the legacy of iconic figures like Spike Lee, Jay Z, Shirley Chisholm, David Ruggles and Frederick Douglass.

NYC Slavery and Underground Railroad Tour

Learn the exciting history of the enslaved people who built the foundations of New York City and the brave band of freedom fighters who formed the networks that became the Underground Railroad. This tour is featured in the New York Times!

Harlem Renaissance Bus Tour

Learn about the Harlem Renaissance including its musical, artistic and literary achievements while exploring Harlem on this bus-guided experience.

Heroes of Harlem Tour

Discover the iconic literary, political and artistic heroes that made Harlem the capital of Black America.

Need individual instead of group tickets?  See individual tours here .

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13 top-rated nyc food tours of 2024.

Take a bite out of the Big Apple on these foodie-focused NYC excursions.

The Top-Rated NYC Food Tours

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As one of the best foodie cities in America , New York City has no shortage of delicious eats spread across its five boroughs. But the enormous volume of food carts, award-winning restaurants and long-standing favorites can be overwhelming for visitors searching for the Big Apple's most delicious dishes. A food tour can be a great way to narrow your search, thanks to the guidance of an in-the-know local. Considering traveler sentiment and expert opinion, U.S. News selected the top food tours in NYC. Whether you're craving the best bagel or the tastiest slice of pizza, you'll walk away with a full belly and a better understanding of the local food scene after one of these tours.

A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours – The Original Brooklyn Pizza Tour

Price: Adults from $105; kids from $95 Duration: 4.5 hours

Calling all pizza lovers – this tour was made for you. During the nearly five-hour outing, you'll board a bus from Manhattan to Brooklyn where you'll enjoy Neapolitan-style pizza at Grimaldi's and Sicilian-style pizza at L&B Spumoni Gardens. You'll also visit filming locations of famous movies like "Saturday Night Fever," "Goodfellas" and "The French Connection." In between stops for pizza, you'll have to time to enjoy a stroll on the Coney Island boardwalk (a particular highlight for reviewers) and pass by the million-dollar homes along Shore Road in Bay Ridge. Travelers heap praise on the guides for their knowledge and humor, and appreciate the many stops for photos. Others appreciated the comfortable bus.

The tour is typically available Wednesday and Friday through Monday at 11 a.m. If you didn't get your fill of the borough, you can also join in on the company's other Brooklyn-themed tours.

Check prices & availability on:

Nice Guy Tours – Greenwich Village Tour

Price: From $89 Duration: 3 hours

For a food tour that mixes in a healthy dose of New York City history, consider the Greenwich Village Tour from Nice Guy Tours. On this foodie excursion, you'll make at least six stops for samples of the neighborhood's best falafel, pizza, fries and cupcakes, among other tasty treats. Along the way, you'll see neighborhood landmarks, such as the longest-running off-Broadway theater, the narrowest house, the oldest house and Washington Irving's former home, not to mention the exterior of the famous "Friends" apartment. Participants commend Nice Guy Tours, saying the guides are funny and knowledgeable, and the food is incredible.

The tour is offered Tuesday through Sunday at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.; additional tour times may be available depending on the month. Food-focused tours of the Lower East Side are also available.

New York Fun Tours – The Best of Brooklyn Half-Day Food & Culture Tour

Price: From $149 Duration: 4.5 hours

For a crash course in the food and neighborhoods that make Brooklyn so unique, consider this nearly five-hour outing led by New York Fun Tours. You'll start the tour in Greenwich Village and then board a coach bus to Brooklyn where you may visit neighborhoods like Williamsburg, Greenpoint and Carroll Gardens. As you learn about the history of each neighborhood, you'll sample some of the area's most famous dishes, including traditional Polish pierogis and kielbasa, New York-style brick oven pizza and cannolis, among other tasty bites. At the end of the tour, you have the option of boarding the bus back to Greenwich Village or walking across the Brooklyn Bridge back to Manhattan. Tourgoers offer high praise for the variety of food featured and applaud the guide and driver for their expert knowledge of the area.

Tours are usually offered Thursday through Monday at 11 a.m. Private tours of Manhattan are also available.

Check prices & availability:

Ahoy New York Tours & Tasting – Chinatown and Little Italy Food Fest

Price: From $105 Duration: 3 hours

Learn about the history, culture and food of two of New York City's distinct immigrant neighborhoods on this tour. You'll meet your guide in Chinatown, where you'll enjoy a Chinese pastry paired with jasmine green tea followed by authentic Chinese dumplings, roasted duck or egg rolls, as well as a tour of the neighborhood's historic Chinese landmarks. From there, you'll make your way to Little Italy for a brief history lesson before heading to mom and pop shops to sample prosciutto, olives, cheeses, fresh pasta and more. In all, you'll enjoy up to three seated tastings and up to six on-the-go tastings – a great value, travelers say. According to reviewers, this is a fun, filling combo tour with engaging guides who are very knowledgeable about the two neighborhoods.

Tours are typically offered multiple times a day beginning at 10:30 a.m. Private dinners in Little Italy and public tours of Mulberry Street (in Nolita) are also available.

Intrepid Urban Adventures – Tenements, Tales, and Tastes

Price: From $79 Duration: 3 hours

This tour celebrates the impact of immigrants and the cuisine they brought to New York that locals and visitors still enjoy today. The tour starts at the African Burial Ground National Monument and weaves around the Lower East Side, Little Italy and Chinatown, among other ethnic enclaves. As your guide provides historical context of the various neighborhoods and the immigrants who shaped them, you'll sample dumplings, knishes, pretzels and cheese, among other delicious bites. Reviewers say the tour provides an outstanding overview of the immigrant experience and deftly introduces participants to some hidden gems.

Tours are offered daily at 10 a.m. Intrepid Urban Adventures also offers a Brooklyn Bridge and Dumbo food tour, among others.

Free Tours by Foot – Greenwich Village Food Tour

Price: Free (excludes cost of food) Duration: 2 hours

If you're on a budget, this may be the excursion for you. Instead of paying one upfront fee for the tour and the food, you'll pay as you go. During the approximately mile-long tour, you'll stop at several different shops and restaurants in the village where you can choose whether you'd like to pay for a sample or not. You'll generally spend between $8.50 and $15 on your bites, according to the company. Possible dishes featured along the tour include falafel, pizza, bagels, cupcakes and arancini (fried rice balls). As with other trips from Free Tours by Foot, you'll pay your guide what you think the trip was worth at the conclusion of the tour. Past travelers said they loved sampling the different food and appreciated the flexible pricing.

Tours are offered at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday and Friday and reservations are required. The company also offers food tours in a variety of other neighborhoods, including Chinatown and Williamsburg, as well as seasonal tours.

Check availability on:

Courtesy of Foods of NY Tours

Foods of NY Tours – Chelsea Market & The High Line

Price: Adults from $75; kids from $50 Duration: 3 hours

Sample one of the city's best hot dogs, Brooklyn-made ice cream and more on this tour of Chelsea Market and the High Line . The tour includes six on-the-go tastings and two seated tastings, along with commentary from your expert guide about the market's history and its vendors, as well as the history of the High Line and how the elevated rail line was once used to transport millions of tons of meat, dairy and produce. Reviewers laud the tour guides for their engaging, passionate commentary, their ability to navigate the crowds and their recommendations.

Tours are available at 10 a.m. Thursday through Monday. When you're ready to explore beyond Chelsea, consider signing up for the company's tours of other famous foodie neighborhoods, including Brooklyn, Chinatown and Nolita.

Manhattan Walking Tour – Hell's Kitchen Food Tour and Central Park Walking Tour

Price: From $134 Duration: 4.5 hours

According to reviewers, this tour combines just the right mix of food, history and sightseeing. During the half-day stroll, you'll make stops at five different spots in Hell's Kitchen for tasty eats like empanadas, hush puppies, baba ghanoush and doughnuts. You'll also enjoy a walking tour of Central Park – a particular highlight for travelers. Tourgoers are complimentary of the passionate guides and the interesting and delicious food. What's more, tours are capped at eight participants – another plus for reviewers.

Tours are offered daily at noon. If you've gotten your fill of Central park, you can also book an abbreviated version of this tour that does not stop at the park.

Secret Food Tours New York – NYC Food Tour in Greenwich Village

Price: Adults from $79; teens from $74; kids from $69 Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours

This traveler-approved food tour takes up to 12 participants through Greenwich Village to sample a classic New York bagel, falafel, a cupcake, a slice of pizza and a gourmet doughnut for a total of six stops. Part of the fun on this tour is the "secret dish," which is revealed the day of your tour. Participants say the tour is educational, with many praising the secret stop and the personable guides.

Tours are offered daily beginning at 11 a.m. Still hungry? The company also offers tours of Chinatown, Little Italy and Brooklyn.

Like a Local Tours – Flatiron Food, History & Architecture Tour

Price: Adults from $78; kids from $68 Duration: 3 hours

Appeasing both history buffs and foodies, this tour explores the food, architecture and history of two of New York's most iconic neighborhoods: the Flatiron District and Union Square. During the mile-long stroll, you can enjoy Italian fare at Eataly and a Reuben at Zucker's Bagels, plus snap pictures at the famous Flatiron Building and more. Tourgoers rave about the substantial food portions and the knowledgeable guides, who win praise for sharing plenty of historical context in a fun, engaging way. However, a few reviewers warn the tour may not be entertaining for young children since it focuses heavily on history.

Tours are offered Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 10:30 a.m. Kids younger than 4 can tour for free. The company also offers food and walking tours of other NYC neighborhoods and boroughs, including Brooklyn.

Sidewalks of New York Tours – West Village Food Tour

Price: Adults from $89; kids from $75 Duration: 3 hours

Indulge in classic New York City dishes while exploring the tree-lined streets of the West Village on this tour. With a local as your guide, you'll make six stops for samples including bagels, pizza, falafel and cupcakes. Along with the histories and traditions of the eateries, you'll also learn about the hangouts of the Beat Generation and Bob Dylan and view the exterior of Monica's apartment from "Friends," among other West Village hot spots. Reviewers applaud the variety of food offered and the generous portions. Others gush about the friendly, knowledgeable guides.

Tours are offered Friday and Saturday at 11 a.m. Prices include all food. After you've sampled the West Village food scene, consider the company's other food tours of midtown, downtown and the Lower East Side, among others.

Underground Donut Tour – New York City: Downtown Donut Tour

Price: Adults from $75; kids from $65 Duration: 2 hours

Doughnuts have an extensive history in New York City. Dutch settler Anna Joralemon opened the United States' first doughnut shop in NYC in 1673, and Harlem bakery owner Adolph Levitt created the first automatic doughnut machine, dubbed "The Wonderful Almost-Human Automatic Doughnut Machine," in 1920. Travelers can learn more about this deep-fried, ring-shaped pastry with the Underground Donut Tour. The 2-mile walking tour takes participants on a journey through downtown New York, with stops along the way to try treats like a brioche-style doughnut and an everything doughnut. Reviewers say the tour guides are knowledgeable and the outing is an overall delicious experience. Travelers were also surprised and delighted by the variety of doughnuts featured.

Tours are offered daily between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Underground Donut Tour also offers outings in Times Square and Union Square, along with private tours, tours for students and bachelor and bachelorette parties.

Greg Walks NYC – NYC Greenwich Village Italian Food Tour

Price: From $89 Duration: 2 to 3 hours

The New York City Greenwich Village Italian Food Tour aims to teach travelers about the area's Italian history through food. During the walking tour, foodies will have a chance to visit famous Greenwich Village shops and eateries like Raffetto's Pasta and the Tiro A Segno Italian Rifle Club – one of the oldest private Italian heritage clubs in the U.S. As Greg shares stories of the neighborhood's past, you'll also sample Italian delicacies, such as prosciutto di parma, Italian cheese bread and fruit-a-misu, a berry tiramisu. Reviewers say this tour is fun and filled with interesting information. Many called it the highlight of their NYC trip.

Tours are offered Tuesday through Sunday at 11:30 a.m. The company also offers other walking tours, including the East Village Pierogi Food Tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

New York City is famous for several foods thanks to its diverse residents, who represent an array of cultures. Some of the most famous foods that you may encounter on a food tour or when dining throughout the city include falafel, bagels, pizza, pastrami sandwiches, soft pretzels, hot dogs, cheesecake, pierogis and dim sum.

Tips for tour guides are not mandatory, but gratefully accepted. In New York City, it's standard to tip 18% to 25% of the tour price.

Interested in more New York City tours? Check out the:

• Best New York City Tours
• Best New York City Bus Tours
• Best Statue of Liberty Tours
• Best New York City Boat Tours
• Best New York City Walking Tours

Tags: Tours , New York City , Travel , Vacations , food and drink

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10 Best Boat Tours In NYC To Book Right Now

Checking out New York City via the water is the best way to see skyline views, and here's the best tours to book!

With spring officially here and summer looming soon, it’s almost time to get out on NYC waters and explore the city! New York’s two main rivers, the Hudson River and East River are chalk full of incredible boat tours that are simply amazing. The cruises allow you to check out the skyline from every angle, and some even have live entertainment, special meals, and one-of-a-kind events.

If you’re looking for your next adventure to explore NYC the best way—via boat—here’s the best NYC boat tours to book right now.

1. Circle Line’s “Best of NYC” Cruise

This Circle Line boat tour separates itself in a class of it’s own…and there’s a reason it’s number 1 on our list! The 2 hour and 30 minute cruise goes completely around   the island of Manhattan , offering unobstructed views of over 130 of the city’s most iconic landmarks including the  Manhattan skyline ,  Little Island ,  Hudson Yards ,  One World Trade Center ,  Brooklyn Bridge ,  Yankee Stadium , and more! Their boats are state-of-the-art and climate controlled, and they have some of the most knowledgable tour guides in the whole city!

🛥️ Book your tickets to this boat tour here!

2. City Cruises’ Bateaux New York Premier Brunch Cruise

How about a cruise of NYC and a delicious brunch ?! This 2.5 hour cruise (brought to you by City Cruises) includes a chef-prepared 3-course plated brunch on the water with bottomless mimosas , panoramic views of the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty , a live DJ , and so much more! It’s truly an experience that will impress a date, your family, or even your work crew!

3. Liberty Cruise’s Statue of Liberty Tour

The Statue of Liberty is undoubtedly one of our favorite attractions in NYC, and this boat tour will bring you up close and personal with Lady Liberty! With both standard and premium tour options, the 75 minute adventure departs from Pier 36 multiple times per day. If you’re looking for a boat tour with the best view of the Statue of Liberty , go for this option.

4. Manhattan by Sail’s Clipper City Ride

Fancy riding on a boat cruise around NYC in… a sailboat ?! The Clipper City is the largest tall ship in New York City at 158 feet long and has the capacity to bring 134 passengers on a ride! The nostalgic-feeling ride departs from Pier 17 downtown, and takes passengers all around the New York Harbor. They also have special cruises too like sunset jazz cruises, golden hour cocktail sails, wine tasting cruises, and more .

5. Circle Line’s The Beast Speedboat Ride

This Circle Line cruise is for the adrenaline junkies…and it’s a 30 minute speedboat ride through NYC waters like never before. Starting at Pier 83 on the Upper West Side, “The Beast” rips through NYC waters with all kinds of twists, turns, and splashes along the way . The jet-powered thrill ride can get up to 45 mph, and will take you on a whipping and winding tour all the way out to the Statue of Liberty! “The Beast” opens for the 2024 season on May 4th !

6. Circle Line’s Landmarks Cruise

Check off all the landmarks from your bucketlist with this no frills boat tour that starts and ends at Pier 83 in midtown Manhattan. The 90 minute cruise will bring you down the west side, with peeks of Hudson Yards  and  Little Island before wrapping around downtown and heading up the East River. Amenities include an incredible outdoor viewing deck, an onboard café, free Wifi, and more!

7. New York Media Boat’s Private Boat Tour

Live out your luxury dreams with a private boat tour of NYC with New York Media Boat! Their private boat charters come at a steep price, but there’s nothing quite like taking in the 360° NYC views with a hand-selected crew. Rides are typically 60 minutes long and group sizes can range upwards to 12 passengers. Prices for private boat tours range from $550-$1100/ hour based on group size.

8. New York Water Taxi Cruises

New York Water Taxi provides a “hop on, hop off”-type of service that makes it easy for you to sightsee all different parts of NYC as efficiently as possible! Their daily ferry service connects Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Jersey City all together, making it the perfect way to explore the city…and also catch some waterfront views too!

9. Staten Island Ferry

We’re going to let you on our secret little FREE boat tour of NYC …the Staten Island Ferry! The fare-less journey is operated by the New York City Department of Transportation, and runs a 5.2 mile route through the New York Harbor between Manhattan and Staten Island in about 25 minutes . Whether you’re looking to explore a different borough for a day, or want to ride for free on the water, it’s our favorite hidden gem!

10. NYC Ferry

Similarly to the Staten Island Ferry, the NYC Ferry acts almost as subway system via the water! There are 6 routes, as well as one seasonal route, connecting 25 ferry piers across all five boroughs . The fare is $4 per ride and it’s the perfect way to have a do-your-own-boat-tour, especially during the summer! They have an open air deck, a bar on deck, and ports all over the city!

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Greenville food hall, food tour voted among best in the nation. Here's why they rank high.

USA TODAY has announced two Greenville winners for the USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.

Gather GVL and Greenville's History & Culinary tours placed in the top 10 for each of their respective categories.

Following last year's win, Gather GVL was recognized as one of the best food halls in the nation, moving up a spot in the list. Although Greenville's tours dropped down a few places from last year's ranking, it still managed to luck out when it comes to being one of the country's best food tours.

Here's what to know about this year's 10 Best winners.

Gather GVL ranks No. 5 for Best Food Hall

No matter what your taste, this Greenville melting pot has all the flavors, from fried chicken and classic smash burgers to sushi and hibachi. At Gather GVL , guests watch with growling stomachs as chefs serve up dishes from a colorful collection of shipping containers. When food is ready, guests settle down at long tables where they dine with family and friends, kicking back and relaxing. If you sit on the second floor, you can enjoy views of downtown, whether rain or shine. Locals with furry friends will be glad to know their pets are welcome to the ground floor, where they, too, can join in on the fun. In 2023, USA TODAY placed the food hall at No. 6 for best food in the nation.

What other food halls made the list?

∎ No. 1: Mother Road Market, Tulsa, Oklahoma

∎ No. 2: The Garage Food Hall, Indianapolis, Indiana

∎ No. 3: Budd Dairy Food Hall, Columbus, Ohio

∎ No. 4: The Market at Malcolm Yards, Minneapolis, Minnesota

∎ No. 5: Gather GVL, Greenville, South Carolina

∎ No. 6: City Foundry STL, St. Louis, Missouri

∎ No. 7: Federal Galley, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

∎ No. 8: Food Hall at Bottling Department, San Antonio, Texas

∎ No. 9: Time Out Market Chicago, Chicago, Illinois

∎ No. 10: Chelsea Market, New York City, New York

Greenville History & Culinary Tours voted No. 8 for Best Food Tour

For over a decade, Greenville's History and Culinary tours has drawn 40,000 guests to the city. On the history tours, guests are guided through historic buildings and homes, public artwork displays, restaurants, and shops. Foodies on the culinary tours will have opportunities to visit kitchens and sample food offerings while "At the Chef's Table." USA TODAY recommends trying the BBQ Trail Tour or visiting the countryside, where you will be escorted to a movable farm-fresh feast. Last year, the tours placed at No. 3 for best food tour by USA TODAY.

What other food tours made the list?

∎ No. 1: Columbus Food Adventures, Columbus, Ohio

∎ No. 2: Taste Buzz Food Tours, Las Vegas, Nevada

∎ No. 3: Six Taste, Los Angeles, California

∎ No. 4: Savor Seattle Food Tours, Seattle, Washington

∎ No. 5: Bienville Bites Food Tour, Mobile, Alabama

∎ No. 6: Doctor Gumbo Tours, New Orleans, Louisiana

∎ No. 7: Mangia DC Food Tours, Washington, D.C.

∎ No. 8: Greenville History & Culinary Tours, Greenville, South Carolina

∎ No. 9: Maine Day Ventures, Portland, Maine

∎ No. 10: Bobby's Bike Hike Chicago, Chicago, Illinois

Nina Tran covers trending topics. Reach her via email at [email protected]

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Immerse Yourself in the Grandeur of New York City in the Gilded Age

New york in the gilded age: heyday of high society tour.

Journey back in time to the American Industrial Revolution and experience extraordinary history of the Gilded Age in New York City.  Explore the lives of America’s most notable business magnates John Jacob Astor, Cornelius Vanderbilt, John D Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, J.P. Morgan and more. Learn all about their dramatic ascension to wealth and dominance , the power struggles they navigated, the empires they they built and see some of the remnants of their legacies.  Discover women who welded their power and influence for social causes.  Gain insight into some intimate details of their personal lives, families, social circles as you explore through the landmarks of the Gilded Age showcasing the lavish lifestyles of high society.

Visit millionaire’s row along NYC’s Fifth Avenue to marvel at the incredible art and architecture of opulent mansions , prestigious private clubs, and art museums brimming with art and treasures of America’s self-made elite .  Points of interest will include: The Metropolitan Club, the Metropolitan Museum of Art the Andrew Carnegie, Henry Frick, Payne Whitney mansions and more.

Millionaire’s Row

Museum District

Unique Insights

Tour Details

• Good to Know

Tour Highlights

Stroll New York City's Millionaire's Row along Fifth Avenue to admire the stunning mansions, reflecting the wealth and style of the Gilded Age's elite in America

Hear the incredible stories behind the people who helped shape the American economy, including Astor, Vanderbilt, Rockefeller and Carnegie

Explore their fascinating personal lives contrasting their public successes with private dramas and social scandals

Discover the fate and legacy of some extraordinary treasures in architecture and art of the Gilded Age and how it contributed to the cultural wealth of NYC

Learn the real history behind the popular HBO's show The Gilded Age

Private professionally guided walking tour.

$299.00 USD  for up to 6 participants

$30.00 USD for each additional participant

What's Included

• Private Personalized Tour
• Expert Licensed Local Guide
• Customizable Experience

Meeting Point

Grand Army Plaza By the north side of the fountain in front of the Plaza Hotel View in Google Maps

Tour Policies

Please note:.

We want you to have a great experience and will do our best to accommodate you. Even with the best intentions we understand that sometimes things happen. We ask kindly that you please take a moment to review our policies:

• Safety – We follow all of the most current federal, state and local guidelines and follow best practices to ensure the safety of all. Our tours take place outdoors unless otherwise noted. Masks and social distancing are recommended and may be required to enter indoor facilities when applicable. We make every effort to avoid high traffic areas to make for a more comfortable experience.
• Weather – all tours are conducted on a year round basis, rain or shine. If inclement weather is expected or there is a severe weather advisory warning in effect around the time of the tour, we will contact you to discuss all options including or rescheduling the tour to another day or provide a refund.
• Schedule – tours start promptly at the designated meeting location for your chosen tour. We recommend you plan to arrive a few minutes early. If you anticipate a delay in arrival please call us at (646) 320-1277.
• Exchanges and Refunds – if for any reason you cannot make your scheduled tour we will be happy to reschedule your tour for another day. If you must cancel your tour we will provide a full refund of your tour at your request with a minimum of 24 hours notice.
• Reservations – you can reserve a tour by phone, e-mail, or securely online. Advance reservations are recommended for all tours. Scheduled tours start promptly at the designated meeting location for your chosen tour. We recommend you plan to arrive a few minutes early.
• Dress – for the most enjoyable experience we suggest dressing appropriately for the weather and wearing comfortable walking shoes.
• Photos – bring a fully charged phone or camera! Your guide is happy to take photos for you at your request.
• Accessibility – our tours take place on level terrain and are stroller and wheelchair friendly. Please notify your guide if any participants might require special accommodation or accessibility during the tour.
• Transportation – we know that the best way to experience New York City is on foot. Our tours are walking tours that go at a comfortable leisurely pace. We can provide private transportation or assist with public transportation for an additional fee upon request.

See What Previous Guests Had to Say

Tripadvisor reviews.

Highly recommend the Gilded Age tour. Learned so much about a neighborhood I thought I knew so well. A great way to rediscover a city you love.

I gave my husband a private Gilded Age tour as a Christmas gift and we went on our anniversary in mid-January.  Quite honestly the tour was so interesting, that the weather didn’t distract us. We’ve both lived and worked in New York City so are very familiar with the city, but we learned so much!

What an amazing experience! We had a wonderful private tour today about the Gilded Age! …We had so much fun and leaned a lot at the same time. Highly recommend a tour with this company. Made our trip to NYC really special.

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Cleveland Guardians Tie Best Start in Franchise History By Beating Boston Red Sox

For the third time in their 124-year history, the Cleveland Guardians have opened the season on a 17-6 hot streak following their latest win over the Red Sox.

• Author: Sam Connon

In this story:

The Cleveland Guardians continued their season-opening hot streak on Tuesday, making franchise history in the process.

Cleveland turned on the jets late to beat the Boston Red Sox 4-1, scoring two in the seventh and two in the eighth to emerge victorious. They improved to 17-6 with the win, matching their best start ever through 23 games.

The last time the team posted that record was in 1999, when they were still the Indians. Before that, they had only ever done so in 1966.

The @CleGuardians are 17-6 for the third time in franchise history! #ForTheLand pic.twitter.com/iRhkL7w0er — MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) April 24, 2024

Of course, a hot start to a season doesn't always mean that momentum will continue through the rest of the year.

Cleveland.com's Hayden Grove made a note of how the 1966 and 1999 teams finished after starting 17-6, and it was a tale of two seasons. In 1966, the Indians went 64-75 in the remaining 139 games to finish 81-81 and miss the playoffs. In 1999, they went 80-59 the rest of the way, entered the postseason at 97-65 and earned a fifth-consecutive AL Central crown.

Maybe a cautionary tale, maybe not: The 1966 Indians started 17-6 and went 64-75 the rest of the way to finish 81-81. The 1999 Indians started 17-6 and went 80-59 the rest of the way to finish 97-65. The 2024 Guardians started 17-6 and we'll see how it goes... #Guardians — Hayden Grove (@H_Grove) April 24, 2024

Cleveland's most recent World Series championship squad, meanwhile, got off to a 16-7 start in 1948.

There is still roughly 86% of the regular season remaining, so plenty more will shake out over the next few months to determine which end of the spectrum the 2024 Guardians end up on. As it stands, FanGraphs is giving Cleveland a 53.0% chance of making the postseason, projecting them to finish the year at 84-78.

Still, the Guardians are leading the AL Central by 3.5 games, boasting the best record in all of baseball, so rookie manager Stephen Vogt's tenure could hardly be off to a better start.

Follow Fastball on FanNation on social media

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You can also follow Sam Connon on Twitter  @SamConnon .

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It’s a good day to be a PGA Tour player — and a really good day to be Tiger Woods.

The Telegraph is reporting that players are receiving the money they earned by not bolting for LIV Golf and accepting the huge offers that were being made by the rival league.

Woods received the biggest payday at $100 million, with Rory McIlroy coming in at around $50 million.

The funds were made available after a group of investors led by Fenway Sports, which also included Mets owner Steve Cohen, infused $1.5 billion into PGA Tour Enterprises in January.

In total, approximately $1 billion will be split — unevenly — between 193 golfers, according to The Telegraph.

How much a player gets is determined by career-long achievements, which is why Woods is getting paid so handsomely.

The Telegraph noted that the PGA Tour and commissioner Jay Monahan “have been at pains” to try to keep the financial breakdown under wraps, as it naturally could cause frustration from players receiving far less than the top group.

The top 36 players on the list are splitting up approximately $750 million, the 64 players who round out the top 100 are dividing $75 million, with $30 million going to the next 57 players.

The remaining $75 million is divvied up between 36 retired players who are considered living legends, per the report.

The other specific figures cited in the report were Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas, who will each rake in around $30 million.

The influx of cash comes as the PGA Tour, including Woods, has been in talks with PIF — the financial arm of the Saudi government that funds LIV.

While the specifics on the talks have been kept tight, a framework agreement that would like merge LIV and the PGA Tour in some form has been agreed to since June.

Aside from Woods, the significant cash the players are receiving still pales in comparison to what the top stars got for going to LIV Golf.

The likes of Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, Phil Mickelson and Bryson DeChambeau reportedly were in the nine-figure range — or very close to it — to defect to LIV.

Jon Rahm reportedly got a whopping $450 million to make the LIV leap in December in what many viewed as a tipping point that would push the PGA Tour closer to a merger.

However, five months later the two sides remain in a vague negotiating phase.

Rumors surfaced last week that McIlroy was possibly headed to LIV Golf for $850 million, but he shot down that possibility in an interview with Golf Channel.

“I honestly don’t know how these things get started, I’ve never been offered a number [potential deal] from LIV and I’ve never contemplated going to LIV,” said McIlroy, who is returning to the PGA Tour Players Advisory Council after stepping down last year. “I think I’ve made it clear over the past two years that I don’t think it’s something for me.

“That doesn’t mean I judge people who have gone and played [LIV Golf]. One of the things I’ve realized over the past two years is people can make their own decisions for whatever they think is best for themselves and who are we to judge them for that? For me, my future is here on the PGA Tour.”

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Rethinking the affordable housing crisis in the Mohawk Valley with historic preservation

New York state leaders recently reached a deal on a new legislative framework addressing the national affordable housing crisis. 

The agreement included enticements for tenants, labor unions, and developers: eviction protections, higher wages for workers, as well as tax breaks for construction. Together, the measures were an attempt to tackle the state’s housing shortage by making it easier to build. 

Gov. Kathy Hochul released a statement deeming it a “landmark deal” she's “very proud of.” 

According to Oneida County officials, rent in the Mohawk Valley has increased over the past five years; locals are spending nearly 35-percent of their annual income on housing. 

Furthermore, records indicate that regional homelessness cases – those applying for temporary housing assistance/emergency shelter – have increased 350-percent since 2020. 

As the county completes its 2024 Comprehensive Housing Inventory Assessment and Strategy, an attempt to lay out a path to meet the needs of the future, a new tool has proven effective: historical preservation. 

Landmark Society of Greater Utica

For 50 years, the Landmarks Society of Greater Utica has been the premiere organization in the region, promoting the preservation, restoration, and reuse of historic buildings, neighborhoods, and landscapes.

Members – Treasurer, Dianne Nassar and Vice President, Michael Bosak – discussed future plans on a private site tour with the Observer-Dispatch.

Bosak framed historic preservation as a solution to ongoing housing issues. He noted its far less expensive to fix-up existing buildings than it is to build new ones, “especially with the current cost of labor and materials.” 

“The infrastructure (roads, water, sewer, electric, and cable lines) already exists” continued Bosak. “It’s just practical. Plus, it's considered greener to preserve existing buildings than to build from scratch. That’s not to say the existing housing stock doesn't come with its own set of challenges (such as lead-based paint and asbestos). Careful work practices help minimize the potential risks.” 

Nassar agreed, acknowledging the dated housing stock in Utica is set in "well-established neighborhoods." They exude their own special charm, she said. 

“We’re hopeful that the next generation continues the tradition of preservation,” added Nassar. "At present we have 400 active volunteers. And, fortunately we’ve found that younger couples are enamored with the details, character, and beauty of the older homes on the market.” 

Rutger mansion tour

To start the tour, Bosak traced the history of the Rutger Mansion.

In 1820 Jude Morris Millar laid the foundation and the front masonry wall. When he passed away his family hired architect Philip Hooker to complete the construction.

Over time, the building was sold to a variety of individuals such as Utica Mayor Thomas Walker and U.S. Senator Roscoe Conkling. 

“Conkling was a key figure during the Grant administration, when the Republican Party first formed,” underscored Bosak. “When he died, there was a speech held on the front porch. Thousands showed up for the oration.” 

In 2008 the Landmarks Society bought the three buildings; the first investment the non profit organization had made. Supposedly, then President Mike Rizzo had lived across the street and felt troubled by the decline of the property. 

“A couple owned all three buildings,” explained Bosak. “One was used as a nursing home, the other as a fraternity house. This mansion was their private residence. Eventually the frat house fell into disrepair and had to be taken down.” 

Bosak went on to claim the residential mansion as the “most historic house in the county."

Not only is it listed on the national registry but it’s also a National Historic Landmark. The only other of which is the Old Main building on Court Street. 

“The dining room has original Zuber wallpaper, ” Bosak gleamed. “Which is super rare– scarce amounts today are found in the White House. The print, tropical zones, dates back to the 1790s. It was all hand blocked so it can’t be replaced but is can be preserved.” 

Today the building wears many hats as the Landmark society’s headquarters, a house museum, and an event center (commonly used for wedding receptions). Tomorrow it might try on a few more, hinted Bosak.

“After addressing porch stability issues we plan to turn our attention to the upstairs at the other mansion,” said Nassar. “We’re hoping to renovate the top floors and convert it into a space used for AirBnB’s or affordable apartments.” 

'A tool for combatting the affordable housing crisis'

One might think for a city the size of Utica there’d be a lot of potential housing stock.  

Nassar clarified that’s not the case. 

“Back in the 1970’s we lost a ton of buildings,” recalled Nassar. “As a lifelong resident of Utica, I look at the Loft apartments we have today and remember the naysayers who doubted that people would choose to live in a repurposed building. Now those units are hard to get because they’re so popular.” 

As stated by Nassar, with rent up nearly 49- percent it makes sense to use what we have in our wheelhouse.

With pressures for future development in the area Bosak emphasized it's imperative the Landmarks’ mission – to preserve history and protect the future – endures so there can be a balance between the existing built environment and new plans. 

Summer walks, historical happy hours

The Rutger Mansion will be open for the public to tour on June 25.

In fact, every Monday night during the summer, June to August, the Landmark Society holds free walk and talk tours where a historian dives into site history and facilitates conversation, Bosak highlighted.

According to Nassar, it's become such a beloved tradition the board recently decided to extend it through the winter as well: historical happy hours. 

The last cocktail party of the season will be held April 25 at the Hage Building on Genesee Street. 

“That site is an example of sustainable preservation,” said Nassar. “Another solution to modern problems."

Utica's first green building

James Hage, founding attorney of Hage & Hage Law, bought his first historic building across from the Oneida County courthouse on Charlotte Street in Utica. He later purchased the surrounding lot and redeveloped his first site. 

In 1972, the Landmark Society gave Hage an award for his "honorable" renovations.

“Years went by and I watched this building on the corner of South and Genesee street go unoccupied,” Hage recalled. “It used to be the Homestead Savings and Loan Bank. As a young lawyer used to attend real estate closings there.” 

Hage remembered watching the building deteriorate as it stood vacant for six years. At the time (2005) he’d just sold his company, Independent Wireless One, to Spring P.C.S and had been looking for another site to invest in. 

“With a 25-foot ceiling everyone suggested I add different floors to create leasable apartments,” said Hage. “Absolutely not. I used to write for an architecture magazine in graduate school. I knew I had a responsibility to preserve the atrium. The problem? Finding a way to deal with high utility costs.” 

Hage admitted he didn’t have an initial commitment to green energy; he said he stumbled into the idea of geothermal heating and solar energy as a caveat to his financial predicament. 

LEED certification

In 2006 Hage reached out to the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). He shared that their reaction was one of shock; a green building hadn't been built in the city before.

Laughing, Hage referred to the project as a "Lewis and Clark-type expedition."

“None of the engineers or contractors had worked on a green project– let alone a LEED certified one,” said Hage. “We learned as we went. Luckily the adjacent parking was the ideal location for buying 25 geothermal wells, 440 feet deep each.” 

LEED-certified buildings focus on occupant well-being. The rating system focuses on strategies like banning smoking and reducing toxic exposure from materials to improve air quality.

The certification process mandates the submission of thorough documentation to demonstrate compliance with standards in: site sustainability, water efficiency, energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, materials, and natural resources.  

“The regulations were over 1,000 pages,” Hage emphasized. “The requirements are stringent, down to details like the kind of glue used in the furniture we bought. We hired Amy Dunst from Harden Furniture in Connellsville PA. She refurbishing the entire interior. ” 

Sustainable historic preservation

According to Hage, it's much more difficult to renovate a building sustainably then it is to build one.

He outlined how the green temperature system works. 

“We circulate our water with food-grade glycol.” explained Hage. “Its almost like a closed radiator system in a car. Since the ground below the earth is a constant 55 degrees geothermal heat takes advantage of that. In the winter the system pulls from warmth from the earth; in the summer it takes heat from the air and releasing it into the earth."

Given the orientation of the site it also relies on solar harvesting; its floors absorb sunlight during the day and radiate energy at night. 

When asked whether or not Hage has seen a return on investment he answered with a resounding yes. 

“Remarkably so,” emphasized Hage. “The transition to renewable sourcing has greatly improved the economics of the building. I was hoping to be a Johnny Appleseed of sorts, spreading this idea throughout the community. I have to tell you, it's been a success for me but I've failed to onboard others.” 

Enter a new green community

Despite many awards and congratulations received, Hage said he was most proud of his partnership with the Johnson Park Center (JPC).

After taking Reverend Maria Scates on a tour of his green building in 2007 he mentioned that every JPC building built/renovated since has also been LEED certified. 

“We’ve working on a collaborative project in Utica now,” added Hage. “62 units of affordable housing and a green community center. I expect it to be done by the end of the year.” 

The Johnson Park Green Community apartments are a $28 million development located in the Cornhill neighborhood.

Designed to meet Passive House standards and NYSERDA's Buildings of Excellence program criteria, the apartments utilize energy-efficient features, including a solar photovoltaic system capable of meeting a significant portion of the development's energy demand, with a goal of net-zero emissions.

In line with passive house standards, each building features an Energy Recovery Ventilation system; the temperature from the exhaust air will pretreat the incoming air. The project is anticipated to achieve a minimum of LEED Gold, state officials said. 

"Johnson Park Green Community Apartments will provide affordable, energy-efficient homes and a new hub for the community that builds upon our ongoing investments in Utica," said Governor Hochul in a statement. "These investments in the city, including through the $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative, are helping strengthen Utica's neighborhoods and provide our most vulnerable residents with the housing options they need to thrive."

Nassar and Bosak both felt Hage's work with sustainable historic preservation was worth spotlighting. They said it showcased how national issues, such as the climate crisis and the affordable housing crisis, can be treated at a grassroots level.