Lower Manhattan Secrets And History Walking Tour

New York City , United States of America

Lower Manhattan Secrets And History Walking Tour

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(96 reviews)

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About this experience

You can’t take a trip to New York City without touring Lower Manhattan. With a 400-year history, this vibrant neighborhood is bursting with landmarks, relics, and stories. Come discover the birthplace of New York as we know it and experience the city like a true local. On this walking tour, you will journey through time and Downtown NYC the best way possible: on foot!

Explore the city with local certified guides who know every twist and turn on our world-famous streets. You'll benefit from a smaller sized group for a more intimate experience. And what tour of NYC would be complete without a stop at a New York pizzeria for a complimentary slice of NYC pizza.

Available options

11AM Tour

What's included

Tour guide

No tour of New York City would be complete without a slice of New York style pizza. Every adult ticket includes a slice of New York style pizza!

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Learn about the historical undertaking to build one of the most famous bridges in the world

South Street Seaport plays a massive role in the creation of New York City as we know it today. And it gave New York City one of its most famous nicknames!

Stop 3

Today Wall Street is the financial epicenter of the world, but it wasn't always that way.

Stop 4

Buy! Buy! Sell! Sell! The New York Stock Exchange is one of the most famous buildings in the United States. Learn about how it evolved into the home of the financial market.

Stop 5

When the colonies finally became free, it all happened right here at Federal Hall. Learn about how this spot in Lower Manhattan helped shape history as we know it.

Learn the incredible story of how this statue came to be and what it really stands for.

Stop 7

Trinity Church has welcomed historical figures such as George Washington & Alexander Hamilton. And you'll never believe the stories that came with them!

Stop 8

A bull on the loose on Wall Street? There sure is! Learn about how this now beloved Wall Street icon got it's place on one of the world's most famous streets.

Overlooking the New York Harbor & Lady Liberty herself, this is one of the most Instagram-worth spots on Lower Manhattan. But there is so much more to learn about the port that as welcomed millions of guests to New York City!

Stop 10

We will discuss the events of 9/11 and the massive rebuilding effort that followed. It's here that you will see the resilience of New York City and New Yorkers. We will also offer some time for walking the solemn grounds and for private reflection.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

25 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

71 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Our tour starts on the steps of the Tweed Courthouse (52 Chambers St., between Broadway & Centre St.). Look for your Guide & black Metro Tours umbrella 10 minutes prior to your tour. Nearest subways: 4/5/6/J/Z Brooklyn Bridge City Hall, R/W City Hall or 2/3 Park Place

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information