Private Historic Yale Smart Phone Self Guided Walking Tour
Active
1h - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Founded in 1701 Yale is the 3rd oldest institution of education in the USA, and some would say the most secretive.
On our adventure I’ll guide you to New Haven’s historic spots including Yale’s old campus, the New Haven green, The inventors of the Hamburger - Louis Lunch, Grove Street Cemetery and many more.
Go at your own pace. Stop anytime by pausing the tour, and continue anytime. This is on our Walking Tour app, and the tour never expires. Our tours are professionally produced for the best immersive experiences.
Feel free to pause the tour and enter the Yale Art Gallery and see an original Van Gogh, or the Beinecke rare book Library and see the original Gutenberg bible, if they are open during normal visitors’ hours, entrance is free.
You’ll also see the Tombs of the secret societies of Yale, including Skull and Bones, Book and Snake and Scroll and Keys, and learn about their members.
Available options
Private Historic Yale Smart Phone Self Guided Walking Tour
What's included
Go at your own pace, stop and go as you please
See Yales historic sites and learn their stories
Tour of Yale on our walking tour app
the tour never expires, take it anytime
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour starts outside the chapel and you'll learn about its history and about Elihu Yale, the man who Yale is named after. From there you'll walk to the Old Campus and be guided step by step through New Haven.
2
The tour then goes to Old Campus, the oldest part of Yale. You'll hear how it was founded, it's motto and about Nathan Hale, a hero of the revolution who attended Yale and see his statue.
3
The Owl is a historic spot in New Haven where many legendary actors have hung, you'll hear about those people and it's history.
4
It's said that Louis Lunch invented the Hamburger back in the 1800's, and today it's tradition and stories run deep in New Haven. You'll hear it's history, stories, and their motto for Yale students.
5
Stop 5
The tour tells the story of the art gallery and it's free to enter. Here you can see many famous artworks including Van Gogh’s Night Cafe and Edward Hopper’s Rooms by the Sea - two of the most recognizable paintings in the world.
6
Secret Societies? Yale has plenty! The most famous being that of the Skill and Bones, the secret societies of the powerful including the Bush family. Hear the stories of their founding, past and the tale the Geronimo's skull is inside.
7
The tour stops outside the historic building and you'll hear about the powerful that came from Yale, and how they grew wealthy beyond imagination. Some giving back.
8
Rock and Roll history! Hear the story of the spot the rockers played including U2, David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, Radiohead and Bob Dylan. it's historic.
9
Stop 9
This place is epic. See the oldest books in the world at one of the most advanced libraries, and it's free! We are talking Guttenberg press books. You'll hear the story of the books and the building.
10
The tour stops outside the Cemetery where you'll see the sign “The dead shall be raised” and hear about the history making people that are buried here.
What's not included
No food, drink or admission into buildings (Most are free), it's all outside.
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
21 reviews
5★
12
4★
5
3★
3
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.4
14 reviews
5★
8
4★
4
3★
2
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The tour starts at the corner of Elm and College in front of the Battell Chapel and across from the New Haven Green. You will hear about the chapel, the Green and how Yale was named after Elihu Yale.
Important notes
This is a tiny company, just me (Hi I’m Greg!), and I’m here to help :). If you have questions text 617-991-3269. A copy of your ticket is below.
HOW TO TAKE YOUR TOUR
*Do not purchase the tour in the WalknTours app. Use Code 'louis2780'.
*If you purchased more than one ticket make sure each user registers a unique account and email address. You will use the same experience code 'louis2780'
*It's recommended to use headphones
Follow the steps below to take the tour
Step 1: Download the WalknTours app on iPhone or Android.
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/walkntours/id1457662600
Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.app.walkntours
Step 2: Register an Account or Login
Step 3: Open the Tour
Select New Haven as your city
Select the The Historic Yale Walking Tour and click it.
Click "Enter Experience Code"
Enter the Experience Code 'louis2780'
Click apply
To take the Tour:
Go to sidewalk outside of the corner of Elm and College street in New Haven, CT.
Open the tour in the app and click the play button. From there you can put your phone in your pocket and follow your guides instructions.
Have questions? Email us info@walkntours.com or text 617-991-3269.
About New Haven
New Haven is a vibrant city in southern Connecticut, renowned for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and as the home of Yale University. The city offers a unique blend of colonial architecture, diverse dining, and a thriving arts scene, making it an appealing destination for both cultural enthusiasts and history buffs.
Top Attractions
Yale University
Founded in 1701, Yale University is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, featuring stunning architecture and historic landmarks.
Historical/Educational
2-4 hours
Free for most museums, some special exhibitions may have fees
Yale Center for British Art
This museum houses one of the most impressive collections of British art outside the UK, spanning from the medieval period to the present.
Museum/Art
1-2 hours
Free
East Rock Park
A beautiful urban park offering hiking trails, scenic views, and a historic tower at its summit.
Nature/Park
1-3 hours
Free
Peabody Museum of Natural History
Part of Yale University, this museum features extensive exhibits on natural history, including dinosaur fossils and cultural artifacts.
Museum/Natural History
2-3 hours
Free for Yale students, $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for children
Woody's Beach Club
A popular beach club and nightlife spot on the shores of Lake Wooster, featuring live music, DJs, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Entertainment/Nightlife
Evening
Cover charge varies by event, typically $10-$20
Must-Try Local Dishes
Apizza
A thin, crispy pizza with a distinctive charcoal-grilled flavor, topped with simple ingredients like tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings.
Main Course
Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request.
New Haven-Style Clam Chowder
A creamy, hearty chowder made with fresh clams, potatoes, and herbs, often served with oyster crackers.
Soup
Contains dairy and seafood.
Hot! Hot! Hot! Sauce
A spicy, vinegar-based hot sauce made with hot peppers, vinegar, and spices, often served with seafood dishes.
Condiment
Vegetarian, but contains capsaicin which can be very spicy.
Popular Activities
Hiking in East Rock Park
Kayaking on the Quinnipiac River
Picnicking in Wooster Square Park
Shopping on Chapel Street
Visiting the Yale Art Gallery
Attending a performance at the Shubert Theater
Swimming at Hammonasset Beach State Park
Ice skating at the New Haven Green
Best Time to Visit
September to November
This period offers pleasant weather, fall foliage, and fewer crowds compared to summer. It's ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
10°C to 25°C
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-5 (Eastern Time Zone)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
New Haven is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps
Getting there
By air
- Tweed New Haven Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center
- Bradley International Airport • 135 km (84 miles) from city center
By train
New Haven Union Station
By bus
New Haven Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
CT Transit operates several bus routes throughout New Haven, providing affordable and convenient transportation.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Wooster Square
East Rock
Westville
Day trips
Mystic Seaport Museum
64 km (40 miles) • Half day to full day
A renowned maritime museum featuring a recreated 19th-century coastal village, historic ships, and exhibits on New England's seafaring history.
Hammonasset Beach State Park
32 km (20 miles) • Half day to full day
Connecticut's largest shoreline park, featuring a beautiful beach, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
Mystic Aquarium
64 km (40 miles) • Half day
A popular aquarium featuring a variety of marine life, including beluga whales, penguins, and sea lions.
Festivals
International Festival of Arts & Ideas • June
New Haven Jazz Festival • August
Wooster Square Halloween Parade • October 31
Pro tips
- Try New Haven-style apizza at Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana or Sally's Apizza for an authentic local experience
- Explore the historic neighborhoods of New Haven, such as Wooster Square and East Rock, for a glimpse into the city's past
- Visit the Yale University campus to see stunning architecture and historic landmarks, such as the Yale Art Gallery and the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History
- Attend a performance at the Shubert Theater or the Yale Repertory Theatre for a taste of New Haven's thriving arts scene
- Take a day trip to Mystic Seaport Museum or Hammonasset Beach State Park for a change of pace and a chance to explore the natural beauty of Connecticut
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
