NYC Private Custom Tour by a Local Guide, off-the-beaten-path

New York City , United States of America

NYC Private Custom Tour by a Local Guide, off-the-beaten-path

Active

(4 reviews)

2h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We can’t think of a better way to really get familiar with NY than with a Local by your side! Focusing on a neighbourhood of your choice, discover loved by locals places and get an insight into what life is like for New Yorkers. You’ll see the most famous attractions in the area, but we’ll show you a few hidden gems on the way too! Your route will be fully personalised to what you want to see, and of course include a few spots to stop and refuel with a coffee, a craft beer or some street food.

Our handpicked hosts are culinary connoisseurs and history buffs, bakers and bankers, students and seniors. Like the people who travel with us, they have different backgrounds and interests – but they’re all so passionate about the place they call home, they choose to spend their free time sharing it with the like-minded travelers matched to them.

Your meeting place and time as well as your itinerary are flexible, so you can plan and experience with your host to meet your needs.

Available options

NYC hidden gems 6 hrs

Duration: 6 hours

NYC hidden gems 2hrs

Duration: 2 hours

NYC hidden gems 8 hrs

Duration: 8 hours

NYC hidden gems 4 hrs

Duration: 4 hours<br/>Explore New York with a Local: Half Day exploring with a Local Host

What's included

Walking experience (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options)

Private and personalised experience

Choose from 2, 4, 6 or 8 hours - Pick your preferred duration when you book

Pick-up from your accommodation (within a reasonable distance)

Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

With five diverse boroughs to explore, it would be impossible to discover all of New York in half a day - so with limited time, what is it that you’d enjoy the most?
You might like to experience Manhattan and could start off at Central Park.

Stop 2 Pass by

To discover a particular local neighbourhood or specific area of New York City, there’s no better experience. With a like-minded Local host by your side who shares your passions, you’ll be able to experience not only the main tourist attractions but uncover a few hidden spots that your Local host will hand pick for you.
Passing this Historic Landmark might be exactly what you are looking for.

Stop 3 Pass by

Stop for a quick bite or coffee break at one of the local’s favourite cafés or street food markets, a hand-picked place that suits your preferences, budget and dietary requirements; and pop into any shops, galleries or places of interest that you stumble across on the way.
Madison Square Park is a good spot to enjoy this.

Stop 4 Pass by

Get to know your Local host, who will give you recommendations for the rest of your trip so you can continue to eat, drink and see the city like a local; as well as sharing some practical insider tips for how to avoid the tourist traps!

Stop 5 Pass by

You could end off your experience at this famous site which changed the world as we know it.
We’ll be in touch within 24 hours after booking to find out more about your personalities and interests so we can assign a like-minded Local who can create a bespoke experience for you. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience you can always change your mind about what you want to do.
Your Local host may also suggest adjustments or new routes if they feel that there is something just around the corner that you may enjoy, or perhaps if the weather affects your itinerary.
Your Local host will also help you to discover the places, things and stories that you won’t find in a guidebook and that make the city unique.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Tickets to any attractions

Transportation costs

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

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

When booking, please provide the following:

your accommodation name and address

your preferred meeting time

any special requests you may have

Meeting point

The meeting point is at the Starbucks.

Upon booking your meeting point can be arranged (e.g. your hotel/accommodation), however this MUST be confirmed and agreed by the experience planners in advance.

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

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