NYC Private Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, 100% Personalized

New York City , United States of America

NYC Private Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, 100% Personalized

Active

(43 reviews)

3h - 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

New York is a city of infinite possibilities—and we help you experience it your way. From Brooklyn brownstones to Harlem soul, downtown dives to Fifth Avenue icons, your host will create a route based on your unique interests. No crowds, no generic stops—just real stories, meaningful moments, and local perspective.

Within 24 hours of booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire so we can match you with a like-minded host. They’ll reach out to plan your itinerary and agree on a meeting location that works best for you. This experience is entirely flexible, with room for spontaneity and surprise around every corner.

Available options

NYC Walking Tour - 3hrs

Duration: 3 hours

NYC Walking Tour - 6hrs

Duration: 6 hours

NYC Walking Tour - 8hrs

Duration: 8 hours

NYC Walking Tour - 4hrs

Duration: 4 hours

What's included

Direct communication with your host for itinerary planning and local recommendations.

Flexible durations and start times—choose your preferred time when booking

Pre-tour questionnaire to tailor the experience to your preferences

Private and personalized walking experience with insider tips from a passionate local

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

See NYC through the eyes of someone who lives it. This is not a scripted route—it’s a flexible, immersive experience designed around your interests. After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire so your host can build a bespoke itinerary for your day. Whether you're into food, history, art, or architecture, here are a few stops you might explore:

Stop 2 Pass by

Stroll tree-lined streets and sample classic New York eats—from warm cookies and bagels with lox to pastrami sandwiches and fresh cannoli. Your host will share stories of immigrant heritage and the counterculture roots of this iconic neighborhood.

Stop 3 Pass by

Explore this creative hub filled with street art, thrift shops, and indie galleries. Sip coffee on a barge with skyline views, discover a local flea market, or wander through converted warehouses bursting with character.

Stop 4 Pass by

Dive into soul food spots, gospel culture, and historic venues. Your host can introduce you to the cultural legacy of the Harlem Renaissance and show you where locals really eat and hang out.

Stop 5 Pass by

Walk this iconic span and admire skyline views, whether by day or beneath the city lights. It’s a favorite detour for photos, storytelling, and connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn.

Stop 6 Pass by

For art lovers or curious travelers, venture uptown for rotating exhibitions and contemporary works celebrating African American, Caribbean, and Latinx voices.

What's not included

Food, drinks and tickets to any attractions

Transportation (primarily a walking experience, public transport may be used at an additional cost)

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

39 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

After booking, you'll receive a short questionnaire to share your interests, preferences, and must-sees. Your guide will personally reach out to craft a fully customized itinerary that suits your style—whether you love history, food, hidden gems, or cultural experiences.

This private tour is a walking experience. A private vehicle is not included.

Public transportation or local taxis may be used to transfer between sites. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with your host after your reservation is finalized.

Meeting point

Meet your host at the Washington Square Arch. After booking, you can adjust the meeting point to fit your preferences with the help of our Experience Planners.

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