Lower East Side Food and Neighborhood Tour

New York City , United States of America

Lower East Side Food and Neighborhood Tour

Active

(69 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Lower East Side is the ultimate immigrant neighborhood. A popular place for newly arrived immigrants to New York going back to the 1840's, the Lower East Side has seen large immigrant populations from Germany, Italy, Eastern Europe, the Caribbean and Asia. Join us for a walk through history as you learn why immigrants gathered in this area and why they left. Sample food from famous eateries in the area and see landmarks that tell the story of this unique neighborhood. This tour is perfect for food and history lovers of all ages!

Available options

Lower East Side Food and Neighborhood Tour

What's included

Local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

2 hour walking tour of the Lower East Side

Stop 2 Pass by

Eldridge Steet Synagogue

Pickles

Stop 4

Bialys and bagels

Stop 5

A settlement house that helped shape the neighborhood

The most famous candy shop in Lower Manhattan

Stop 7

A former Synagogue and current art space

Stop 8

New York's most famous deli

Stop 9

A Lower East Side staple

Stop 10

New York's Most Historic Market

What's not included

Entrance to the Eldridge Street Synagogue Museum

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Transportation to/from attractions

Audio Guide ( that translates the tour)

Gratuities

Entrance to the Tenement Museum

Food not included

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.1

7 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

62 reviews

5★

4★

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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

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Operates rain and shine; please dress accordingly

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the tour's designated start time. The tour departs promptly and no refunds will be given for guests who miss the tour due to being late

If canceled because of dangerous weather, you will be given the option of an alternative tour date or full refund

Involves a good amount of walking

Food vendors are not guaranteed

Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough guests to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

We reserve the right to deviate from the route of the tour in the event of marches, parades, and circumstances beyond our control.

Once the tour begins, if you make the decision to not follow the guide or their instructions, we cannot guarantee we can reunite you with the group.

Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult at least 21 years of age.

Food is not included. We suggest bringing $20-$30 cash per person.

Meeting point

The tour meets in front of the Eldridge Street Synagogue at 12 Eldridge Street. The guide will be outside, so do not enter the building. Our guide will be there to greet you 15 minutes before the tour, which begins promptly at 1:00pm.

Important notes

Check in Time: 12:45pm
Tour Begins Promptly At: 1:00pm
Meeting Location: Eldridge Street Synagogue (12 Eldridge Street, NY, NY)
Length of Tour: Approximately 2 hours
There will be an opportunity to purchase snacks and drinks while on the tour, we recommend that you bring at least $20.00-$30.00 in cash (not all vendors accept credit cards) if you would like to participate in tasting through the neighborhood by having optional treats.
How will I find the guide?
Our TopDogTour Guide will be at the meeting location above 15 minutes prior to the start of the tour. They will be holding a *white flag with a blue checkered border with our logo in the center* to identify themself.
Where does the tour end?
Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery (137 E Houston St.)
Gratuity is not included, but it is always appreciated and never expected.
Are there restrooms?**
Restroom availability or handicap accessibility is limited during the tour are not guaranteed to be available.
What if I’m running late or get separated from the group?
All of our tours start promptly on time. Due to the nature of the tour, if you are late, we will not be able to catch you up with the group once the tour has left the starting point. If you make the decision to not follow the guide or their instructions, we can not guarantee we can reunite you with your group. The office does not have the ability to contact tour guides for their specific location once the tour has started.
Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult over 21.
TopDogTours** reserves the right to deviate from the route of the tour in the event of marches, parades, protests, and circumstances beyond our control. Guests who bring alcohol or drugs to our tours or appear to be intoxicated will be asked to leave the group and will not receive a refund. TopDogTours reserves the right to refuse service for any reason.

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