New York City , United States of America

New York City Self-Guided Walking Tour

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(2 reviews)

1h - 2h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is a self-guided audio tour created by Emmy-nominated writers and Emmy-winning sound designers.

Meet your daily step goal while you take in stories about New York’s iconic sights, history, architecture, and pop culture.

The best part is, it’s self-guided. You can take as much—or as little—time as you’d like. When you buy a ticket, you’ll download an app onto your phone. It works with both Android and iPhone. Once you download the tour, all you have to do is head to the starting tour stop!

Available options

New York City Self-Guided Walking Tour

What's included

Audio self guided walking tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Learn the history of one of New York's most iconic hotels—which has hosted royalty, pop stars, and presidents.

Stop 2

Check out the Friends fountain at Central Park. If you want, you can take a detour here and spend a few minutes exploring the park before continuing the tour.

Stop 3

St. Patrick's is the largest Gothic cathedral in North America. Learn about its design, the Irish priest who built it, and more. Plus, you can even venture into the church and explore the sanctuary.

Stop 4

You'll learn all about the inception of Saks Fifth Avenue—and the city's history of millionaire elite that this iconic department store catered to.

Stop 5

Explore Rockefeller Center's many buildings and numerous art deco works and parks. Plus, you'll see the famous "skating rink" which is under Rockefeller's famous yearly Christmas tree.

Stop 6

You'll hear all about Radio City Music Hall's history and pop-culture influence—from hosting the Oscars and NFL Draft to the beginnings of the hall's famous dancers—the Rockettes.

Stop 7

New York Public Library has been featured in many films for its beautiful exterior and interior. You'll learn about the famous lions out front, the US President that opened it, and much more. You can also venture inside the library during business hours for a peak at its beautiful rooms. Entry is free to the public—just remember to be quiet :)

Stop 8

Relax in one of the city's most beloved and picturesque green space—Bryant Park. You'll recognize it from many TV shows and movies. And, you'll hear a bit about its history and about its free concerts and movie-viewing events.

Stop 9

You'll have the chance to photograph and learn about the orginial Tiffany's headquarters—a famous, beautiful building that mimics a famous Italian building.

Stop 10

Macy's at Herald Square is THE Macy's. The one in the Macy's Day Parade and all those holiday films. It's a gorgeous exterior and interior. You'll learn all about Macy's founder and you should absolutely check out the inside—especially if its the holiday season.

Stop 11

Times Square is probably most famous for the New Year's "ball drop." You'll see the ball—and you'll hear stories of the folks that founded this famous square.

What's not included

Admission Fee to view Rockefeller center Top of the Rock 360 view $38

Admission Fee to view Empire State Building 86th Floor 360 view $42

Admission Fee to view Radio City Music Hall The Rockettes starting at $49

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 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

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Upon booking this tour, you’ll receive login credentials from us. So please check your email and don’t forget to check spam!

Meeting point

Meet your daily step goal while you take in stories about New York’s iconic sights, history, architecture, and pop culture.

Important notes

The best part is, it’s self-guided. You can take as much—or as little—time as you’d like. When you buy a ticket, you’ll download an app onto your phone. It works with both Android and iPhone. Once you download the tour, all you have to do is head to the starting tour stop!

From there, the audio will automatically play as you approach each destination. The route is a simple stroll mostly along 5th Avenue—but if you get lost, there’s a Map feature in the app that works just like or Apple Maps.

Once you book the tour, you'll receive an email from our team with login credentials and instructions for downloading the app. Don't worry -- it's a very quick process with just a few, simple steps.

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