Historical Cat Tales Walking Tour Financial District
Active
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
Discover Wall Street's secret cat guardians on this one-of-a-kind, two-hour walking tour through Lower Manhattan. Learn how cats protected America’s financial center in the 1800s and early 1900s, from safeguarding documents in the Equitable Building to patrolling the halls of the General Post Office, where more than 60 “postal cats” were once on the federal payroll.
You’ll hear the tale of the Mutilator, the fierce defender of the newspaper presses, and the compassionate cat who comforted prisoners in the notorious Tombs jail. As you walk 1.5 miles through the city’s historic streets, you’ll uncover forgotten feline legends at some of New York’s most iconic landmarks—perfect for history buffs and cat lovers alike.
Well-behaved cat companions (in carriers or harnesses) are welcome to join, retracing the same paths their ancestors once roamed.
Available options
Historical Cat Tales Walking Tour Financial District
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Our meeting point features Mark di Suvero's vibrant red 70-foot sculpture. Here you'll be introduced to the feline history of the Financial District and learn about the outdoor cats who once roamed these streets during Wall Street's early days.
2
Stop 2
This iconic skyscraper was once home to a team of working cats who protected valuable documents and equipment from rodents. Discover how these feline employees became an essential part of this historic building's operations.
3
Stop 3
Stand at the location of the historic Mullet Post Office where over 60 "postal cats" were officially employed by the federal government in the early 1900s. Learn about George Cook, the Superintendent of Federal Cats, who managed this feline workforce that protected valuable mail from rats attracted to envelope glue. These hardworking cats operated on a "two-platoon system" to ensure 24-hour protection of the mail.
4
Stop 4
Stand where the famous showman once displayed his "cherry-colored cat" attraction, and hear the amusing tale of feline trickery that delighted (and fooled) thousands of 19th-century visitors.
5
Discover the political felines Snooky and Tammany who became beloved mascots and legendary figures in NYC government. Their stories reveal how cats influenced even the highest offices in the city.
6
Stop 6
Explore the tale of Mutilator, the famously fierce office cat who protected the printing presses and became a celebrated character among journalists of the era.
7
Stop 7
Our final stop reveals the heartwarming story of a compassionate cat who brought comfort to prisoners in the notorious Tombs jail, demonstrating how felines provided connection and humanity in even the darkest places.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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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
Meeting point
Joie de Vivre sculpture by Mark di Suvero in Zuccotti Park, New York, NY 10006 (specific meeting instructions provided upon booking) but you'll spot your guide holding up a sign saying "Cats About Town Tours"
Important notes
Look for your guide under the Joie de Vivre sculpture (the big red metal structure) at Zuccotti Park holding a "Cats About Town" sign. Cat companions welcome (in carriers/harnesses) to experience the paths where their ancestors once served as Wall Street's unsung heroes.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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