The best historical tours in New York City cut straight to the heart of America’s most dynamic city. Standout experiences include the expertly guided American Museum of Natural History tours, which give visitors special access to exhibits and behind-the-scenes areas. Revolutionary War buffs will appreciate walking tours covering Hamilton and Washington’s New York, complete with stops at authentic 18th-century locations. The gritty history of the Bowery, Harlem’s jazz-age stories, and TriBeCa’s architectural evolution offer fascinating glimpses into the city’s varied past. These tours, led by enthusiastic local experts, provide excellent value and bring history to life with engaging stories and little-known facts. Let’s explore the top historical tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- New York City offers a variety of historically-focused walking tours, including explorations of Old New York, the Revolutionary War era, the Gilded Age, and Prohibition-era speakeasies.
- Many tours feature interactive elements, captivating storytelling, and knowledgeable, licensed guides to provide unique perspectives on the city’s rich cultural heritage.
- Exclusive and guided tours allow participants to skip lines and gain in-depth insights, often with high overall ratings and traveler recommendation rates.
- Tour durations range from 2 to 3 hours, catering to various budgets and accessibility needs, with small group sizes for personalized attention.
- Visitors can choose from a diverse selection of thematic tours, such as the Harlem Renaissance, rock and roll history, and organized crime in Little Italy.
American Museum of Natural History – Exclusive Guided Tour
The American Museum of Natural History’s Exclusive Guided Tour offers visitors an immersive and personalized experience. This 2.5-hour tour allows a maximum of 8 people, ensuring an intimate and engaging exploration of the museum’s diverse exhibits.
Guests can skip the lines and enjoy the insights of a knowledgeable guide, who brings the stories to life through their passion and ability to connect with visitors of all ages.
With wheelchair and stroller accessibility, and a moderate fitness level required, the tour caters to a wide range of guests.
While occasional closures or delays may occur, the overall 5.0 rating and 99% recommendation from travelers suggest an exceptional experience.
Read our full review: American Museum of Natural History – Exclusive Guided Tour Review
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The History of Old New York
On the Old New York Walking Tour, participants explore the captivating history of the city from its origins as a Dutch trading post to the bustling metropolis it has become.
Over the course of two hours, a live guide takes visitors through the historic sites, including the former location of the first federal hall and the impact of the Revolutionary War on NYC.
Along the way, they’ll learn about key figures like Washington, Hamilton, and Jefferson, and how early New York shaped modern American society.
The tour provides an engaging and informative way to explore the cultural significance of the city’s formative years.
Read our full review: The History of Old New York Review
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New York City Historic Walking Tour of Hamilton and Washington
Enjoy the captivating history of Alexander Hamilton and George Washington on the New York City Historic Walking Tour.
This 5-star rated, 2-hour excursion explores the Lower Manhattan sites that shaped the lives of these iconic American figures.
Led by a licensed NYC tour guide, you’ll learn about pivotal moments like the first reading of the Declaration of Independence and Washington’s inauguration.
Stroll the streets referenced in the hit musical “Hamilton” and gain a deeper understanding of the nation’s founding.
With a maximum of 16 participants, you’ll enjoy personalized attention.
At just $49.95 per person, this highly-recommended tour offers an excellent value for history buffs and casual visitors alike.
Read our full review: New York City Historic Walking Tour of Hamilton and Washington Review
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The History and Secrets of the Bowery
Tracing its origins to a Native American footpath, the Bowery in New York City has evolved over the centuries into a street steeped in a captivating and complex history.
From its architectural diversity to its reputation for wild fun, the Bowery has witnessed significant events, including Washington’s recruitment of men to fight and the opening of P.T. Barnum’s first site.
Today, the Bowery still houses the Bowery Mission and the former sites of iconic venues like the Amato Opera House and CBGB.
Visitors can enjoy the Bowery’s cultural evolution, exploring the origins of theater and the historical significance of flop houses on this guided tour.
Read our full review: The History and Secrets of the Bowery Review
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Christmas in New York: Private Holiday History Tour
Embarking on this private holiday history tour allows visitors to uncover the captivating traditions and little-known stories that make Christmas in New York City truly magical.
Rated 5.0 out of 105 reviews, the two-hour walking tour takes guests on a leisurely exploration of the city’s most iconic holiday landmarks.
Led by expert local guides, the tour features a wheelchair-accessible route and welcomes children 7 and under for free.
Travelers can expect an engaging blend of historical insights, personal anecdotes, and a fun festive atmosphere.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and prices starting at $165 per person, this tour offers an immersive and accessible way to experience the holiday spirit in the Big Apple.
Read our full review: Christmas in New York: Private Holiday History Tour Review
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Wall Street & Lower Manhattan, New York History Walking Tour
Discover the captivating history of Wall Street and Lower Manhattan on this immersive walking tour.
Explore the birthplace of America’s financial capital, visiting key landmarks like the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House, Charging Bull, and Federal Hall.
Learn about the Dutch colony’s transformation into a global financial hub and the events surrounding the American Revolution.
Stroll through the city’s oldest park and discover the Fraunces Tavern, where George Washington bade farewell to his troops.
Lasting 2 hours, this small-group tour offers a unique perspective on New York’s rich past, with an engaging guide and convenient meeting point in the Financial District.
Read our full review: Wall Street & Lower Manhattan, New York History Walking Tour Review
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Speakeasy Pub and Prohibition History Tour NYC
This lively Prohibition-themed walking tour takes guests on an immersive journey through New York City’s speakeasies and historic bars.
With a licensed local guide, the tour visits three iconic venues, providing free admission and preferred entry. Travelers can enjoy drinks and learn about the bootleggers and Gilded Age history that shaped the city’s nightlife.
The tour, which boasts a 91% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, is suitable for those 21 and older with valid ID.
While gratuity isn’t included, the experience offers excellent value for its informative and engaging content.
Moderate physical fitness is required, as the tour involves walking.
Read our full review: Speakeasy Pub and Prohibition History Tour NYC Review
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Rock and Roll History and Culture Walking Tour in New York
Enjoy New York City’s legendary rock and roll history and culture on this captivating 3-hour walking tour.
Explore iconic venues like CBGB, the birthplace of punk rock, and the Fillmore East, known as the “Church of Rock and Roll.”
Discover where music icons like Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix launched their careers.
Visit spots featured on classic album covers and learn about the cultural significance of Greenwich Village.
With a maximum group size of 6, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience.
Priced at just $36 per person, this tour offers great value and the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Read our full review: Rock and Roll History and Culture Walking Tour in New York Review
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Private Tour New York City in the Gilded Age: A History of High Society
Venture into the opulent world of New York City’s Gilded Age high society on this captivating private tour.
With 98 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this badge of excellence experience promises an immersive exploration of the era’s history, architecture, and notable families.
Led by expert licensed guides, the tour offers a personalized, engaging journey, complete with gratuities and flexible rescheduling options.
Highlights include insights into the tycoons and their lavish Fifth Avenue mansions, as well as adaptable pacing to suit the group’s needs.
Travelers praise the guides’ knowledge and the tour’s ability to illuminate familiar areas through a new historical lens.
Read our full review: Private Tour New York City in the Gilded Age: A History of High Society Review
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NYC: New York City History of Stand-Up Comedy Tour
Discover the captivating history of stand-up comedy in New York City on this engaging 75-minute walking tour.
Starting in Greenwich Village, the birthplace of modern stand-up, you’ll visit iconic venues like The Duplex, Cafe Wha, and The Comedy Cellar.
Along the way, a knowledgeable guide shares insights on famous comedians and the evolution of the art form from vaudeville to contemporary stand-up.
Highlights include complimentary entry to comedy shows and photo opportunities at notable sites.
With 5/5 reviews, this wheelchair-accessible tour offers fantastic value, making it a must for comedy enthusiasts visiting the Big Apple.
Secure your spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: NYC: New York City History of Stand-Up Comedy Tour Review
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The Speakeasy Adventure: A Tipsy Trip Through History
The Speakeasy Adventure: A Tipsy Trip Through History offers a captivating glimpse into New York City’s illicit past during the Prohibition era.
This acclaimed tour takes guests on a late afternoon journey through three historic bars in Midtown Manhattan, where they’ll learn about the city’s immigration, politics, and speakeasy culture.
With a knowledgeable, personable guide, visitors will enjoy complimentary drinks, preferred access, and engaging storytelling.
Though the dress code is upscale casual, the tour caters to a range of interests and fitness levels.
While some guests desire deeper insights into Prohibition, overall, the Speakeasy Adventure provides an enjoyable blend of history and socializing that’s highly recommended for those fascinated by New York’s vibrant past.
Read our full review: The Speakeasy Adventure: A Tipsy Trip Through History Review
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NYC: Night Out Prohibition History Bar and Speakeasy Tour
New York City’s Prohibition-era history comes alive on the immersive NYC Night Out Prohibition History Bar and Speakeasy Tour.
This 3-hour experience takes you to three iconic Midtown bars and speakeasies, where an expert guide shares captivating stories about the city’s immigrant past and the Roaring Twenties.
Participants receive preferred entry and can enjoy optional cocktails as they socialize with fellow history enthusiasts from around the world.
The tour covers approximately 1.5 miles and requires an upscale casual dress code.
With 4.6/5 overall ratings, this tour provides an engaging and informative glimpse into New York’s vibrant nightlife during the Prohibition era.
Read our full review: NYC: Night Out Prohibition History Bar and Speakeasy Tour Review
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Tribeca Architecture And History Walking Tour
Explore Tribeca’s storied past and architectural marvels on this engaging walking tour. The Tribeca Architecture And History Walking Tour delivers an immersive 2-hour experience, showcasing over 300 years of Manhattan history.
Knowledgeable guides, like the enthusiastic Meghan Sara, lead small groups of up to 15 travelers through landmark buildings and sites like the Ghostbusters Firehouse.
Along the way, you’ll learn about Tribeca’s transformation from farmland to celebrity enclave, while admiring its beautiful and expensive architecture.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with consistently high 5-star reviews praising its educational value and entertainment.
Whether you’re a visitor or local, this tour offers a captivating blend of history, architecture, and pop culture.
Read our full review: Tribeca Architecture And History Walking Tour Review
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Mafia History Walking Tour in Little Italy, New York City
Enjoy the captivating Mafia history of New York City’s Little Italy on this engaging 2-hour walking tour. Priced at just $27 per person, the tour takes you to key locations like the Ravenite Social Club and Umbertos Clam House, revealing the dark past of organized crime and its infamous figures.
Along the way, you’ll learn about the rise of Joe “The Boss” Masseria and Lucky Luciano’s impact on the underworld. With knowledgeable guides and the inclusion of historical photos and articles, this tour offers great value and an immersive experience.
Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes and arrive 10 minutes early at the meeting point.
Read our full review: Mafia History Walking Tour in Little Italy, New York City Review
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Lower Manhattan Secrets And History Walking Tour
Step back in time and uncover the captivating history of Lower Manhattan on this engaging 3-hour walking tour.
Covering landmarks like Battery Park, Wall Street, and Trinity Church, you’ll discover over 400 years of the city’s past.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy a classic New York pizza slice.
With a maximum group size of 15, you’ll receive personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, known for their extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling.
Accessible for wheelchair users and stroller-pushers, the tour is highly recommended, with a 100% satisfaction rate.
Flexible booking options and a free cancellation policy make this an easy choice for exploring Lower Manhattan’s secrets and history.
Read our full review: Lower Manhattan Secrets And History Walking Tour Review
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NYC: Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour
This fascinating 3-hour walking tour transports visitors back to the Prohibition era, exploring the historic bars and speakeasies of New York City.
Starting in Midtown Manhattan, the tour visits three venues with skip-the-line entry, where guests can learn about the origins, consequences, and demise of Prohibition while hearing stories of gangsters and bootleggers.
The experience also provides an immersive look into the Gilded Age and the immigrant journey.
While the tour doesn’t include drinks, participants can purchase beverages at the venues, with prices ranging from $10-25.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5, this tour is a must for those interested in New York City’s captivating past.
Read our full review: NYC: Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour Review
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Harlem Walking Tour: Mount Morris Park Historic District W/ Lunch
Stepping away from the captivating world of Prohibition-era speakeasies, the Harlem Walking Tour: Mount Morris Park Historic District w/ Lunch offers visitors a chance to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of one of New York City’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
Priced at $82 per person, this 3-hour tour guides participants through the historic Mount Morris Park area, providing in-depth insights from knowledgeable local guides like Doris.
Highlights include exploring the Harlem Renaissance, Civil Rights Movement, and sampling delectable “Soul Food” during an included lunch.
With a maximum group size of 30, the tour’s slower pace allows for personalized experiences tailored to each group’s interests.
Overwhelmingly positive reviews praise the tour’s engaging content and delicious cuisine.
Read our full review: Harlem Walking Tour: Mount Morris Park Historic District W/ Lunch Review
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TriBeCa Architecture & History Walking Tour
For those eager to explore the rich architectural and historical tapestry of TriBeCa, the TriBeCa Architecture & History Walking Tour offers a captivating 2.5-hour experience.
Priced at $40 per person, this guided tour delves into the neighborhood’s transformation from a 19th-century industrial hub to a modern, vibrant community.
Accompanied by a live guide, you will discover significant sites like the Ghostbusters Firehouse and the Staple Street sky bridge, while learning about TriBeCa’s role in the fight against slavery.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews praising the tour guide’s knowledge and engagement, this walking tour promises an insightful and immersive look into TriBeCa’s past and present.
Read our full review: TriBeCa Architecture & History Walking Tour Review
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Harlem Heritage Holiday Tour
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Harlem during the holiday season with the Harlem Heritage Holiday Tour. This guided afternoon tour takes you through the historic streets of Harlem, where you’ll learn about the neighborhood’s remarkable past.
Highlights include visiting landmark sites like the iconic Apollo Theater and enjoying a live Christmas concert featuring local R&B and gospel performers.
With a maximum group size of 30, this tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome.
Priced at $39 per person, it’s a great value, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Harlem Heritage Holiday Tour Review
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New York City: History of Lower Manhattan Walking Tour
Enjoy the rich history and iconic landmarks of Lower Manhattan on this captivating 3-hour walking tour.
Priced at €47.31 per person, this guided experience takes you on a journey through the city’s past, from the Brooklyn Bridge to the World Trade Center Memorial.
Explore hidden gems, uncover fascinating stories, and indulge in a slice of authentic New York-style pizza.
With a team of knowledgeable and engaging guides, you’ll discover the city’s iconic monuments and hidden gems.
The tour is wheelchair-accessible, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the heart of Manhattan’s history.
Read our full review: New York City: History of Lower Manhattan Walking Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens?
Many historical tour providers in New York City offer discounts for senior citizens, typically ranging from 10% to 20% off regular ticket prices. Seniors should inquire about these discounts when booking their tours to save money.
Can I Book Private Tours for a Larger Group?
Yes, many tour companies offer private tours for larger groups. Booking private tours allows for a more customized experience and the flexibility to accommodate the group’s specific needs. Some companies may provide discounts for larger group sizes.
What Is the Recommended Attire for the Walking Tours?
For walking tours, the recommended attire is comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. Layering is advised as temperatures can fluctuate, and bringing water is also recommended to stay hydrated during the tour.
Do the Tours Accommodate Guests With Mobility Issues?
The tours generally accommodate guests with mobility issues. Many offer wheelchair-accessible transportation and routes tailored to those with limited mobility. Visitors should inquire about accessibility when booking to ensure their needs can be met.
Are Food and Refreshments Included in the Tour Prices?
Food and refreshments are not typically included in the tour prices. However, some companies may offer optional add-ons or recommend nearby dining options to enhance the experience. It’s best to check with each tour operator for their specific inclusions.
The Sum Up
New York City is a treasure trove of historical sites and experiences. From the American Museum of Natural History to the Bowery, these tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich past. Whether you’re interested in Hamilton and Washington, or the architecture of TriBeCa, there’s a tour to suit every history buff. With a variety of options, visitors can explore the diverse neighborhoods and uncover the hidden stories that make New York City so captivating.