Skid Row & Flop Houses to Glamour & Hidden Gems: The Bowery Walk

New York City , United States of America

Skid Row & Flop Houses to Glamour & Hidden Gems: The Bowery Walk

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About this experience

Walk one of New York’s oldest streets. See how it evolved from a Dutch footpath to a cultural landmark filled with community gardens, historic theaters, and the birthplace of punk at CBGB. This eye opening experience changes everything you might have heard about New York’s iconic Bowery. This tour takes you through a 1.5-mile stretch filled with stories of theaters, grand bank buildings, and flophouses. Discover how this major thoroughfare, once a Native American trail, became a hub of wild fun and cultural significance.

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Skid Row & Flop Houses to Glamour & Hidden Gems: The Bowery Walk

What's included

Guided Walking Tour

Detailed itinerary

This mile-long stretch in Lower Manhattan was home to the city's original performing arts scene. From vaudeville to punk rock, the Bowery has played host to New York's edgiest acts.

The former New London Theatre. See a new Museum that only display works of living artists.

There are over 450 community gardens in NYC – this is the first one that established these gardens in community throughout the city.

Stop 4

“Punk Rock” was born in the Bowery. Visit the site where it all started.

Many famous people gave speeches here including Abraham Lincoln and President Obama. Learn about the locomotive “Tiny Tim”.

Stop 6

This is the beginning of Chinatown and the Bowery. It’s the home to Tattooing and has important statues in the park.

Stop 7

The oldest brick house in Manhattan which dates back to the late 18th century. It’s currently being restored

Stop 8

This was a 3,000-seat theater with an elaborate stage. It was where “blackface” started.

Stop 9

This mission is over 130 years old and has been serving the community for years. It has a kitchen, housing quarters, and a place to pray.

Stop 10

This is the site of the oldest running hotel in NYC

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Meet at the benches in Chatham Square Park which is the intersection of Park Row, Mott Street and the Bowery. Your guide will be holding a sign.

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