Flatiron Gilded Age Walking Tour: Architecture, Scandals, & Food
Active
2h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the rich history of NYC’s Flatiron District on this top-rated, two-hour walking tour led by a licensed local guide. Visit historic sites, including the Flatiron Building, original Madison Square Garden, MetLife Tower, and locations tied to the Gilded Age, 9/11, Nikola Tesla, and Lincoln’s assassination. Hear stories about figures like Cornelius Vanderbilt, P.T. Barnum, and Edith Wharton, brought to life with archival photos. The route is short and comfortable, with spots to sit and relax. Ideal for history lovers and architecture buffs, this immersive experience blends engaging storytelling, rare visuals, and iconic landmarks. Operated by a top-rated small business, it’s a fun way to explore the city and support community-based tourism.
See our options and choose what fits for you!
Available options
Hotel Pick Up & Photo Album
Hotel Pick Up: Includes pick up at guests' hotel and an escort by your guide via walk or subway to Madison Square Park for the tour.<br/>Additional Historical Sites: Includes visits to additional historic sites not featured on the Flatiron tour.<br/>Duration: 3 hours<br/>Personalized Photo Album: Includes at least five photos of you and your guests on the tour and historic photos from the tour in a digital album.
Walking Tour + Italian Market
With Italian Market Food Tour: This option include a tour of an Italian marketplace at the end of the tour and an opportunity to eat delicious food. <br/>Duration: 3 hours
Flatiron District Historic Walking Tour
All Inclusive Package
Italian Market Place Tour : Tour to Italian marketplace at the end of the tour. Food and drinks not included. <br/>Duration: 4 hours<br/>Hotel Pick Up & Photo Album : Hotel Pickup in Manhattan+ Photo Album 5 Pictures+ 2 Special Stops
What's included
This walking tour includes visits to historic locations in the Flatiron District.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your tour begins at one of NYC’s most iconic architectural landmarks, where you’ll learn how this groundbreaking structure became a symbol of New York itself.
2
Stop 2
Uncover the life of New York’s former Governor and U.S. Secretary of State—best known for "Seward’s Folly" and his role in the aftermath of the Lincoln assassination.
3
Discover the story behind the second-oldest monument in New York City and its often-overlooked significance.
4
Stop 4
Step into the intrigue of the Gilded Age with stories of scandal, America’s first supermodel, and the infamous “Murder of the Century” as shown on the Gilded Lady mural.
5
Stop 5
Hear the powerful story of NYPD officer Moira Smith, a true hero of September 11th, and reflect at this moving tribute.
6
Stop 6
Learn how Henry Bergh founded the nation’s first animal protection organization and changed the way we view animal welfare forever as you visit a 19th century ASPCA building.
7
Stop 7
Explore the layered history of the New York Life Insurance Building site—from the original Roman Hippodrome and P.T. Barnum’s circus to the original Madison Square Garden.
8
Stop 8
Peek into the lives of the Jerome family and their surprising connections to American history, including ties to Winston Churchill at the site of the Jerome Mansion.
9
Stop 9
Visit a haunting memorial modeled after the gas chambers at Auschwitz and discover why it was placed on one of NYC’s most ornate court buildings.
10
Stop 10
Step inside the world of high justice and learn what really goes on behind the doors of this historic judicial building.
11
Gaze up at America’s largest exterior clock and hear how the Great Depression altered the course of this once-grand skyscraper.
12
Wrap up your journey with a look back at the luxurious Fifth Avenue Hotel and the origins of Madison Square Park.
13
Stop 13
Guests can choose between the two-hour Historical Walking Tour ($39) or upgrade to the Tour + Italian Marketplace experience ($19), which includes a visit to a world-renowned Italian marketplace known for its culinary treasures—from handmade pasta and fresh cannolis to unforgettable pizza. After the tour, you’ll have time to explore, shop, or enjoy a delicious meal at your leisure. Please note: food and drinks are not included in the upgrade price.
What's not included
Gratuities
Food and drink are not included in the ticket price.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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
Please meet your guide in front of Jemmy's Dog Run, located on the west side inside Madison Square Park. Look for the guide with an Epic Walking Tours flag for easy identification.
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
Instant confirmation
