ny free tours by foot

• Destinations

Free tours in New York

• Tours in New York

Free Tours in New York City (NYC): Join New York Adventures

New York, often referred to as the "Empire State," is one of the most exciting metropolises in the world. The "Big Apple" is a global hub for finance, culture, entertainment, fashion, and more. You are truly lucky if you are planning to travel to this city! However, if you want to get the most out of your trip, we recommend booking our New York free walking tour. Our professional guides will do their best to make your visit unforgettable by revealing hidden gems and local secrets only the true New Yorkers know. 

Discover the Magic of New York City: Free Tours for Every Traveler

If you want to see as many places as possible within a couple of hours, you must go to our website and book your free NYC walking tours. Whether you are looking for culinary adventures or wish to explore the most exciting places in the city, we got you covered. Let’s highlight the three most popular NYC walking tours with the highest user rating.

Metropolitan Museum of Art in-App Audio Tour & Manhattan Walk

You can’t be in New York and not see the Met's richest art collection. It’s the world's foremost art museum with a fantastic collection from different epochs. We’ll begin our tour with the Egyptian Art galleries, see the Medieval and Byzantine art collection, and finish it by visiting the block down Fifth Avenue. 

New York Public Library in-App Audio Tour: Exploring the Iconic Site

The New York Public Library is a fantastic place with a treasury of 2.5 million volumes and artifacts. The tour starts outside so that you can enjoy incredible architecture, famous lions, and incredible sculptures. During the tour, you will also visit Bryant Park. It all lasts only 1.30 hours, but you’ll learn many interesting facts about this place!

Secrets & Flavors of China Town & Litle Italy in NYC

If you want to see the impressive Soho Square and experience the vibes of China Town, you should totally opt for this tour. The tour begins at the iconic Dominique Ansel Bakery; we will then move to SOHO and a local square park. We’ll also pop into the Ferrara Cafe in Little Italy, where you’ll taste Italian food. Join us on this cultural adventure and have a time of your life!

Besides relaxing and informative walking excursions, we also offer bus tours allowing you to explore distant locations within a few hours. When booking one, you’ll visit various places, from Boston and Niagara Falls to Philadelphia and Amish Village. The duration of these tours varies from 5 to 10 hours. However, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy them!

Explore Iconic Landmarks: Free Tours of New York City's Must-See Sites 

Are you going to visit the heart of New York City? You will hardly find a better way to immerse yourself in the city's dynamic spirit than through our walking tours of New York. See the dazzling lights of Times Square, the grandeur of Central Park, and the historical significance of the Statue of Liberty - our friendly guides will show you the best historical landmarks. 

All our tours are led by seasoned guides, passionate about their work. With their captivating narratives and intriguing insights, you’ll undoubtedly remember this trip for years to come!  If you want to understand the soul of New York, it’s high time to book your tour online!

Embrace the Outdoors: Free Tours of New York City's Parks and Gardens

You know that New York is one of the biggest metropolises in the world. However, there’s a serene oasis of greenery and tranquility among the bustling streets and towering skyscrapers. With our New York walking tours, you will immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this metropolis. You will walk around the iconic Central Park and explore the High Line. Overall, with our guided tours, you will dive deeper into the horticultural marvels that thrive in unexpected corners. Our professional guides are well-versed in botany and history and are always ready to answer all your questions!

Uncover Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Free Tours in New York City

As you can see, many hidden gems are waiting to be discovered beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. With our off-the-beaten-path free tours, you will explore the city's lesser-known corners, local secrets, and authentic experiences. Moreover, you will dive into Harlem's vibrant neighborhoods, the artsy enclaves of Greenwich Village, or the cultural melting pot of Queens. 

All our guides are passionate locals ready to share everything they know about this fantastic city. Overall, if you really want to see Greenwich Street, Manhattan, Chinatown, Broadway, and other famous landmarks, book our free walking tours in New York City right away!

Practical Information: Tour Schedules, Meeting Points, and Booking Details

Our tours are free of charge; however, you must book them on our website in advance. If you do like the excursion, you are free to leave a tip. These tips go directly to our guides as a token of appreciation for their efforts in making your day in New York memorable.

Always check the meeting point in a tour description. All of them are strategically chosen for your convenience. Our guides will be waiting for you there to start the excursion. Tours are available in English, Spanish, and Russian.

Our New York walking tours typically last 2-4 hours, depending on which one you choose. So wear comfortable shoes and prepare your camera to capture unique options. 

Book Your Free Tour in New York City Today!

Are you ready to dive into the atmosphere of Broadway? Do you want to see the Brooklyn Bridge? Well, you’ve come to the right place. With our New York tours, you will explore this city's hidden gems and iconic landmarks. Our guides will do their best to create a friendly atmosphere allowing you to explore the city and immerse yourself in its vibe. It’s time to wave your worries goodbye and book your New York walking tour right away!

• Join Freetour
• Provider Sign In
• Affiliate Program
• Security & Privacy
• Terms & Legal
• Cookie policy
• Freetour Awards
• Ratings & Reviews powered by

More results...

Free Walking Tour New York

Learn the secrets of new york city through new yorkers, free  new york walking tour.

Ever curious about New York City's ascent as a pivotal financial, cultural, and political hub? Keen to understand the spirit of New Yorkers? Embark on an exploration of the city through its residents' perspective with our 2 hour long tour!

Our NYC Free Walking Tour unfolds New York's dynamic history and architectural splendor. We'll start our journey from the historical Fraunces Tavern - the place where it happened, and through historical facts and talking about the people that build America, cross a mosaic of famed landmarks and hidden jewels. Our guides, through interesting stories blend historical narratives with the city's contemporary pulse.

This is a pay-as-you-wish tour. When the tour ends you'll decide how much is the value and pay the guide. You will be able to get a unique perspective of how it truly is to love in the Big Apple.

To embark on this unique journey and uncover the soul of New York City, secure your spot on our NYC Free Walking Tour. Dive deep into the heart of the city's history, culture, and spirited life with those who know it best. Book now to experience New York like never before.

Pictures from our walks

Grand Central Station in NYC

One World Trade Center in NYC

Dumbo in NYC

Streets of New York

What visitors think about Free  New York Walking Tour?

Frequently asked questions about the tour

Why should i take a free walking tour in new york, how do the free walking tours work in new york city, how much should i pay for a free tour in new york city, do free tour guides in new york city have an official license, are the free walking tours in new york available in spanish, get inspired by the free tour community blog.

6 Off The Beaten Path Things to do in New Orleans

When you visit a city do you like to stray at-least a little bit off the beaten path? Read this if you are planning to go to New Orleans.

San Antonio on a Budget: Money-saving hacks for seeing the best of the Alamo City.

San Antonio is the top tourist destination in Texas, but these money-saving hacks will have you navigating the downtown area like a local!

Annapolis - The Best Things to Do

Annapolis is one of the oldest cities in America, but after checking the historical sights, what else is there to do?

Want to know more about our tours?

Walking Tours

Privacy overview.

Free Tours by Foot

Review Highlights

“ I did 3 tours - Lower Manhattan, Greenwich Village Food Tour & Harlem Tour - and they all offered a unique experience. ” in 27 reviews

“ We took the Downtown Manhattan Tour with Onel and the Midtown Manhattan Tour with John (both in the same day). ” in 22 reviews

“ my family went on 2 tours and John Gallagher was our guide for both the holiday lights tour and the soho tour. ” in 18 reviews

Show more review highlights

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

112 Suffolk St

New York, NY 10002

Delancey St & Rivington St

Lower East Side

Serving New York Area

You Might Also Consider

0.7 miles away from Free Tours by Foot

Katie G. said "I am so excited to be writing this review. Over the past year, my family and I have accumulated 10 of these suitcases, in different sizes, and have traveled extensively with them (domestically and abroad). Due to poor handling by…" read more

in Travel Services, Luggage, Airlines

Foods of NY Tours

1.3 miles away from Free Tours by Foot

Mitchell L. said "Me and my girlfriend had 2 days in NYC and had a friend insist we did this tour. I was skeptical because I am from upstate New York and feel dumb doing "touristy" stuff in my own state. This tour blew me away. If it weren't for our…" read more

in Walking Tours, Historical Tours, Food Tours

Jack Harter Helicopters

Sonu N. said "My husband was very excited to go on a Doors Off helicopter tour, but I will admit I was scared of falling out. I ended up requesting sitting in the middle front seat between the pilot Steve and my husband. Our flight was somewhat…" read more

in Aerial Tours

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Is the Chinatown/little Italy tour interesting for Teenagers?

Hi Valerie. The answer depends, but I would say that there are lots of things to interest teenagers, especially in Chinatown. We have a self-guided tour of Chinatown that gives you a peek into what is covered on the tour.

Will be taking the Harlem 2hr walking tour with a school group of approx 15 participants. I would like to know what is the tipping policy? How much is the normal amount to tip? Let me add this we have already paid the group rate for this trip.

Hi Mike. Unfortunately, we do not permit groups of your size on our public tours. We could provide you with a private tour. You could get more information here http://www.freetoursbyfoot.com/new-york-tours/private-new-york-tour-guide/

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

667 reviews

Had the best walking tour with Craig starting in Wall Street ending at Chelsea Market. First it was a lovely day to walk 6 hours, that was very helpful. Craig herded us carefully and with gusto. Gave clear directions on maneuvering the subways, I felt like a pro. Most important of all, Craig's knowledge and love of his city, was infectious. I had lots of questions and learned even more. Thank you, and will most definitely recommend Free Tours by Foot to others.

Well this was super fun + a great way to see parts of NYC!! I came to the city for a short weekend with my family. We wanted to see and do some things we hadn't done on other trips. I have been following Free Tours by Foot for a couple of years and never been able to set up a tour. At the end of April 2024 we finally made it happen with TWO tours! I signed up for the tours online which is very convenient, and got all the notifications with the timing, detialed location and reminders the day before and on the day of the meeting which is super nice! The first was on the Greenwich Village Food Tour with Lori. Lori was an amazing guide. All through the tour she shared fascinating information about the history of Greenwich Village, the architecture of various homes and buildings, and pointing out locations that had been used in tv shows and movies. We stopped at 9 different locations and had some amazing food. Our stops were- * Bagel Pub- everything bagel w/bacon and scallion cream cheese, Janie's Life-Changing Baked Goods- taste tested 3 cookies, most cookies had pie crust in ingredients- how delicious!, Faicco's Rice Balls- delicious! Bleecker Street Pizza, Artichoke pizza, Mamoum's Falafel, Pommes Frites, Chocolate Shoppe, Molly's Cupcakes. Lori was an excellent guide- she gave great information about the city + took us to some great spots we never would have gone on our own. The second booked tour was Meatpacking District, Little Island & High Line with Ron. Ron was simply fantastic-all in one- he was knowledgeable, personable, engaging, humorous, and thoughtful! He was very enthusiastic and really good at storytelling. Ron was ready and eager to answer any and every question. had never visited this part of town and was thankful to have a guide to do so. The High Line was most certainly my favorite. I loved learning about all Ron had to share. You will get a bathroom break at Little Island. FREE TOURS BY FOOT is WORTH IT! I highly recommend using this company! Both tours were more than worth our while, and both tour guides- Lori and Ron should be tipped generously for their efforts - they were really just super! Highly, highly recommend this unique way to see the city.

I am so glad I found this tour company! We did the Brooklyn bridge/DUMBO walking tour with Onel - he was phenomenal! This tour was one of the highlights of our trip to NYC. I can't wait for my next trip to take another walking tour with this tour company. Onel is knowledgeable, personable, engaging, humorous, thoughtful and kept us on time! He knew exactly where to stop for photo ops and gave us plenty of time for them - I appreciated the scheduled bathroom break at clean bathrooms and the stop for drinks/snacks at the most perfect grocery store that I wish was in my neighborhood. The tour ended at lunchtime in the perfect location with several food options as well as close to both the ferry and trains for the return commute to Manhattan. I highly recommend this walking tour with Onel as your guide - you won't regret it!

See all photos from Tanya S. for Free Tours by Foot

Absolutely perfect and informative and very enjoyable tour. Tour guide was extremely knowledgeable. She used a portable microphone when it was noise, which was fantastic. Always clear. On this tour we saw some views of New York we never would have known about otherwise. Before even crossing the bridge, it was fascinating what we learned at City Hall and then the places we went to on the other side of the Brooklyn Bridge were amazing and interesting to learn about. I highly recommend this company and this tour. It is worth every dollar.

See all photos from Brent G. for Free Tours by Foot

My husband and I went to NYC for a long weekend in June and took the twilight Brooklyn (Sunday evening) & Financial District (Monday morning) tours. Both guides were super. They shared history, interesting facts, and took time to make a connection with each guest. We highly recommend Free Tours by Foot. And make sure you give them a generous tip - they deserve it.

We have taken several "Free Tours by Foot" and once again enjoyed ourselves so much withour tour of Harlem with the amazing Lady Altovise. She was dynamic, informative and showed us a side of Harlem we never knew about. Couldn't recommend this particular tour more highly. And she gave great food tips at the end and we had an amazing lunch.

Excellent 2.5 hour tour of Harlem, NYC. The female guide was super informative and knowledgeable and kept us about (20 ) moving and safe walking through the streets of Harlem. Booking was very easy to do. I paid a $6 holding fee to secure two spots. Email confirmation with location and timing details was sent in plenty of time . I was able to take the 2 subway from Brooklyn into Harlem, which took about 35 minutes. The cash tip was appreciated by our guide. Highly recommend this tour and others provided by this organization.

See all photos from Nicole B. for Free Tours by Foot

Amazing Soho, Little Italy and China Town tour! Jon made our stay at NY special and showed unique places in the NY downtown we've never been before. I signed up for tour online which is very convenient, and got all the notifications with the timing, location and reminders the day before and on the day of the meeting which is super nice! Jon is friendly and very funny! I'd say he was the best to walk us through the city providing interesting details about the places and movie locations. Definitely I recommend the tour, the tour guide and the experience!

While visiting New York this summer, we were lucky enough to take two food tours from Free Tours By Foot - New York City. The first was a tour of Chinatown and Little Italy. The food was spectacular, and the stops were thoughtfully selected by our tour guide, Kathleen, to incorporate both history and delicious food. Lucky for us, Kathleen is a big pizza fan, and she took us to her current favorite spot (which quickly became our current favorite pizza spot). If Kathleen recommends something to you, listen to the lady! The second was the Greenwich Village Food Tour with Lori. Like Kathleen, her walking tour incorporated both history and delicious food, including some of her personal favorites. Both tours were EXCELLENT. Both tour guides were extremely knowledgeable, personable, and offered terrific insights. Both tours were more than worth our while, and both tour guides should be tipped generously for their efforts - they were really just super! Highly, highly recommend.

We've taken these tours in many places, New Orleans, Chicago, and now our home town, NYC. We had a teen grandkid visiting and we booked the tour of Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown with Mary. This is a huge undertaking, because even though these neighborhoods abut each other, they are so full of history and architecture and stories! Mary had a ton of information to impart. She talked fast, but clearly. The streets of New York are noisy and her little mic pack tried hard but we still couldn't catch everything. That said, we got more than the gist, we appreciated her recommendations, and all 3 of us had a great time!

481 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Other Walking Tours Nearby

Hawaii Geo Tours

Meredith G. said "If I could give more than five starts I would. I went on this tour two days ago, it was amazing. Our guide David was so much fun. He had a lot of knowledge to share about the island. His historic stories were great. Also so much…" read more

in Walking Tours

Take a tour without feeling "too touristy." We're not like other tours, we're cool tours! Whether you’re interested in the city’s insidious past (Gangsters and Ghosts Tours), its delicious food (Chinatown & Little Italy Food Tour),… read more

Collections Including Free Tours by Foot

Visit New York City (Places)

By Agnes I.

Now You're in NY!

By Surge C.

NYC: Working my way through the bucket list

By Linda M.

NYC, there's something about you

By Tracey A.

New York, New York (and Brooklyn too!)

Guia de Viagem: NYC

By Fernanda S.

NYC Tourist 1/24

Travel Guide: NYC

NYC You Go Now

Spots to try in NY/NJ

By Marian R.

People Also Viewed

Real New York Tours

Manhattan Walking Tour

Madame Morbid’s Trolley Tours

Small Bus Tours NYC

New York Historical Tours

USA Guided Tours NY

Follow Me New York City Adventures

Tenement Museum

New York Adventure Club

Best of New York

Things to do in New York

People found Free Tours by Foot by searching for…

Chinese Food Tour New York

Chocolate Factory Tours New York

Free Walking Tours New York

Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour New York

Movie Studio Tours New York

Pizza Tour New York

Segway Tour New York

Sight Seeing Tours New York

Site Seeing New York

Tourist Attractions New York

Walking Food Tours New York

Walking Tour New York

Browse Nearby

Restaurants

Tavern Style Pizza

Fun Places for Teens

Sunset Cruise

Other Places Nearby

Find more Food Tours near Free Tours by Foot

Find more Walking Tours near Free Tours by Foot

Related Cost Guides

Town Car Service

• Attractions
• Restaurants
• Sample Sales
• Things to Do
• Trip Reports
• Print NYC Guide
• NYC Coupons
• NYC on a Budget
• Free in NYC
• Events & Holidays
• + Add Event
• +Get Listed

FREE New York Walking Tours

Great free nyc walking tours, nyc by foot – free walking tours nyc, nyc discount passes and walking tours.

• All Around Town Tour
• Gossip Girl Tour
• Hop on Hop off Bus Tour
• Liberty Helicopters Tour
• Multilingual City Tour
• NBC Studio Tour
• Night Bus Tour by City Sights
• NY TV Movie and Sites Tour
• Radio City Music Hall Tour
• Rockefeller Center Tour
• Sex and and the City Tour
• United Nations Tour

Best NYC Attractions Pass for Tours

Big apple free greeter – new york walking tours, new york in one day guided sightseeing tour, more nyc one day tours, central park – free new york walking tours, wall street free new york walking tours, walking tours of film and television locations, lower east side free new york walking tour, greenwich village free new york walking tour, union square: crossroads of new york tours, new york public library free tour, grand central terminal and surrounding buildings, times square walking tours, nyc insider print map and guide to manhattan, nyc insider printable guides, how are you going to tour new york city.

• All New York City Tours
• NYC Boat Tour Cruises
• Helicopter Tours
• Walking Tours

NYC One Day Tours

• Shopping Tours
• Movie and Television Tours
• NYC Nightlife Tours
• 9-11 Memorial Museum Tours
• Statue of Liberty Tours
• NYC Lights Tours
• Holiday Lights Tours
• New York Walking Tours

FREE New York City Walking Tours

RELATED ARTICLES

New york city holiday lights tours, new york city tours, site sponsors, nyc group transportation – taking the stress out, group transportation in nyc with national charter bus, site sponsorship, recent posts, us open tickets on sale june 3rd, top 50+ must-do new york city events may 2024 | tours..., nyc concerts shows may 2024 | music calendar live events, the wallace hotel hidden gem near new york marathon finish line, new york sightseeing pass | price increase soon buy now, hotel deals, july 4th in new york city fireworks, best new york marathon hotels, best us tennis open hotels, romantic new york city hotels, boutique hotels in times square, new york mets schedule & tickets, new york yankees tickets, new york city events april, nyc concerts shows april, brooklyn nets tickets schedule, new york rangers tickets 2023-24, winter in nyc, radio city christmas spectacular with rockettes, rockefeller center christmas tree lighting 2023, broadway week * jan 16-feb 4, 2024, nyc restaurant week * jan 16-feb 4, 2024.

• Christmas in New York City

New York City Events December 2023

New york city events january 2024, popular nyc events, shakespeare in the park, new york city events june, nyc concerts shows june, gma summer concert series, nyc festivals fairs summer, bryant park movie nights, latest news, top 50+ must-do new york city events may 2024 | tours & things to do, parts of fashion-curating in focus, a taste of ireland – celebrating the spirit of the emerald isle off-broadway, nyc concerts shows february | music calendar live events, nyc holidays.

• NYC Broadway Week
• NYC Restaurant Week
• Valentines Day in New York City
• Mother’s Day
• Memorial Day NYC
• July 4th NYC
• US Tennis Open
• Labor Day NYC
• Rockettes Christmas Spectacular
• Thanksgiving Day & Parade
• Thanksgiving Parade Hotel
• Thanksgiving Dinner
• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
• New Years Eve
• Ball Drop New Years Eve NYC Hotels

NYC Things to Do

• Things to Do in NYC
• Sample Vacations

Welcome to the NYC Insider Guide . Please enjoy our Insider tips, free maps, where to spend and save your money, secret ways of getting discounts and most importantly, what to book NOW so you don’t miss out! - All the Best, Melissa

© 2008-2024 NYC INSIDER GUIDE , LTD ™. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. CONTENT PROTECTED BY DMCA.

• NYC Travel Itineraries
• Advertising
• Site Policies

Free New York City Walking Tours

Dennis K. Johnson/Getty Images

Walking tours are a wonderful way to visit a new place, especially New York City . Exploring on foot gives you the opportunity to see a neighborhood up-close and learn about the people and places that make it tick. We've put together a round-up of free New York City walking tours for visitors on a budget. These tours cover a variety of neighborhoods, as well as two of New York City's great parks -- Central Park and the High Line. Be aware that free tours tend to attract large groups, so you're not going to get the same intimate experience you might experience some of New York City's best walking tours, but you can't beat the price!

The Grand Central Neighborhood Tour

Andrew Burton/Getty Images

Every Friday at 12:30 p.m. you can experience a wonderful tour of Grand Central and the surrounding neighborhood led by Justin Ferate or Peter Laskowich. In addition to exploring some of the highlights of Grand Central Terminal , it also includes many neighborhood highlights, including Pershing Square and the Chrysler Building .

• When: Fridays at 12:30 p.m.
• Length: 90 minutes
• Where: Sculpture Court at 120 Park Avenue (southwest corner of East 42nd Street)
• Sponsor: Grand Central Partnership

Big Apple Greeter Tours

Want a private, guided tour of New York City ? For free? Seems hard to believe, but that's exactly what Big Apple Greeters offers visitors to New York City. Since 1992, this non-profit organization has connected visitors with volunteer New Yorkers who want to share their know-how and favorite neighborhoods with visitors to New York City. They even have a no-tipping policy, but if you love what you experience, you should make a donation to Big Apple Greeters to keep their services available.

Please note: Tours are assigned on a first-come, ​first served basis, so book well in advance to have the best chance of getting a tour.

Free Tours by Foot

Barry Winiker/Getty Images

Free Tours By Foot offers a variety of New York City walking tours, most of which are free (on their food tours you pay for your own samples). Most tours are 2 hours and cover a single neighborhood, but they also have an All-In-One-Tour that is 6-hours long and covers many areas of New York City. The guides on these tours work exclusively for tips, so keep that in mind and tip appropriately if you are happy with your experience. They recommend tipping $10/person for their 2-hour tours and $25/person for the 6-hour tour.

Central Park Conservancy Guided Tours

MichaelStubblefield/Getty Images

The Central Park Conservancy offers free guided walking tours covering many different areas of Central Park . Tours range from 30 minutes to 2 hours and are led by volunteers from the Central Park Conservancy Walking Tour Program . These tours offer visitors a great opportunity to understand Central Park and learn about the park's history and design. Tours are rated for difficulty, and some are handicap-accessible.

Tips? No, but consider making a donation to the Central Park Conservancy .

"Crossroads of New York" Walking Tour

Paul VanDerWerf/Flickr/CC BY 2.0

Learn about the Union Square neighborhood with a rich political and social history on a walking tour created with the help of the experts at Big Onion Walking Tours. Learn about the people, events, and architecture of this wonderful neighborhood.

• Where: Abraham Lincoln Statue at 16th Street transverse
• Sponsor: Union Square Partnership

Free Lower East Side Historic Tours

City Foodsters/Flickr/CC BY 2.0​

This three-hour walking tour of the Lower East Side explores both the history and modern side of this dynamic neighborhood.

• Length: 3 hours
• Where: Katz's Delicatessen (corner of East Houston and Ludlow Street)
• Details: Lower East Side Historic Tours

Not Quite Free: Municipal Arts Society Walking Tours

The Municipal Arts Society offers two weekly tours with "suggested donations" of $10. On Tuesdays, the tour covers Downtown Manhattan, while Wednesday tours visit Grand Central Terminal. MAS offers many other tours as well, and their tour guides are very well regarded.

• Tuesday Downtown Tour Start: In front of 55 Exchange Place
• Wednesday Grand Central Tour Start: Info Booth in Grand Central

5 Fascinating Historical Tours of New York City

Top Destinations in the Eastern United States

13 Top New York City Attractions

Free Things to Do on a Visit to New York City

Christmas in New York City: Best Events & Things to See

Free Tour of Grand Central and the Surrounding Neighborhood

The Best Time to Visit New York City

NYC for Free: Free Boat Ride, Museums, and Walking Tours

New York City's 11 Best Free Landmarks and Attractions

The Best Staycation in Every State

20 Things to Do in New York City on Cold and Snowy Days

25 Best Things to Do in Alaska

San Francisco Walking Tours

50 Best Free Things to Do in Washington, DC

Every NYC Neighborhood You Need to Know

18 Best Things to Do as a Solo Traveler in NYC

10 Five-Star-Rated Attractions For First-Timers Visiting New York City

F irst-time visitors planning a trip to New York City might easily feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of attractions, sights, and experiences NYC has to offer . From cultural landmarks to Broadway shows and immersive tours, New York City has something for everyone, but for tourists who want to make sure their budget and time are spent on top-rated experiences that never fail to leave visitors captivated, some attractions are better than others.

Surprisingly, even the most famous attractions in NYC don't always get five-star reviews. However, for first-timers in the Big Apple seeking only the best, these top-rated attractions in NYC are musts for first-timers in the city. Each of these genuinely has no less than five-star ratings on travel review sites, so tourists know they're going in for some of the best activities in New York City that other visitors have actually given top marks for.

Each of these five-star-rated attractions for first-timers visiting New York City truly has five stars on TripAdvisor . Only those rated five stars have been included in this list to ensure travelers are presented with the best experiences in NYC that other tourists have tried, tested, and loved (and thus given glowing reviews).

The Metropolitan Museum Of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, also known as the Met, is a world unto itself and a highlight of many New York trips. As one of the world's largest and most renowned museums, this institution is filled with over 1.5 million works of art that span over 5,000 years of human history.

The Met is one of the best attractions in NYC; it showcases everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts and Renaissance classics to antique instruments and haute couture creations. Though there are some things everyone should know when visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art, some things are better learned up close and in person.

First-time visitors to New York are sure to enjoy a day of exploring the beauty and history held within the Met's walls.

• Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
• Price: General admission is $30 for adults; $22 for seniors; $17 for students; New York State residents and New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut students can choose their cost of admission
• Opening Hours: 10 AM; Closed on Wednesdays
• Tripadvisor Rating: 5 Stars

Related: 10 Top-Rated Museums In New York City That Should Be On Your List

The World Trade Center Memorial

The World Trade Center Memorial pays a solemn tribute to the events of September 11. The memorial's twin reflecting pools, engraved with the names of the victims, occupy the footprints of the former Twin Towers.

Visitors are often left feeling overwhelmed by their emotions as they take in the sheer size of the memorial and names of all the victims but report it's a rewarding experience that showcases the resilience of the people of New York, America, and the greater human spirit.

• Address/Location: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007
• Price: General Admission starts at $17; free admission on Mondays
• Hours: 8 AM to 8 PM

The Lion King On Broadway

The Lion King on Broadway is among the best experiences in New York City for first-timers. The spectacle is a Tony Awarding-winning musical that transports audiences into the magical world of the beloved Disney animated film with its vibrant costumes, stunning choreography, and unforgettable music.

While there might be some things first-time visitors to a Broadway show should know , guests can just enjoy Simba's epic tale unfold as they're left awestruck by the music and talent on the stage. Performed eight times a week at the Minskoff Theatre, this musical is one of the best shows on Broadway to see and leaves viewers of all ages enthralled.

• Address/Location: 200 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036, at the Minskoff Theatre
• Price: Tickets start at $149
• Run Time: About 2 hours 30 minutes

Related: 10 Theatrical Facts You Probably Didn't Know About New York City's Broadway

The Metropolitan Opera

The Metropolitan Opera is one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. First-time visitors to New York City can experience the power and beauty of live performances that showcase renowned singers, breathtaking sets, and awe-inspiring orchestras.

This five-star attraction on Tripadvisor has left visitors from all over the world captivated by its performances. Everyone from opera aficionados to first-time attendees can enjoy an unforgettable evening at the Metropolitan Opera.

• Address/Location: 30 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
• Price: Tickets start at $25

Tour The Most Famous Landmarks In New York City With Experience First Tours

Experience First Tours allows first-time visitors to New York City to immerse themselves in this beautiful city without having to worry about the hassle of logistics, directions, and long lines. This is one of the best tour companies in NYC; the five-star rated tour operator offers various tour packages and itineraries through iconic destinations in the city, such as Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.

From intimate walking tours to full-day bus tours, Experience First Tours has something for everyone. Experienced and knowledgeable guides accompany tourists throughout their tour and provide fascinating insights into the city's rich history and culture.

• Price: From $39 to $129, depending on the tour package
• Tour length: 2 hours to all day; varies by tour package
• Hours: Monday-Sunday: 9 AM to 5 PM

Savor The Best Food In New York With Foods Of New York Tours

Foods of New York is another five-star rated tour in New York City that is perfect for first-time visitors who are eager to taste the greatest dishes the city has to offer. Visitors can take a delicious culinary journey with Foods of New York Tours and discover the city's diverse food scene as they sample delectable treats in iconic neighborhoods, such as Greenwich Village or Chelsea Market.

From gourmet chocolates to mouthwatering pizza, Foods of New York runs some of the best food tours in NYC; it offers eight different food excursions, each of which is a grub lover's paradise and a unique way to explore the city's gastronomic delights.

• Address: 71 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
• Price: Starts at $79 and varies by tour package
• Tour length: About 3 hours

Related: Flavors Of New York State: Discovering 10 Must-Try Cuisines In New York City

Local-Led Guided New York City Tours With Free Tours By Foot

Perhaps one of the best things to do in New York City for first-timers is to let a local lead the way. Free Tours by Foot is a Tripadvisor five-star rated tour group that is perfect for first-time visitors to the Big Apple who are on a budget and eager to discover hidden gems.

Free Tours by Food uniquely allows its guests to choose their own prices as passionate local guides lead visitors through the city. These tours offer a unique and informative exploration of areas such as Grand Central Terminal, SoHo, Harlem, and Brooklyn and give guests a chance to learn about the city's history, architecture, and culture.

• Price: No upfront cost; visitors can choose what to pay at the end of the tour
• Tour length: About 2 hours

Horse Carriage Rides In New York City Through Central Park

NYC Horse Carriage Rides is a family-owned business that allows its guests the chance to experience the charm of New York City with a nostalgic horse carriage ride through Central Park. These iconic rides offer a romantic and leisurely way to explore the park's lush greenery, picturesque bridges, and famous landmarks.

Visitors can soak in the beauty of their surroundings and create lasting memories of this quintessential New York experience.

• Address/Location: 7th Ave & Central Park S, New York, NY 10019
• Price: Starts at $119 per group
• Opening Hours: Monday through Friday: 10:00 AM to 11:30 PM; Sunday through Saturday: 8 AM to 11:30 PM

A Slice Of Brooklyn Bus Tours In New York City

For those looking to explore the borough of Brooklyn, A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours provides an immersive touring experience. A five-star rated attraction on Tripadvisor, this tour leads guests through Brooklyn's iconic landmarks and allows them to sample mouthwatering local delights.

Through this tour, visitors can get a taste of Brooklyn's unique activities, attractions, culture, and history and even see famous movie locations in NYC.

• Address: 2036 61st St, Brooklyn, NY 11204
• Price: Starts at $67 and varies by package
• Tour length: About 4 hours and 30 minutes

Classic Harbor Line Boat Tours In New York City

For first-time visitors who are eager to admire New York City's stunning skyline from a waterway tour , Classic Harbor Line offers unparalleled views of the city, including iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Visitors can step aboard Classic Harbor Line's elegant and classic yachts and take a cruise led by a knowledgeable crew that is excited to share fascinating stories about New York's rich history. Whether it's a sunset sail or a wine-tasting cruise, Classic Harbor Line provides five-star rated voyages through New York City's historic waterways.

• Address: Address: 62 Chelsea Piers Pier 62, New York, NY 10011
• Price: Starts at $48 and varies by package
• Tour length: 1 hour to 4 hours, depending on the package

Protect Your Trip »

6 Top Boston Harbor Cruises

Venture on the water to explore Beantown's waterfront, maritime history and more.

Courtesy of City Cruises by Hornblower

Boston is the most populous city in New England – and for good reason. This Massachusetts metropolis may host modern shopping, dining and cultural attractions , but Boston is built upon a rich American tapestry created over the centuries that's still visible in its quaint neighborhood streets and stone houses. The city's historic harbor along the Massachusetts Bay set the scene for a significant portion of Boston's story; once the site of Revolution-era protests like the Boston Tea Party, this body of water is now primarily used for revelry. No visit to Massachusetts' capital city would be complete without some time on Boston Harbor.

If you'll be in Beantown during the warmer months, consider boarding a schooner for an hour or two of sightseeing. Cruises on the harbor offer a range of historical tours, romantic dinners, unique brunches with friends or even the chance to spot some endangered whales. Whether you opt for a tall ship or a smaller vessel, soak in city views and enjoy your time on the water with the following top Boston Harbor cruises.

Boston Harbor City Cruises by Hornblower – Boston Harbor Whale Watch Cruise

Price: Adults from $70; kids from $50 Duration: 3-4 hours

Hornblower's City Experiences brand offers a wide variety of land-based and on-the-water tours. One of the most popular options is its whale watching cruise, which it operates with the New England Aquarium . From Boston's Central Wharf, you'll head to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, one of the world's most active marine sanctuaries. Whales in the region include humpbacks, minke whales, the endangered right whales and more. You can also try to spot sea birds, dolphins and other marine life. Travelers say the boat tour is great fun and most report seeing whales on the trip.

Tours generally run daily from spring through fall. Exact departure times vary by season. You'll want to arrive at least 15 minutes early and take some medication if you're prone to motion sickness. If you plan to pair this cruise with a trip to the aquarium, you can book a combo ticket to save a bit of money. Boston Harbor City Cruises also runs a variety of dinner cruises.

Check prices & availability on:

Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships – Boston Harbor Day Sail

Price: Adults from $55; kids from $35

Duration: 90 minutes

Board a schooner from the Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships and sail Boston's historic harbor in fitting style. Your tour begins by embarking on the Liberty Star, which boasts a 76-foot mast. The crew is happy to answer questions about Boston during the sail, but know that there is no narration during the tour. Travelers delight in both the tour and the boat, noting excellent views.

The fleet sails Boston Harbor from summer through early fall. Sails typically depart several times each day in the afternoon; however, specific times may vary depending on the day of the week. You can also hop onboard for a brunch cruise, a fireworks cruise or for the yearly USS Constitution turnaround sail.

Classic Harbor Line Boston – Northern Lights Sunset Cruise

Courtesy of Classic Harbor Line Boston

Price: From $45 Duration: 2 hours

Along this evening tour, you'll be treated to skyline views as the sun dips below the horizon. During the journey, you'll also learn a little about Boston's history and its best sites such as Fort Independence, the USS Constitution , Old North Church's steeple and more. Refreshments are available for purchase onboard. Travelers approve of the cruise – especially the gorgeous ship – and its staff.

Departure times and days vary depending on both the sunset and the season. Keep in mind that ticket fees will be slightly higher in the high season. The company also hosts a number of themed and food cruises, such as holiday cruises and a trip that focuses on beer and barbecue.

Boston Duck Tours

Price: Adults from $52.99; kids from $37.99

Duration: 80 minutes

It's nearly impossible to visit Boston and not run into one of its renowned Duck Tours. This type of amphibious automobile was originally created as a military vehicle for World War II. The vehicles used today by Boston Duck Tours are uniquely designed to roll past city sights like Boston Common , the Old North Church and the Fanueil Hall Marketplace before or after launching into the Charles River for views of the Cambridge and Boston skylines. Past customers remember these unique tours as one of the best parts of their visit – and as a special draw for kids, the tour guides may allow children to briefly steer the boat in the water for a particularly memorable experience.

Trips depart from the New England Aquarium, Museum of Science and the Prudential Center; tour prices are the same regardless of departure point. Tours run in the warmer months, usually from late spring to fall. It's a good idea to book online in advance to secure your preferred tour time.

Massachusetts Bay Lines – Boston Harbor Moonlight Cruises

Courtesy of Massachusetts Bay Lines

Price: Adults from $28; kids from $15 Duration: 90 minutes

Referred to locally as Mass Bay Lines, this company runs an after dark cruise that travelers say has excellent views of the city lit up. If you're in need of refreshment, you'll find drinks (including alcohol) and snack onboard for purchase. For an extra special evening, sign up for a Full Moon Cruise, which takes place once per month from May to October.

Tours run a few times a month and generally start at 9 p.m. The company also runs daytime harbor cruises and themed cruises that welcome dogs onboard.

Charles Riverboat Company – Charles River Sightseeing Tours

Price: Adults from $27; kids from $18 Duration: 70 minutes

After cruising through the harbor, why not explore another Boston waterway? Along the historic sightseeing cruise of the Charles River, you'll see some of Cambridge's best sights like Harvard University and MIT , as well as Boston University, and the Back Bay neighborhood. The crew will offer tidbits and trivia during the tour. Tourgoers enjoy the outing and several mention that the company is great if booking a private charter for a large party.

Tours run late May though the end of September at 12:30, 2 and 3:30 p.m. If you wish to explore the Boston Harbor and the Charles River in the same trip, consider signing up for the company's Architecture Tour.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Boston Tours
• The Best Hotels in Boston
• The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod
• The Best Weekend Getaways in New England

Tags: Travel , New England Vacations , US Vacations , Cruises

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The 7 best key west snorkeling tours.

Gwen Pratesi June 21, 2024

The Best San Diego Whale Watching

John Rodwan June 21, 2024

Fun Things to Do in Oklahoma

Ben Luthi and Justine Harrington June 20, 2024

Fun Things to Do in Pennsylvania

Amanda Norcross June 20, 2024

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

Amanda Norcross June 18, 2024

What to Bring to a Water Park

Top Things to Do in New Hampshire

Timothy J. Forster and Mariya Greeley June 14, 2024

The Best Scotland Tours

Marisa Méndez June 13, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross June 13, 2024

How to Renew a Passport Online

European Championship

Advertisement

How England were frustrated by Denmark in 1-1 Euro 2024 draw

The Briefing: Kane scores but struggles, England drop deep, Hjulmand’s wonder goal

It was a familiar story for Gareth Southgate’s England in their second game at Euro 2024, as they took the lead against Denmark before dropping deep and allowing their opponents back into the game.

The result means England are top of Group C going into the final round of matches, when they Slovenia. Denmark are second with two points, and play Serbia.

Our own Jack Pitt-Brooke , Mark Carey , Dan Sheldon and James McNicholas analyse the key talking points from Frankfurt.

England 1 Denmark 1: Kane scores but struggles, England drop deep, Hjulmand wonder goal

Russell backing England, or at least he was

Getty Images

Of course, it’s not just footballers who are English sports stars (obviously). There are also a few elsewhere — like in Formula One .

Our F1 correspondent and all-round good guy Luke Smith spoke to Mercedes driver George Russell in Barcelona today ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix this weekend, about Euro 2024. This is what Russell said:

💬 “I think England can win it, for sure! Watching the games and what those guys go through is incredible.

“It's pretty tough when you have a championship like the Euros, every single game counts and in that sport, anybody can get a victory on their best day.

“I think we have a really great squad at the moment and Gareth (Southgate) is a great coach. They seem to be headed in a really great direction, so fingers crossed they go out there and do their best.”

The caveat being, these quotes are from before that England performance today. Give Luke a follow and you might find out if Russell has since changed his mind…

Eriksen: 'It was supposed to be us'

Speaking of the Denmark forward, here’s how Christian Eriksen he viewed their draw with England — again, speaking to BBC Sport :

💬 “I do think if a team was to win today, it was supposed to be us. We didn’t get it, but it was better than our last game.

“We know England have exceptional players but we hurt them with our chances and should’ve won.

“I don’t think they dropped deep. It was just the same game before. It was even, they lost the ball a few times and we tried to hurt them on the counter. They did the same against us.

“We still have a game to go. We need a win against Serbia; there’s nothing else for us. This was good progress but we have to take the belief from this into that and get the three points.”

Like a fine wine...

Ah yes, Christian Eriksen . Not only is he 32 years and 127 days old today. He also created four chances against England — as many as he did in the opening game against Slovenia.

Put it all together and you have the oldest player with at least four chances created in consecutive European Championship games, since a 33-year-old Andrea Pirlo in 2012.

Great work from Opta there.

'That was the decision we took'

So what did England boss Gareth Southgate say after the game about Trent Alexander-Arnold’s role and Harry Kane’s situation? Here’s what he told BBC Sport just now — starting with the former:

💬 “We wanted to get Conor (Gallagher) on. We needed some energy and to press better. Conor obviously does that very well.

“Trent has had some moments where he’s delivered what we thought he would. We know it is an experiment and we know we don’t have a natural replacement for Kalvin Phillips, so we're trying some different things and at the moment we're not flowing as we’d like, that’s for sure.”

As for his thoughts on Harry Kane…

💬 “We needed energy. We’ve had two games in a short turnaround and we needed fresh legs to press. At that stage, I think Harry’s only had one 90 minutes in over a month, and that was the decision we took.”

How do you solve a problem like Trent?

What a conundrum the situation is with Trent Alexander-Arnold .

Today felt like further evidence — bar the odd promising moment — that playing the Liverpool star in a midfield role isn’t working.

The fact Gareth Southgate continues to call it an experiment is revealing in itself. Should you be experimenting in your first two group games of a tournament you hope and expect to reach the latter stages?

And on the other side of the coin, today he played more chances for England than anyone else and also played the most line-breaking passes in the final third. All despite being withdrawn after 54 minutes.

The experiment continues. Probably.

'We're not sure how to get the pressure on'

Harry Kane wasn’t asked about his own fitness by BBC Sport immediately after the game, but he did address some of the accusations over England deliberately dropping to protect their lead — rather than continuing to look for goals:

💬 “We're struggling with and without the ball, so we have to go away and look at it back. The pressure in both games hasn't been quite right, and also with the ball we haven't been good enough. Everyone dropping below their level a bit in retaining the ball and playing under pressure.

“We are starting games well. I think in general when teams are dropping a few players deeper, we're not sure how to get the pressure on and who's the one supposed to be going.

“Second half, we tried to change it with me and Jude (Bellingham) playing in front of their two midfielders and then trying to get up, but it was difficult.”

Make it make sense...

The theory of this England team makes no sense.

Three attackers who want to be the No 10, one(ish) runner in behind, a right-back at right-back who can’t attack, a right-back at left-back who needs to cut inside, and a right-back in defensive midfield whose strength is hitting all those wide and long runners you don’t have... 🤦🏻‍♂️

Southgate's Kane logic

One more regarding Harry Kane . Gareth Southgate has learned about trying to protect Kane during a tournament, making sure he doesn't always play 90 minutes in the group games to keep him sharp for the knock-outs.

He actually studied how France protected Griezmann during the 2018 World Cup.

So at the following World Cup, Kane was hooked on 76 minutes against Iran and then 58 minutes versus Wales, both times for Callum Wilson.

Then in Euro 2020, Kane came off against Croatia after 82 minutes (for Jude Bellingham), and 74 minutes versus Scotland (for Marcus Rashford).

Full-time stats zone

Well, the angst runs deep for England supporters after that, while Denmark will feel it’s a missed opportunity. Here are the numbers from the 90 minutes…

FT: Denmark 1-1 England

• Possession: 51% — 49%
• Shots: 16 — 12
• On target: 7 — 4
• XG: 0.82 — 0.85
• Big chances: 1 — 2
• Blocked shots: 5 — 1
• Duels won: 45 — 47
• Dispossessed: 6 — 8

Again, it was pretty tight and even looking at all that. Maybe this time, the numbers are slightly soothing compared to the actual action.

'Sometimes you have to manage the game'

Kyle Walker was the first to speak after that England draw, immediately on the pitch to BBC Sport — and it’s fair to say he was keeping it light:

💬 “It’s tournament football. This is a good Denmark team, we’re top of the group, so let’s a positive from the game. We didn’t lose. We concede a great strike from outside the box and sometimes you have to take your hat off to good goals.

“The manager has expressed he wants us to play free attacking football. Sometimes in tournaments you have to manage the game. It’s why it’s so hard to win them.

“We know we can do better. As individuals, as a team, we know we’ve got another gear. Everyone wants us to steamroll teams but that’s not football these days. We’ve got a point and we’ll move on.”

Honours for Hojbjerg

The official player of the match? That’s been handed to Tottenham and Denmark midfielder, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg .

Great shout, that. Hojbjerg was secure defensively, often keen to step up in attack — and took more shots (5) than anyone else on the pitch.

Great work, Pierre.

The final games

Group C will be resolved on Sunday night (in Europe), with this pair of matches:

• England vs Slovenia (Cologne)
• Denmark vs Serbia (Munich)

The two games will kick-off simultaneously too — and of course, we will have live coverage of it all here on The Athletic .

How that draw leaves Group C

So, England are top of the group with four points from two games. In fact, you look at the table and Denmark should see it as a real missed opportunity.

Game on for the three teams below England for qualification.

Falling well short

The stats suggest Denmark shaded that but it felt much more one-sided in the stadium — and not just because Denmark's fans massively out-sang England's, despite being outnumbered three to one.

The Danes are all still here too, and their team is on the pitch. England's players are chasing England's fans to exits.

A couple of stats do jump out, though. England dribbled the ball 18 times, Denmark six.

And the Danes won twice as many tackles.

One more. Because the last two non-league efforts are still fresh in the memory: England had 17 free-kicks to Denmark's five.

Worst yet from a Southgate side

Agree that the result is survivable but the performance is as bad as we've seen from a Southgate England team in a major tournament.

So many big questions: Kane's role, the defence dropping deep, the lack of control in midfield. Don't think Alexander-Arnold is the answer, not sure Gallagher is either.

Flat and lethargic

There were some boos from the England fans here at full-time.

The result is far from disastrous, but again the performance was troubling from an England perspective. There were things that just didn't look right from a technical/tactical perspective.

But my biggest concern with that performance is how lethargic and flat so many of the players looked. A number of them looked dead on their feet at the final whistle.

Did Denmark deserve more?

On the flipside, that was an excellent performance after a tricky opening 20 minutes from Denmark.

And yet, they couldn’t force the issue enough to win it and now they’re stuck with a couple of draws.

Arguably, this result will get better for England the longer they get to sleep on it (and forget about the actual performance).

Far from alright from England

That England performance was significantly short of their opening win over Serbia — and given the narrative surrounding that effort, England will be in for a bit of criticism after that.

Must admit, I’m struggling to think of one good individual performance in a white shirt.

And that is it. Another draw for Denmark.

The start of another inquest into England.

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO Tour

Tour Information

Brooklyn bridge, heights & dumbo, brooklyn bridge, heights & dumbo highlights.

This is a 3-hour tour that begins with a walk over the Brooklyn Bridge, an icon of New York City for over 125 years, with spectacular views of Manhattan and Brooklyn.

For our full tour calendar, click here .

Searching Availability...

TOUR DESCRIPTION

This tour starts at the Brooklyn Bridge. The tour then moves on to a stroll of Brooklyn Heights, which is both America’s and New York City’s first suburb.  

Finally, the tour explores the neighborhood DUMBO before ending at the Fulton Ferry landing.

Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn Heights, and DUMBO Tour Map

Brooklyn Bridge

The tour begins at the fountain inside City Hall Park in Manhattan. It’s a full mile (1.6 km) across the bridge.

But, we will be making plenty of stops to talk about the history and design of the bridge and to have the opportunity to capture scenic photographs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and New York Harbor.

Check out our self-guided Brooklyn Bridge walk (also available as a  GPS-led audio tour ) to get a better idea of what you will experience.

Before you read our top ten, consider listening to an episode of our NYC Travel Tips podcast that covers the Brooklyn Bridge.

This podcast offers bite-sized audio clips with tips on how to plan your trip to NYC. You can get our podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

• Brooklyn Heights

The bridge lets out in Brooklyn’s finest residential neighborhoods, filled with interesting people and architecture.

Nicknamed America’s first suburb, Brooklyn Heights will certainly amaze.

Learn about George Washington’s doomed stand against British marines and walk past the homes of Truman Capote, Arthur Miller, and Norman Mailer.

Last but not least, we will visit the promenade for arguably the best views of Manhattan and New York Harbor.

From the promenade, we will walk down to the ferry landing area and explore a small part of DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass).

Once a manufacturing and industrial district, economic change sapped the area of its economic strength, leaving large and vacant factory lofts as attractive destinations for artists starving for large and affordable living space.

The neighborhood's unique urban landscape is partially the result of being below two bridges, an interesting sight to see.

Learn more about this neighborhood with our self-guided tour of DUMBO (also available as a  GPS-led audio tour ).

This tour finishes near the Fulton Ferry Landing in DUMBO, where you could take the  East River Ferry to Lower Manhattan.

TOUR INFORMATION

Reservations: REQUIRED. Click here to reserve . Groups of 5 or more traveling together should visit our groups' page .

Duration: Approximately 3 hours. Tour distance is approximately 2.5 miles (4 km).

BOOKING NOTES:

• You will not have time to do this 3 hour morning tour and an afternoon tour at 1pm.
• You will have very limited time to do this 3 hour morning tour and an afternoon tour at 2 pm - it will require no sit-down lunch and immediate travel from one tour to the other.
• This tour route uses stairs. Please notify your guide if you cannot use stairs so the guide can plan a reroute to accommodate your needs.
• This tour covers Brooklyn Heights so you do not need to book that tour as well!

Start point: Tour begins from  the fountain  in the center of City Hall Park ( map ).

Endpoint:  Tour ends near the Fulton Ferry Landing in Brooklyn.

When: @9:30am Tuesdays through Sundays and our twilight version runs Sunday evenings (time dependent on the sunset) mid-March through Thanksgiving weekend.   View Our Full Calendar .

Cost: This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. A name-your-own-price tour is a tour for anyone's budget.

Languages:  Public tour is in English or Spanish only (see our Spanish tour page for calendar) . Private tours for individual groups are also available in both languages upon request.

Save even more money with a  tourist discount pass  as well as with our tips on  bus ,  boat  and  food  tours. We also have a free app where you could download several  GPS audio versions  of our tours.

Additional planning information:  You will NOT have time to do this 3 hour morning tour and an afternoon tour at 1 pm. You will have very limited time to take this 3 hour morning tour and an afternoon tour at 2 pm.

It will require no sit-down lunch and immediate travel from one tour to the other.

Tours go out rain, snow or shine. Dress appropriately for the weather. 

GPS-LED AUDIO TOUR

Take this tour in our GPS-led audio tour app. It's actually 3 separate tours. Listen to the samples.

Sample of our Brooklyn Bridge Tour

Sample of our Brooklyn Heights Tour

Sample of our DUMBO Tour.

You'll need to download our free audio tour app. Downloads are only $1.99. Some tours are free.

Here is how it works:

• Book a tour on our booking page above.
• Receive a confirmation email with all the details.
• Enjoy the tour(s).

Available Tours:

• Central Park
• Lower Manhattan
• 9/11 Memorial and World Trade Center
• The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
• Greenwich Village
• Food Tour of Greenwich Village
• The Brooklyn Bridge (in English, Spanish, and German)
• The High Line
• Midtown Manhattan
• Grand Central Terminal

Available Without Audio (full text):

• Times Square

RELATED POSTS:

• Other NYC Tours
• Things to Do in NYC
• Things to Do in Brooklyn

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.