lower east side walking tour map

Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration

Free Self-Guided Walking Tour Of Lower Manhattan: Where NYC Began

New York is such a walkable city – Manhattan in particular, seeing as it has so many attractions densely packed together. Check out my self-guided walking tour of Lower Manhattan to discover the best of this historic region of New York City on foot.

I previously wrote a self-guided walking tour of Manhattan that goes from Greenwich Village to Central Park and people seem to like it – so I thought I’d do another. This walking tour will take you around the highlights of Lower Manhattan , including the Lower East Side, Nolita, Little Italy, Chinatown, City Hall, the 9/11 Memorial, the Freedom Tower and the financial district including Wall Street. There’s an optional detour on the Staten Island ferry, and the tour ends with an optional crossing of the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.

Follow my free self-guided walking tour of Lower Manhattan, rather than joining an organised paid-for tour. You won’t have to pay a fee AND you get to do it at your pace. That’s win-win!

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. These are links to products or experiences I recommend and if you were to buy something after clicking on them, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Any earnings go towards the upkeep of this blog, which I appreciate.

Table of Contents

About This Self-Guided Walking Tour Of Lower Manhattan

Lower Manhattan (also known as Downtown Manhattan or Downtown New York) is one of the oldest areas of the city: it’s where the city as we know it began back in the 17 th century. The land was originally inhabited by Indigenous Americans, but Dutch colonists built a city here named New Amsterdam, which was later taken over and renamed by the English. It remains the financial and civic heart of the city. It is also where the original skyscrapers first sprang up in the 1910s before they were overtaken in height by the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building in mid-town in the 1930s.

I’ve walked around this area of Manhattan a lot and have taken various routes through it. This walking tour is a mixture of several walks that I’ve done myself, picking some of my favourite landmarks in this area. I recently tweaked the route, based on my most recent visit in 2024.

The full route is 6.5 miles / 11 km long and would take two and a half hours if all you did was walk it. However, of course, you’ll want to stop along the way, so I think you should give yourself several hours to do this lower Manhattan walking tour – maybe even the whole day, if you want to take it easy. It is mostly outdoors, so isn’t ideal if you are forecast to have rain (but if that’s the case, I have tonnes of ideas of things to do in NYC on rainy days ).

And if you don’t fancy walking quite that long, you could skip the final stretch across the Brooklyn Bridge and get the ferry there instead.

I’ve included an interactive route you can use in Google Maps at the end.

Self-Guided Walking Tour Of Lower Manhattan – Step By Step

Start in the lower east side.

Our Lower Manhattan walking tour starts at Katz’s Delicatessen , a legendary Jewish deli on the northern border of the Lower East Side. It’s been serving sandwiches since 1888, making it the oldest deli in New York City

Those who have been around for a few decades might remember this place as one of the many movie locations in New York City : it was used in the classic 1980s movie, When Harry Met Sally (1989), for the scene where Sally, played by Meg Ryan, fakes an orgasm.

However, you don’t have to know that movie to be interested in Katz’s Deli. I’ve read that more and more of the old NYC delis are closing, so Katz’s feels even more special for still being there. Despite its fame, it has retained its original character and it is still a great place to fuel up before your walking tour around Lower Manhattan. It’s such a classic, I included it on my NYC bucket list .

Not really knowing what to order, I played it safe and ordered a turkey sandwich. I guess I was expecting some politely sliced meat in a sandwich, which is what I’d expect back home in the UK. But what came was a mountain of steaming hot meat, dripping with fat. It could barely be contained between the bread!  Tip: make sure you keep your ticket stub – you need it to get out!

After Katz’s, head west along Houston Street, the one from which both Noho and Soho get the ‘ho’ part of their names (they stand for ‘NOrth of HOuston and ‘SOuth of HOuston’). After a few blocks, you’ll see a fairly unassuming shop on the left called Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery . This bakery specialises in knishes, a traditional Jewish snack. They have in business since 1890 and in this location since 1910.

From here, head down Forsyth Street and then onto Rivington Street. Just off Rivington, there’s an alley that is definitely one of the most unique places in NYC . Freeman Alley is a pedestrian alley transformed by street art – there’s graffiti, murals and posters covering the walls, shutters and pillars, and also some on the floor.

Optional Detour : if this sounds like your kind of thing, from Katz’s you could detour via the Tenement Museum . This is a great place to learn about the experience of working-class immigrants in the Lower East Side in the late 19 th century and early 20 th century when they were squeezed into small tenement buildings.

Little Italy

After Freeman Alley, head down Bowery and then right onto either Spring, Kenmare or Broome Street, until you get to Mulberry Street , the heart of Little Italy (as declared by the sign at the junction with Hester Street).

This area was named for the congruence of Italian immigrants who formed a community here in the late 19 th century.  There were 10,000 Italians here at its peak population in 1910. The movie Godfather Part 2 recreates a vision of what life was like here in the 1920s.

But the Italian-American inhabitants have largely moved out into other areas and nowadays it feels more like a collection of touristy Italian restaurants and souvenir shops than a thriving community.  The 2010 U.S. Community Survey found that no one living in Little Italy was born in Italy and only 5% of residents identified as Italian American.

Nevertheless, if you come through on 19 September, you might catch the feast of San Gennaro , when Mulberry Street throngs with food stalls and decorations in honour of Saint Januarius, the Patron Saint of Naples.

If you want to eat around here, I personally think the options are better on the northern Nolita part of Mulberry street, rather than the Little Italy section. I had a great pizza at Rubirosa on my most recent trip. And there’s a pretty good looking italian deli called Di Palo’s on the corner of Mott Street & Grand Street – they have those huge wheels of parmigiano!

Carrying on south for 5 minutes, by the time you hit Canal Street , the signs on the shops will have already let you know you’re in Chinatown.

This area of Lower Manhattan has had a community of Chinese inhabitants since the last 1800s. Unlike Little Italy, this area still has a high concentration of Chinese people. It’s not the only Chinese community in NYC, but there are still 90-100,000 Chinese-Americans living here. If you want to find out more about the Chinese diaspora, the Museum of Chinese in America is on Centre Street.

If it’s not something you’re used to, the Chinese characters in the signs can feel novel and photogenic. I particularly liked the colourful decorations and signs on Doyers Street, Pell Street and the bottom end of Mott Street.

However, my favourite part of Chinatown is off the streets. Columbus Park is a small public park in Chinatown. In the 19 th century, it was part of the dangerous five points neighbourhood, made famous in the Gangs of New York (2002) movie.

Nowadays, it is a peaceful place and feels like the community heart of Chinatown. Locals gather here to meet and play Mahjong or Xiangqi (Chinese chess). It’s a great place to stop and rest (or do some people-watching). I like quiet corners of Manhattan like this – sometimes it’s places like these that you can have unique NYC experiences .

From Columbus Park, head west then south on Centre Street, which will take you to City Hall Park .  You’re now in the civic centre of NYC, where you’ll find New York City Hall and the Tweed Courthouse.  

New York City Hall is the oldest city hall in the United States and a National Historic Landmark. City Hall Park itself is small but there’s a pretty fountain and it is overlooked by the neo-Gothic-style Woolworth Building , which was the tallest building in the world when it was built in 1913, until 1930, when the Chrysler building was built.  

9/11 Memorial & Freedom Tower

Go south onto Broadway and then head left onto Fulton Street to get to your next stop, a major destination in Lower Manhattan: the 9/11 Memorial .

The 9/11 Memorial contains two square Memorial Pools that are on the footprint of the two towers of the World Trade Centre, which came down on September 9, 2001. The names of the 2,977  victims are engraved on the marble around them. Standing on the edge of the pools, I feel like the waterfalls cascading down into the sunken pools were a graceful and evocative monument to the fallen buildings and those who died that horrible day. They move me each time I visit them.

There’s also Survivor Tree , a pear tree that somehow survived the terror attacks and was rehabilitated and planted in the Memorial in 2010.

As well as the outdoor memorial, which is free, there’s a museum about 9/11. For more of an idea about what to expect at the museum, check this post about the 9/11 Memorial & Museum .

In place of the two towers, the Freedom Tower (One World Trade Centre) was built and opened in 2014. If you have time and fancy an elevated view over Manhattan and the Hudson River, you could visit the One World observatory at the top.

It’s also worth noting two other places of interest around the 9/11 Memorial that you might want to visit during this walking tour of Lower Manhattan: Oculus , a shopping centre with a striking architectural atrium; and Liberty Park , an elevated city park with sculptures including The Sphere .

Wall Street

Once you’ve paid your respects at the 9/11 Memorial, head southeast out of the park and onto Cedar Street or Pine Street, turning right onto Nassau Street. This will soon take you past Federal Hall , which is a National Monument, and then to Wall Street . As you cross Wall Street, do stop to look right towards Trinity Church , which appears centred at the end of the street.

Wall Street was named after a wooden stockade or wall the Dutch built to protect their settlement in the 17th century. It is a small street and feels like a narrow cavern, such is the height of the buildings along it. If you’re a fan of architecture, you might want to check out some of the old skyscrapers along Wall Street, including 40 Wall Street.

This area is the nerve centre of the financial district and you’ll find the New York Stock Exchange, the world’s largest stock exchange by total market capitalization, on Broad Street, just off Wall Street.

Delmonico’s

Once you’ve had a good look around the financial district, walk down Exchange Place and then William Street and you’ll soon one of my favourite buildings in NYC: the iconic Delmonico’s .

Delmonico’s is a long-standing NYC restaurant known for classic steaks. Even if you don’t want to eat, I think this place is worth a visit due to it’s attractive facade and narrow corner footprint. I tried to dine here last time I was in New York, but they were full – so if you do want to eat here during the walking tour, I think it’s the kind of place you need to book in advance.

Battery Park

From Delmonico’s, take S Williams Street, then Broad street south and then turn right onto Water Street until you reach the park on the southernmost tip of Manhattan. This area is Battery Park and you can get a view of the Statue of Liberty from here. It’s not a brilliant viewpoint because there’s lots of fences around the edge of the park, but the Statue of Liberty is visible here.

Battery Park is named for the defensive artillery batteries that were built here in the late 17th century and today you can visit the remains of a 19th century fort, Castle Clinton , and there’s also a fairgroud ride here, Seaglass Carousel .

If you have plenty of time, you could also detour and take the Staten Island Ferry from the Whitehall terminal.  The ferry is free and it goes back and forth between Manhattan and Staten Island, taking approx. 25 minutes each way (and there’s normally a wait to return). The ferry route passes by the Statue of Liberty – which makes it a great way to see this famous landmark without paying for an expensive tour. It’s also nice to see the view of Manhattan as you pull out of the dock. It really looks like a cluster of glass and steel trees.

Of course, you might prefer an organised boat tour to the Statue of Liberty , which will give you a much closer look.

Whether or not you take the Staten Island detour, you will now head back towards City Hall along State Street and then Broadway . Don’t expect any theatres around here, though! Those are all several dozen blocks north.

Named for its width, Broadway is an old road that was originally a path made by Indigenous Americans. It runs for 13 miles from Lower Manhattan along the length of Manhattan, through the Bronx and out of the city all the way to Sleepy Hollow in upstate New York.

As you walk this stretch of Broadway in Lower Manhattan, you’ll pass some landmarks along the way, including:

• Charging Bull : a famous bronze statue of a bull said to symbolise aggressive financial optimism and prosperity. The sculpture was created by Italian artist Arturo Di Modica in the wake of the 1987 Black Monday stock market crash and was originally installed outside the New York Stock Exchange as an act of guerrilla art. Between 2017 and 2018, another statue called Fearless Girl was placed in front of Charging Bull, but she has now been moved to a new spot outside the New York Stock Exchange.
• Trinity Church : You hopefully have already seen this church from Wall Street: it appears small, its steeple dwarfed by the surrounding buildings. And yet, it was the tallest building in the United States from 1846 until 1869, and the tallest in New York City until 1890.

Brooklyn Bridge

From Park Row on the South side of City Hall Park, you can get onto the Brooklyn Bridge Promenade , a pedestrian walkway that will take you all the way across the Brooklyn Bridge into the Dumbo area of Brooklyn. It’s a lovely walk, and also one of the best romantic things to do in NYC .

This hybrid cable-stayed/suspension bridge opened in 1883 as the first fixed crossing over the East River and the longest suspension bridge in the world (at that time).

The brick towers of the bridge are iconic and walking along the bridge will give you plenty of opportunities to enjoy the views of the bridge, and, if you look backwards, of Manhattan as you get further away from it.

The walk across the bridge is quite long: 1.1 miles, so it can take 25 minutes or more. On the other side, there are even more viewpoints, if you need them, including the Brooklyn Bridge Park and the rooftop of the TimeOut Market and a classic view of the Manhattan Bridge in between buildings from Washington Street.

You can also walk the Brooklyn Bridge just before nightfall, which is a lovely time to do it, as you get to see the lights come on around the city – it’s one of the best things to do in New York at night .

And if you don’t want to walk all the way across the bridge, you cold jump in a taxi or an uber, or take the ferry from Pier 11 to Dumbo, on the Brooklyn side.

If you feel like indulging in a good meal after all your exertions, I can recommend the River Café , a floating restaurant on the shore, just south of the Brooklyn Bridge. It is fairly expensive and somewhat formal, with suited waiters etc – so you would probably prefer to come back with a smart outfit on to meet their dress code. However, this could be worth it because the food is really great, the service is impeccable and the views are unbeatable.

For more affordable, casual options, there’s Juliana’s Pizza , which has won numerous awards and accolades, many different cuisines in the TimeOut Market , plus a tasty lobster roll kiosk, Luke’s Lobster .

Map: Self-Guided Walking Tour Of Lower Manhattan

Here’s a route map of this Lower Manhattan walking tour, including markers for landmarks you’ll pass and also some places to eat.

How To Use This Map : Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each one.  If you click the star next to the map’s title, it will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu, go to ‘Your Places’ or ‘Saved’, then click Maps and you will see this map in your list.

Where To Stay In Lower Manhattan

Here are recommendations for a couple of hotels I’ve stayed at myself recently (in 2024) in Lower Manhattan.

I loved my stay in the Wall Street Hotel . When I booked it, I was a little concerned it might have ‘business hotel’ vibes, but it really didn’t. It has everything you’d want in a luxury hotel: plush, comfortable room; huge bathroom with a nice robe and toiletries; helpful staff ; a good room service menu; and a swanky lobby bar for cocktails at the end of the night.

I stayed at the Nolitan , which has an understated urban style that blends steel, concrete and velvet, making it a good fit in the cool, edgy Nolita neighbourhood. I had a good-sized room with a small balcony and a very nice bathroom. It is located near the starting point of this Lower Manhattan walking tour, making it easy to explore the Lower East Side, Chinatown, Little Italy, Soho, and Nolita itself, from here.

I hope this self-guided walking tour has inspired you to explore Lower Manhattan.  It is such a fascinating area, with a real mix of things to see and do.

If you need more inspiration for exploring New York City, check out my other walking tour for Manhattan , and also my guide to movie locations around New York . I’ve even written a 4-Day New York itinerary , to give you ideas about how to make the most of a few days in the city.

And if you want to get off the beaten path a little, you might be interested in my post on unique things to do in NYC .

Enjoy your walk in Lower Manhattan!

If you like this article, I'd be delighted if you shared it!

About The Author

Martha Knight

Related posts.

4-Day New York Itinerary: Experience The Best Of NYC In 2024

Dreaming Of New York: Must-See Items For Your NYC Bucket List In 2024

Walk New York: a FREE Self-Guided Walking Tour of Manhattan

25 Romantic Things To Do In NYC In 2024

Fun Things To Do On Rainy Days In NYC In 2024

50 Movies Set In New York City – With Locations

2 thoughts on “free self-guided walking tour of lower manhattan: where nyc began”.

Thoroughly enjoyed reading your post and virtually following along on this walking tour around Lower Manhattan. It was fascinating to read about the different areas and their development. Not to forget the highlights in each section to look out for. The variety of cultures living next to one another and also taking the ferry around Staten Island would engage me for hours. Thanks for compiling this tour 🙂

Carolin | Solo Travel Story

Thanks so much, Carolin! I really love NYC and I enjoyed creating this route. It’s a lot of walking, but, like you say, there’s so much packed into this part of the city.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

A Short Walking Tour of New York’s Lower East Side

Known as Klein Deutschland circa the 1860’s, the Lower East Side had the 5th largest German-speaking population among cities in the world at the time

Susan Spano

It’s fascinating to watch the focus of interest move from one gentrifying neighborhood to another in greater metropolitan New York. Once upon a time it was SoHo and Park Slope, Brooklyn; today it’s DUMBO, which stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, and the Lower East Side, where hip shops, stylish new hotels and restaurants have replaced garment workshops and pushcarts selling fruit and vegetables.

Days gone by in that neighborhood—east of the Bowery and south of Houston Street—come alive at the Tenement Museum in an Orchard Street apartment house where a long chain of German Jewish, Irish and Italian immigrants tried to make good in America. Tours of the building reveal how they lived from 1863 to 1935 with no electric lights, heating or indoor plumbing. Some made it out of the Lower East Side, while others who couldn’t manage to pay the rent moved to even worse neighborhoods.

The Tenement Museum also offers walking tours, one of which I recently joined. The first question I asked the guide on the pavement outside was what exactly is a tenement? I wanted to know because I live in what I assume was a West Village tenement building, characterized by its layout—two apartments in back, two in the front, on each floor—a fire escape climbing the facade and a tight, narrow internal staircase. The guide elaborated on the definition, describing a tenement as a building housing three or more unrelated families, originally with exterior wooden steps linking the floors, where housewives dried the laundry.

In the 1860s the Lower East Side was deluged by a wave of immigrants from Germany; known as Klein Deutschland, it had the fifth-largest German-speaking population among cities in the world at the time. The garment industry provided jobs, along with cigar factories and pushcarts. At 86 Orchard Street, a sign that says Max Feinberg identifies a brick building that now hosts a chichi Mexican restaurant as the former home of Majestic Hosiery.

Around the corner at 133 Allen Street, where there was once an elevated train and the city is building a bike lane—back to the future, as they say—we stopped in front of the Church of Grace to Fujianese . It’s a Christian worship place for fairly recent immigrants from China’s Fujian Province, but before that the building served as a bathhouse for the district’s great unwashed.

More characteristic of the Lower East Side in the late 19th century are the myriad synagogues tucked between storefronts like the Kehila Kedosha Janina temple at 280 Broome Street, home to a small, obscure sect of Judaism that grew up in Greece during the Roman era, and the former Congregation Poel Zedek Anshe Ileya, now a Seventh-Day Adventist church at the corner of Forsyth and Delancey streets, which actually began its long life as a German Presbyterian Church complete with a rose window around 1890.

Across the street Sara Roosevelt Park , named for FDR’s mother and opened in 1934, runs in a narrow strip between East Houston and Canal streets. The city established the park at a time when it hoped to provide one acre of green space for every 600 people. Now the ratio is more like one acre for every 12,000 in the densely packed neighborhood, and the park has welcomed serendipitous new enterprises like the Wah Mei bird garden and the M’Finda Kalunga  community garden, opened in 1982 partly to commemorate an abandoned nearby African cemetery and partly to stem drug dealing that was rampant in the area.

Just east of the park at the intersection of Rivington and Eldridge streets, we stood in front of the University Settlement , a welfare organization founded by wealthy, educated New Yorkers in 1886 to aid immigrants by providing education and social services. It continues to do so now, though the clientele has changed since the neighborhood’s German immigrant days.

The Tenement Museum walking tour lasts for two hours and covers much more ground than this. I was exhausted by the time I finished. Fortunately, places for refreshment abound in the neighborhood, from cool cafés like 88 Orchard to Yonah Schimmel’s knishery at 137 East Houston, which has been baking authentic knishes filled with potato, cabbage and spinach since 1910.

Get the latest Travel & Culture stories in your inbox.

Susan Spano | | READ MORE

The travel writer Susan Spano is the author of French Ghosts, Russian Nights, and American Outlaws: Souvenirs of a Professional Vagabond , to be published in May by Roaring Forties Press.

New York City: Lower East Side Food and History Walking Tour

The Lower East Side of New York City is a vibrant, culturally diverse neighborhood steeped in rich immigrant history. Visitors can enjoy this captivating culinary landscape through the New York City Lower East Side Food and History Walking Tour . This 3-hour adventure showcases the area’s iconic eateries , offering participants a chance to savor iconic dishes that reflect the neighborhood’s eclectic heritage. From the legendary pastrami sandwiches at Katz’s Delicatessen to the mouthwatering Dominican cuisine at El Castillo De Jagua, the tour promises a delightful exploration of the sights, sounds, and flavors that have shaped the Lower East Side’s distinctive character. What secrets might this neighborhood unveil to those willing to uncover them?

More food tours and experiences we've reviewed

• Guided Food Tour of Chinatown and Little Italy
• Greenwich Village Walking and Food Tasting Tour
• NYC: The Story Of Lower East Sides Food Culture
• The Original Best of Brooklyn Half-Day Food and Culture Bus Tour
• Secret Food Tours Greenwich Village

• Immersive 3-hour walking tour exploring the culinary and cultural heritage of New York City’s Lower East Side.
• Features iconic pastrami sandwiches, Dominican dishes, artisanal doughnuts, and insights into the influence of immigrant communities on local food culture.
• Suitable for adults and children, with adaptations available for dietary restrictions, though not wheelchair accessible.
• Highly rated tour that provides a comprehensive experience showcasing the diverse flavors and stories of the neighborhood.
• Meeting point at Peretz Square, with a knowledgeable guide leading the journey through historic establishments and modern culinary creations.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• 9/11 Memorial, Ground Zero Tour With Optional 9/11 Museum Ticket
• 9/11 Memorial Museum Admission Ticket
• All-Access 9/11: Ground Zero Tour, Memorial and Museum, One World Observatory
• New York Catacombs by Candlelight

Tour Overview and Details

What does this Lower East Side Food and History Walking Tour entail?

The 3-hour walking tour explores the diverse culinary and cultural heritage of New York City’s Lower East Side. Priced from Kč1,786 per person, the tour features several food tastings, including iconic pastrami sandwiches , Dominican dishes, and artisanal doughnuts.

Along the way, you will visit the neighborhood’s historic sites and learn about its immigrant communities . The tour is suitable for adults and children, though not accessible for wheelchair users or those with certain dietary restrictions.

With an overall rating of 4.7/5, this immersive experience is a must for visitors seeking to discover the unique flavors and stories of the Lower East Side.

Itinerary and Food Stops

Starting at Katz’s Delicatessen , the tour’s first stop, participants enjoy a 20-minute tasting of the iconic pastrami sandwiches that have made this deli a New York institution.

Next, the group ventures to El Castillo De Jagua Restaurant , where they spend 40 minutes sampling authentic Dominican dishes.

The tour then moves to the historic Essex Market , where participants have 25 minutes to explore the diverse food offerings.

At Orchard Grocer, they spend 30 minutes tasting modern New York-style bagels.

The final food stops include Shu Jiao Fu Zhou for Chinese specialties, The Pickle Guys for classic pickles, and Doughnut Plant for innovative artisanal doughnuts.

Culinary Highlights

The tour offers a diverse culinary experience , allowing participants to explore a range of cuisines that reflect the vibrant immigrant communities of the Lower East Side.

From classic American dishes to Dominican specialties, modern New York-style bagels, and Chinese delicacies, the tour provides a delightful and immersive journey through the neighborhood’s diverse food culture.

Visitors have the opportunity to sample signature pastrami sandwiches at the iconic Katz’s Delicatessen , one of the oldest delis in the city, and gain insights into how Jewish and immigrant influences have shaped the local food landscape.

The tour also features a stop at the beloved Doughnut Plant , known for its innovative and artisanal baked goods.

Participant Information

The Lower East Side Food and History Walking Tour accommodates a wide range of participants, from adults aged 15 to 99 as well as children aged 2 to 14. However, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, vegans, or those with gluten intolerance. Fortunately, the tour can be adapted for vegetarian, gluten-free (but not celiac), dairy-free, pescatarian diets, and pregnant women, though cross-contamination cannot be guaranteed for gluten-free options.

Customer Experience and Reviews

Based on the reviews, the Lower East Side Food and History Walking Tour has received an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7 customer reviews.

Customers praised the guide’s passion for the area’s history and the immersive experience of tasting various cuisines introduced by immigrants.

One reviewer, Julie, recommended the tour as a must-do for visitors to NYC.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the influence of Jewish and immigrant communities on local food culture, featuring a range of cuisines from American classics to innovative baked goods.

Meeting Point and Guide

The meeting point for the Lower East Side Food and History Walking Tour is Peretz Square , located at the corner of East Houston Street and 1st Avenue.

The guide will hold a red Devour Tours sign, making them easy to identify.

This 3-hour walking tour takes participants on an immersive culinary and cultural journey through one of New York City’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

From visiting the city’s oldest delicatessen to sampling a range of global cuisines , the guide’s passion for the area’s history and food scene ensures an engaging and memorable experience for all.

Duration and Price

For the Lower East Side Food and History Walking Tour, the duration is 3 hours , with a price starting from Kč1,786 per person .

This tour is likely to sell out, but customers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now with the option to pay later.

The tour includes tastings at several iconic local establishments, providing a comprehensive culinary and historical exploration of the diverse Lower East Side neighborhood.

With a range of dietary accommodations available, this walking tour offers an immersive experience for both visitors and locals seeking to explore the rich cultural heritage of this vibrant area of New York City.

Cuisine and Influence

This food tour takes guests on a culinary journey through the Lower East Side, exploring the diverse cuisines that have shaped the neighborhood’s rich food culture. Visitors will experience a range of flavors, from classic American deli fare to innovative Chinese specialties and modern interpretations of traditional baked goods. The tour highlights the influence of Jewish, Dominican, and other immigrant communities on the local food scene, showcasing the cultural diversity that has made the Lower East Side a hub of culinary creativity.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour
• Official NYC Horse Carriage Rides in Central Park Since 1979 ™
• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Experience Ticket
• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour: All Options
• SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown Walking Tour in New York
• New York City Statue of Liberty Super Express Cruise

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?

The tour information does not mention whether Wi-Fi is available during the walking tour. It’s likely that Wi-Fi access is not provided, as the focus is on exploring the neighborhood’s culinary and historical offerings through a guided, immersive experience.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes tasting stops at several local food establishments, so bringing outside items is not permitted. Guests must purchase and consume the provided samples during the scheduled tastings.

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

There are no specific discounts mentioned for seniors or students on the Lower East Side Food and History Walking Tour. The standard price of Kč1,786 per person applies to all participants, regardless of age or student status.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups. Devour Tours offers private tours with flexible start times and group sizes, allowing for a more personalized experience tailored to the group’s interests and dietary needs.

How Do I Contact the Tour Operator if I Have Additional Questions?

You can contact the tour operator, Devour Tours, directly by emailing [email protected] or calling +1 212-710-5245. They’re happy to answer any additional questions you may have about the tour and accommodate your needs.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• New York City: Sunset Sail Aboard a Schooner
• NYC: Around Manhattan Official NYC Architecture Cruise
• New York City: Harbor Speedboat Tour
• NYC in Focus: Memorial, Finance, Liberty Tour
• Nyc: Epic Tall Ship Craft Beer Sail With Lobster Option
• Food Tour of Greenwich Village
• Official Exclusive VIP Horse Carriage Ride in Central Park
• New York City: Sunset Yacht Cruise
• New York: Private Tour of The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• NYC: Guided Central Park Horse Carriage Ride
• Exploration NYC: Memorial, Finance, Liberty Tour
• New York City: Highlights of Central Park Bike or Ebike Tour
• NYC: Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens Guided Bus Tour
• NYC: Private Horror Movie Location Walking Tour
• Nyc: Manhattan Skyline Brunch Cruise With a Drink

The New York City Lower East Side Food and History Walking Tour offers a delightful and immersive culinary experience that showcases the rich immigrant heritage of the neighborhood. Participants indulge in iconic local flavors, savor diverse dishes, and uncover the fascinating stories behind the vibrant food scene. This tour provides a comprehensive and informative exploration of the Lower East Side’s captivating culinary landscape.

Similar Posts

Cadiz: Spain/ Europe Esim Roaming Mobile Data Plan

Kà™ by Cirque Du Soleil® at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino

Akzara Spa Hindu Ritual 3H

From Lisbon: Direct Private Transfer to Algarve – One Way

Bruges highlights trip from paris lunch boat beer chocolate.

Mountaintop Yoga & Meditation Hike in Asheville

Things To Do in The Lower East Side

The ultimate lower east side guide.

Known a few years ago for the city’s best bagels and exciting bargains, Manhattan’s Lower East Side is currently packed with indie designer boutiques, stylish bars, cafes and countless contemporary art galleries. An area that wasn’t considered safe many years ago has changed dramatically over the years and now has a very different value than it did.

You'll also love this:

• The 4 Best Hotels in the Lower East Side
• The 8 Best Bars in the Lower East Side
• The 8 Best Restaurants in the Lower East Side

Even though the LES has been through developments and changes it’s true character is still intact. One can still explore the remnants of the old Jewish neighborhoods, which for many years was home to the Marx brothers and George Gershwin. There’s a lot to see on the Lower East Side.

By the way: you’ll find many more New York City spots in our Loving New York travel guides .

Table of Contents

My TOP 5 Things To Do in the Lower East Side

• Please Go Experience Katz Deli  – Katz Deli is one of the most iconic delis in all of New York City. There’s no other place like it and has been operating since 1888. (Address: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002, Subway  F   M  Delancey/Essex Street.)
• The New Museum –  It’s basically a museum for new art and new ideas. Take a look at their awesome gallery and exhibitions which brings in emerging media from modern day artists. (Address: 235 Bowery, New York, NY 10002, Subway F 2nd Avenue, Subway J Z Bowery Station and Subway R W Prince St.)
• Two Bit’s Retro Arcade –  If you’re feeling nostalgic and want to relive your childhood days, then check out this arcade. It has over 20 vintage arcade games such as Pacman and Tetris. It has the classic games that you grew up loving. Oh, and it has alcohol. Lots of it. (Address: 153 Essex St, New York, NY 10002, Subway F 2nd Avenue or Delancey Street and Subway M to Essex Street)
• Take a Stroll – Walking around is also one of the best things to do in the Lower East Side. The neighborhood has character and it’s own unique vibe. You can tell it was a rough neighborhood at one point but has not turned into a creatives dream. It’s like a miniature Williamsburg to be honest. (Subway  F M  Delancey/Essex Street and Subway  J Z Bowery Station)
• Visit the Tenement Museum  – Here you can learn about NYC’s urban immigrant history. Find out the different challenges immigrants had to face and how they overcame them. (Address: 103 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, Subway  F M  Delancey/Essex Street and Subway  J Z Bowery Station)

Where is the Lower East Side located?

The Lower East Side (also called LES) is located at the southwest part of Downtown Manhattan directly on the Hudson River.

How to Get to the Lower East Side

Commuting to the Lower East Side is pretty easy. There are a lot of options:

• Subway: You can take the F   M Train to Delancey/Essex Street. Alternatively, you can also take the B   D Train to Grand Street in Chinatown and walk for about 10 minutes to LES.
• Hop on Hop Off Bus : Stop 8 of the downtown loop of BIG BUS or stop 13 of the downtown loop of Gray Line Sightseeing. Here you find more about Hop on Hop off in NYC . My tip: the tickets for the buses are included in many of the New York City passes – which one is the best for you, you can see in my Pass Comparison for New York !
• By boat:  Take the NYC Ferry , which arrives and departs from Corlears Hook.

🥇 Look no further: That‘s the only New York Travel Guide you need (300+ pages and 700+ reviews on Amazon)

Check out our preview here .

The 12 Best  Things To Do in the Lower East Side

Lower East Side has become one of the most hip and art driven neighborhoods of New York over the years. During the 1800s, the Lower East Side was a neighborhood filled with immigrants who came here which propped up businesses such as small scale garment factories and also the slums. As the years went on, the area improved and an artistic community has started to thrive.

Today’s Lower East Side is a perfect place to enjoy art, food, and drinks! From a New Yorkers perspective, this is where you typically end up on the weekends if you do not live in the neighborhood. Below we have laid out what we think are the must-see and go-to spots are:

Katz's Delicatessen: Eat one of the best pastrami sandwiches in NYC

An absolute institution in New York is the Katz’s Delicatessen Restaurant in Manhattan, founded in 1888. Cineastes will immediately think of the film scene with Sally’s fake orgasm during “Harry and Sally”. And what should we say? Those were really the best sandwiches (we tested corner beef and pastrami) we ever had.

Enjoy the Clipper City Jazz Cruise

Picture this: You’re sailing under the twinkling stars, the awe-inspiring New York skyline and the majestic Statue of Liberty framing your view, while the soulful tunes of some of America’s best Jazz musicians serenade your senses. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, this could be your reality!

Get ready to swing the night away on this tall ship, the Clipper City. This experience is not just a cruise; it’s a journey into the romantic heart of New York harbor, with the best jazz tunes as your soundtrack.

As you step aboard this iconic tall ship – a replica of the lumber-hauling schooners that powered America’s industry over a century ago – you’re immediately whisked away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Jazz legends like guitarist Joe Cohn and saxophonist Avram Fefer will soothe your soul with their cool, smooth sounds. And guess what? This star-studded line-up is personally curated by James Polsky, the founder of Jazz Standard!

As the crew expertly sets the massive sails, you’ll embark on an unforgettable cruise along the Hudson and East Rivers. The Clipper City’s decks are wonderfully spacious, decked out with plenty of comfortable seating and a full bar. And let’s not forget the raised quarter deck back aft – this prime spot offers unparalleled views of the city’s harbor and iconic skyline.

Visit the New Museum of Contemporary Art

The New Museum of Contemporary Art is worth a visit for its architecture alone. Its contemporary art exhibitions are among the best in the world. Founded in 1977, the New Museum of Contemporary Art building was designed by the Japanese architectural firm SANAA and is one of the most striking buildings in NYC.

Russ & Daughters

Russ & Daughters has been serving the best bagels in town for more than 100 years. Be sure to try them with the smoked fish platter – you’ll be delighted.

NYC Lower East Side Food and Culture Small-Group Tour

This is a really unique walking tour in NYC that will introduce you to the wonderful Lower East Side. The Lower East Side Food and Culture Tour shows you the many lovely little delis, Jewish specialties, bakeries and everything that makes up the soul of the city.

You’ll visit places that are an important part of the community, having operated in the same spot for generations. You’ll get a glimpse of authentic life and become part of the real New York.

With nearly 500 positive reviews, it’s the most popular walking tour in New York of them all!

Tenement Museum

Nowhere are the living conditions of the New York migrants of the 19th century more tangible than in the Tenement Museum.

Have a Drink in my favorite bar: The Fools Gold

One of the best bars in New York, also known for good burgers. The bar is an absolute MUST-SEE! The burgers are really sensational and they offer really good local beers.

On the Lower East Side you will find an often overlooked part of the East River Esplanade. We took a closer look at the route and discovered Pier 35 there, which we think is so great that we have to tell you about it! Because: At Pier 35 you have a great view of the East River and you can swing comfortably!

cloudM Rooftop Bar: Enjoy breath-taking views

For me, the cloudM Rooftop Bar is one of the most beautiful rooftop bars not only in the Lower East Side, but in all of New York. It is located on the roof of the citizenM New York Bowery Hotel and offers everything that makes a good rooftop bar: a great view, beautiful design and relaxed atmosphere.

Recommend: The best rooftop bars in NYC

NYC Lower East Side Walking and Food Tour

The Lower East Side is still an absolute insider tip among the neighborhoods of New York City and a part of Lower Manhattan that I love to visit. There are countless authentic bars and delis, some of which have been family-owned for more than 100 years and are thus an important part of the community.  

The NYC Lower East Side Walking and Food Tour deals exactly with these small spots and stores and is therefore a TOP Thing to do for foodies!

SIXTY LES Hotel: Spend a Night in one of NYC's most beautiful hotels

4 Stars | The highlights of the Sixty LES are definitely the rooftop pool, gym, and spa. The stylish rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows. My advice: When booking, definitely ask for a room on one of the higher floors and, with a little luck, enjoy a great view of the Empire State Building.

Speakeasy Bars: Dive into the prohibition era of the 1920s

In the Lower East Side you have several to choose from, as there are the bars Please Don’t Tell (PDT), Attaboy and The Back Room.

One of the Attaboy’s specialties is the bartenders: since there is no cocktail menu, you just say what you feel like and in which direction you want the cocktail to go and your personal cocktail will be mixed. The bar is not cheap, but worth every cent – otherwise it wouldn’t have made it into the TOP 20 of the best bars in the world.

Some impressions of the LES in NYC

Attractions in the  lower east side.

Many of New York’s major New York attractions  like the 9/11 Memorial & Museum or the One World Observatory are located in the adjacent Lower Manhattan and are therefore easily reachable from here:

01 Alexandre Gallery

Alexandre Gallery has two locations. The 25 E 73rd Street location has been around for 20 years, and will stay open for private viewings, and American Modernists from the Stieglitz Circle. It will be appointment only. The late 19th early 20th century is a special focus for Alexandre Gallery. Famous artists such as John Marin, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Joseph Stella have paintings on display at the 73rd Street location.

Alexandre Gallery opened its new location at 291 Grand Street in the Lower East Side of Manhattan on September 9, 2021 with Lois Dodd doing a one-person exhibition. The gallery has 2,000 square feet, and was previously used by James Cohan.  

02 bitforms gallery

The bitforms gallery is a contemporary art gallery that features mid-career artists utilizing the latest technologies in New York City. The Bitforms gallery was founded in 2001 with the idea that A world-renowned contemporary visual art gallery, bitforms is home to established artists and those on the rise.

bitforms is a cutting edge gallery that represents established and emerging artists with new technologies in their work. It’s no surprise that technology is recognized an important niche in the market at large. Nowadays we are used seeing images projected onto tablets during live performances but not that long ago this was unheard of.

03 Bowery Ballroom

The nightlife of the Lower East Side is considered one of the best in the city. And one of the most popular locations for live music is the Bowery Ballroom (address: 6 Delancey St). The former ballroom offers many concerts worth seeing every week. Bruno Mars played here many years ago, when not the whole world knew him.

04 Derek Eller Gallery

Like many of the famous art galleries, the Derek Eller Gallery relocated from Chelsea to the Lower East Side. It has been around since 1997 and focuses on contemporary artists.

Many of the artists are well established, but do not have the visibility that they need, and several artists are just emerging. This combination makes the Derek Eller Gallery stick out. They showcase their artists works through art fairs, as well as exhibitions.

05 East River Park

The park offers a great view of the Williamsburg Bridge!

06 Foley Gallery

The Foley Gallery, located in New York City, is home to a wide variety of photography, drawing, cut paper, and paintings from some of the world’s most renowned artists.

The gallery features both temporary and permanent exhibitions, as well as a range of public programs that are designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages. One such program is called The Photo Community. It is designed to help professional artists develop their skills in photography, and learn how to integrate them with other forms of art.

07 GingerBread Lane

Imagine the aroma and whimsical fun of walking through the world’s largest gingerbread village. What if we told you that one actually exists in New York City? If you’re planning on spending Christmas in NYC, then be sure to head over to Manhattan’s Chelsea Market and check out the amazing and delicious creation brought to you by “The Gingerbread Man” Jon Lovitch. 

08 High Noon Gallery

The High Noon Gallery is an art gallery in New York City that was founded in 2017 by Jared Linge. Jared worked in the art space for over 8 years and realized that the talented, and often unrepresented artists, were not getting the exposure they needed to thrive.

The High Noon Gallery works with other non profits, galleries, and museums to help get their artists the visibility they deserve. They work with new talent, as well as mid-career talent.

09 James Fuentes LLC

James Fuentes LLC is a contemporary art gallery located in the heart of New York City. The gallery was founded in 2007 by James Fuentes in the Lower East Side and specializes in presenting innovative and experimental artwork by both emerging and established artists.

James Fuentes LLC has earned a reputation for showcasing some of the most exciting new artwork on the art scene today. The gallery exhibits include site-specific installations, sculptures, and video work by artists such as Al Souza, Edgar Arceneaux, Jim Radagast, Lou Beach, Toby Buonagurio, Vincent Fecteau, Mike Kuchar, Brooke Shaden, Jules DeBalincourt, and many more.

10 Klaus von Nichtssagend Gallery

The Klaus von Nichtssagend Gallery is a contemporary art gallery located in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, New York City; which is where you will find several art galleries for your perusal.

The gallery was founded in 2004 by Matthew Chase, Ingrid Bromberg Kennedy, Robert Hult, and Sam Wilson.

11 Krause Gallery

The variety of artforms, and artists presented at the Krause Gallery make this one a must visit. You’ll notice paintings, sculpture, and mostly contemporary art.

The Krause Gallery has entered the world of NFT’s. NFT stands for Non-Fungible Token, and is the latest craze in the art world (a NFT is a digital asset that is unlike any other).

Lowline in NYC is the world’s first underground park. It’s located in the Lower East Side.

Many of the attractions and tours are included in one of the New York City passes. So you can easily and quickly save up to 70% – how does it work?

You can see that in my ultimate 👉   New York Pass comparison , here you can see my personal 👉   New York Pass Reviews after more than 20 visits to New York and our free New York Pass Advisor answers the question: “ Which New York Pass is the best? ”

Compare New York Passes

Best Guided Tours in the LES NYC

There are a lot of very popular tours where New York guides show you the best parts and the history of this (and neighboring) neighborhood:

01 Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO Walking Tour

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and learn about the exciting and dramatic history of this world-famous New York City neighborhood, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. On the other side of the Brooklyn Bridge you will discover DUMBO, a newly popular and up and coming part of Brooklyn. 

Meeting point is 52 Chambers Street in front of the Tweed Courthouse.

02 NYC Lower East Side Food and Culture Small-Group Tour

This is a really unique walking tour in NYC that will introduce you to the wonderful Lower East Side. The Lower East Side Food and Culture Tour shows you the many lovely little delis, Jewish specialties, bakeries and everything that makes up the soul of the city. 

You’ll visit places that are an important part of the community, having operated in the same spot for generations. You’ll get a glimpse of authentic life and become part of the real New York. 

With nearly 300 positive reviews, it’s the most popular walking tour in New York of them all!

03 NYC Lower East Side Walking and Food Tour

If guided tours interest you, be sure to check out the Best Walking Tours NYC !

Get personal tips & tricks, specifically tailored to your trip!

We will provide you with individual tips & tricks as you prepare for your trip. How to plan, save money and make sure you experience the most of NYC are only some of the topics covered!

Specify dates

Best Restaurants in the Lower East Side

01 Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya

Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya is a Japanese-style tavern and a traditional sushi bar with a fine dining experience. This spot is all about bonding together at a fun place to drink with delicious food selections. From small plate options to family-style platters, Blue Ribbon has got you covered. The location of this Lower East Side restaurant is also beautiful and convenient if you want to jump right into the East Village. 

02 Balvanera

Situated at the crossroads of Stanton St and Suffolk, Balvanera offers an Argentinean twist on brunch culture. Serving their brunch food between 11 am and 4:30 pm on weekends, Balvanera’s welcoming ambiance sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.

Encompassing both traditional and innovative, their menu caters to just about anyone. Wanton to know what I order? The Milanesa a Caballo is a taste of Argentina you simply can’t miss – it’s a rich symphony of textures and flavors that might just redefine your brunch expectations. Enjoy your weekend feast in this charming Lower East Side restaurant and get a taste of Argentinean hospitality at its finest.

03 Beauty & Essex

Step into the enigmatic Beauty & Essex, located across from Mazaar and Sons of Essex, and you’ll be in for one of the best brunch Lower East Side. But the catch is that they only offer the brunch menu on Sunday morning from 11:30 am to 4 pm. 

Beauty & Essex is unique in that it’s hidden behind the facade of a pawn shop. So, prepare to be swept off your feet by the sumptuous decor, from a two-story chandelier and antique perfume bottles to a luxuriously fitted women’s bathroom. They are celebrated for their spectacularly presented Oreo Cookie Pancakes, a unique blend of Oreo crumbs and sweet cream. If pancakes are not your style, opt for the Brunch Pre Fixe and indulge in their Braised Short Rib’ Huevos Rancheros’ – it’s an experience you won’t forget.

04 BigA Bite

As the name suggests, there are big pizzas here. They can be up to 8 feet long – so BigA Bite is a great experience especially for groups (or for families with big appetites). The pizza dough is very fluffy, tasty and you have a great choice of toppings. Be sure to try the Pizziri to start beforehand. Or the Spicy Burrata!

05 Casa Mezcal

Casa Mezcal is – as the name suggests – a mezcal bar in New York, more precisely in the Lower East Side. Both from the outside and inside, Casa Mezcal shows the Mexican joie de vivre: everything is colorful and the bar is beautifully decorated. There is a huge selection of mezcals and the atmosphere is just great!

Looking for more recommendations? We’ve got you covered! Here you find the Best Restaurants in the Lower East Side .

Best Bars in the Lower East Side

The Lower East Side is one of the best neighborhoods in NYC for nightlife. Like we previous mentioned, this is typically where a lot of people end up on the weekend to go out:

01 cloudM New York Bowery

02 Double Chicken Please

The Double Chicken Please is a cocktail bar & restaurant in the Lower East Side and definitely worth a visit. The cocktails are incredibly tasty, creative and you’ll love the atmosphere too. Their specialty is cocktails that are inspired by dishes – so there are cocktails like Cold Pizza, Key Lime Pie or Japanese Cold Noodle.

03 Fools Gold NYC

04 Copper & Oak

Ui, this is where we as whiskey fans lost our hearts – the operators behind the bar are the same as from the Brandy Library in Tribeca. Like there, the bar is always well attended. No wonder, the bar is not very big and beautiful. Shelves filled with whiskeys, rum and co instead of books, an illuminated bar and super delicious bar food make it one of the bars that is one of the most beautiful for us!

05 Loreley Beer Garden

Here the Rhine metropolis Cologne meets New York. The owner, Michael Momm, a real “Kölscher Jung”, opened this piece of Germany in the middle of New York in 2003. Here you will find a large selection of German beers (including Kölsch, of course) and good German wines at fair prices, as well as a delicious selection of German dishes.

Looking for more recommendations? We’ve got you covered! Here you find the Best Bars in the Lower East Side .

The Art Scene in the Lower East Side

Aside from the street art you’ll encounter, there are numerous galleries that you can look into. Here’s a list of our favorites.

• Canada  (Address: 333 Broome Street)
• Eleven Rivington  (Address: 11 Rivington Street)
• Miguel Abreu Gallery  (Address: 36 Orchard Street)
• Rachel Uffner Gallery  (Address: 70 Suffolk Street)
• Sperone Westwater  (Address: 257 Bowery)

Shopping in the Lower East Side

One of the best things to do in the Lower East Side and even in NYC in general is shopping. The Lower East Side is more about boutiques and specialty stores, so you won’t find any major retailers. If you’re into hats, definitely check out World Hats.  They carry every possible hats you can think of. If you’re into fighting such as MMA or Boxing, check out the fight store Superare.  You can find fighting gear, apparel and they even carry their own exclusive brand. Other shops in the area are boutiques with their own distinctive selections, look and vibe.

Best Hotels in the Lower East Side NYC

Are you looking for a nice hotel in the Lower East Side for your next visit to New York? But which one is the most beautiful hotel to stay in? My advice: check out our list of the best hotels in the Lower East Side!

01 citizenM New York Bowery

4 Stars | The citizenM New York Bowery is my favorite hotel in this area , because it combines a lot of things I like: stylish, bright rooms, a sensational bar and even a rooftop bar with a fantastic view. 

02 PUBLIC Hotel

4 stars | PUBLIC Hotel is one of the newest and, in my opinion, most beautiful hotels in New York. It is located in the Lower East Side neighborhood, right on the corner of Nolita and the East Village , and thus has many trendy bars and restaurants to offer.

The ambience in the PUBLIC Hotel is really nice: harmonious colors, stylish interior and many plants create a very relaxed atmosphere. The hotel’s restaurant and bar are amazing and you can end the evening in the rooftop bar.

03 Hotel Indigo Lower East Side New York

4 Stars | The Hotel Indigo Lower East Side New York is one of my personal hotel tips for you. You are in one of the hottest neighborhoods of NYC, the hotel has large rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows even for New York standards and besides a stylish bar and a really good restaurant even a rooftop pool to offer!

Its location in the Lower East Side is ideal if you want to reach Chinatown, the East Village or the Financial District on foot. The neighborhood is also the new hotspot for art fans: there are many small and large art galleries to discover.

04 Hotel On Rivington

4 stars | The Hotel On Rivington is seen by many to be one of the best hotels in NYC with a view, because of its floor to ceiling windows that take advantage of its proximity to the NYC skyline. You can take in the beautiful surroundings from almost any room in the hotel!

Staying at this hotel also puts you squarely in the Lower East Side of NYC, which allows you to take advantage of all it has to offer. Ranging from its unique food scene to fantastic nightlife.

And back at the hotel, each room is spacious and comfortable. Overall, this is a great place to stay if you’re in that area of NYC!

05 Off Soho Suites

2 Stars | Each of the modern suites has a chic living room with a flat-screen TV, a dining area and a sofa bed. For all gym fans among you, there is a fitness centre which you can use free of charge.

Recommended article: The Best Hotels in the Lower East Side NYC .

Neighborhoods Nearby

The Lower East Side is a unique neighborhood with lots of history. With that being said, check out these other neighborhoods nearby.

The 13 Best Things to Do in Chinatown NYC

The 15 Best Things to Do in SoHo NYC – The Complete Guide 2024

The 11 Best Things To Do in Little Italy NYC

Neighborhoods that are similar.

If you enjoyed Lower East Side’s raw atmosphere, here are some neighborhoods that are similar to it.

Best Things to do in Williamsburg Brooklyn

Loved by musicians, artists, and creatives of NYC, Williamsburg has become increasingly popular and has...

Things to Do in DUMBO

What was once an area known for shipping and warehouses is now a go-to spot...

The 19 Best Things to Do in Greenwich Village NYC

NYC has so many neighborhoods that are truly unique in their own way. One of...

The 5 Absolute Best Hotels in the Lower East Side

The 12 Best Bars in the Lower East Side Right Now

The 9 Best Restaurants on the Lower East Side Right Now

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Hole dir deine wöchentliche Dosis New York mit meinem Loving New York-Newsletter! Er ist vollgestopft mit den neuesten Artikeln, Videos, Erfahrungsberichten und allem, was gerade Interessantes und Wissenswertes im Big Apple passiert.

Ich selbst war über 25x in meiner Lieblingsstadt und möchte dir mit meinen Emails dabei helfen, eine sensationelle Zeit vor Ort zu haben.

Und als BONUS bekommst meine ✔️ "24 Tipps für deine New York-Reise" ✔️ die U-Bahn-Karte und ✔️ die offizielle NYC-Karte zugeschickt. Ganz KOSTENLOS!

Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

Things to Do in Lower Manhattan | Lower East Side Tour

Looking for some off-the-beaten-path, unusual things to do in NYC for your next trip? I highly recommend adding the Lower East Side to your next NYC weekend. More specifically, if you have even just a long weekend, consider filling your entire NYC itinerary in this neighborhood. There are plenty of things to do on the Lower East Side to keep you busy without having to head uptown. Here’s how I spent an entire, incredible NYC trip on the Lower East Side.

Check out my travel vlog about the best things to do in the Lower East Side NYC

The Lower East side is located in the southeast corner of Manhattan and has been known as the gateway neighborhood where new immigrants first land after arriving in the United States.  This area is bordered by The Bowery to the west, East Houston to the north, the East River to the east and Canal Street to the south.  It’s bordered by Chinatown, Nolita and the East Village neighborhoods.  

If you’re looking for a unique and off the beaten path NYC Experience, the Lower East Side is the place to go.

Follow me on Social Media!

What are the best lower east side walking tours and lower east side food tours.

Start out with a Lower East Side walking tour to get yourself acclimated to the layout of the streets and the historical landmarks. There are many walking tours in NYC, but check out Big Onion walking tours , and peel back hundreds of years of Lower East Side architectural, political, and social history. For Lower East Side Food Tours, I recommend Nice Guy Tours for a fun, delicious way to get to know the history of the best restaurants in the Lower East Side, from pastrami to pastry. Ask for Dante, the owner of Nice Guy Tours, and remember to start out on an empty stomach. 

What are the Best Immersive Experiences in the Lower East Side?

Looking for a more interactive way of exploring the city? Check out the immersive experiences from CityBeautifulTours ! You can solve a murder mystery in the Lower East Side while seeing parts of the city that a lot of tourists don’t venture to. Along the way, you’ll learn about local history, find some hidden speakeasies, stop at New York’s most famous deli, and more. Play the part of a private investigator and see New York City in a truly unique way with this phone-guided Murder Mystery tour !

What are the Most Unique Museums in NYC on the Lower East Side?

Most often, Manhattan’s Lower East Side is not the first stop for museum-goers on their first trip to NYC. But some of the coolest things to do in the Lower East Side are the museums — off-the-beaten-path and quirky, historical, and moving. The Lower East Side is chock-full of unique museums, and The Tenement Museum is an absolute must. This is an actual tenement building on Orchard Street that has been outfitted as an exact replica of how immigrants lived a hundred years ago. You’ll spend a meaningful couple hours learning about life through an immigrant’s eyes. Advance reservations are required for Tenement Museum tours. Afterwards, stop by to see how the “other half lived” with a visit to the Merchant House Museum on East 4th Street — a 19th century brownstone owned by generations of the same wealthy family and perfectly preserved until the early 20th century, now designated as a City landmark. No reservations required, but check the web site for hours; guided and self-guided tours are available.

Another interesting stop is The Museum on Eldridge Street which is the old Synagogue, where you can learn about the Jewish immigrant history of NYC.   There are also a few art-centric Lower East Side museums not to be missed — the New Museum on the Bowery, with eye-popping contemporary exhibits; the International Center of Photography on Essex Street with incredibly moving, provocative photographs; and the Museum of Street Art , an homage to the best of street art and graffiti that winds up twenty floors of stairwell in the citizenM New York Bowery Hotel.

What are the Best Lower East Side Rooftop Bars and Happy Hour Spots?

Rooftop bars in the Lower East Side are the best way to end your day of walking and eating. Check out the 20th floor of citizenM New York Bowery Hotel (and gawk at the Museum of Street Art as you walk up the stairwell). Or head to The Crown bar at Hotel 50 Bowery , a rooftop bar with vast views and homey little food bites to accompany your drinks. Mr. Purple on Hotel Indigo’s 15th floor offers beautiful views and unusual drinks. And at Last Light on the Bowery , you can take in the lower-Manhattan skyline while sharing wine and craft beers with your friends, or drinks such as the “Naked and Famous” or “Small Victories.”

Like this post and want to save it for later? Pin it on Pinterest!

What are the Best Lower East Side Clubs?

I’m not much of a club scene girl, but the NY Nightclubs on the Lower East Side are some of the best for dancing and people watching. They range in appearance from frumpy, old, and graffitied to eclectic, colorful, and dripping with velvet. So if you’ve still got some get-up-and-go after happy hour and dinner, head to The Rumpus Room , La Caverna , CBGB , The Pyramid Club , The DL , or The Bowery Electric . It’s one of the things to do on the lower east side that you won’t get anywhere else, and you won’t regret it.

If you want to extend your trip up the East Coast, I recommend visiting Portland, Maine! Click to read my top 10 Portland things to do.

What are the best restaurants in the lower east side.

There is no way to qualify the best food in the Lower East Side. You can’t throw a penny without hitting another gem. After you’ve experienced your Lower East Side Food Tour , you’ll be set to conquer the rest of your meals, but it’ll be tough not to repeat. Start your mornings at one of the many Lower East Side coffee shops, including Caffevita , The Roasting Company , or the Ludlow Coffee Supply (my favorite), then grab a great breakfast in the Lower East Side at Yonah Shimmel for the best knishes in NY. It is a must to run to Katz’ Delicatessen for lunch — a Lower East Side Deli that has been around since 1888 and is famous for Katz’ pastrami sandwich.

And save time to spend in the Essex Food Market . Opened in 1888 first for vendors with pushcarts, it has grown to an enormous, modern space with a plethora of cheeses, meats, fish, produce.

Dinner is always a special treat on the Lower East Side.  The restaurants are small with only a few tables, and have an intimate and lively setting.  Start at The Ten Bells for appetizers and a glass of wine, then head to Wildair or Pig and Khao , or The Fat Radish .

What are the best Lower East Side Hotels?

Trust me — don’t go chain if you want to plant yourself in the middle of New York’s Lower East Side. The best Lower East Side restaurants aren’t chains, and Lower East Side shopping isn’t your typical mall stores, so stay the course and bunk into a Lower East Side boutique hotel — surprisingly, for its small size, the number of hotels in the Lower East Side is more than you’d expect. With so many things to do in the Lower East Side, you won’t want to spend too much time in your hotel, but while you’re there, it may as well be cool and comfortable. Due to its small boundaries, Lower East Side boutique hotels are close to everything in the neighborhood and all the things to do in the Lower East Side. I think the best hotels in the Lower East Side are those that snuggle into the landscape of older, charismatic buildings. I stayed at Hotel Indigo (pictured below) , which was hip and trendy, and a little bigger than my other hotel suggestions.  It was, however, part of Marriott Bonvoy, which I love!

Book one of these Top 5 Lower East Side Hotels!

1. the bowery hotel – 335 bowery, 2. the ludlow hotel – 180 ludlow street, 3.  sohotel – 190 allen street, 4. hotel on rivington – 107 rivington stret, 5. the nolitan – 30 kenmare street.

The Ludlow Hotel offers magnificent NYC views with huge windows and gritty, urban, chicly decorated rooms. The lobby and bar area quite possibly might be the most comfortable, cozy place to meet up with friends. The drinks are exceptional and fun, although a bit on the pricey side. Sohotel on Broome Street holds the honor of the longest-running hotel in New York City, dating back to 1805. Rooms here are New-York-City-hotel-room small, but they work perfectly for those on more of a budget. Also, Sohotel has “standard twin,” “standard triple,” and “standard family” rooms if you’re traveling to New York alone or in groups with odd numbers. At The Bowery Hotel , you’ll be greeted by a doorman in a top hat before entering the warm, dark, cozy lobby that’ll make you feel like you’ve jumped back in time — right down to the room keys with the red tassels. This is all contrasted with bright, airy rooms decked out in velvet upholstery and modern amenities. Take advantage of drinks at The Bowery Terrace, a second-floor, outdoor lounge laced with brick walls, wood beams, and fireplace. I also love the idea of the Blue Moon Hotel on Orchard Street. This old tenement building has been transformed into a comfortable hotel complete with standard hotel rooms as well as dormitory-style rooms if you’re traveling with friends or on a budget. The hotel sits above Davidovich Artisan Bakery so you can wake up to the homey smell of the famous Davidovich Bagels and pastries.

What are your favorite things to do in Manhattan on the Lower East Side? Let me know in the comments!

Enjoy your trip to NYC’s Lower East Side. Send me some pics of you on your next trip to NYC, and let me know of some of your favorite things to do in the Lower East Side to add to my next NYC itinerary. 

Latest on YouTube

Recent posts, best things to do in montreal, canada | food, fun tours, & day trips, embark on the windstar iceland cruise | the best cruise around iceland, abundant travel tips: guess where i am 👀, fall packing list | how to pack for fall & transition weather trips.

Follow my journey on instagram

About the Abundant Traveler

Hello! I’m Kim, The Abundant Traveler®, and roaming the world has been my passion as long as I can remember. (There’s likely a photo of me next to the definition of Wanderlust in the dictionary.)

Privacy Policy

Terms of Use

Best Things to Do in Montreal, Canada | Food, Fun Tours, & Day Trips

Fall packing list | how to pack for fall & transition weather trips, 20 best travel perfume bottles for your next trip.

WALKING TOURS

The best way to see New York City is on foot, guided by knowledgeable and proud New Yorkers! While the Museum at Eldridge Street has been offering neighborhood walking tours for many years, we are excited to offer a series of freshly designed walking tours of the Lower East Side and beyond. Our expert guides are passionate about this city, and well-informed about local history, traditions, rumors, and fun facts. Stops will include restored synagogues, tenements, repurposed buildings, immigrant history and stories, and much more.

With public and private options, our walking tours will take you to amazing sites and landmarks, and cover what makes our neighborhood so special. Each of our guides is an experienced storyteller with historical knowledge and insider “secrets'' behind famous stops. Listening devices will enable you to hear your guide’s stories and explanations clearly. Tour lengths vary between 1 hour to 2 hours, depending on the type.

Whether you are planning your next family outing, a school trip, or a corporate event, we've got you covered!

Inquire here about booking a private tour just for your group!

Upcoming Public Walking Tours

Customizable private group tours.

Private tours allow your family, alumni, students, seniors, staff, or other groups to explore the Museum at Eldridge Street with a dedicated guide. These custom tours are tailored to your group's needs and interests. Looking for school programs? Visit our education page .

We recommend groups to book at least 2 weeks in advance. 

Virtual and on-site experiences are currently available.

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

Lower East Side Food Tour

Tour Information

Lower east side food, lower east side food highlights.

• Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery
• Kossar's Bialy and Bagels
• North China Dumpling
• Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery
• The Pickle Guys*

Searching Availability...

Click here to see our full schedule of pay-what-you-wish walking tours in NYC.

The Lower East Side is known for its blend of cultural diversity and rich history.

It's also known for its great food. Our pay-what-you-wish food tour is the perfect way to discover this fascinating neighborhood.

• Tour Description
• Schedule and Meeting Point
• Sites We Visit
• Guide to the Lower East Side
• Other New York Food Tours
• Free Tours by Foot

TOUR DESCRIPTION

Where can you find a historic Synagogue next to a Bulgarian punk discotheque, trendy boutiques that sit comfortably beside decades-old "Mom and Pop" shops, or tenement apartments interspersed between luxury high-rise condos?

Look no further than our Lower East Side Food Tour to discover America's great Melting Pot!

The streets of the Lower East Side tell the tales of struggling immigrants - Eastern Europeans, Russians, Germans, Puerto Ricans - who came to America in search of opportunity.

They brought with them recipes from the 'old world' and you can still taste these foods today.

Ever eaten a potato knish? How about a bialy or pretzel? Care to try a green tea doughnut?

Not in the mood for something exotic - no worries - we'll grab some of the best Chinese dumplings in New York City and we will pick up some pickles along the way.

Join Tours by Foot as we visit historic synagogues, check out the area's latest in arts and architecture, learn about life in the tenements, and master useful Yiddish phrases, all while refining our palates with delectable treats from around the globe.

At the food shops, YOU choose what treats you would like to nosh (that's Yiddish for 'snack on'). Try them all or none at all.

Unlike other tours that charge around $45 with some excluding food, on this tour, YOU choose what to eat and how much to spend.

The suggested amount to bring for snacks is $7-10 , depending on your appetite! Vegetarian and vegan options are available at several shops.

Food shops we stop at:

• Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery (see video below)

*On major Jewish holidays, these shops are closed and we visit other delicious food shops instead.

Tour information

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

Where:  Outside Yonah Schimmel's Knish Bakery, 137 E. Houston St. Look for your guide with the Free Tours by Foot logo. Please use our Google map for  directions to the start of the tour .

Duration:  Approximately 2 hours. Tour distance is approximately 1 mile (1.6K)

When:  Sundays @1:30pm and Tuesdays & Thursdays @1pm.  View our full tour 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. The suggested sampling cost is $8-12, depending on your appetite.

We do make changes to shops for various reasons and we cannot guarantee that all shops listed above will be visited on each tour.

SITES WE VISIT

In addition to the food stops listed above, we also visit many interesting and well-known sites in the Lower East Side such as:

• Russ & Daughters

Katz's Delicatessen

• Angel Orensanz Foundation
• Williamsburg Bridge
• Doughnut Plant

Here is some detail of the amazing sites on our tour:

Yonah Schimmel’s Knishes

Since 1910, this shop has been baking some of the best knishes in New York City. 

Along with the traditional classics like potato and kasha, there’s sweet potato, spinach, mushroom, and even jalapeno.

The dumbwaiter is one of the oldest in the city. The tin on the ceiling is original.

This iconic Jewish New York eatery also has egg creams, latkes, kugel, and many more delights.

Let your guide tell you what these foods are and help you decide what you'll like the most.

When it comes to Jewish delicatessens, Katz’s is the undisputed champion.

This iconic eatery has been serving up some of the best pastrami and corned beef sandwiches in the world, not to mention great hot dogs, knishes, and knockwurst, since 1888.

It's also where Harry met Sally . Read more about this NYC phenomenon here .

Orensanz Foundation for the Arts

The Angel Orensanz Foundation is an event space housed inside the former Anshe Chesed Synagogue, a Gothic Revival gem dating back to 1849. The building is a designated historic landmark.

It was built by a congregation formed in 1825. The congregation was made up primarily of immigrant German Jews, but also Dutch and Polish Jews.

The congregation grew so large that a new synagogue had to be constructed to house services.

In the 1850s, it had the largest membership of any synagogue in America.

By the 1970s membership dwindled as the neighborhood changed and the building was eventually abandoned.

In 1986, it was rescued by a Jewish-Spanish sculptor, Angel Orensanz.

Orensanz created the Orensanz Foundation for the Arts.

The building has art shows and concerts; it can also be rented out for special events.

Among the most famous events that took place here was the wedding of Matthew Broderick and Sarah Jessica Parker in 1997.

In 2011, Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Haus Party Tour made a stop here!

Economy Candy

In 1937, Economy Candy opened and now almost 80 years later, this candy shop is still going strong with what is most likely the most extensive selection of candy in the city.

From old hard-to-find favorites like Squirrel Nut Zippers, Chuckles, and Charleston Chews to modern sweets like Pop Rocks, Pez dispensers, and Big League Chew, Economy Candy has thousands of types of sweet treats.

Russ and Daughters

This landmark 'appetizing' shop opened in 1914. Appetizing (in this case is a noun, not an adjective) is a Jewish food tradition among American Jews.

Typical appetizing foods are smoked and cured salmon, herring, homemade salads, and cream cheeses.

Jewish dietary laws require that meat and dairy products not be eaten or sold together.

As a result, fish and dairy products are sold in appetizing stores, while meat and non-dairy items are sold in delicatessens.

This famous shop was opened by Joel Russ, a Polish immigrant who started off selling mushrooms from a pushcart.

He saved up money to open this widely successful store. His daughters went to work in the shop, hence the name.

Proof of just how good the food is at Russ and Daughters is the fact that, after 100 years, it is still open - and quite crowded as well.

Luckily, they opened a sit-down cafe in 2014 located at 127 Orchard on the 100th anniversary of Russ & Daughters.

Read more about other stops we make from our Lower East Side self-guided tour .

See photos of the tour on our Facebook page.

And much, much more

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

Private or Group | Alternative New York Street Art : Lower East Side Walking Tour

Quick details.

Info Tour Type: Private & In-person

Clock Duration: 3 Hours

Come along with us through one of NYC’s oldest neighborhoods and let us bring the art alive. The Lower East Side is well known for its diverse ethnic neighborhoods and astonishing street art.

Historically, the Lower East Side is known for hosting immigrants coming off Ellis Island, and in the second half of the 20th century, the area became flooded with artists. The growing counter-culture population in the Lower East Side drew more and more artists. Soon the area quickly exploded with creative expressive graffiti art that illustrated the social and cultural movements that would influence American society in the 21st century.

For inquiries, please fill out our contact form and we will respond as soon as possible.

" * " indicates required fields

Related Tours

• Clock 1 Hour

Private or Group | New York Pride: Exploring the Birthplace of Gay Rights Virtual Tour

New York City is the birthplace of the modern gay rights movement and this tour celebrates the accomplishments, historical landmarks, and heroes that have impacted the entire world.

Private or Group | Great Women of New York Virtual Tour

Women have shaped every aspect of the city’s growth since before it was founded. This tour explores the pivotal role women have played in the development of NYC and tells the hidden stories of the female pioneers.

Purchase a Gift Card! Click Here

• Dairy and Gluten-Free Options

Lower East Side Food Tour

Great for Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free!

Quick Details

Duration : Three hours Number of food stops : Minimum of six Availability : Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday Capacity:  Up to 12 people per tour Departure times : 10:30 a.m. Note : The meeting location for the tour is included in your confirmation email

Lower East Side Walking Food Tour

Experience the best food in the lower east side, about our lower east side walking food tour.

Before we get to the food, let us paint you a picture of this unique experience. On this Lower East Side Walking Food Tour, we explore an area going through more changes than any other in Manhattan. At one time, the Lower East Side was the most densely-populated place on earth and also a hub for shopping. These days, you can witness an up-and-coming hip neighborhood that’s a combination of old and new school – one that’s rich in history and stacked with famous eats.

Your tour guide is a real New Yorker who will show you all the best food on this tour.

In terms of LES history, you learn about the pushcart culture of the early 1900s. And, of course, you get to taste some of the most delicious food the city has to offer! Savor the best pastrami ever, and satisfy your sweet or your sour tooth. Speaking of the latter, you literally get yourself into a pickle on this tour! Bring your appetite!

Here are some of our stops (subject to change):

Russ and Daughters One of the oldest restaurants in all of New York City, this spot started in 1914.  It is the first known establishment in America with the “and daughters” name. Try one of the many delicious sweet and savory dishes! We test drive the former on our walking food tour. Economy Candy This is the oldest retail candy shop in New York City. Find all different kinds of candies here, in any shape or color. Take a look at some awesome merch and trading cards, too! Pickle Guys Pickled olives, peppers, tomatoes, and more are available here.  We obviously dive into the pickle world. As the last pickle store left on Essex Street, Pickle Guys has kept the traditional methods of pickle making alive in New York City. Take a break from factory pickles, and have some made the right way! Kossar’s Bialys  Get a taste of Poland with Kossar’s Bagels and Bialys. In business since 1936, Kossar’s serves some of the best bialys in New York City. Not exactly sure what a bialy is? You’ll find out! By the way — their cream cheese is heavenly! Doughnut Plant Founded in 1994, this innovative location has been responsible for the creation of numerous doughnuts. Ever heard of a Creme Brulee doughnut? Well, Doughnut Plant was the first to do it! Learn about all of the delicious trends that began in these kitchens, while tasting the deserved hype at the same time. Katz’s Deli The oldest deli in NYC is a must destination. A staple of the city since 1888, this family-run deli is the perfect place to try the highest-quality meats the world has to offer. Any meat you have in this deli will have been cured for 30 days, as opposed to the standard 36 hours in most other stores. You have to taste it to believe it! The pastrami, well, that’s legendary. Vanessa’s Opening in 1999, Vanessa’s has kept up Chinese dumpling traditions, while simultaneously popularizing the food. Learn about Chinese culture while tasting these delicious dumplings!

Related Food Tours

• Calendar Any Day Of The Week!

Corporate & Team Building Private Food Tours

We offer private Greenwich Village, Lower East Side and/or Astoria walking food tours for corporate outings. It’s a fun and unique way for you and your employees to explore various neighborhoods, its culture and history, and eat great food (of course!)

• Most Popular!
• Vegetarian Friendly
• Clock 3 Hours
• Info 6+ Stops
• Calendar Tuesday-Sunday

Greenwich Village Food Tour

Greenwich Village is arguably still the coolest neighborhood in New York City. On this walking food tour, we visit iconic spots around Washington Square Park and the West Village! Enjoy everything from cupcakes to pizza and allow us to paint your palate! Vegetarian friendly!

beer and wine available for purchase

• vegetarian friendly
• Calendar Thursday

Astoria Walking Food Tour

Astoria is a vibrant and unique neighborhood in Queens. Explore historic architecture & diverse culinary spots!  Sample everything from traditional Brazilian cheese bread and Greek spinach pie to an out-of-this-world Arabic dessert and boozy ice cream.

• Quick Facts
• Sights & Attractions
• Tsarskoe Selo
• Oranienbaum
• Foreign St. Petersburg
• Restaurants & Bars
• Accommodation Guide
• St. Petersburg Hotels
• Serviced Apartments
• Bed and Breakfasts
• Private & Group Transfers
• Airport Transfers
• Concierge Service
• Russian Visa Guide
• Request Visa Support
• Walking Tours
• River Entertainment
• Public Transportation
• Travel Cards
• Essential Shopping Selection
• Business Directory
• Photo Gallery
• Video Gallery
• 360° Panoramas
• Moscow Hotels
• Moscow.Info
• Imperial Estates

Tsarskoe Selo (Pushkin)

If any proof is needed for the extravagance of Russia's Imperial rulers, then it can be found in the fact that, in less than two centuries, the Romanov Tsars established not one but two suburban estates - at Tsarskoe Selo and Pushkin - that, in terms of grandeur and excess, outstrip even Versailles. What is more, at Tsarskoe Selo, the 18 th century saw the construction of two vast and truly exceptional palaces, both surrounded by extensive landscaped gardens with diverse and fascinating decorative architecture.

Built for Empress Elizabeth by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the architect of St. Petersburg's Winter Palace, the Catherine Palace is undoubtedly Tsarskoe Selo's top attraction, particularly renowned for the extraordinary Amber Room. Less well known, and currently much more dilapidated, the Alexander Palace is nonetheless a neoclassical masterpiece, and has a particularly poignant connection with the family of the last Tsar, Nicholas II.

The town of Pushkin, which surrounds the Tsarskoe Selo estates, is St. Petersburg's most charming suburb. Renamed in Soviet times to honour Russia's greatest poet, the town has numerous sights connected to Alexander Sergeevich, including a museum in the former Imperial Lycee, where he was schooled.

Like Pushkin, Tsarskoe Selo is one of St. Petersburg's must-see attractions, and can easily occupy visitors for a full day. And, like Pushkin, it can be very crowded during the tourist high-season in the summer. Arrive early or be prepared to join long queues, especially for the Catherine Palace.

We can help you make the right choice from hundreds of St. Petersburg hotels and hostels.

Live like a local in self-catering apartments at convenient locations in St. Petersburg.

Comprehensive solutions for those who relocate to St. Petersburg to live, work or study.

Maximize your time in St. Petersburg with tours expertly tailored to your interests.

Get around in comfort with a chauffeured car or van to suit your budget and requirements.

Book a comfortable, well-maintained bus or a van with professional driver for your group.

Navigate St. Petersburg’s dining scene and find restaurants to remember.

Need tickets for the Mariinsky, the Hermitage, a football game or any event? We can help.

Get our help and advice choosing services and options to plan a prefect train journey.

Let our meeting and events experts help you organize a superb event in St. Petersburg.

We can find you a suitable interpreter for your negotiations, research or other needs.

Get translations for all purposes from recommended professional translators.