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Offered languages
- English
Explore the rich history of New York's Upper West Side on a captivating walking tour that traces its evolution from wilderness to the current vibrant and coveted neighborhood. Starting at the American Museum of Natural History, delve into the Indigenous roots and the ambitious developments of the 1800s, including railroad expansion and the rise of iconic row houses. Discover how immigrants influenced the area's growth and hear tales of artists and activists who shaped its culture throughout the 20th century. The tour will showcase notable landmarks like the Dakota and Ansonia, concluding at Lincoln Center, a symbol of transformation.
The route spans about 3 miles at a relaxed pace, with a few spots to sit and take in the surroundings. It’s not a strenuous walk, but we’ll cover a bit of ground—comfortable shoes recommended!
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
We will meet across the street form the museum on Central Park West, directly across from the flagpole on the park side of the street.
We will end right in the infamous performing arts center plaza.
Itinerary
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1The Dakota
Guests will stand before the iconic Dakota, one of the most storied and striking buildings in New York. We'll explore its ornate Gothic Revival architecture and its role in shaping the Upper West Side. We'll learn about famous residents, including Theodore Steinway and Lauren Bacall. I’ll share stories that bring the building’s rich and sometimes haunting history to life—including the tragic 1980 event that made this location world-famous. As we take in its elegant façade and ironwork, I’ll connect the Dakota to broader themes of the neighborhood's evolution and the cultural figures who helped shape it.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
We will learn about the development of this iconic avenue and park and pass by the iconic Mount Tom where Edgar Allen Poe famously wrote "The Raven."
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Zabar's
We will learn about the influence of the Jewish immigrant community and how this manifested in one of the neighborhood's most iconic culinary institutions.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
One of the neighborhood's most ornate buildings, the Ansonia holds a wealth of interesting history, including espionage during World War I and the rise of Bette Midler.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
We will learn about the convergence of New York's major performing arts institutions during the 1950s into a single campus. But the development of Lincoln Center is fraught with controversy, and the demolition of a minority neighborhood became the set for an incredibly famous film
8 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
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Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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