New York Organized Tours Overview


No matter where your interests lie -- in architecture, ethnic foods, social history, or just plain background information -- chances are good you'll find a tour in New York City tailor-made for you. Many offer fascinating glimpses into parts of the city and its history, all but unknown even to native New Yorkers.

One of the most enjoyable ways to get an overview of the Big Apple, as well as catch a breeze on a hot summer's day, is to board one of the Circle Line Cruises around Manhattan Island. The evening cruises, when the rays of the setting sun reflect off the city's glass canyons, are especially delightful.

Grand Central Station is the heart of New York's transportation system.
©2006 NYC & Company
Grand Central Station is the heart of New York's transportation system,
and it's a great place to start when touring the city.

Walking tours abound, with each more imaginative than the next. Some of the most innovative and fun tours are offered by Big Onion Walking Tours, a company founded 15 years ago by Columbia University graduate students working their way through school. You'll be able to see the places where such films as "Gangs of New York" or "Immigrant New York" were made.

Equally fascinating and enjoyable tours are offered by the Municipal Art Society, which specializes in architecture and history tours on such unusual topics as "Jewish Harlem" or Brooklyn's Gowanus Canal. The Society also offers a superb tour of Grand Central Station every Wednesday at midday.

Good weekly tour listings can be found in Time Out New York, The New Yorker, and other local publications. 

Not sure where to stay while visiting New York? The city has a mind-boggling number of hotels to choose from. Go to the next page for our guide to hotels and lodgings in New York.