From Gritty to Pretty - The Midtown Manhattan Edition

Duration2h

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Group sizeUp to 15 travelers

Overview

Join us on a stress-free journey through Midtown Manhattan in small groups. Your guide will lead you to iconic destinations, starting at the world's busiest bus terminal. Next, we visit vibrant Times Square, where dazzling billboards light up the atmosphere. No trip to New York City is complete without experiencing Times Square.

Stroll through the Theater District to glimpse old Broadway theaters. Enjoy Bryant Park's seasonal activities and learn about the New York Public Library's cultural impact. Marvel at Grand Central Terminal's celestial ceiling and timeless elegance.

Continuing down 5th Avenue, we'll see renowned shops, landmarks, and the Diamond District. Visit St. Patrick's Cathedral for tranquility amidst the city's bustle.

Our journey ends at Rockefeller Center, with stories and iconic sights.

You can chose between walking tour only - or add-on general admission to Top of the Rock at a favorable rate (no guide)
Enjoy a calm, engaging experience in the bustling city.

Options

Walking tour only

Join the walking tour only: This option is for the Walking Tour only! This option does not include admission to Top of the Rock.

Tour with Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock admission: This tour option includes general admission to Top of the Rock at the end of the tour.
Duration: 2 hours

What's included

Add-on only: General, timed admission to Top of the Rock immediately after end of tour.

Gratuities

What to expect

10m

We are starting the tour at the world's biggest bus terminal. Here we will be giving you a glimpse into the old, gritty, and crime ridden area that use to be on 42. street.
Theater District
15m

Down 42. street and into the Theater District, we will pass by some of the famous broadway theaters such as the New Amsterdam Theater and New Victory Theater. On 42. street we will talk about the transformation from the used-to-be dangerous part of town in the 70's and 80's and into the 90's "clean-up" of the City.
Bryant Park
15m

When we visit Bryant Park, you will experience the holiday atmosphere as the park is transformed to a holiday market with tons of little booths selling artisan products and delicacies. You will have the opportunity to grab a drink or snack before venturing off (not included in ticket price). During this time there's a skating rink, and this is where the Fashion show used to be held. We will also talk about how the park was developed and the part it played in the days of high crime and economic problems.
Grand Central Terminal
15m

You will enter Grand Central Terminal and your guide will tell you about the construction of the terminal, from the early days of the 20th century through the potential demolition of the terminal in the 60s, and how they managed to bring it back to its marvelous condition of today. You will also have an opportunity to hear som of the "lesser-known" facts and "well-known" secrets of the Terminal.
New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
15m

Iconic cultural institution situated at the eastern edge of Bryant Park, is a bastion of knowledge and architectural grandeur. Its Beaux-Arts facade, guarded by the iconic stone lions, Patience and Fortitude, welcomes visitors into a vast expanse of meticulously curated collections. Depending on hours we will enter the main lobby.
Times Square / Theater District
10m

Throughout our walk in Times Square your guide will tell you the story of how the world-famous streets of Times Square developed from Longacre Square by ways of the subway development. Your guide will share information about the entertainment that be found here as well as details of the historic buildings and statues in the area.
5 th Avenue
15m

Fifth Avenue, synonymous with sophistication and style, is a world-renowned shopping destination in New York City, boasting a lineup of prestigious department stores that define luxury retail. From the timeless elegance of Saks Fifth Avenue to the opulence of Bergdorf Goodman, these iconic establishments along the avenue offer a curated selection of high-end fashion, accessories, and lifestyle goods, creating an unparalleled shopping experience in the heart of Manhattan. During this time of year you will experience the extraordinarily decorated holiday windows.
St. Patrick's Cathedral
10m

We will enter St. Patrick's Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece, if circumstances allows. It stands as a beacon of Gothic Revival splendor. With its awe-inspiring spires, intricate stained glass windows, and majestic interiors, the cathedral is a revered symbol of faith and a must-visit cultural treasure in the heart of New York City.
Rockefeller Center
15m

Rockefeller Center, a symbol of Art Deco magnificence, stands as a cultural and commercial hub in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. This sprawling complex encompasses iconic landmarks such as the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, Radio City Music Hall, and the famous Rockefeller Plaza, creating a dynamic space that blends entertainment, commerce, and architectural brilliance. During this time of year we will see the famous Christmas Tree and the skating rink.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

You will meet your guide on the southwest corner of 8th avenue and 42. street. Look for Carlo's Bakery. Your guide will carry a yellow sign with the tour name on.

End point

We will finish the tour at the entrance to Top of the Rock observatory. If you have purchased the tour with the Top of the Rock admission your guide will check you in and you can enjoy the observatory at your own leisure.

Additional information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

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