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
Discover the untold cat history of New York on the only feline-themed walking tour of the Lower East Side. Led by Peggy Gavan, historian and author of The Cat Men of Gotham, this experience uncovers real stories of heroic cats, local legends, and the surprising role cats played in shaping the neighborhood’s past.
You’ll hear about tavern cats at McSorley’s, punk rock cats at CBGB, immigrant tenement mousers, and the rise of modern rescue efforts. It’s a walking tour that blends gritty local history with stories you won’t find anywhere else—perfect for history lovers, cat people, or both.
Group sizes are kept small to keep the experience personal as you explore the hidden corners of this iconic neighborhood.
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
What to expect
Peter Cooper Village
15m
Meet at Cooper Triangle where your guide will introduce you to the tour. You'll hear the first cat tales focused on McSorley's Old Ale House and learn about the tavern cats of the 19th century that kept this historic establishment mouse-free.
McSorley's Old Ale House
10m
NYC's oldest continuously operating saloon and discover stories of its famous feline residents who witnessed decades of history while keeping the establishment rodent-free. Learn how these cats became part of the bar's storied legacy.
10m
Stand outside the former location of the legendary CBGB music venue while hearing tales of the cats who lived among punk rock royalty and became mascots for musicians and fans during the neighborhood's most influential musical era.
Eldridge Street Synagogue
10m
Visit this historic district to hear fascinating tales of police station cats, neighborhood mascots, and the beloved eccentric Rosalie Goodman, known as the Lower East Side's famous "crazy cat lady" who cared for dozens of strays in this area.
Chinatown
10m
Stand at this cultural intersection where the Lower East Side meets Chinatown and learn about the cats that bridged these diverse communities. Discover stories of shop cats and community felines that became neighborhood fixtures.
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
Your guide, Peggy, will be holding a “Cats About Town” sign!
End point
88 Essex St, New York, NY 10002
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.
