Flatiron/Gramercy History Tour: Unseen New York Highlights
5.0
3 Ratings
New York
Uncover the hidden gems of New York on a Flatiron/Gramercy History Tour. Explore historic bars, private parks, and iconic buildings while hearing captivating tales of love, murder, and Prohibition.
Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Pete’s Tavern - One of the oldest bars in the city, it was a speakeasy during Prohibition. One of the best places to experience the old New York. O.Henry, a famous American short story writer, used to work in the Tavern.
  • Gramercy Park - The only private park in New York, it has a very interesting history which I’ll tell you about. Also, it allows views to the glorious Chrysler Building. Irving Place is named after Washington Irving, a writer and a historian, known for “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” among other works.
  • The National Arts Club - One of the city’s private clubs open for members only. We can admire its beautiful facade from the outside
  • The Players - Another private club with a lot of history behind it.
  • Flatiron Building - One of the most picturesque buildings in New York City, it owes its unique appearance to its shape. Of course, there is more to its story than what meets the eye!
  • MetLife Building - The MetLife Tower used to be the tallest in the world in 1909. Also, look at those clocks!
  • Empire State Building - The most important building in NYC and one of the best known in the world. Our route will allow for some of the best views to the Empire State.
  • Madison Square Park - Lively city park which was the first home to the Madison Square Garden (thus, the name). The story of the second Madison Square Garden involves a beautiful woman, a love story and an actual murder.
What's Included
  • Explore hidden gems with insider tips for live jazz and speakeasies
  • Receive a complimentary NYC map for self-guided adventures
  • Tour iconic NYC landmarks with a licensed local guide
  • Experience a cozy tour ambiance in a small group setting
  • Uncover the rich history and culture of New York City
What's Not Included
  • Drinks and cocktails are fantastic but not included
  • Food is available but not included
Additional Information

Explore a side of New York that is typically off the beaten path for tourists. The journey commences at one of New York’s most historic pubs, recognized for its rich literary connections. A bar that managed to stay operational during Prohibition, it has impressively preserved its original aesthetic.

We will then stroll through areas often overlooked by tourists, touring a private park and exterior of exclusive clubs. We’ll reach a prime viewing spot offering a spectacular view of some of New York’s most captivating architectural marvels. I’ll weave in intriguing narratives of New York brimming with audacity, aspiration, cinematic figures, romance, homicide, Prohibition and the evolution of women’s fashion.

Location
Pete's Tavern
East 18th Street
I'll meet you inside the tavern
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
5.0
(3 Ratings)
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S0f-2014
Jan 26, 2020
dive into the past - Let me tell you – this was an unforgettable evening. I love New York City and love walking the streets of the city thinking about this fantastic place - so unique in the world. Experience with Iren brought many events and places into a new and a very interesting angle. Great idea to start with a drink in a club-like whiskey bar built on prohibition era views and experiences – with the list of cocktails from the 20th of 20th century to the modern days and walls covered with a full collection of whiskey bottles. Nice music, and Iren - a wonderful story teller showing us how America was built and how Manhattan became what it is, and what was it that made the early settlers drink, and what was it that brought the prohibition into law. And, of course, – how it affected our great city. After the drink we walked the same streets I often walked myself towards Madison Square Park and further to Gramercy Park seeing everything in a different light and understanding events that took place in 19th and 20th century that shaped our city. Incredible night views – Flatiron; MetLife Tower, New York Life – and stories, stories, and stories about them, making the city so alive. Gramercy Park – so mysterious and so full of the spirit of the city, with historical characters brought to life by Iren by the Mayor Lamps lights. Last stop – oldest (at least fighting for this title) bar in New York City – Pete’s tavern - where time stood still and where everything is at it was in 1864. And more stories about the bar crowd such a long time ago…
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Regina9000
Jan 24, 2020
Writers, Prohibition, Drinks and History - I bought this tour for my husband (a history enthusiast) last year. We really enjoyed our tour with Iren. She shared many interesting facts and had a depth of knowledge on all of the subjects. Although I’m a native New Yorker, I uncovered new places that day...jazz bars I’ve walked by many times, but never knew were there. I also learned the history behind some monuments I also passed many times, but knew nothing about. The tour was intimate and personal, and included a visit to the iconic Pete’s Tavern. It felt like we were walking around the city with a longtime friend. I’d love to take another tour and see Iren again.
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Olilke
Jan 22, 2020
Incredible walking tour experience with Iren. - It was not just a tour, it was an experience. I was fascinated with Iren's deep knowledge of the history of the city, literature, art, music. It never got dull, as the information was combined with interesting relevant stories and anecdotes. You could tell Iren loved the subject mater and was an expert in it. The place that she took us after the walk was a total surprise; I would have never known about it if it wasn't for Iren. And she can also dance (you'll see)! Will do it again and recommend to all!
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