Midtown Manhattan Historic Architecture Walking Tour

Experience the magic of Midtown Manhattan on this walking tour blending history, architecture, and NYC’s vibrant spirit. Marvel at icons like the Chrysler Building, American Radiator Building, Macy’s, and One Vanderbilt as your guide shares stories of the changing NYC skyline.
Midtown NYC is a surprising mix of architectural styles, ranging from Beaux-Arts to Art Deco. Your guide will point out the details of each and even share some of the symbolism and what's hidden inside (like underground tunnels and Winnie the Pooh, as in the case of one turn-of-the-century National Historic Landmark).

Relax in Bryant Park, and stroll Fifth Avenue, as you hear how the "race to the sky" transformed America. The tour ends at the Empire State Building, where your included ticket takes you to the 86th-floor observatory for breathtaking views, a perfect finale to your Midtown NYC adventure.

Meeting Point

1 Vanderbilt Ave

1 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017, USA

Meet your guide outside the Épicerie Boulud bakery at 1 Vanderbilt Avenue. Your guide will be wearing an orange ExperienceFirst hat and standing on the forecourt. The address is 1 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017.

What's included:

• 90-minute walking tour
• Experienced local tour guide
• Ticket to Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observatory

Not included:

• Guided tour inside the Empire State Building

What to expect:

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes

One Vanderbilt

1 Vanderbilt Avenue, New York City, 10017, New York

Learn about the feud that changed Manhattan’s skyline forever. From here, you can also admire the magnificent Chrysler Building as your guide points out its finer details.

20 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included

New York Public Library

476 5th Ave New York, NY 10018, , New York City, 10018, New York

Hear about the history of the Beaux-Arts style and its role in shaping NYC as you admire one of the city’s most beautiful examples. Your guide will also share secrets of the library that might surprise you. (25 minutes)

25 minutes

Bryant Park

Between 40th and 42nd Streets & Fifth and Sixth Ave, New York City, 10018, New York

Enjoy the bustle and beauty of this 9.6-acre greenspace, affectionately known as the town square of Midtown Manhattan, as you learn about unique architecture nearby, including the American Radiator Building, and its influence on artists.

15 minutes

Macy's Herald Square

151 West 34th Street, , New York City, 10001-2101, New York

Learn about the cultural significance of Macy’s department store and its impact not just on New York but America as a whole.

15 minutes

Empire State Building

20 West 34th Street, New York City, 10001, New York

Capture the perfect photo of the iconic building as you hear stories of its creation and unique challenges. Afterward, your guide will direct you to the entrance for the observatory

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included