Historical Cat Tales Walking Tour Lower East Side

New To The Site! New York City, USA

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2 hours (approx.)
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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

    Meeting Location

    Meeting point

    Cooper Sq & E 7th St
    New York, NY 10003, USA

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    Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

    End point

    Essex Street
    New York, NY 10002, USA

    88 Essex St, New York, NY 10002

    What To Expect

    Peter Cooper Village

    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.
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    15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    McSorley's Old Ale House

    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.
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    10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    CBGB Club

    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.
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    10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Eldridge Street Synagogue

    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.
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    10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Chinatown

    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.
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    10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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    Additional Info

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

    Frequently Asked Questions

    (7)

    Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Historical Cat Tales Walking Tour Lower East Side?

    A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EDT).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

    Still have questions?

    We're here to help.
    Activity code: C-5489662P2


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    What's Included

    Activity name

    • All Fees and Taxes

    Additional Info

    Activity name

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

    Report Product Issue

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    Activity name

    Free Cancellation

    Activity name

    100% refund
    No refund

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

    • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
    • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
    • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
    • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EDT).
    • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
    • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

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