Walking the Heart of the Upper West Side

New To The Site! New York City, USA

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2 hours 15 minutes (approx.)
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Instant confirmation

Overview

Explore the rich history of New York's Upper West Side on a captivating walking tour that traces its evolution from wilderness to the current vibrant and coveted neighborhood. Starting at the American Museum of Natural History, delve into the Indigenous roots and the ambitious developments of the 1800s, including railroad expansion and the rise of iconic row houses. Discover how immigrants influenced the area's growth and hear tales of artists and activists who shaped its culture throughout the 20th century. The tour will showcase notable landmarks like the Dakota and Ansonia, concluding at Lincoln Center, a symbol of transformation.

The route spans about 3 miles at a relaxed pace, with a few spots to sit and take in the surroundings. It’s not a strenuous walk, but we’ll cover a bit of ground—comfortable shoes recommended!

What's Included

  • The tour doesn't enter any buildings or institutions. There are no additional fees beyond the price of the tour.

    Meeting Location

    Meeting point

    New York
    NY 10024, USA

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

    End point

    Lincoln Center Plaza
    New York, NY 10023, USA

    We will end right in the infamous performing arts center plaza.

    What To Expect

    The Dakota

    Guests will stand before the iconic Dakota, one of the most storied and striking buildings in New York. We'll explore its ornate Gothic Revival architecture and its role in shaping the Upper West Side. We'll learn about famous residents, including Theodore Steinway and Lauren Bacall. I’ll share stories that bring the building’s rich and sometimes haunting history to life—including the tragic 1980 event that made this location world-famous. As we take in its elegant façade and ironwork, I’ll connect the Dakota to broader themes of the neighborhood's evolution and the cultural figures who helped shape it.
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    10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Riverside Park

    We will learn about the development of this iconic avenue and park and pass by the iconic Mount Tom where Edgar Allen Poe famously wrote "The Raven."
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    10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Zabar's

    We will learn about the influence of the Jewish immigrant community and how this manifested in one of the neighborhood's most iconic culinary institutions.
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    5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    The Ansonia

    One of the neighborhood's most ornate buildings, the Ansonia holds a wealth of interesting history, including espionage during World War I and the rise of Bette Midler.
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    10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts

    We will learn about the convergence of New York's major performing arts institutions during the 1950s into a single campus. But the development of Lincoln Center is fraught with controversy, and the demolition of a minority neighborhood became the set for an incredibly famous film
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    8 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
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

    Frequently Asked Questions

    (7)

    Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Walking the Heart of the Upper West 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-5583004P1


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    What's Included

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    • The tour doesn't enter any buildings or institutions. There are no additional fees beyond the price of the tour.

    Additional Info

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    • 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
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

    Report Product Issue

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    Free Cancellation

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    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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    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

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