About this Event
“We do not mingle enough with minds that influence the world…We should measure ourselves through personal contact with outsiders … I want my club to be a place where actors are away from the glamour of the theatre.” — Edwin Booth
Join New York Adventure Club for a rare, private tour inside The Players, a private social club founded in 1888 by renowned Shakespearean actor Edwin Booth, who is arguably the greatest American actor — and Prince Hamlet — of the 19th century.
Our experience at this historic theatre society, and its original Stanford White-designed mansion facing Gramercy Park, will include:
- A walkthrough of the clubhouse, which contains paintings from Norman Rockwell and John Singer Sergeant, as well as Tiffany glass pieces
- A look inside historic rooms including the Grill, Great Hall, and Library
- Access inside Edwin Booth’s bedroom, which has been untouched since his death in 1893 — in it, rests the skull used in his famous 100 consecutive performances of Hamlet, and a small picture of Wilkes, the only evidence of their relationship that Edwin would keep
- A look at early photos of Edwin’s family and other personal artifacts and memorabilia of his life in theatre
If we're lucky, we'll see some of the club's more notable members walking the halls!
Click here to see pictures from one of our last visits!
*This experience can only be conducted on weekdays
**The Players does not have an elevator
***Due to COVID-19 protocols, The Players will only allow guests who are fully vaccinated against the SARS-CoV-2 virus and wearing a mask to enter the club's premises
Testimonials
"Rare look at some great artifacts and architecture" - Elizabeth
"The building and the collected art and artifacts are amazing." - Jennifer
"Wonderful experience, small group, knowledgeable personable guide. Looking forward to future tours." - Karen
"I loved this daytime adventure and look forward to many more." - Pat
"50 years ago I saw the outside and read a little of its history as a NYU student. Now as a retiree visitor, I got to see inside" - John
"Seeing more of the inside of a beautiful and historic building; finding out more about Edwin Booth." -Patricia
"The guide was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the subject. Really special to see areas closed off to public." -Ginny
"Rare opportunity to go inside the private Players club and see its amazing architecture, theatrical collections, and hear about its history." -Anthony
"The docent knew his subject very well. He was very informative and nice." -Anne
"Great tour of a fascinating place." -Tara
"Carol was charming & knowledgeable. Small group!" -Claudia
"Guide was engaging. We were able to sit for some of the presentation. Loved seeing this "hidden" historic gem. Love that this building has been preserved!" -Janet
"Guide was very knowledgeable, lots to see with good explanations and stories." -Allison
"Excellent presentation and ambiance." -Mardine
"Presenter was very good." -Michael
"The historic home, its unusual history and location, the knowledge and affability of the docent." -Matthew
Disclaimer
By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.
Categories: In-Person, Mansions & Private Clubs
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Players, 16 Gramercy Park South, New York, United States
USD 35.00