Special Access Tour @ The Bowery: Manhattan's Most Eccentric Thoroughfare

As one of the most architecturally and historically diverse streets in New York City, The Bowery has been a melting pot of the city's rich culture, entertainment, and history for hundreds of years. What are some of the secrets and stories that define this historic stretch in downtown Manhattan? It's time to hit the streets and discover the hidden gems and forgotten tales of this famed street, with an exclusive look inside one of its most historic buildings.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the vibrant and eclectic past of The Bowery, an iconic New York City thoroughfare that has been a witness to unparalleled change and diversity over the past 400 years.

Led by licensed tour guide and native New Yorker Richard Soden, this specially curated walking tour up The Bowery will include:

• A brief overview of The Bowery's early history, which was originally part of the Native American Wickquasgeck Trail
• A stop at buildings that were once famous Vaudeville, Yiddish, and Opera houses
• A walk past the former site of CBGB, the birthplace of punk rock that reshaped music history
• Impressive monuments and sculptures hiding in plain sight, ranging from the statue of Lin Ze Xu in Chatham Square to a plaque on the Bowery Savings Bank building dedicated to the Bull’s Head Tavern — a site with ties to George Washington on Evacuation Day
• An exploration of The Bowery's more shadowy aspects such as flophouses, McGurk's Suicide Hall, and the transformation of skid row
• Notable individuals and organizations that have ties to The Bowery, from Alexander Burr to P.T. Barnum
• An exclusive trip inside the Bowery Mission — located inside a landmarked building once operated by an undertaker, this non-profit has been dedicated to helping New Yorkers overcome homelessness and marginalization since 1879

See you there!

*Please bring a water bottle and comfortable pair of shoes as we’ll be doing a lot of walking!

**Our experience will conclude outside of Cooper Union (6th Street and 3rd Avenue)

About Richard

"I am a native New Yorker who was born and have lived on the lower east side all my life. I love this city and all its beauty and peculiarities, and I love sharing it with native New Yorkers, newcomers, and returning visitors. I enjoy telling stories which I'll share with you. You’ll learn the many secrets about the city I call 'home.'"

Testimonials

"The guide, Richard was very informative and also extremely nice. It was delightful. Was interesting seeing the inside of the Bowery Mission too. Richard seemed genuinely concerned all were enjoying it and made a big effort which was appreciated. Thank you for planning such a diverse selection of activities, many with access to unusual things one can't normally see." -Lorraine

"The visit to the Bowery Mission and the CBGC site were both highlights of the tour" -Christine

"Richard our guide was fantastic. Extremely knowledgeable & personalized tour. I’d take a tour with Richard any time-hope to find other tours with him. The tour included the Bowery mission-which was amazing" -Heather

Disclaimer

Event takes place rain or shine.

By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.

Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Chatham Square, Chatham Square, New York, United States