We’ll traverse streets and sidewalks—what Jane Jacobs called the city’s “most vital organs”—in Lower Manhattan to discover narratives of generations past. This historical tour introduces the people who settled downtown and relates stories of their resilience, tenacity, faith, agency, and yearning to realize their American Dreams. We’ll explore the Financial District, Civic Center, Chinatown, the Lower East Side, and Little Italy, each a microcosm of rich cultural heritage.
Here, the vibrant threads of African, Jewish, Irish, German, Italian, and Chinese histories intertwined through time and wove our city’s intricate tapestry.
The tour is outdoors and over three miles. Bring walking shoes, water, and curiosity. The tour is led by a licensed New York City tour guide with over twenty years of experience.
Accessibility
The distance is approximately 3.5 miles kept at a good pace with periodic stops. There are some steps around older buildings.
Location Information
RSVP is required and capacity is limited. Meeting location, ending location, and directions will be provided via email before walk date.
