The Best New York City Walking Tours,
4 Incredible Routes

Your Guide To The Best & Coolest NYC Walking Tours in 2023

If you want to know what the best walking tours in NYC are, you’ve come to the right place. 

Think of New York City like a hive of secrets: always buzzing, always growing, always changing. For that reason alone, there are hundreds of walking tours in NYC - all specializing in different aspects, neighborhoods, interests and catering for pretty much any niche you can think of. The question is: which one is for you?

To help you figure it out, we’ve come up with a list of the best and coolest walking tours in NYC. Whether you’re a history buff, amateur detective, fashionista, or just an NY nerd, these are our favorite walking tours in NYC that pretty much anybody can do. 

Read on to find out more!

The Coolest Walking Tours of NYC

The Southern Tip

One of the best walking tours in NYC for discovering New York City’s roots, "The Southern Tip" is a self-guided journey through Manhattan’s mysterious past.

Beginning at Chambers Street Station in Lower Manhattan, this self-guided tour delves into New York City's Dutch colonial past, weaving through significant landmarks that tell the story of the city's early days to the present.

This tour includes notable sites like The Federal Reserve, where economic history has been made, and City Hall Park, a testament to civic evolution. Along the way, stop by an authentic 17th-century pub, a relic of the past amidst the modern cityscape. The tour concludes with the scenic vistas of Battery Park and the historic Castle Clinton, offering a comprehensive view of Manhattan's transformation from a Dutch settlement to a global metropolis.

Find out more here. 

The Devil in Chelsea

For those with a penchant for mystery and history, "The Devil in Chelsea" is one of the most intriguing NYC walking tours. 

This murder mystery-style self-guided walking tour leads you through the artistic neighborhood of Chelsea in Manhattan. As you navigate the streets, the tour blends historical facts with a fictional narrative, creating an immersive experience. 

Participants piece together clues from their surroundings and unravel riddles along the way, exploring hidden corners and famous spots in Chelsea. This unique approach not only uncovers the area's rich history but also adds an element of suspense and excitement to your exploration of New York City.

Find out more here. 

Slow Boat to Chinatown

"Slow Boat to Chinatown" is a captivating self-guided walking tour that meanders through the culturally rich neighborhoods of Tribeca and Chinatown. 

This route is perfect for those looking to experience a blend of cinematic history, remnants of colonial New York, and significant historical sites. 

You'll start by visiting the iconic Ghostbuster HQ, a treat for movie enthusiasts. As you delve deeper into the tour, discover the remains of a Revolutionary War prison, a silent witness to America's tumultuous past. The walk further unravels the layers of New York's history, showcasing relics and sites from 17th-century New York, offering a tangible connection to the city's early days. This tour is a unique opportunity to witness the historical tapestry that makes up modern-day Manhattan.

Find out more here.

Glamour of Midtown

The "Glamour of Midtown" is a puzzle-filled walking tour in NYC through the Garment District, starting near the iconic Empire State Building. 

This self-guided trail showcases a blend of famous landmarks and hidden treasures, culminating at the magnificent Grand Central Terminal. 

Along the way, immerse yourself in the fashion world as you uncover Fashion Avenue, Bryant Park and New York’s classic department store, Macy’s, all while picking up historical facts and whimsical trivia. 

A must for fashionistas and lovers of all things glamorous, this tour is a celebration of Midtown's unmatchable grandeur and energy.

Find out more here.