Basquiat's NYC Art Tour with Walk on the Wild Side
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for anyone comfortable walking 3+ miles at a casual pace over city streets and sidewalks.
Overview
Walk with Walk on the Wild Side Tours NYC to uncover Jean-Michel Basquiat’s journey from street graffiti to art stardom. This three-hour tour maps the influential art scenes and neighborhoods that shaped his legacy.
Basquiat's New York Tour
Starting at $65 | 3 Hours | Take a Look Into Jean-Michel Basquiat's 12 Year Long Career
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Explore the vibrant legacy of Jean-Michel Basquiat on this captivating walking tour. Discover his evolution from a graffiti artist to an art icon, while delving into the dynamic downtown art scene that shaped him. Experience the profound effects of his success on the community of artists, musicians, and creators around him.
Rates
Person: $65
Duration
3 Hours
About
In his twelve-year-long career, Jean-Michel Basquiat left an indelible mark on the art and music worlds, and the city as a whole. In this walking tour, we’ll see how he transformed from an anonymous graffiti artist into a major art star whose paintings routinely sell for millions of dollars. We’ll also investigate the downtown art community from which he emerged - full of extraordinary painters, musicians, writers, and filmmakers working side-by-side - and the positive and negative ways his success impacted that community.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The tour covers several neighborhoods over about three hours, so sturdy shoes will keep you comfortable.
Bring water and weather-appropriate gear
New York weather can be unpredictable, so carry water and dress in layers or rain gear as needed.
Arrive on time
The tour runs on a tight schedule to cover key locations efficiently, so punctuality ensures a complete experience.
Ask questions and engage
The guides are knowledgeable about Basquiat and NYC’s art scene—don’t hesitate to ask for additional insights.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban squirrels
- Peregrine falcons nesting on skyscrapers
History
Basquiat’s career unfolded during the vibrant downtown art boom of the 1980s, where the fusion of music, film, and visual art created a transformative scene.
Conservation
Walk on the Wild Side Tours NYC encourages sustainable urban tourism by promoting walking rather than vehicle transport, helping reduce the city’s carbon footprint.
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Adventure Hotspots in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for navigating diverse city terrain and ensuring comfort over several hours.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during warm weather or extended walking periods.
summer specific
Layered clothing
Helps adjust to variable temperatures and unpredictable urban climate.
spring|fall|winter specific
Light rain jacket
Useful for sudden spring or fall showers common in New York.
spring|fall specific