Aerial view of Central Park and Midtown skyline at sunset

Explore New York’s Architecture with Expert‑Led Walking Tours

Guided neighborhood architecture tours and private custom walks across Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Popular Architecture Tours

Neighborhood-focused walks and private experiences led by credentialed architects and historians.

Architectural & Art Journey with Build Tours in Chelsea, NY

Discover the architectural marvels and art installations of Chelsea on this guided walk with Build Tours. Led by an expert architect, this 2-hour journey uncovers the stories behind iconic landmarks and urban design mastery in the city’s vibrant neighborhood. Dive into the creative heart of Manhattan and gain new insights into its evolving urban landscape.

Architectural & Art Journey with Build Tours in Chelsea, NY

land adventures

New York, New York

New York

City Architecture Tour with Build Tours in New York

Step into the streets of Manhattan with Build Tours’ engaging architecture walk through the Lower East Side, Bowery, and SoHo. Led by an expert architect, uncover stories behind iconic buildings in just two hours that reveal NYC’s rich architectural evolution and vibrant history.

City Architecture Tour with Build Tours in New York

New York

Architectural Walking Tour with Build Tours in New York City's Upper East Side

Discover the architectural gems of Manhattan's Upper East Side on a private walking tour led by expert architect Dr. Ivan Shumkov. From historic landmarks to modern masterpieces, this experience reveals the city’s rich design legacy in a engaging setting. Read on to learn what makes this tour a must-do for design enthusiasts visiting NYC.

New York

Architectural Walking Tour with Build Tours in New York City

Discover the stories behind Midtown Manhattan’s most iconic buildings with Build Tours' expert-led architectural walk. Perfect for history lovers and design enthusiasts alike, this tour offers a deep dive into New York’s architectural evolution amidst the city’s vibrant streets.

Architectural Walking Tour with Build Tours in New York City

New York

Architecture and Urban Heritage with Build Tours in New York

Discover the architectural secrets of Midtown South on a guided tour led by expert Dr. Ivan Shumkov. Uncover the history, design, and stories behind NYC’s skyline, from historic landmarks to modern skyscrapers.

Architecture and Urban Heritage with Build Tours in New York

New York

Urban Art & Architecture Tour by Build Tours in New York City

Discover the architectural marvels and vibrant public art of Midtown West with Build Tours' private experience. A perfect way to see NYC through the lens of design, history, and creativity—tailored just for you.

Urban Art & Architecture Tour by Build Tours in New York City

New York

Harlem Architectural and Art Tour with Build Tours in New York

Join Build Tours for a captivating 4-hour walk through Harlem’s architectural and cultural highlights. Discover historic sites like the Apollo Theater and hidden gems, all while uncovering stories that bring Harlem’s vibrant history to life. Perfect for architecture fans and cultural explorers alike.

Harlem Architectural and Art Tour with Build Tours in New York

New York

Art & Architecture Tour with Build Tours in Morningside Heights

Join Build Tours for a 4-hour private walk through Morningside Heights and Manhattanville, uncovering the neighborhood’s architectural gems and cultural landmarks. Discover Columbia University’s stunning buildings and the grandeur of St. John the Divine while soaking in the vibrant community lights and stories. This guided tour offers an immersive, behind-the-scenes look at one of NYC’s most dynamic neighborhoods, perfect for culture lovers and urban explorers alike. Walk at your own pace, learn the history behind every corner, and enjoy personalized insights from expert guides who are passionate about Manhattan’s architectural evolution. Whether you're into historic structures, modern designs, or local legends, this experience provides a detailed and engaging journey into the fabric of NYC’s academic and cultural scene.

New York

Central Park Art & Architecture Tour with Build Tours in New York

Discover the artistic and architectural wonders of Central Park with a private guided tour from Build Tours. Uncover hidden stories and iconic landmarks in this beloved city oasis—perfect for design enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Central Park Art & Architecture Tour with Build Tours in New York

New York

Architectural & Art Tour with Build Tours in New York City

Join Build Tours on a private walk through Midtown East and uncover the city’s legendary architecture and art. Perfect for design lovers and history buffs alike, this tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at NYC’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Discover stories that bring the city’s skyline to life and gain a fresh perspective on Manhattan’s architectural heritage. An engaging, insider experience awaits—reserve your spot today.

New York

Architectural Tour of Midtown East with Build Tours in New York

Discover Midtown East’s architectural gems with Build Tours, led by expert architect Dr. Ivan Shumkov. Dive into New York’s iconic buildings and uncover their stories on this engaging guided walk.

Architectural Tour of Midtown East with Build Tours in New York

New York

Downtown Brooklyn Art & Architecture Tour by Build Tours

Discover Brooklyn’s vibrant architectural scene on a guided tour led by historian Dr. Afshan Bokhari. From historic brownstones to modern skyscrapers, this walk offers an insider’s view of Brooklyn's evolving skyline and rich history.

Downtown Brooklyn Art & Architecture Tour by Build Tours

New York

Architectural Tour of Midtown NYC with Build Tours

Discover Midtown Manhattan's architectural gems with a guided tour led by expert Dr. Ivan Shumkov. Uncover the stories behind iconic buildings and gain a new perspective on NYC’s urban landscape.

Architectural Tour of Midtown NYC with Build Tours

New York

Architectural Sightseeing with Build Tours in NYC

Discover NYC's skyline secrets with a private architectural tour led by expert guide Dr. Ivan Shumkov. Walk the High Line and delve into the city’s design history—an experience perfect for architecture lovers and curious travelers alike.

Architectural Sightseeing with Build Tours in NYC

New York

Architectural Walking Tour with Build Tours in New York

Discover the layers of New York City’s architecture on a private walking tour led by expert architect Dr. Ivan Shumkov. Uncover hidden gems, iconic buildings, and the stories behind the city’s evolving skyline. Read on to find out why this tour is a must for design enthusiasts and curious explorers alike.

Architectural Walking Tour with Build Tours in New York

New York

Architectural and Art Walking Tour by Build Tours in NYC

Discover the hidden stories and architectural marvels of downtown Manhattan on a private walking tour led by a renowned architect. Gain unique insights into NYC’s historic and modern skyline while experiencing personalized commentary that brings the city’s streets to life.

Architectural and Art Walking Tour by Build Tours in NYC

New York

Build Tours: Private NYC Architecture & Real Estate Smart Tours

Discover New York City’s real estate secrets with Build Tours, led by expert architect Dr. Ivan Shumkov. This custom, in-depth tour offers exclusive insights into neighborhood developments and investment strategies—perfect for architects, investors, and urban enthusiasts alike.

Build Tours: Private NYC Architecture & Real Estate Smart Tours

New York

Architectural Walking Tour with Build Tours in New York City

Step into the streets of the Upper West Side with a private guide and uncover the hidden stories behind iconic buildings like Lincoln Center. Perfect for architecture lovers, this guided walk reveals the design secrets of Manhattan's energetic neighborhood. Build Tours' expert-led exploration offers an engaging way to see the city through an architect's eyes. Whether you're into historic facades or modern marvels, this experience deepens your understanding of New York’s evolving skyline.

New York

Financial District Architecture Walk with Build Tours NYC

Discover the layered history and striking architecture of NYC’s Financial District on a guided 2-hour walk led by architect Dr. Ivan Shumkov. See iconic landmarks like the Woolworth Building and 9/11 Memorial through the eyes of an expert.

Financial District Architecture Walk with Build Tours NYC

New York

Upper East Side Architecture Walk with Build Tours NYC

Discover New York’s Upper East Side through a focused 2-hour walk led by architect Dr. Ivan Shumkov. Uncover the neighborhood’s rich architectural history from Gilded Age mansions to modern icons like the Guggenheim Museum.

Upper East Side Architecture Walk with Build Tours NYC

New York

Midtown South Architecture Walking Tour by Build Tours NYC

Discover Midtown Manhattan’s architectural evolution on a two-hour guided walk led by expert Dr. Ivan Shumkov. See landmarks from the Empire State Building to cutting-edge skyscrapers through an architect’s eyes.

Midtown South Architecture Walking Tour by Build Tours NYC

New York

Private NYC Architecture & Design Tours by Build Tours

Dive into New York City’s iconic architecture and design with a private, fully customizable tour by Build Tours. Tailor your experience to your interests and schedule for an unmatched urban adventure.

Private NYC Architecture & Design Tours by Build Tours

New York

Explore Iconic Upper West Side Architecture on a Guided Walking Tour in NYC

Discover New York City's architectural gems on a 2-hour guided walking tour through the Upper West Side, led by architect Dr. Ivan Shumkov. Immerse yourself in historic and modern landmarks that shape this dynamic neighborhood.

Explore Iconic Upper West Side Architecture on a Guided Walking Tour in NYC

About Build Tours

Build Tours is a New York–based tour operator that specializes in architecture, art, and design walking tours across Manhattan and Brooklyn. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Build Tours offers scheduled public walks and private, custom tours that explore neighborhoods including SoHo, the Village, Chelsea, the High Line, Hudson Yards, Midtown, the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, the Financial District, Downtown Brooklyn, Harlem, Morningside Heights, and Central Park.

Guided by credentialed experts, Build Tours presents neighborhood history, design context, and built‑form analysis. Architect Dr. Ivan Shumkov leads many architecture walking tours, offering professional insight into façades, urban plans, and recent developments. Art and architectural historian Dr. Afshan Bokhari leads Downtown Brooklyn tours and adds historical perspective on cultural institutions and streetscapes.

Offerings include two‑hour public architecture walks such as SoHo & the Village and Chelsea & the High Line, a four‑hour private Harlem architecture tour, private Central Park architecture walks, and bespoke developer and investor tours. Private options cover Midtown, Upper East and West Sides, Financial District, and custom design and real estate engagements.

Build Tours emphasizes clear meeting points in central New York locations, small group experiences, and curator‑level commentary suitable for visitors, students, professionals, and developers. Tour routes combine landmark highlights—Grand Central, the Empire State Building, the Whitney, The Vessel, Guggenheim, Apollo Theater, Belvedere Castle—and lesser‑known urban gems.

As a third‑party curator of guided architecture experiences, Build Tours provides factual, expert‑led interpretation of New York’s built environment for guests seeking a deeper understanding of the city’s design legacy.

Washington Square Arch in park with visitors, urban stroll

People gathered at Bethesda Fountain, Central Park sightseeing

NYC Architecture Walking Tours by Build Tours

Build Tours runs expert‑led architecture walking tours across Manhattan and Brooklyn. The company focuses on neighborhood‑based routes that explain design, history, and urban development. Guides include architect Dr. Ivan Shumkov and art and architectural historian Dr. Afshan Bokhari. Available options cover scheduled public walks and private, custom tours for visitors, students, professionals, developers, and local residents.

Featured Tours and Neighborhoods

Highlighted experiences include two‑hour public walks such as SoHo & the Village and Chelsea & the High Line, a four‑hour Private Harlem architecture tour, private Central Park walks, and specialized tours in Midtown, Midtown South, Midtown North, the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, the Financial District, Downtown Brooklyn, Morningside Heights, and Hudson Yards.

What a tour covers

Design history of façades, brownstones, and skyscrapers.
Key landmarks like Grand Central, the Empire State Building, the Whitney Museum, The Vessel, the Guggenheim Museum, Apollo Theater, Belvedere Castle, and Bow Bridge.
Urban planning context including parks, promenades, and adaptive reuse projects.
Contemporary developments and real estate trends on request for developer and investor tours.

Who should join

Build Tours caters to travelers seeking architectural insight, architecture and design students, real estate professionals, and anyone interested in New York’s built environment. Public walking tours are suitable for small groups and individuals; private and custom tours provide tailored itineraries for corporate or developer needs.

Logistics and format

Most public architecture walking tours run approximately two hours where indicated. The Private Harlem tour is a four‑hour walking experience. Central meeting points and walking routes are located in central New York neighborhoods. Tours combine exterior viewing, street‑level analysis, and historical interpretation; they do not involve ticketed interior access unless arranged separately.

Why book an architecture walking tour in NYC

Expert commentary from credentialed guides provides factual, contextual understanding.
Neighborhood‑focused routes make architectural history accessible and connected to local culture.
Private options allow custom schedules and targeted topics such as developer briefings.

Booking and customization

Build Tours offers private Midtown, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Financial District, Chelsea and High Line, SoHo and the Village, Central Park, Downtown Brooklyn, and custom architecture, art, and design tours. Developer and investor tours focus on site‑specific analysis and market context when requested.

Keywords for search

NYC architecture tours, New York architecture walking tour, private architecture tours NYC, SoHo architecture tour, Chelsea High Line architecture walking tour, Midtown architecture tour, Harlem architecture tour, Central Park architecture walking tour, Downtown Brooklyn architecture walking tour.

Neighborhood highlights overview

SoHo — iconic cast‑iron buildings, loft conversions, cobblestone streets and a concentrated gallery and retail district.
Chelsea & High Line — elevated park, galleries, the Whitney Museum and adaptive reuse.
Midtown — landmark skyscrapers, Grand Central Terminal and the Empire State Building illustrate early and modern commercial architecture.
Central Park — Olmsted and Vaux’s pastoral design, Belvedere Castle and Bow Bridge.
Harlem — historic brownstones, cultural landmarks including the Apollo Theater, and evolving residential and civic architecture.
Downtown Brooklyn — a mix of nineteenth‑century buildings and contemporary towers, explored with historical and design context.
Financial District — historic commercial streets, early skyscrapers and waterfront edges that shaped the city’s commerce.
Upper East Side — museum institutions like the Guggenheim, townhouses and avenues that reflect residential elegance and patronage.
Upper West Side — residential blocks, landmark façades and varied nineteenth and twentieth‑century apartment and townhouse types.
Hudson Yards — contemporary redevelopment with public space, The Vessel and recent commercial and residential projects.

For guests seeking an in‑depth, neighborhood‑driven look at New York’s architecture, Build Tours provides structured, expert‑led walking experiences that combine landmark highlights and local stories to explain how the city’s buildings and public spaces evolved.

Rooftop panorama over Manhattan skyline at golden dusk

Book an Expert‑Led NYC Architecture Tour

Reserve a public walk or customize a private tour with credentialed guides in New York City.