Historical Landmarks & Architecture: Gilded Age Mansions Tour by Bowery Boys Walks
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with moderate walking involved
Overview
Step into the glitz and glamour of the Gilded Age on a walking tour of Fifth Avenue’s opulent mansions. Led by expert guides, uncover the fascinating history and architecture of New York’s most storied residences.
Gilded Age Mansions of Fifth Avenue WALKING TOUR
2 hours • Explore extravagant urban palaces • Ages 8+
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Explore the opulent mansions of New York City's Upper East Side on a captivating 2-hour walking tour. Led by expert guides, delve into the Gilded Age's architectural marvels, from French châteaux to Gothic castles, while uncovering the fascinating stories of their illustrious designers and owners. A unique glimpse into history awaits!
See the great mansions of the Upper East Side that represent Gilded Age New York City.
(Best suited for adults and most children over 8 years old.)
Private Group: Please contact us for pricing and availability
Duration
2 hours (Walking tour around Upper East Side)
About
The tour starts at the Richard Morris Hunt Memorial statue located on the west side of Fifth Avenue (between East 70th & 71st Streets) and ends at the Cooper-Hewitt (2 East 91th Street), the former home of Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919).
The term “Gilded Age” is used to refer to the period of booming economic growth in the USA in the second half of the 19th century. In New York City this is the period when robber barons like Frick and Carnegie built some of the most extravagant urban palaces the city has ever seen.
Beaux-Arts was the dominant style of architecture in this period, as the greatest American architects from Richard Morris Hunt to Stanford White to C.P.H Gilbert all studied abroad in Paris. These three architects and many others created French châteaux, Italian palazzi, Gothic castles, and Neoclassical mansions in the heart of New York City, and helped give Fifth Avenue along Central Park the cachet it still holds today, as one of the most famous residential neighborhoods in the city.
Bowery Boys Walks guides Emma Guest-Consales, Ph.D., and Billy Nemec take turns leading this tour for a stroll up the avenue to visit the grand residences, to see their interiors, and to hear stories of their designers and owners.
Please Note
*Tours take place rain or shine — dress for the weather!
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
The tour involves walking on historic streets, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Bring a camera
Capture the stunning architecture and decorative details of the mansions.
Plan for weather
Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour is outdoors regardless of conditions.
Arrive early
Arriving a few minutes early ensures you don’t miss the start and can settle in comfortably.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons
- Squirrels
History
The Gilded Age was marked by rapid economic growth and extravagant architecture among America's wealthiest families, transforming Fifth Avenue into a symbol of opulence.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve these historic structures and maintain the integrity of the neighborhood amidst urban development.
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Adventure Hotspots in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes are essential for walking the historic streets comfortably.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the intricate details of the architecture and scenic views.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress for the weather to stay comfortable during your outdoor walk.
Sunscreen and hat
Protect yourself from sun exposure during warmer months.
summer specific