Discover the stories behind NYC’s most famous squares—Gramercy Park, Union Square, and Madison Square Park—on this immersive guided walk led by expert Richard Soden. Dive into history, architecture, and the city’s ever-changing landscape.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
All fitness levels; comfortable walking needed
Wildlife
History
The parks have played pivotal roles in New York’s social and political history, serving as gathering points for protests and celebrations.
Conservation
The parks are maintained with sustainability in mind, focusing on green space preservation and urban habitat support.
Eyes on Manhattan
Discover the stories behind NYC’s most famous squares—Gramercy Park, Union Square, and Madison Square Park—on this immersive guided walk led by expert Richard Soden. Dive into history, architecture, and the city’s ever-changing landscape.
Eyes on Manhattan offers guided walking tours across Manhattan neighborhoods, sharing historical context, architecture, and culinary stories. Based in New York, New York, the company curates timed experiences that range from two-hour neighborhood walks to three-hour cultural explorations.
Tours include The Secrets of the Upper West Side, Chinatown, Little Italy, and the LES, Secrets of the East Village, Tales of Gramercy Park, Madison Square & Union Square, and specialty walks such as the Secrets of the Lower East Side Tour and Tasting and From Pushcarts to Power on the Upper East Side. The History and Secrets of the Bowery and The History of Old New York focus on architectural evolution and colonial-era stories, while The “I Love NY Walk” highlights 42nd Street landmarks including Times Square and Grand Central Station.
Guided experiences feature storytelling that connects landmarks to broader New York City history, with site-specific details about notable residents, immigrant communities, and urban transformation. Select tours reference known guides, including Richard Soden, who leads the Gramercy, Madison Square, and Union Square walk.
Eyes on Manhattan emphasizes walkable routes, tangible cultural tasting opportunities on select tours, and detailed historical narration. The business serves visitors seeking immersive, educational walks of Manhattan neighborhoods and offers factual, site-based interpretation rather than theatrical performance. Booking options and schedules vary by tour; prospective visitors can choose based on duration, neighborhood, and interests. Eyes on Manhattan provides clear pre-tour information, meeting points, and accessibility notes where available to help visitors plan each walk confidently, plus seasonal updates.
Location
New York, NY
Based in Manhattan, New York
Tours Offered
9 Tours
Neighborhood-focused walking experiences
Typical Lengths
1.5–3 hours/distance
From 1.5-mile routes to 3-hour tours
Featured Guide
Richard Soden
Leads Gramercy/Madison/Union Square walk
Choose a date, pick a neighborhood, and explore Manhattan’s history, architecture, and local flavors.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The tour covers multiple blocks, so sturdy shoes are recommended for comfort.
Bring a camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning architecture and lively street scenes.
Check the weather forecast ahead of time
Be prepared for outdoor walking in various weather conditions.
Arrive early to secure a good spot
Join promptly to fully enjoy the guided experience and mingle with other visitors.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supports extended walking and keeps your feet comfortable.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Prepared for varying weather conditions during outdoor walking.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the tour.
Notebook or mobile device for notes/photos
Capture interesting details and memories.