Land Adventures: The Birth of Punk Tour in NYC
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate walking ability required; comfortable shoes recommended.
Overview
Step into the rebellious streets of NYC with The Birth of Punk Tour. Discover the roots of punk rock through urban exploration and heartfelt stories—an unforgettable adventure for music buffs and culture seekers alike.
The Birth of Punk Tour
$45 | The Velvet Underground, glam rock, and the birth of punk | 1965 -1977
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
The Velvet Underground, glam rock, and the birth of punk
Rates
$45/person
Duration
2 hours
See
- Where the Velvet Underground first met Andy Warhol
- Where classic album covers by the Ramones, the New York Dolls, the Velvet Underground, and Television were photographed
- Where the word ""punk"" was first used as a genre descriptor in 1970 (it's not where you think)
- Where Kiss played their first Manhattan show, opening for a transgender punk icon
- Where the New York Dolls and the Patti Smith Group formed
- Where David Byrne, the Ramones, Suicide, and Robert Mapplethorpe lived
- Where an infamous Lou Reed live album was recorded
- Legendary venues, including CBGB, the Mercer Arts Center, the Dom/Electric Circus, the Bottom Line, and Club 82
- And much, much more
- Special attention is paid to punk's oft-overlooked LGBTQ+ roots
Details
- Begins in the West Village and ends at Astor Place
- The tour lasts approximately two hours and covers two miles
- Comfortable shoes and bottled water are strongly reccomended
- Gratuities are welcome
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Since this tour involves a good amount of walking through city streets, sturdy shoes are recommended.
Bring a camera or smartphone
Capture the historic murals and street scenes that tell the story of punk's origins.
Check the weather forecast
Be prepared for outdoor weather conditions, whether rain or shine.
Stay curious and engaged
Ask questions and listen to your guide's stories for a richer experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons and urban birds
- Small city squirrels
History
The tour follows the evolution of NYC’s underground music scene, which played a pivotal role in punk’s rise and the city’s 20th-century cultural revolution.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes respect for the historic sites and local communities, encouraging visitors to leave no trace of their visit.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Key for long city walks, ensuring comfort and support.
Daypack
Use it to carry water, snacks, and camera gear.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the outdoor walk.
summer specific
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions.
all specific