Lower East Side History Walk with Untapped New York
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; primarily walking on paved city sidewalks at a relaxed pace.
Overview
Walk through the Lower East Side’s rich history with Untapped New York’s expert-led private tour. Discover iconic landmarks, repurposed synagogues, and traditional Jewish foods in this immersive 1.5-hour urban adventure.
Secrets of the Lower East Side - Private Tour
1.5h
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Discover the rich history of Manhattan's Lower East Side on a captivating 1.5-hour walking tour. Led by local expert Richard Soden, explore repurposed synagogues, iconic landmarks, and sample traditional Jewish cuisine while uncovering the stories of Jewish immigration and tenement life in this vibrant neighborhood. Experience the past come alive!
Explore the history and evolution of Manhattan’s Lower East Side!
Duration
1.5 hours
About
- Explore synagogues of the Lower East Side that have been repurposed into art galleries, churches, and event spaces as well as bathhouses, restaurants, movie theaters, and more
- Sample traditional Jewish Food from three places
- Uncover the history of Jewish Immigration in the area and hear what tenement life was like, find out where immigrants shopped, banked, and how they obtained news of the times
- Stop by significant Lower East Side landmarks including the Eldridge Street Synagogue, the Jarmulowsky Bank, Forwards Building, and old Old Loew’s movie theaters
About this Tour
Once the most densely populated districts in the world, the lower east side of Manhattan has witnessed numerous changes during the past hundred years. This walking tour is a resourceful glimpse of the past. The tour will focus on a few of the remaining vestiges and surviving buildings and structures of an era of Jewish immigration.
Join long-time Lower East Side resident Richard Soden as he highlights buildings and structures that still exist today as well as those that have been restored, re-purposed, demolished, and abandoned. He will speak about what transformed the neighborhood. The tour will conclude with a discussion of several food establishments that still exist today, some of Richard’s fond childhood memories, and a brief look at the Lower East Side today.
About Your Guide
Richard M. Soden, O.D., F.A.A.O. is a Clinical Professor and currently the Director of Health Care Development At SUNY College of Optometry. Previously, he served as Vice President for Clinical Affairs at SUNY Optometry for 10 years. Dr. Soden graduated from SUNY College of Optometry in 1979. After graduation, he completed a residency program at the Northport VA Medical Center on Long Island. In addition to primary care optometry, his special interests are in pediatrics, children with special needs and low vision rehabilitation for children and adults. He is recognized as a low vision specialist and has worked with the Commission for the Blind for his entire optometric career. After leaving the VA and private practice, Dr. Soden returned to SUNY College of Optometry as Vice President for Clinical Affairs.
In addition to the above, Richard is also a licensed New York City Tour Guide and a Docent at the Museum at Eldridge Street.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The tour covers city streets and sidewalks; sturdy shoes will keep you comfortable throughout.
Bring a water bottle
Staying hydrated is key, especially during warmer months when the pace is brisk.
Arrive early at 357 Grand St
Starting on time helps you get the full experience without missing the first stories.
Keep your phone handy for photos
The historic architecture and vibrant street scenes make for great shots as you walk.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban bird species like pigeons and sparrows
- Occasional squirrels in local parks
History
The Lower East Side was once the most densely populated district globally and a primary landing point for Jewish immigrants in the early 20th century.
Conservation
Efforts in the neighborhood focus on preserving historic buildings while adapting them for modern use, balancing heritage with urban renewal.
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Adventure Hotspots in New York
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive footwear is important for navigating city streets without discomfort.
Water bottle
Hydration helps maintain energy during the tour, especially in warmer months.
summer|spring|fall specific
Weather-appropriate layers
Layering allows for adjusting to changing temperatures throughout the tour.
fall|winter|spring specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture architectural details and vibrant street scenes along the route.