Discover the hidden stories and landmarks of the Upper West Side on a personalized guided walking tour. Perfect for history buffs and first-time visitors, this experience unveils NYC’s rich cultural landscape.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, with accessible routes
Wildlife
History
The Upper West Side was developed in the late 19th century as a fashionable residential district, hosting many influential artists, musicians, and writers.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes stewardship of historic sites and encourages environmentally responsible tourism.
NYC Explained Tours
Discover the hidden stories and landmarks of the Upper West Side on a personalized guided walking tour. Perfect for history buffs and first-time visitors, this experience unveils NYC’s rich cultural landscape.
NYC Explained Tours is a New York City–based tour provider that specializes in neighborhood-focused walking experiences across Manhattan and Brooklyn. The company offers four distinct trips that highlight local history, culture, architecture, and food. Tours include “Red Hook Brooklyn: Small Town in the Big City,” featuring skyline ferry views, cobblestone streets, and tastings at neighborhood businesses; an Upper West Side private walking tour that explores cultural history and architectural evolution; a 6-hour private Manhattan and Brooklyn walking tour led by seasoned New Yorker Mike, which combines hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and local specialties like bagels and pizza; and “Around the World in a Day: Brooklyn’s Q Train Tour,” a 6-hour journey through borough neighborhoods from Brooklyn Heights to the Coney Island boardwalk.
Each tour emphasizes local stories, neighborhood context, and on-the-ground perspectives. Private and small-group formats enable detailed commentary, flexibility, and opportunities for food tastings and skyline views from the ferry. The presence of experienced local guides, including a named guide for the private walking tour, provides credibility and insider knowledge. NYC Explained Tours is presented as a focused operator dedicated to showing neighborhoods beyond typical sightseeing routes. Listings and features on curated travel platforms help travelers find detailed descriptions and book specific neighborhood experiences. The company’s offerings appeal to travelers seeking authentic, walkable explorations of New York City’s diverse communities.
Tours Offered
4
Varied NYC neighborhood experiences
Location
New York City
Brooklyn & Manhattan neighborhoods
6-Hour Tours
2
In-depth walking and train tours
Guide Example
Mike, seasoned New Yorker
Insider stories and local tips
Reserve a spot on Red Hook, Upper West Side, NYC Private Walking Tour, or the Brooklyn Q Train experience and enjoy guided local stories and tastings.
Wear comfortable shoes
Ensure you're in comfortable footwear for a full day of walking through diverse streets and parks.
Bring water and sunscreen
Stay hydrated and protected from the sun during outdoor parts of the tour.
Plan for flexible timing
Allow extra time if you want to explore cafes or shops along the route.
Check the weather forecast
Prepare for weather conditions to ensure a comfortable experience.
Comfortable walking shoes
Planet-friendly shoes that support long hours of walking.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during outdoor exposure.
summer
Water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the tour.
Camera or smartphone
Capture memorable moments of the neighborhood.