Discover the little-known stories of Wall Street’s working cats on a 1.5-mile, two-hour walk through Lower Manhattan. Hear about postal cats, press-guarding felines and compassionate companions who left an outsized mark on the Financial District.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A brisk wind threads between narrow canyons of stone and glass as the group assembles beneath Mark di Suvero’s towering red Joie de Vivre sculpture in Zuccotti Park. The city hums around them, but for two hours the Financial District yields small, sharp stories—of cats that patrolled printing presses, guarded ledgers and comforted prisoners—each stop a shard of quieter history in Manhattan’s busiest quarter.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking intensity but standing during storytelling is required
Wildlife
History
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries many Municipal and federal offices kept cats to control rodents; some institutions even listed cats on payroll records.
Conservation
Urban wildlife programs favor humane Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) for community cats; visitors should avoid feeding wildlife and respect private property and building operations.
Reserve your spot on the Historical Cat Tales Walking Tour Financial District today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early for check-in
Meet under the Joie de Vivre sculpture in Zuccotti Park — guides will hold a "Cats About Town" sign; arriving 10 minutes early avoids a rushed start.
Bring a collapsible water bottle
Summer sidewalks can be hot and the tour is two hours long with only short stops; hydration keeps the pace comfortable.
Keep pet etiquette in mind
Cats in carriers or harnesses are welcome; secure leashes and carriers, and avoid letting pets interact with building entrances or street vendors.
Wear supportive, flat shoes
The route is mostly flat pavement but includes curbs and occasional cobbles — sturdy footwear prevents foot fatigue.
Comfortable walking shoes
Flat, supportive shoes handle city sidewalks, curbs and brief cobbled sections.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is important during a two-hour outdoor walk, especially in warmer months.
summer
Light jacket or windbreaker
Spring and fall can be breezy downtown; a packable layer is useful for comfort.
spring
Transit card or OMNY-enabled card
Public transit is the quickest way to get to Zuccotti Park and back from other boroughs.