Historical Land Adventure: Bowery Boys Walks in New York City
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate walking involved but no strenuous activities.
Overview
Step into the stories behind the 1939 and 1964 New York World’s Fairs with this captivating walking tour. Led by historian Kyle Supley, uncover fascinating exhibits and historic landmarks that shaped modern innovation.
World's Fairs of 1939 and 1964 WALKING TOUR
2 hours • Walk through the "World of Tomorrow"
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating two-hour walking tour of the iconic New York World’s Fairs of 1939/40 and 1964/65, led by historian Kyle Supley. Discover fascinating stories behind legendary exhibits, from Salvador Dali's living art to the first talking robot, while exploring the remnants of these groundbreaking events.
All's Fair at the World's Fairs!
Private Group: Please contact us for pricing and availability
Duration
2 hours
Overview
Join our guided walking tour of the site of the New York World’s Fairs of 1939/40 & 1964/65!
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Historian and World's Fair collector Kyle Supley will lead you on a fun-filled and fascinating walk, in which you'll hear about the planning and construction of the Fairs, while seeing the sites of the Fairs' most famous exhibits, including where Salvador Dali had his living art installation, where Michelangelo’s Pieta graced the grounds, where the first talking (and smoking) robot entertained, and where two time capsules still exist (and will until the year 6939)!
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You'll see why the Fairs were located here, the drama of planning and construction, and the Fairs eventual conversion into Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.
What's better than reliving a World's Fair? Reliving TWO World's Fairs at once!
Tour Highlights
Get ready to see...
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Remnants of both the 1939-1940 and 1964-1965 Fairs
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Where the first commercial television was shown to the public
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The spot where Borden's "Elsie the Cow" mooooved her audiences to tears
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The site of a singing and smoking robot-man and his pet dog, Sparko!
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Where an Andy Warhol Mural about convicted felons was almost displayed!
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The spot where Johnny Weissmuller, aka "Tarzan", did high dives before thousands.
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Where a miniature New York City exists to this day!
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... AND much, much more.
Please Note
Walking tours take place rain or shine
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
This tour involves a lot of walking, so choose sturdy, comfortable footwear.
Bring a notebook or camera
Capture memorable moments or jot down insights during the tour.
Plan for weather
Check the forecast and dress accordingly, as most of the tour is outdoors.
Arrive early
Arrive a few minutes early to start on time and settle in before the tour begins.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Birds attracted by park trees
- Small urban animals like squirrels
History
The 1939/40 and 1964/65 Fairs represented the pinnacle of mid-20th-century technological dreams and cultural ambition, transforming the cityscape and showcasing the future.
Conservation
Efforts focus on preserving historic landmarks and promoting educational outreach about the events' impacts and innovations.
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Adventure Hotspots in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Needed for the considerable walking involved on the tour.
Notebook or camera
Helpful for capturing memories or taking notes during the tour.
Weather-appropriate outerwear
Ensure comfort during outdoor portions, especially in inclement weather.
spring,summer,fall,winter specific
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the walk, especially on warm days.
summer,winter specific