At Travel Shack we believe the best way to experience the true vibe of a city is through the wealth of knowledge and stories from local experts. New York is no different, in fact it is probably one of the best cities in the world to take on a leisurely local tour. So instead of doing the boring and usual double-decker buses and general boat cruises that hoards of tourists getting their gram on are doing - be different. See the city from through a different lens and we can almost guarantee you’ll have way better stories and to be honest the more enviable Insta game!
Below we have listed our favourite 5 local tours in New York City which are small and more intimate tours. Aficionados of all backgrounds, whether it be history, food, art or finance, local tour guides seek to educate visitors on New York City’s culture, culinary scene and architectural landmarks.
1) Wall Street Insider with a Finance Professional
Photo by Yucel Moran
Explore New York City’s world-famous financial district on this entertaining, educational and shocking Wall Street walking tour. Led by engaging and knowledgeable Wall Street insiders, you see landmarks like the New York Stock Exchange, the Federal Reserve, Goldman Sachs and Deutsche Bank.
Get the exclusive inside scoop about the culture and lifestyle of a Wall Street trader.
New York City walking tour of Wall Street Guided by former Wall Street professionals
Recommended by the BBC and The New York Times
As seen on Oliver Stone's "Wall Street 2: Money Never Sleeps" DVD
See the New York Stock Exchange, Federal Hall, Federal Reserve, Charging Bull, Trinity Church and more
2) Prohibition Speakeasy Drinking Tour Midtown
Feel like a true New York insider during this secretive drinking trip visiting three of Midtown Manhattan’s best watering holes. ‘Sneak’ into the bar of a Prohibition-era speakeasy (we can’t tell the location online), plus a Victorian-era bar and a fun local beer garden, enjoying an included libation at each stop.
Take in the history of Manhattan during a walking tour of historic Midtown bars
Visit a secretive Prohibition-era speakeasy
Enjoy samples of drinks offered at local watering holes
Toast your trip participants inside a Victorian-era bar Raise a glass at a Midtown beer garden.
3) Manhattan Architecture Yacht Cruise
Photo by Florian Schneider
One of the most raved about city tours in New York. Admire the architecture of Manhattan from the water on a cruise on a 1920s-style yacht. From the teak deck of the boat, learn about New York City's architectural landmarks as you circumnavigate the island and listen to the 'Around Manhattan' narration, provided by members of NYC chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Both locals and visitors will find the commentary interesting.
One beer or glass of wine is provided, as well as snacks and soda.
Fully narrated tour
Snacks and Beverages included
Travel by boat and see the sights from the water.
4) Hamilton Musical Walking Tour
Photo by NeONBRAND
Stroll through the life of Alexander Hamilton in New York City and the Tony Award-winning 'Hamilton' musical on a walking tour that features songs from the hit Broadway show. Whether you have already seen the show, plan to see it soon, or simply love the cast album, this tour provides context to the story as you explore lower Manhattan from the perspective of Alexander Hamilton.
3-hour, Hamilton-themed walking tour in New York City
Visit historical sites that sync with songs from the musical See Kings College,
Thomas Jefferson's house, Trinity Church, the Federal Reserve.
Find out more about Lin-Manuel Miranda's work on the hit musical
5) SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown Walking Tour
Photo by Alex Haney
Explore the rich history of some of New York City’s most interesting neighborhoods — SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown — on this guided walking tour. In SoHo, visit the Cast Iron Historic District and learn about 19th-century architecture. In Little Italy, see mob sites and hear about John Gotti, an American mobster who became boss of the Gambino crime family in New York City. In Chinatown, soak up the sights, smells and sounds of the neighborhood.
Walking tour of SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown in Lower Manhattan
Admire the SoHo – Cast Iron Historic District, and learn about the 19th-century architecture from a knowledgeable guide
Walk by places where celebrities are often spotted.
See mob sites in Little Italy, and hear about notorious mobsters like John Gotti
Get caught up in the sights, smells and bustling atmosphere of Chinatown
Learn about New York City’s early days of immigration and gang violence, especially in Five Points.
Getting to New York is easier than ever before from Auckland with Air New Zealand, American Airlines and United Airlines offer 1 stop options via 4 gateways including San Francisco, Los Angeles, Houston and Chicago. Get in touch to plan your expedition to the city that never sleeps!