East Village, New York City Culture & history

Our most recommended East Village, New York City Culture & history

New York: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

New York: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

Experience the perfect introduction to New York with a Hop on Hop off Big Bus tour. Relax on an open-top double decker sightseeing bus while listening to insightful and engaging digital commentary. The bus route takes you on a captivating journey through New York's rich history and vibrant modern life, as well as its many memorials and museums. Hop off at any stop to explore the city's most iconic sites, including the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, Broadway, and the One World Trade Center with its 360-degree view of the skyline. Pay tribute to the memory of those lost in the tragic event at the 9/11 Memorial just steps away. Explore Lower Manhattan on the Downtown tour, including popular neighborhoods including the Flatiron District, Battery Park, SoHo & NoHo, Greenwich Village & East Village, Chelsea, and the Financial District. Wander around Wall St. to see the famous Stock Exchange and Charging Bull. Eat your way through Little Italy and Chinatown, shop at the high-end boutiques in SoHo, or see the open-air observation deck at The Edge in Hudson Yards. Then make your way to the Upper East Side, home to some of New York’s most popular museums. Explore the Frick Collection and the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met). The Uptown Loop takes you through Midtown, passing by Grand Central Terminal and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The Downtown Loop is a 90-minute circuit, while the Uptown Loop is 75 minutes. Many guests choose to ride a full loop to see the city before deciding where to hop off on the next loop around. Buses arrive every 10-15 minutes on the Downtown Loop and every 30 minutes on the Uptown Loop throughout the day.

NYC: Circle Line 2h Harbor Lights Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office

NYC: Circle Line 2h Harbor Lights Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office

The first, the original, the iconic Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. Visitors’ #1 choice for sightseeing cruises in New York. With over 80 million passengers and counting, forget the rest and choose the best for your visit. Circle Line offers the largest fleet of sightseeing vessels with the largest boats. Comfortable seating with lots of legroom and outdoor and indoor space for the best views of the New York skyline. With a drink in your hand, purchased from the fully stocked bar, feel the breeze on your face and be mesmerized by the shimmering skyline as our award-winning tour guides provide an overview of all the major NYC highlights. Get endless photo opportunities to make you an Instagram star as you sail past legendary attractions such as the Statue of Liberty and get perfect views of the One World Trade Center, Empire State Building, Little Island Park, Battery Park, and more. See where millions of immigrants were processed when they arrived in America at Ellis Island, cruise past Governors Island, the South Street Seaport, and Brooklyn Bridge. Marvel at unrivaled views of the Manhattan Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge, and Chrysler Building, and discover the East Village, United Nations Building, and USS Intrepid from a different perspective. 

New York City: 24 or 48-hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

New York City: 24 or 48-hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

Experience the heartbeat of New York City in an immersive and flexible way with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour. Be at the crossroads of bustling streets, surrounded by iconic landmarks that have graced the silver screen and captured imaginations worldwide. Begin your day in the bustling energy of Downtown, where towering skyscrapers create a modern marvel against the skyline. See not just the well-trodden paths but also dive deeper into the heart of the city. Next, Uptown beckons with its unique charm. Stroll through the iconic Central Park, an urban oasis that offers a serene contrast to the bustling streets. Discover Harlem’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant soul. Hop on and off the bus at your leisure, curating your own NYC experience based on your interests – from Times Square's dazzling lights to the Museum Mile's artistic haven. Add an educational layer to your adventure through engaging narration available in 11 languages.

True Crime New York: NYPD-Guided Mafia Walking Tour w/ Food

True Crime New York: NYPD-Guided Mafia Walking Tour w/ Food

Explore New York City's streets guided by a retired NYPD detective or police officer who are either born and raised in Little Italy or who have worked in elite Organized Crime Units of the NYPD. Learn about famous New York City Mafia and Chinese gang experiences from a true insider’s perspective. Begin "behind the scenes" visit to John's of 12th Street a Mafia Red Sauce Joint for a spaghetti welcome while hearing about this legendary restaurant's history The restaurant will not be open to the public, so this is a true VIP experience. Follow your guide and hear first-hand stories about the dramatic underworld of New York City’s gangland, offering a fascinating insider’s tour of the mafia. En route, stop at an authentic Little Italy Pastry Shop, and enjoy a delicious Italian pastry – a large Sicilian cannoli. Visit notorious mafia and crime locations, share true crime stories, and eat amazing food from the neighborhood. Get insights into the world of the mafia and mobsters, and hear stories from those who investigated them. Our lead guide, Dennis appears in the film "Life After Goodfellas" on Prime Video slated release date of the 35th anniversary of Martin Scorsese film "Goodfellas" If you seek a real NYC Mafia experience look no further!

NYC: Mafia Experience and Local Food with NYPD Guide

NYC: Mafia Experience and Local Food with NYPD Guide

Explore New York streets guided by retired NYPD detectives and police officers either born and raised in Little Italy or who have worked in elite Organized Crime Units of the NYPD. This walking tour is an NYC Mafia experience from a true insider’s perspective. Our guide Dennis appears in the film "Life After Goodfellas" to be released on Prime Video on the 35th Anniversary of the Martin Scorsese classic "Goodfellas" Guides are retired NYPD Detectives who grew up in the dramatic underworld of New York’s gangland offering a fascinating insider’s tour of the Mafia, including stops at authentic, historic local joints for delicious Italian food. Visit notorious mafia and crime locations, share true crime stories, and eat amazing food from the neighborhood. Get insights into the world of the mafia and mobsters, and hear stories from those who investigated them. Food stops include: Stop 1. Spaghetti and meatball Stop 2. Eggplant Parmigiana Rollatini Stop 3. Sicilian Cannoli WE MEET INSIDE THE RESTAURANT CALLED JOHN"S OF 12th STREET

Welcome to New York: A Tour of Taylor Swift Hotspots

Welcome to New York: A Tour of Taylor Swift Hotspots

Step into the world of Taylor Swift on this unique guided tour where you'll visit locations in downtown NYC that have inspired her life, lovers, and lyrics. Join a veteran swiftie/local actor tour guide as you uncover the meaning, music, and folklore behind each turn. Start your journey at Housing Works Bookstore and fall in love with its cozy, literary charm before heading to other gems, such as Lafayette Grand Café & Bakery and The Bowery Hotel. Your guide knows everything there is to know about Tay-tay's career, as well as every big love story, her much-loved fan base, her style, and the recent phenomenon of "Swiftonomics." As you wind your way through the West Village, you'll visit iconic sites like 23 Cornelia Street and the Friends apartment building, since she's such a fan of the series. Conclude your tour with a stroll along The High Line, where the city's energy meets Taylor's creative spirit.

Rock and Roll History and Culture Walking Tour in New York

Rock and Roll History and Culture Walking Tour in New York

Get ready to rock out on our walking tour though Greenwich Village and follow in the footsteps of music legends. Visit the venues where Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix launched their careers, and CBGB where punk rock was born with Ramones, Talking Heads, and Blondie. See the Fillmore East, called the "Church of Rock and Roll” in the late 1960s and the Pyramid Club, where music and art converged in the 1980s. Visit the home where Buddy Holly recorded his last songs before his tragic death. Step into Andy Warhol's vibrant world at the Exploding Plastic Inevitable, where the Velvet Underground left an indelible mark on the music scene. Visit the site where Sid Vicious of the Sex Pistols met his demise, and the humble apartment where John and Yoko made their first home in New York. Discover the spots immortalized in classic album covers for Bob Dylan, Ramones, and Led Zeppelin. End at the legendary White Horse Tavern where poet Dylan Thomas infamously drank himself to death. This is a must-do tour for any music lover. Book now and join us for a walk down rock and roll history! Duration: 3 hours Distance: 3 miles / 4.5 km Maximum Guests: 6

NYC: 2-Hour Sandwich Tour of the East Village

NYC: 2-Hour Sandwich Tour of the East Village

Is a hotdog a sandwich? Get ready to join 'The Sandwich Squad' on our most popular tour as we dive into the heart of the East Village on this deliciously fun and unique food tour. Together we’ll explore hidden gems known only to true NYC locals. Along the way we will devour a variety of sandwiches as we embark on a quest to answer the age-old question: "is a hotdog a sandwich?". What about a burger? Or a burrito? This tour is also about more than just incredible food. Along the way, we’ll share tales of New York’s vibrant history, and introduce you to the artisans who craft these mouth-watering masterpieces. And of course, we’ll do it all with a hearty dose of fun and laughter—because, after all, we’re eating sandwiches! This isn’t just a food tour; it’s a celebration of all things sandwich, and all things NYC. We’re talking about the only sandwich tour in New York City (maybe the world?) – and trust us, it’s as deliciously fun as it sounds! See you soon. Come hungry. Ticket price is inclusive of food. You'll leave the experience with your belly full, but you won't eat an entire sandwich at each location. Come with an open mind, leave with a full stomach, and an answer to whether or not a hotdog, a burger or a taco is a sandwich. **Sorry this tour is not for gluten-free or vegan diets. Vegetarians can be accommodated though!

New York City: A Day in Manhattan Cycling Tour

New York City: A Day in Manhattan Cycling Tour

Pedal off from beneath the Manhattan Bridge and follow the East River Esplanade towards Southport Seaport. Learn the history of the shipping industry before going to Battery Park to get stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Cycle the Hudson River Greenway to arrive at Riverside Park. Next, explore the Upper West Side and grab a bite to eat in the Time Warner Building or from one of the many street vendors during a 30-minute food stop. Cycle the 6-mile loop of Central Park to experience the attraction the best way possible, and take a quick ride through Midtown Manhattan towards Times Square and the Empire State Building. Stop at Rockefeller Plaza and St. Patrick's Cathedral along the way. Head into the West Village to visit Washington Square Park. Ride through the East Village and into SoHo before going through Little Italy and China Town. Reach the East Side of Manhattan and get beautiful views of Long Island before the tour ends!

Greenwich Village Tour

Greenwich Village Tour

Begin your 2-hour tour at the corner of 6th Avenue and Waverly Place, and learn about the history of Greenwich Village. Head to the Edgar Allan Poe house and the Washington Square Hotel. Explore Washington Square Park, a former potter's field, and learn how this area became the destination for musicians and protesters. Visit the Brown Building, site of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire in 1911, an event that led to the American labor movement. Head up McDougal Street, and see Cafe Wha, Cafe Reggio, and the Comedy Cellar. Learn where the best pizza in NYC is sold. Stroll down Christopher Street and visit the Stonewall Inn, where a riot in 1969 began America's Gay Rights Movement.

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Our most recommended East Village, New York City Culture & history

New York: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

New York: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

Experience the perfect introduction to New York with a Hop on Hop off Big Bus tour. Relax on an open-top double decker sightseeing bus while listening to insightful and engaging digital commentary. The bus route takes you on a captivating journey through New York's rich history and vibrant modern life, as well as its many memorials and museums. Hop off at any stop to explore the city's most iconic sites, including the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, Broadway, and the One World Trade Center with its 360-degree view of the skyline. Pay tribute to the memory of those lost in the tragic event at the 9/11 Memorial just steps away. Explore Lower Manhattan on the Downtown tour, including popular neighborhoods including the Flatiron District, Battery Park, SoHo & NoHo, Greenwich Village & East Village, Chelsea, and the Financial District. Wander around Wall St. to see the famous Stock Exchange and Charging Bull. Eat your way through Little Italy and Chinatown, shop at the high-end boutiques in SoHo, or see the open-air observation deck at The Edge in Hudson Yards. Then make your way to the Upper East Side, home to some of New York’s most popular museums. Explore the Frick Collection and the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met). The Uptown Loop takes you through Midtown, passing by Grand Central Terminal and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The Downtown Loop is a 90-minute circuit, while the Uptown Loop is 75 minutes. Many guests choose to ride a full loop to see the city before deciding where to hop off on the next loop around. Buses arrive every 10-15 minutes on the Downtown Loop and every 30 minutes on the Uptown Loop throughout the day.

NYC: Circle Line 2h Harbor Lights Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office

NYC: Circle Line 2h Harbor Lights Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office

The first, the original, the iconic Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. Visitors’ #1 choice for sightseeing cruises in New York. With over 80 million passengers and counting, forget the rest and choose the best for your visit. Circle Line offers the largest fleet of sightseeing vessels with the largest boats. Comfortable seating with lots of legroom and outdoor and indoor space for the best views of the New York skyline. With a drink in your hand, purchased from the fully stocked bar, feel the breeze on your face and be mesmerized by the shimmering skyline as our award-winning tour guides provide an overview of all the major NYC highlights. Get endless photo opportunities to make you an Instagram star as you sail past legendary attractions such as the Statue of Liberty and get perfect views of the One World Trade Center, Empire State Building, Little Island Park, Battery Park, and more. See where millions of immigrants were processed when they arrived in America at Ellis Island, cruise past Governors Island, the South Street Seaport, and Brooklyn Bridge. Marvel at unrivaled views of the Manhattan Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge, and Chrysler Building, and discover the East Village, United Nations Building, and USS Intrepid from a different perspective. 

New York City: 24 or 48-hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

New York City: 24 or 48-hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

Experience the heartbeat of New York City in an immersive and flexible way with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour. Be at the crossroads of bustling streets, surrounded by iconic landmarks that have graced the silver screen and captured imaginations worldwide. Begin your day in the bustling energy of Downtown, where towering skyscrapers create a modern marvel against the skyline. See not just the well-trodden paths but also dive deeper into the heart of the city. Next, Uptown beckons with its unique charm. Stroll through the iconic Central Park, an urban oasis that offers a serene contrast to the bustling streets. Discover Harlem’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant soul. Hop on and off the bus at your leisure, curating your own NYC experience based on your interests – from Times Square's dazzling lights to the Museum Mile's artistic haven. Add an educational layer to your adventure through engaging narration available in 11 languages.

True Crime New York: NYPD-Guided Mafia Walking Tour w/ Food

True Crime New York: NYPD-Guided Mafia Walking Tour w/ Food

Explore New York City's streets guided by a retired NYPD detective or police officer who are either born and raised in Little Italy or who have worked in elite Organized Crime Units of the NYPD. Learn about famous New York City Mafia and Chinese gang experiences from a true insider’s perspective. Begin "behind the scenes" visit to John's of 12th Street a Mafia Red Sauce Joint for a spaghetti welcome while hearing about this legendary restaurant's history The restaurant will not be open to the public, so this is a true VIP experience. Follow your guide and hear first-hand stories about the dramatic underworld of New York City’s gangland, offering a fascinating insider’s tour of the mafia. En route, stop at an authentic Little Italy Pastry Shop, and enjoy a delicious Italian pastry – a large Sicilian cannoli. Visit notorious mafia and crime locations, share true crime stories, and eat amazing food from the neighborhood. Get insights into the world of the mafia and mobsters, and hear stories from those who investigated them. Our lead guide, Dennis appears in the film "Life After Goodfellas" on Prime Video slated release date of the 35th anniversary of Martin Scorsese film "Goodfellas" If you seek a real NYC Mafia experience look no further!

NYC: Mafia Experience and Local Food with NYPD Guide

NYC: Mafia Experience and Local Food with NYPD Guide

Explore New York streets guided by retired NYPD detectives and police officers either born and raised in Little Italy or who have worked in elite Organized Crime Units of the NYPD. This walking tour is an NYC Mafia experience from a true insider’s perspective. Our guide Dennis appears in the film "Life After Goodfellas" to be released on Prime Video on the 35th Anniversary of the Martin Scorsese classic "Goodfellas" Guides are retired NYPD Detectives who grew up in the dramatic underworld of New York’s gangland offering a fascinating insider’s tour of the Mafia, including stops at authentic, historic local joints for delicious Italian food. Visit notorious mafia and crime locations, share true crime stories, and eat amazing food from the neighborhood. Get insights into the world of the mafia and mobsters, and hear stories from those who investigated them. Food stops include: Stop 1. Spaghetti and meatball Stop 2. Eggplant Parmigiana Rollatini Stop 3. Sicilian Cannoli WE MEET INSIDE THE RESTAURANT CALLED JOHN"S OF 12th STREET

Welcome to New York: A Tour of Taylor Swift Hotspots

Welcome to New York: A Tour of Taylor Swift Hotspots

Step into the world of Taylor Swift on this unique guided tour where you'll visit locations in downtown NYC that have inspired her life, lovers, and lyrics. Join a veteran swiftie/local actor tour guide as you uncover the meaning, music, and folklore behind each turn. Start your journey at Housing Works Bookstore and fall in love with its cozy, literary charm before heading to other gems, such as Lafayette Grand Café & Bakery and The Bowery Hotel. Your guide knows everything there is to know about Tay-tay's career, as well as every big love story, her much-loved fan base, her style, and the recent phenomenon of "Swiftonomics." As you wind your way through the West Village, you'll visit iconic sites like 23 Cornelia Street and the Friends apartment building, since she's such a fan of the series. Conclude your tour with a stroll along The High Line, where the city's energy meets Taylor's creative spirit.

Rock and Roll History and Culture Walking Tour in New York

Rock and Roll History and Culture Walking Tour in New York

Get ready to rock out on our walking tour though Greenwich Village and follow in the footsteps of music legends. Visit the venues where Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix launched their careers, and CBGB where punk rock was born with Ramones, Talking Heads, and Blondie. See the Fillmore East, called the "Church of Rock and Roll” in the late 1960s and the Pyramid Club, where music and art converged in the 1980s. Visit the home where Buddy Holly recorded his last songs before his tragic death. Step into Andy Warhol's vibrant world at the Exploding Plastic Inevitable, where the Velvet Underground left an indelible mark on the music scene. Visit the site where Sid Vicious of the Sex Pistols met his demise, and the humble apartment where John and Yoko made their first home in New York. Discover the spots immortalized in classic album covers for Bob Dylan, Ramones, and Led Zeppelin. End at the legendary White Horse Tavern where poet Dylan Thomas infamously drank himself to death. This is a must-do tour for any music lover. Book now and join us for a walk down rock and roll history! Duration: 3 hours Distance: 3 miles / 4.5 km Maximum Guests: 6

NYC: 2-Hour Sandwich Tour of the East Village

NYC: 2-Hour Sandwich Tour of the East Village

Is a hotdog a sandwich? Get ready to join 'The Sandwich Squad' on our most popular tour as we dive into the heart of the East Village on this deliciously fun and unique food tour. Together we’ll explore hidden gems known only to true NYC locals. Along the way we will devour a variety of sandwiches as we embark on a quest to answer the age-old question: "is a hotdog a sandwich?". What about a burger? Or a burrito? This tour is also about more than just incredible food. Along the way, we’ll share tales of New York’s vibrant history, and introduce you to the artisans who craft these mouth-watering masterpieces. And of course, we’ll do it all with a hearty dose of fun and laughter—because, after all, we’re eating sandwiches! This isn’t just a food tour; it’s a celebration of all things sandwich, and all things NYC. We’re talking about the only sandwich tour in New York City (maybe the world?) – and trust us, it’s as deliciously fun as it sounds! See you soon. Come hungry. Ticket price is inclusive of food. You'll leave the experience with your belly full, but you won't eat an entire sandwich at each location. Come with an open mind, leave with a full stomach, and an answer to whether or not a hotdog, a burger or a taco is a sandwich. **Sorry this tour is not for gluten-free or vegan diets. Vegetarians can be accommodated though!

New York City: A Day in Manhattan Cycling Tour

New York City: A Day in Manhattan Cycling Tour

Pedal off from beneath the Manhattan Bridge and follow the East River Esplanade towards Southport Seaport. Learn the history of the shipping industry before going to Battery Park to get stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Cycle the Hudson River Greenway to arrive at Riverside Park. Next, explore the Upper West Side and grab a bite to eat in the Time Warner Building or from one of the many street vendors during a 30-minute food stop. Cycle the 6-mile loop of Central Park to experience the attraction the best way possible, and take a quick ride through Midtown Manhattan towards Times Square and the Empire State Building. Stop at Rockefeller Plaza and St. Patrick's Cathedral along the way. Head into the West Village to visit Washington Square Park. Ride through the East Village and into SoHo before going through Little Italy and China Town. Reach the East Side of Manhattan and get beautiful views of Long Island before the tour ends!

Greenwich Village Tour

Greenwich Village Tour

Begin your 2-hour tour at the corner of 6th Avenue and Waverly Place, and learn about the history of Greenwich Village. Head to the Edgar Allan Poe house and the Washington Square Hotel. Explore Washington Square Park, a former potter's field, and learn how this area became the destination for musicians and protesters. Visit the Brown Building, site of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire in 1911, an event that led to the American labor movement. Head up McDougal Street, and see Cafe Wha, Cafe Reggio, and the Comedy Cellar. Learn where the best pizza in NYC is sold. Stroll down Christopher Street and visit the Stonewall Inn, where a riot in 1969 began America's Gay Rights Movement.

Frequently asked questions about East Village, New York City Culture & history

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What people are saying about East Village, New York City

Overall rating

4.1 out of 5 stars
4.1
4.1 out of 5 stars
(27 reviews)
5 out of 5 stars

I really liked this trip. The guide was absolutely fantastic telling us all the sites and information as we rode round for about 4 1/2 hours. We got off the bus quite a few times at the spots to take photos and that was fantastic. The guy who talked to us as we were going round And made it very informative. Probably the most enjoyable trip for photos and seeing so much of New York and learning so much in such a short space of time.

5 out of 5 stars

Highlight of our trip. What an amazing view. Extremely cold as we went in February so definitely wrap up if you choose to sit outside which I believe are the best views with no obstructions. However if you prefer to be sat inside then you will keep nice and warm as the heat hits you when you walk through the doors so this trip is suitable for all needs. This is a definite must, don't consider it just book it.

5 out of 5 stars

Excellent 6pm trip loved how safety was prioritiy several times it was thoroughly explained Our guide David was amazing so informative and charismatic his knowledge and love for new york was evident! It was a freezing cold night but the hot drinks available to buy helped it was an incredible trip to see everything lit up, we did several trips around new york but this was our favourite 10/10

5 out of 5 stars

Great to see Manhattan from the water. Tour guide was very informative and good fun. Would highly recommend, but wrap up warm, it's freezing on top of the boat!

5 out of 5 stars

Excellent, the whole thing was fun and professional from start to finish, we enjoyed every minute of it