Go beyond the postcard views and discover the stories that transformed Midtown Manhattan into the heart of New York City. Rather than simply stopping for photos, your expert local guide reveals the history, architecture, and fascinating people behind the city's most recognizable landmarks. Step inside Grand Central Terminal to admire its spectacular celestial ceiling, uncover the rivalry that fueled New York's legendary skyscraper race, and learn how Fifth Avenue, Park Avenue, Rockefeller Center, and Times Square became symbols of the city’s ambition and innovation. Along the way, experience the contrast between Midtown's bustling streets and its hidden architectural treasures, gaining a deeper appreciation for the history and stories that millions of visitors pass by every year.
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 23.
Begin your Midtown adventure at the crossroads of the world. Explore the history behind Times Square’s transformation from a horse-carriage district into one of the most famous entertainment centers on the planet. Your guide will share the stories behind the dazzling lights, Broadway theaters, iconic billboards, and the legendary New Year's Eve ball drop that has made this one of New York City's most recognizable landmarks.
Take a stroll through Bryant Park, one of Midtown Manhattan’s most beloved green spaces surrounded by some of New York’s most iconic architecture. Discover how this park transformed from a neglected area into a vibrant gathering place for locals and visitors, and learn about the history of the surrounding landmarks, including the New York Public Library.
Admire the stunning Beaux-Arts architecture of the New York Public Library and meet Patience and Fortitude, the iconic marble lions that have welcomed visitors for more than a century. Learn about the history behind one of the world's greatest libraries, its role in New York City’s cultural life, and the architectural details that make this landmark a favorite stop in Midtown Manhattan.
dmire the Art Deco masterpiece of the Chrysler Building, one of New York City’s most iconic skyscrapers. Learn the fascinating story behind its race to become the tallest building in the world, the ambitious vision of its creators, and the architectural details—including its famous stainless-steel spire—that have made it a symbol of New York’s innovation and style.
Discover the story behind the MetLife Building, one of Midtown Manhattan’s most recognizable skyscrapers. Originally built as the Pan Am Building, this massive structure changed the skyline above Grand Central Terminal and sparked debate among New Yorkers about modern architecture. Learn how it reflects the evolution of Midtown from a railroad hub into a center of business, transportation, and innovation.
Step inside the magnificent Grand Central Terminal and discover why this Beaux-Arts masterpiece is considered one of New York City’s greatest architectural treasures. Admire the famous celestial ceiling, uncover the hidden details throughout the terminal, and hear the fascinating stories behind its construction, near-demolition, and remarkable preservation. More than just a transportation hub, Grand Central is a symbol of New York’s ambition, innovation, and history.
Stroll along elegant Park Avenue, one of New York City’s most famous boulevards, and discover how this once-industrial corridor transformed into a symbol of sophistication and success. Admire the grand apartment buildings, corporate towers, and carefully designed streetscape while learning how Park Avenue became one of Manhattan’s most prestigious addresses.
Admire the breathtaking neo-Gothic architecture of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a remarkable landmark rising among Midtown’s modern skyscrapers. Learn about the history, design, and construction of this iconic cathedral, and discover how it has remained a place of faith and a symbol of New York City for more than 150 years. If time and conditions allow, your guide may take you inside to experience its stunning interior.
Conclude your Midtown journey at Rockefeller Center, a masterpiece of architecture, art, and urban design. Learn the story behind this ambitious project built during the Great Depression and discover how it became a world-famous destination for entertainment, culture, and business. See iconic landmarks including Radio City Music Hall, the famous skating rink, and the plaza where generations of New Yorkers and visitors have gathered.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
Excurgo comparison of 2,435 Viator tours, recalculated daily.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour lasts about 2 hours. The itinerary has 9 stops.
Prices start at $39 per person for this New York City experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs on Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, starting at 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
The meeting point is The tour departs from the US Army Recruiting Office Times Square, in front of the large electronic American flag on West 43rd Street. (7th Avenue) Meet your guide on the sidewalk side of the kiosk. Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
The experience is available in EN.
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 15 participants.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Wheelchair accessible Transportation options are wheelchair accessible All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 18 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by New York City By Foot.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
This was what I was looking forward to the most and Garrett made it even better than I was hoping. Great stories, views, easy walking even through the crowds of Times Square. This was really a great way to start a trip to New York City!
So happy to hear it lived up to your expectations—and Garrett made it even better! Great way to start your NYC adventure!
I avoid midtown usually since I live in nyc but I brought some friends and I’m so glad I joined. It gave me a new appreciation for my city. Garrett was such a great and accommodating guide.
Thank you for sharing your experience! We're so glad Garrett helped you gain a new appreciation for your city, and we're thrilled you enjoyed the tour with your friends!
This is my favorite walking tour company and I love taking their tours in any city I go to. Garrett's walking tour of Midtown is no exception. He taught us so much about this part of the city and pointed out the best photo ops. My daughter was very excited about her TikTok after thsi tour!
Thank you for the wonderful feedback! We're so glad Garrett's Midtown tour provided great insights and photo ops for you and your daughter!
Joey was just great at bringing the city to life. Any of us can read about the history of NY, but to be with someone who can share their experience and inside tips is invaluable. The tour was at a good pace, with lots of time for banter. And yes, Joey, I did try the banana pudding at Magnolia Cafe! Time well spent. THANK YOU!
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're so glad Joey made your tour unforgettable with his personal insights and great pace, and we're happy you got to enjoy that delicious banana pudding!
My wife and I did the Midtown Manhattan tour with Mary. She was great! We were lucky that we were the only ones signed up for the mid-week tour, so we had her all to ourselves. She did a great job of learning what we were interested in and gearing her commentary to that. She worked near Times Square for twenty years, and had a lot of great info about the whole area we toured. Despite the craziness of Midtown, we walked at an easy pace and it was very calm and enjoyable.
Thank you for your fantastic review! We're so glad Mary tailored the tour to your interests and made your Midtown experience both calm and enjoyable, even in the heart of the city!
We have taken tours with Tours by Foot for 2nd time. Our Recent trip to New York was highlight of our trip. From the very beginning our guide was very funny, charismatic, and extremely knowledgeable. He shared detailed information about Times Sqaure and surrounding skyscrappers. Seeing the architectural beauty of the Chrysler Building and learning about its history was a highlight. Recommended if in NYC.
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear your second tour with us was a highlight of your trip and that you enjoyed learning about Times Square and the iconic Chrysler Building!
Brilliant Morning with Jon for a tour of Manhattan. This is most fun thing we did on this visit to New York! We were having kids with us but our guide Jon made it a fun and even our Kid's have enjoyed a lot. His attention to detail and immense knowledge made the experience unforgettable.
Thank you for your amazing review! We're so glad Jon made the tour fun and engaging for both adults and kids, creating an unforgettable experience for your family!
The Midtowm tour Tours by Foot was an excellent way to see the heart of NYC. Jon, our guide, was knowledgeable, taking us to the iconic Rockefeller Center and explaining its significance. Walking through Times Square and learning about the New York Times Building was fascinating. He told us interesting stories that we never get bored. Highly recommend this tour!
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled Jon made your Midtown tour so engaging and informative, highlighting iconic sites like Rockefeller Center and Times Square!
The tour was both educational and exciting. Our Guide Jon shared interesting stories and facts about Times Square and the surrounding skyscrapers. The tour was very well organized by Tours By Foot and was very enjoyable. It is must to for anyone in New York.
Thank you for your fantastic review! We're so glad Jon made the tour both educational and exciting, and that you had an enjoyable experience with Tours By Foot!
We really enjoyed our trip, and the Midtown tour was the highlight for sure! Garrett was so captivating and entertaining - a taste of real New York.
Thank you for your amazing review! We're thrilled the Midtown tour with Garrett was the highlight of your trip and that you got a true taste of New York's energy!
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour | 2 hours | 5.0 (18) | $39 | |
 Midtown North NYC Architecture Walking Tour | 2 hours | 5.0 (34) | $59 | View |
 The Escape Game NYC: 60-Minute Adventures in Midtown Manhattan | 1h 15min | 5.0 (389) | $51 | View |
 New-York : Private Guided Tour of Midtown Manhattan and Times Square | 2 hours | — | $519 | View |
 New York Times Square Food Tour: Delicious Donuts & Sweet Treats | 2 hours | 4.9 (72) | $75 | View |
 The Manhattan Bus and Walking Tour: Times Square to Battery Park | 4 hours | 5.0 (1) | $59 | View |
 NYC in a Day Tour: Lady Liberty, Times Square, 9/11 Memorial | 6 hours | 4.9 (1,819) | $89 | View |