Come along on an engaging walking tour of the Upper West Side with a focus on baseball, books, history, and the Jazz Age.
We will see the former residences of some of New York’s greatest personalities of the past, including Babe Ruth, George and Ira Gershwin, William Randolph Hearst, Mary Pickford, J.D. Salinger, and more.
This 2-hour walking tour will take you from the General Grant National Memorial (Grant’s Tomb) to see many notable locations on the Upper West Side.
Tour Highlights:
• See where home run king Babe Ruth resided;
• Visit the locations of the real-life inspirations for Citizen Kane: William Randolph Hearst & Marion Davies;
• Take pictures of beautiful National Historic Landmark homes;
• Learn about local writers as diverse as Dorothy Parker, Edna Ferber, and Edgar Allan Poe;
• Walk in the footsteps of famous bad girls Polly Adler, Anna Held, Evelyn Nesbit, and Lillian Russell;
• Finally learn the answer to the question, “Who’s buried in Grant’s Tomb?”
Not only will you get a taste of New York history, but you’ll also be on a wonderful sightseeing tour and stroll the streets of one of the most charming neighborhoods in Manhattan. It’s a great way to learn about the past and also see how little has changed in more than two hundred years.
This tour is designed for tourists, locals, families, and groups of friends. You’ll visit more than thirty locations and come away with a new appreciation for the area.
Tickets must be bought at least 24 hours in advance of the tour start time.
Meeting Point:
General Grant National Memorial
W 122nd St & Riverside Drive
New York, NY 10027
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much walking is there?
About 2 miles (30 blocks).
What should I bring?
Bottle of water;
Camera;
Sunscreen;
Extra cash as we end the tour where food and drinks may be purchased.
Does the tour start and end at the same place?
No. The tour ends at Broadway and 86th Street.
What is the nearest subway stop?
Take the 1 train to 116th Street and Broadway. Walk uptown to 122nd Street and then walk west. It’s a 10-minute walk.
Where do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is the steps of Grant’s Tomb, located on West 122nd Street and Riverside Drive.
Do we go inside any buildings?
Yes. We tour inside Grant’s Tomb when it is open to the public (schedule determined by the NPS) and others. The visits are for limited amounts of time determined by your guide. You can always return to explore what catches your attention afterwards!
What should I wear?
Dress smart casual, with comfortable walking shoes.
What about inclement weather?
The tour operates rain or shine, snow, or heat. In the case of severe weather forecast, you will receive an email from Big Apple Fanatics Tours 24 hours before the tour begins.
Are there bathrooms along the way?
Yes. There are also restrooms along the route.
How long is the tour?
Approximately two hours.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are allowed, however NYC subway rules apply.
Is the tour appropriate for kids?
Yes it is great for families.
Can I book a private tour?
Yes, reach out here to book a charter tour for 2 to 50 people.