Inside the American Irish Historical Society

July is kicking off with a lineup of unique, insider events. From our Secrets of Central Park Walking Tour to the return of our Insider Tour of the American Irish Historical Society, join us as we explore parts of the city that normally go unnoticed.

Secrets of Central Park Tour, Sunday, July 9th at 11:00am + 2:00pm

Did you know that Central Park was once the site of a former African-American village? Or that it was previously home to an infamous casino, where alcohol flowed throughout the Prohibition? For almost 160 years, Central Park has been the green heart of the city, serving as a pastoral haven for New Yorkers and visitors alike. Even so, it still holds many secrets that have yet to be discovered. On this walking tour, we’ll explore the history behind some of its best-loved and hidden sites. Learn about the genesis, design, and evolution of the immense green space, while uncovering its many outrageous happenings, scandals and more. Discover the secret navigational device that keeps pedestrians from getting lost on the park’s winding paths, see the secret bolt left behind from the creation of Manhattan’s street grid and uncover the hidden meaning in Bethesda Terrace’s sculptures.

Secrets of Central Park Walking Tour

Tour and Wine Tasting at Rooftop Reds: Sunday, July 9th at 12:30pm

Did you know the world’s first commercially viable rooftop vineyard is hidden within the Brooklyn Navy Yard? Untapped Cities will be bringing readers on a special wine tasting and tour at Rooftop Reds, led by one of its founders who will share their knowledge of winemaking.

Within the 14,800 square foot rooftop, you will see a unique urban planter system that is the first of its kind, developed with Cornell University and Finger Lakes industry leaders. As an added bonus: all guests will get 20% off purchases of Rooftop Reds wines. Get in on this experience early, as the first harvest will be taking place in October 2017. Take in an amazing view, lounge in a hammock, and sip on Rooftop Red wines in our tours. Please note that the wine served on the rooftop is from Rooftop Reds partners in the Finger Lakes until the first harvest off the Navy Yard rooftop are ready!

Wine Tasting & Tour of Rooftop Reds, the World’s First Rooftop Vineyard!

Insider Tour of the American Irish Historical Society: Wednesday, July 12 at 6PM

Usually off-limit to the public, the American Irish Historical Society is opening its doors to Untapped Cities. The center of Irish culture and knowledge, located on Manhattan’s Museum Mile, was built in 1901. The five story Beaux-Arts townhouse was a private home before it was purchased by the Society in 1939, and it currently stands as one of the last standing mansions on Fifth Avenue. With a library that holds over 10,000 volumes, it is home to one of the largest private collections of Irish and American Irish history and literature in the United States. Discover the historic townhouse with us, learn about the history of the Irish in America, and see highlights of the library and archives.

Insider Tour of the American Irish Historical Society

See our full list of Behind the Scenes tours.