$900
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Ellis Island Hospital Hard Hat Tour
Behind-the-scenes hard hat tour inside Ellis Island Contagious Disease Hospital, abandoned since 1954, and once also used as an FBI detention center
Private A Taste of New York: Food Tour of Chinatown, Little Italy, and the LES
A Taste of New York: Food Tour of Chinatown, Little Italy, and the LES
- 3 hours
- $392 and up
- Up to 15 guests
- Flexible Cancellations
Tour Highlights
Discover how the historic buildings of these areas have been transformed and repurposed into art galleries, churches, and event spaces as well as restaurants and more
Sample traditional Chinese, Italian and Jewish food
Learn about the history of immigration in these areas and the impact that each group played in this part of New York City, once the most densely populated district in the world
Uncover the history of what tenement life was like in Chinatown, Little Italy and the Lower East Side, and find out where immigrants shopped, banked, and how they obtained news of the times
Stop by significant Lower East Side landmarks including the Synagogues, the Jarmulowsky Bank, old movie theaters, Old Saint Patrick’s Basilica, the Bowery, Doyers Street and many more
Guests Love This Tour
About This Tour:
Once one of the most densely populated districts in the world, the Lower East Side of Manhattan has witnessed numerous changes during the past hundred years. This walking tour is a resourceful glimpse into the past, with stops at some off-the beaten track locations. The tour will focus on a few of the remaining vestiges and surviving structures of this era of immigration and offer a taste of the delectable flavors of each neighborhood.
The history of New York City is rooted in the immigrants that came over from various parts of Europe and other parts of the world. This includes Irish, Italian, Jewish, and Chinese people. This tour will review the reasons each of these groups left their homelands and the impact they had on the history of New York City. This includes the culture, the architecture, and the various foods of these immigrant groups. We will start at Columbus Park in Chinatown which was the initial site of the famous “Five Points.”
After exploring Chinatown and eating tasty dumplings, we’ll move to Little Italy to see some sites and sample some traditional dishes. We’ll then move on to the Lower East Side to learn its history and sample authentic Jewish food.
About Your Guide
Richard M. Soden, O.D., F.A.A.O. is a Clinical Professor and currently the Director of Health Care Development At SUNY College of Optometry. Previously, he served as Vice President for Clinical Affairs at SUNY Optometry for 10 years. Dr. Soden graduated from SUNY College of Optometry in 1979. After graduation, he completed a residency program at the Northport VA Medical Center on Long Island. In addition to primary care optometry, his special interests are in pediatrics, children with special needs and low vision rehabilitation for children and adults. He is recognized as a low vision specialist and has worked with the Commission for the Blind for his entire optometric career. After leaving the VA and private practice, Dr. Soden returned to SUNY College of Optometry as Vice President for Clinical Affairs.
In addition to the above, Richard is also a licensed New York City Tour Guide and a Docent at the Museum at Eldridge Street.
Ear pieces are provided to each guests, ensuring everyone hears the guide perfectly, even from a distance!
Cancellation Policy
Meeting Location
How to Get There?
FAQ
Cancellation Policy
100% refund up to 72 hours prior to the start of your tour.
When canceled less than 72 hours before the start of your tour, we will do our best to reschedule you or issue you a credit to use on any of our upcoming tours. This credit won’t expire until you use it!
Meeting Location
Please meet your tour guide at Columbus Park on the corner of Mulberry and Baxter Streets.
How to Get There?
B subway:
4, 6, N, Q, R, W, to Canal Street
B, D to Grand Street
FAQ
How long is the tour?
This tour is 3 hours long, and covers around 1.5 miles
Where does it end?
It ends at the new Essex Market on Delaney and Essex street
How strenuous is this tour?
This tour is easy and most people can participate.
Is this tour ADA accessible?
Yes, it is! You can email us at [email protected] in order for us to best prepare your visit.
Is this tour mostly indoors or outdoors?
This tour is mostly outdoors.
Any Questions? We're here to help!
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