Explore the treasures left behind by the Worlds Fairs in Queens, learn about the illicit casino in operation in Central Park during prohibition, use the subway to travel back in time, and explore more of New York City on one of our expert-led Untapped Cities tours this week!
Thursday, July 19th
Underground Tour of the NYC Subway
This unique tour is designed to give a comprehensive history of the New York City Subway system, from its groundbreaking in 1901 up through the creation of the three different proprietary lines which were unified into the system we know today. We’ll uncover information and learn about spaces even the most seasoned commuter might not know about will exploring present and former stations.
Behind-the-Scenes Hard Hat Tour of the Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital
The abandoned Ellis Island Hospital complex—once the standard for United States medical care (and later transformed to the FBI headquarters when the island served as a detention center)—has been left to decay for nearly 60 years. Now, Untapped Cities is bringing you behind-the-scenes for a unique exploration of the abandoned facility; on this experience, you’ll visit the contagious disease wards, the autopsy rooms and have exclusive access to places usually closed to the public.
The story of Grand Central Terminal is that of New York City itself: the structure embodies the social, cultural, economic and technological evolution around it. On this tour, we will show you what it was like in the booming age of the railroad, as a rundown embarrassment, and as a renovated jewel at the center of the city. Whether you pass through it every day on your morning commute or stroll through the Beaux Arts beauty for the first time, you are sure to leave having learned, seen, or experienced something new and extraordinary.
Using the 6 train as your own ten-car time machine, ride through the history of the NYC subway system from 1901 to the present and along the way, see abandoned ghost stations that 4, 5, and 6 riders unknowingly pass through everyday! Plus, hear stories about the system triumphs and trials, like the comically short route of the mythical “Subway before the Subway,” Alfred Ely Beach’s Pneumatic Transit System
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.
Tour the Remnants of the Worlds Fair at Flushing-Meadow Corona Park
This tour will uncover numerous remnants of Worlds Fairs from 1939/40 and 1964/65, with a focus on the hidden time capsules, Fountain of the Planets, the Unisphere, and the historic New York State Pavilion. Explore the past, present, and future of the 900 acre Flushing-Meadows Corona Park with  playwright, author, and Untapped Cities Tour guide, Justin Rivers as he leads you on a journey through its unnoticed treasures.
