Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the New Yorker Hotel: Wednesday, May 17th at 5pm
Untapped Cities is excited to host this exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour of The New Yorker Hotel, led by Joe Kinney, the senior project engineer and historian of the hotel. Experience both sides of history on this visit: walk in the glamorous footsteps of society’s rich and famous and learn about the hotel’s engineering and design feats.
Joe Kinney has worked at the New Yorker Hotel since 1996 and has been reviving the storied past of the hotel. Part of the proceeds for this visit will support Kinney’s effort to expand the small historic exhibit he has built on the lower level of the hotel. We hope you will join us on this unique behind-the-scenes tour one of NYC’s most iconic hotel. A portion of the proceeds will go to the enhancement of its museum.
Tour of West Village Vintage Neon Signs: Thursday, May 18th at 7pm
Greenwich Village is blessed with an especially dense concentration of vintage neon signs. Beginning in the 1920s and 1930s, they advertised businesses large and small, but due to rising costs, restrictive zoning ordinances and the appearance of less costly forms of outdoor advertising, these flashy displays fell out of favor in the 1960s. In recent years, they’ve all but vanished as old, independent businesses across the city have succumbed to rent hikes and old age. Although some have been beautifully restored, all are in perpetual danger of disappearing. Before they do, explore some of the city’s oldest remaining signs with us on May 18th.
Secrets of the Brooklyn Bridge: Saturday, May 20th at 10:00am
Beyond the Brooklyn Bridge‘s stately exterior lies an epic origin story. Now over 130 years old, the granite and limestone structure has dazzled both tourists and residents alike. On our newest tour, author, playwright and Untapped Cities’ tour guide Justin Rivers will not only unpack the history behind the Brooklyn Bridge, but also explore its many hidden secrets. Our unique walking tour will give you a whole new appreciation for one of New York’s most iconic landmarks.
Underground Tour of the NYC Subway: Saturday, May 20th at 11:00am
Take a ride through the living history of the world’s largest rapid transit system (in area) by weaving in and out of the past and present transit hubs of lower Manhattan. This unique tour is designed to give a comprehensive history of the NYC 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.
Tour of the Secrets of Grand Central Terminal: Saturday, May 20th at 4pm
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. It is one of great men, feuding architects, ingenuity, rejuvenation, secrets and surprises. On this tour, we will tell you these stories – about what once was, what could have been, and what can be; about the struggle to save and restore Grand Central as a preserved icon of the past, and of challenge to ensure that it serves New York’s future. 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. Together, we will explore the interesting and unique spaces produced for and by it. 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.
Tour and Wine Tasting at Rooftop Reds: Sunday, May 21st 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!
