Everything You Need to Know About Taking an ExperienceFirst Walking Tour of NYC!
Over 50 million people visit New York City each year, making it one of the most visited cities in the world! I’ve lived in New York City my entire life, constantly traveling to places around the world to learn about different customs and histories, but I’ve never stopped to think about the culture and history of the place I grew up in. I recently took a two-hour Soho, Little Italy, and Chinatown tour with ExperienceFirst (they are known for their educational walking tours around the world)! During this experience, you’ll get the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of iconic New York City neighborhoods in a fun and engaging way. I highly recommend this tour to both New Yorkers and tourists alike, here's what you can expect:
Tour Highlights
This two-hour walking tour is designed to showcase the best of Soho, Little Italy, and Chinatown. Prepare to be amazed by the captivating stories, architectural wonders, and hidden gems that await you at every turn. You’ll meet at a designated spot with up to 14 other participants (tour groups are 15 ppl max), and after everyone is checked in the tour will begin. Some of my favorite parts were learning the history behind SoHo’s picturesque cobblestone streets, checking out authentic Italian pastry shops in Little Italy, and admiring the vibrant decorations and street food in Chinatown. ExperienceFirst also offers private tours for both small and large groups, inquire more HERE.
Distancing and Pacing
The tour covers a range of 2-3 miles, striking the perfect balance between exploration and comfort. The experienced guides are skilled at pacing, ensuring that time flies by as you soak up the fascinating sights, history, and sounds of the city. Personally, I was super surprised when I learned how much ground we covered as the tour went by super fast. The guides do a great job of keeping the experience both informative and entertaining.
Food Opportunities
Although this is not a food tour, there will be an opportunity to stop for quick bites in the Little Italy portion of the experience. From cannolis and gelato to pizza and arancini, Little Italy is definitely a place you’ll want to try some delicious staples. As participants stroll through the charming streets, they’ll have the opportunity to indulge in gelato, pizza, or any other New York favorite that is easy to grab and go. This short, but scrumptious pit stop adds a flavorful delight to your experience, fueling your energy for the rest of the tour.
Post-Tour Recommendations
After immersing in the vibrant heart of Chinatown, the guides leave you equipped with insider knowledge of the most historic restaurants in the area. These culinary gems offer a chance to savor authentic flavors and continue your exploration of the local culture through delightful dining experiences. I was shocked by some of the recommendations our tour guide provided, awesome hidden gems that all had a unique, diverse history. Some of my favorite recommendations were $5 dumplings on Mosco Street and Nom Wah Tea Parlor, an awesome Vintage dim sum parlor that has been operating since the 1920s! The tour guides are extremely educated in all things NYC and are super willing to give recommendations, so feel free to ask them their favorite must-tries in other areas as well!
So definitely get your walking shoes ready and experience an unforgettable journey through the iconic Soho, Little Italy, and Chinatown! For those wanting to explore different areas, ExperienceFirst offers tours all over the Manhattan area and in other major cities like Los Angeles, Paris, Barcelona, etc.
