Private Guided Tour Of The Upper West Side

Laced with captivating tales of its storied past, a private guided tour of the Upper West Side promises to unveil the neighborhood's enduring charm and cultural significance.

The Upper West Side of New York City boasts a rich history and vibrant culture, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to enjoy the city’s past and present. A private guided tour of this iconic neighborhood offers visitors a unique opportunity to uncover its hidden gems, from architectural wonders to the former homes of Hollywood legends. With an expert guide leading the way, tour-goers can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the area’s significance and leave with a newfound appreciation for the diverse stories that shape this dynamic community.

Key Points

  • The private guided tour of the Upper West Side lasts 2.5 hours and accommodates up to 8 participants, conducted in English and wheelchair accessible.
  • The tour includes history-rich sites like Humphrey Bogart’s childhood home and starts at the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, the largest Gothic structure in the world.
  • The tour is priced from €184.25 per group, with a flexible booking option and a free cancellation policy with full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
  • The tour highlights include the exploration of Humphrey Bogart’s childhood home, locations featured in movies and TV shows, and historical context on criminal and entertainment history.
  • The meeting point for the tour is at the front gate to Columbia University at 116th Street and Broadway, and attendees are responsible for admission fees, suggested donations, souvenirs, or snacks.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This private guided tour of the Upper West Side lasts 2.5 hours and accommodates up to 8 participants.

The tour is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible.

Participants will explore the history-rich Upper West Side, including Humphrey Bogart’s childhood home and locations featured in movies and TV shows.

The tour starts at the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, the largest Gothic structure in the world, and includes sites with historical significance such as former homes of celebrities and notorious criminals, as well as locations from the Revolutionary War.

Pricing and Booking

The tour is priced from €184.25 per group, providing a flexible booking option where customers can reserve now and pay later.

This tour also offers free cancellation, with a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

The key booking details include:

  • Pricing from €184.25 per group

  • Flexible booking: Reserve now & pay later

  • Free cancellation: Full refund up to 24 hours in advance

Customers can easily manage their tour experience with these convenient booking options, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience on the Private Guided Tour of the Upper West Side.

Tour Highlights

Explore the history-rich Upper West Side on this private guided tour.

You’ll visit Humphrey Bogart’s childhood home and see the building that inspired the spooky structure in Ghostbusters.

Discover locations featured in movies and TV shows, and learn about the area’s criminal and entertainment history.

The tour starts at the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, the largest Gothic structure in the world.

You’ll see former homes of Hollywood legends, writers, composers, and notorious criminals, while getting historical context on battles from the Revolutionary War and George Washington’s escape in September 1776.

Historical Significance

As the tour starts at the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, the largest Gothic structure in the world, the historical significance of the Upper West Side becomes apparent.

The area is rich in history, from the homes of Hollywood legends and notable writers, to the sites of battles from the Revolutionary War and George Washington’s escape in 1776.

The tour highlights include:

  • Former homes of prominent individuals like Humphrey Bogart

  • Locations featured in movies and TV shows

  • Buildings with ties to notorious criminals

  • Historical contexts of battles and military events

  • Sites that inspired famous fictional structures like the one in Ghostbusters.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine

Although the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine stands as the largest Gothic structure in the world, its grandeur and historical significance make it an ideal starting point for the private guided tour of the Upper West Side.

Tour you will marvel at the cathedral’s impressive architecture, which features intricate stone carvings and stained glass windows. The guide will provide historical context, explaining the cathedral’s role in the neighborhood’s development and its connection to significant events, such as the Revolutionary War.

Exploring this iconic landmark sets the stage for an in-depth discovery of the Upper West Side’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Visiting Humphrey Bogart’s Childhood Home

From the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, the tour group ventures forth to Humphrey Bogart’s childhood home. The guide points out the building’s historic facade and shares intriguing details about Bogart’s early life:

  • Bogart was born in this very house in 1899, the son of a prominent surgeon.

  • As a child, he spent many hours roaming the neighborhood streets that would later inspire his gritty film roles.

  • The home’s unique architecture and prime location reflect the family’s affluence and social standing at the time.

  • Bogart’s rebellious spirit and love of the arts took root in this formative environment.

  • Visitors can imagine the young actor-to-be honing his legendary persona within these walls.

Discovering Movie and TV Locations

Next, the tour explores locations featured in movies and TV shows. Participants will see the building that inspired the spooky structure in the hit comedy "Ghostbusters".

They’ll also discover sites where classic films like "Breakfast at Tiffany’s" and "When Harry Met Sally" were shot. Along the way, the guide provides historical context and fascinating behind-the-scenes stories.

From landmark buildings to cozy cafes, these cinematic hotspots offer a glimpse into the Upper West Side’s entertainment legacy.

Whether you’re a movie buff or not, this part of the tour promises to delight and surprise.

Meeting Point and Client Responsibilities

The meeting point for the private guided tour of the Upper West Side is the front gate to Columbia University at 116th Street and Broadway.

Attendees are responsible for covering any admission fees, suggested donations, souvenirs, or snacks not included in the tour price. The tour guide is experienced and provided as part of the tour package.

Clients should be aware of the following:

  • The tour is wheelchair accessible.

  • The duration is 2.5 hours.

  • The group size is up to 8 participants.

  • The language is English.

  • Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Ask Away

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is typically allowed during the tour, though participants should check with the tour guide for any specific guidelines or restrictions. Guests are encouraged to capture the historical sites and landmarks they encounter along the way.

Can We Stop for Lunch or Refreshments During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include any scheduled breaks for lunch or refreshments. However, participants are free to step away from the group during the tour to grab a quick bite or drink if needed.

How Much Walking Is Involved in the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking, covering approximately 1.5 miles over the 2.5-hour duration. Participants should wear comfortable shoes as the route includes sidewalks and some hilly terrain. Stops for refreshments can be made at the discretion of the group.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no age restrictions for participants on this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, and families with children are welcome to join the group.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to participants’ interests. The guide will work with the group to focus on areas of specific interest, such as history, architecture, or pop culture landmarks within the Upper West Side neighborhood.

Final Words

Discover the rich history and culture of New York City’s Upper West Side on this private guided tour. Explore iconic sites, hear fascinating stories, and uncover movie and TV locations. With an expert guide, you’ll have an unforgettable 2.5-hour adventure. Book now to experience the vibrant neighborhood and its notable landmarks.

You can check availability for your dates here: