New York City: French South of Manhattan Walking Tour

Discover the rich history and transformation of New York City’s French South of Manhattan on this captivating 3.5-hour walking tour. Led by a local expert, you’ll explore iconic sites like the Woolworth Building and the World Trade Center memorial, uncovering the district’s evolution from an immigrant hub to an international finance center. This accessible tour operates rain or shine, accommodating up to 10 guests and offering insights into the financial district and NY Stock Exchange that you won’t find anywhere else.

Key Points

• A 3.5-hour guided walking tour in French exploring historic neighborhoods, the financial district, and the World Trade Center site in southern Manhattan.
• Highlights include Stone Street, Woolworth Building, World Trade Center memorial, and insights into the city’s transformation from immigrant hub to financial powerhouse.
• Tour provides contextual information on Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, and the rise and fall of junk bond traders.
• Includes a visit to the restored South Street Seaport area and the new One World Trade Center, Oculus, and 9/11 Memorial and Museum.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and operates rain or shine, with a maximum of 10 participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The French South of Manhattan Walking Tour offers an in-depth exploration of Lower Manhattan’s historic neighborhoods, guiding participants through the area’s transformation from an early European immigrant hub to an international finance center.

Priced at €72.61 per person, the 3.5-hour tour is limited to 10 participants and conducted in French.

Highlights include walking Stone Street, viewing the Woolworth Building, and visiting the World Trade Center memorial and new buildings.

The tour operates rain or shine and is wheelchair accessible.

Participants receive group photos and a list of neighborhood recommendations, with gratuity not included.

Tour Highlights and Itinerary

The tour explores historic neighborhoods of Lower Manhattan, including Stone Street, Wall Street, South Street Seaport, and the World Trade Center.

Along the way, you will:

• Discover the transformation from early European immigrant hub to international finance center.

• Experience the financial district, home to investment banks and the NY Stock Exchange.

• Visit the memorial and new buildings like One World Trade Center and Oculus, learning about post-Hurricane Sandy recovery.

The guided walking tour with a local expert provides insights into the area’s rich history and ongoing development.

New York’s Foundations

As the tour begins, participants explore the historic cobblestone streets of Stone Street, where the foundations of New York were laid.

The guide points out the Woolworth Building, an iconic early 20th-century skyscraper, and the nearby Civic Center, home to government buildings that reflect the city’s growth.

Walkers learn how this area transitioned from a European immigrant hub to a financial powerhouse, setting the stage for the tour’s exploration of Wall Street and the World Trade Center site.

The guide provides context and insights, bringing the neighborhood’s evolution to life through stories and observations.

Wolf of Wall Street

After exploring the historic foundations of New York, the tour now ventures into the heart of the financial district, where the iconic "Wolf of Wall Street" once prowled.

Participants experience the fast-paced world of investment banks, hedge funds, and the New York Stock Exchange.

Key highlights include:

• Visiting the former offices of Stratton Oakmont, the brokerage firm at the center of the "Wolf of Wall Street" scandal

• Overlooking the NYSE, the world’s largest stock exchange by total market capitalization

• Learning about the rise and fall of the once-powerful junk bond traders immortalized in the film

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River Restoration

Next, the tour explores the restoration efforts along the South Street Seaport and Hudson River.

Visitors learn about the area’s recovery following Hurricane Sandy. The guide discusses the redevelopment of the waterfront, including new parks, greenspaces, and public promenades.

The tour explores the revitalization of the waterfront, including the addition of new parks, greenspaces, and public promenades after Hurricane Sandy’s devastation.

Participants witness the transformation from flood-damaged structures to vibrant community spaces. The tour highlights how the neighborhood has bounced back, with a focus on sustainable design and improved flood resilience.

Attendees gain insights into the challenges and solutions involved in revitalizing this historic maritime district along the East River.

World Trade Center

The tour then heads to the World Trade Center site, where visitors witness the memorial and new buildings that have risen in the area.

The guide explains the significance of the 9/11 attacks and the importance of the memorial, which honors the victims.

Participants have the opportunity to explore the area, including:

• One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the western hemisphere

• The Oculus, an iconic transportation hub with a striking, wing-like design

• The 9/11 Memorial and Museum, which provide a solemn and moving tribute to those who lost their lives.

Included Features

The tour includes several features to enhance the experience for participants. A professional local guide leads the group, providing expert commentary and historical context.

Participants receive group photos emailed to them after the tour, allowing them to capture memories of the experience. The tour also includes a list of recommended addresses in each neighborhood visited, so participants can continue exploring on their own.

While gratuity isn’t included, a suggested tip of $5-$10 per person is provided. Food and drinks are available for purchase during the tour.

Accessibility and Preparation

The tour operates rain or shine, ensuring participants can enjoy the experience regardless of weather conditions.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, with an adapted circuit to accommodate guests with mobility needs. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the walking tour covers several historic neighborhoods.

Key preparation steps include:

• Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes

• Dress in layers to adjust to changing weather

• Bring any necessary mobility aids or assistive devices

This guided walking tour offers an immersive way to explore the French South of Manhattan, catering to a variety of participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

The tour does not allow pets. The tour is a walking tour, and pets are generally not permitted for the safety and comfort of all participants. Guests are advised to leave their pets at home.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is suitable for children, though the 3.5-hour duration may be challenging for younger kids. The guide can adapt the pace and focus to engage families. It’s recommended to check with the tour operator about any age restrictions or special accommodations.

Do I Need to Book Tickets in Advance?

You don’t need to book tickets in advance for this tour. Participants can reserve their spot without upfront payment and pay later. However, it’s recommended to check availability and book early as group size is limited to 10 people.

Is the Meeting Point Easily Accessible by Public Transport?

The meeting point is located in front of café 787 coffee, which is easily accessible by public transport. Guests can take the subway or bus to nearby stations and walk a short distance to the starting point.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, participants can take photos during the tour. The tour includes group photos that will be emailed to participants after the tour. Capturing the historic neighborhoods and landmarks along the way is encouraged to document the experience.

The Sum Up

The French South of Manhattan Walking Tour provides an immersive exploration of New York City’s rich history and evolution. Visitors will discover iconic landmarks, uncover the city’s immigrant roots, and gain insights into its transformation into a global financial hub. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this accessible and informative tour offers a unique perspective on the vibrant heart of Manhattan.

You can check availability for your dates here: