Mark T.
I had an excellent tour. Gary is very knowledgeable about NY history and architecture. I learned a lot and can recommend Gary as a guide.
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Private tour in New York City Gary D
Half Day Art Deco Manhattan History Tour
5.0
(10) reviews
-
4 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-8 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
4 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-8 people
Your party size
1
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
Gary D.
5.0
Guide rating
163
Reviews
Tours delivered
4 hrs
Avg. response time
I am a native New Yorker, born and raised on the Upper West Side, who's lived and worked my entire life almost exclusively within three blocks of my childhood home. I am the product of an insanely competitive family of "know it alls. " My parents, younger brothers and I all love New York City history and growing up, our dinnertime discussions were a chance to show off what you knew and get some parental attention for being historically correct and entertaining at the same time. I also old love movies, read up on Hollywood and Broadway history, studied old theaters and their architects, and ultimately threw all that into the dinnertime plea for attention. I'm the only one who ended up a New York City tour guide, so that gives you some idea of the depth of my passion for this place (or my desperate need for attention). Up until a few years ago, I owned and operated one of the largest independent movie rental stores in NYC, so unique and comprehensive that it was voted "Best in New York" by several publications including New York Magazine. In 2006, I petitioned the City of New York to rename West 103rd Street (between Broadway and West End Avenue) Humphrey Bogart Place to honor the late actor, whose childhood home on the block now bears a plaque with a dedication I wrote. That is me, by the way, with the late Miss Lauren Bacall in the picture to your left. Another New Yorker, she was just shy of 82 and was still breathtaking. Those eyes . . . I love this city and all it's peculiarities, and I love sharing it with new-comers, returning visitors or native New Yorkers—anyone who wants to know not only why Wall Street is called Wall Street, where is the "square" in Times Square or where are the batteries in Battery Park. I'll tell you these and other fascinating things you never knew about this amazing place I call home because "there are 8 million stories in the naked city" and I will share with you as many as possible. Licensed by The Department of Consumer Affairs of The City of New York. I am a veteran New York City tour guide. Proud member of the Guide Association of New York City.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Gary D.
Experience the history of a style and a city that go hand in hand on this NYC tour!
Overview of your New York City tour
Having lived here for my entire life, I fell in love with the fact that New York City has so many different architectural styles, all of them get their time in the spotlight. And the use of these different styles is what gives the New York City skyline such a unique look and like to think that I am just illuminating what is already there in a crowded field. In the City of New York, I have discovered that there are 5 reasons as to why buildings are built where they are built and why they were built - ego is one them. Buildings are reflections of their egos, saying "look at me, look at me, look at me". Because of the competition for your attention and the densely packed skyline, buildings had stand out or be lost in the view. Art Deco was not invented here but some of the greatest examples of are right here in Manhattan. Some of these buildings are icons, not just of the City but of the style itself. they all contribute to what makes the skyline here so unique and make me so proud that I live here.
Recent Reviews
Barbara C.United States
I have been to many tours by locals all over the world and Gary was the best by far! He has a passion for what he is doing and his knowledge is impressive! Highly recommend!
John P.United States
Gary was awesome. Nobody's knows more of NY than Gary. Great detail good stories. A true New Yorker that makes history come alive
John Paul T.United States
Gary is a thoughtful sieve of fascinating intel. He enlightened us with anecdotes, facts, dates, humor, and humanity that amplified our knowledge and appreciation of New York City Art Deco. If you want to thoroughly enjoy what you had no idea the Big Apple has to offer, book Gary for your next tour. We look forward to taking another of Gary's tours.
Manana (Mary) K.Canada
Gary, thank you for an amazing tour and great stories behind every stone, every building and the history of NYC. We enjoyed the tour and the time we spent with you! We are looking forward to our next tour with you on our next visit to your amazing city. We highly recommend Gary for your next trip, you won't be disappointed!
Rachel H.United States
Gary was amazing! He was very accommodating to my mother, who is a slow walker. He was so entertaining and informative, and such an ambassador for the city.
Your New York City tour itinerary
After meeting you at your hotel or other predetermined and agreed upon location, we will head outdoors and see just what some forward-thinking architects were able to create. The Squibb Building The Fuller Building The RCA Building (not Rockefeller Center) The Chrysler Building The Chanin Building The Daily News Building The American Radiator Building TheMcGraw Hill Building (again, not Rockefeller Center) The Masters Apartments Although it is not in Midtown Manhattan but located on the Upper West Side, I include the Masters Apartment as it is such an incredible and important building. Although this is a walking tour, we will use the subway to get to and from the Upper West Side. The distance walked is 2 miles. If there are any limitations, please let me know. Due to everything - some buildings will be viewed from the outside only.
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Public Transportation / Category: Subway
In addition to walking, we will be using the New York City subway system. This is the fastest and least expensive way to get around town. As the name implies, the subway is underground which means stairs are involved.
What's included
Private Guide
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. Subway fare for the client is the responsibility of the client (I will provide my own). One pay as you go Metrocard can be shared by up to 4 people. If you are going to be in NYC for a while you may want to consider the 7 Day Unlimited Metrocard. This card cannot be shared. I will advise on a client by client basis. There will be at least 3 rides at $2.75 per person, so a minimum of $8.25 is required.
Public Transportation
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location
New York, New York, United States
Airport: ,Cruise: Manhattan Cruise Terminal only. 711 12th Ave, New York, NY 10019,ByGuide: Your Hotel, Air b'n'b, Hostel, cousin's house. Also the Manhattan Cruise Terminal: 711 12th Ave, New York, NY 10019
- You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
History
Architecture
Tour reference number
416594
Languages
EnglishActivity level
Light
Accessibility
Kid Friendly
Wheelchair Accessible
Traveller reviews
5.0
FAQs
Who is this private tour in New York City best suited for?
This private tour is perfect for architecture enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in the unique Art Deco style that defines much of Manhattan's skyline. It's also ideal for travellers who want to connect with a local like Gary D. for deeper insights into the city's architectural history.
What should I bring or wear?
Can this private tour in New York City be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?
How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?
Where does the tour start and end?
Is transportation included?
How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?
What languages is this tour offered in?
What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?
Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?
AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
-
4 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-8 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
4 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-8 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a 20% deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- The remaining balance will automatically be charged to your credit card 30 days before your tour date.