We learned so much about the NYC subway system and its origins from Gary. Loved the walks in the subway stations and history of the system's development and problems.
Private tour in New York City Gary D
5.0
(10) reviews
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Gary D.
5.0
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159
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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.
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It's right there under your feet, you probably ride it every day, but how much do you know about this city's amazing subway system. I will give you the secret history and inside story of the creation of the original 1904 subway line and how it grew into the most extensive transportation system in the world. All the art, all the history, all the technical breakthroughs, all the "whys" and all the shenanigans that went into this spectacular achievement. A unique experience for seasoned locals or visitors to our fair city. Get a look at the subway that few people, even lifelong New Yorkers, fail to recognize. Join me, a "subway nerd" and one of the greatest guides on this island, on this tour!
We learned so much about the NYC subway system and its origins from Gary. Loved the walks in the subway stations and history of the system's development and problems.
We liked Gary so much on our Brooklyn Bridge tour that when we heard that he did a Subway tour we had to make sure we fit in that tour the next time we were back in NYC. It was great, just as we had expected.
Gary offered ANOTHER fascinating tour that exceeded our expectations. His thoughtful choices, humor, and care makes learning about NYC an enjoyable experience. We look forward to taking another of Gary's tours in the future.
Gary did a great job. He is clearly very knowledgeable and has a passion for his topic and his city. Great introduction to not just the subway but the culture, politics and history of New York.
Gary is a true history buff when it comes to transportation, and spends the first hour orienting you to transportation modes as they developed in the city (you may need to ask to sit down there is so much!). His love of the subway system radiates out from him and is completely infectious! And his command of his topic is totally impressive. He is able to talk non-stop and you learn much more than you expected. Plus Gary is a really nice, warm and funny guy.
It is not difficult to write a review for this guide. In a nutshell, we had a phenomenally good experience with Gary as tour guide. Subway system tour was spectacular. Gary's passion for and his love/commitment to New York shines throughout. His knowledge and enthusiasm about these iconic subjects exudes. He is an obvious history buff and so was able to show us the weird and wonderful. For a boutique experience of New York, you'd be crazy not to schedule a tour with Gary!.
We start in lower Manhattan at the Municipal Building. We will then work our way up along the original 1904 system up through Times Square. We will stop along the way at Astor Place. This tour only explores the areas of the system that are open to the public but in most cases overlooked. WE DO NOT GO INTO THE TUNNELS OR ANYWHERE OFF LIMITS OR ILLEGAL. ****There are NO RESTROOMS on this tour! Please plan accordingly.
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Public Transportation: Subway
New York, New York, United States
Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide: In the colonnaded area with the white tiled ceiling on the south side of the David Dinkins Municipal Building. The address for map purposes is 1 Centre Street, NY NY 10007. This is at the intersection of Centre and Chambers Streets.
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