Ghost Tours New York

**1st** **Pennhurst State School** Enjoy a guided Daytime History Tour of the infamous **Pennhurst State School** Campus. Professional Pennhurst Historians will be available to answer your questions as they escort groups on this walking tour. Pennhurst's story echoes that of many of the asylums and institutions. Built in 1908 with high hopes and a sprawling campus that had everything a community could need - including a barber shop, a greenhouse, a fire station, a movie theater, and a general store - Pennhurst rapidly devolved into a site synonymous with well documented overcrowding and neglect that caused the adults and children who resided there to regress further and further from functionality. Pictures welcome! Limited space on this Tour **2nd The Historic Site Eastern State Prison** Experience –Eastern State Penitentiary, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is one of the most iconic prisons in American history. Built in 1829, the prison was revolutionary for its time, promoting the concept of solitary confinement as a method of rehabilitation rather than punishment. Known for its striking Gothic architecture, it once held some of the most notorious criminals in history, including mobster Al Capone and bank robber Willie Sutton. The penitentiary operated until 1971, and today it serves as a museum that sheds light on the legacy of prison reform and mass incarceration in the United States. **3rd Lunch>Reading Terminal Market-** The Reading Terminal Market is a must-see for anyone in Philadelphia- 80+ merchants’ food. This Market has Great food and is fun! DEPARTS SATURDAY JUNE 14th @ 8:30am from Whole Food PRICE TBA !

22 attendees

Exploring the Ghosts of New York City's Elevated Railroads

Sun, Aug 16, 6:00 PM

Tickets: $39.98 ( incl. $4.98 fees ) (advance registration required) Click the link below to register for this event: [https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1993537712964](https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1993537712964) From 1867-1955, four different elevated railroads (aka "Els") traversed Manhattan, which provided the first true rapid transit to a city choked by traffic. From Civic Center to Chinatown and Little Italy to the Lower East Side, it's time to hit the streets and uncover the story of the long-departed transit routes that defined 19th-century NYC — and the hidden-in-plain-sight remnants that are still standing over 100 years later. Join [New York Adventure Club](https://www.nyadventureclub.com/) as we explore the downtown Manhattan remnants of the former elevated railroads that ran between Brooklyn and Manhattan — from the downtown portions of the 2nd Avenue and 3rd Avenue Elevated Railroads to the trains that ran across the Brooklyn Bridge. Led by NYC Tour Guide Michael Morgenthal, our experience surrounding the Els of the past will include: * **How the Els came to be**, and how they radically transformed neighborhoods such as the Civic Center, Chinatown, Little Italy, and the Lower East Side * **The story of Allen Street**, which was widened in the 1930s in part to alleviate the dirt, noise, and shadows caused by the elevated trains * **A discussion around the trains that ran across the Brooklyn Bridge**, and how they influenced the design of the Municipal Building near City Hall * A brief **trip inside the NYC subway system to uncover secrets** of its transit history (MetroCard swipe or OMNY card tap needed) * **The great transfer points that once existed** including the City Hall Elevated spur and Chatham Square, the latter of which caused chaos and confusion for those looking to transfer between these two lines — for a fee! * **A walk past the ghosts of the Elevated**, including a Manhattan power station hiding in plain sight See you there! \*Since this tour access the subway system, a MetroCard swipe or credit card / OMNY card tap will be needed to enter the subway system \*\*Please bring a water bottle and comfortable pair of shoes as we’ll be doing a lot of walking! \*\*\*The tour ends at the corner of Grand and Allen Streets Disclaimer Event takes place rain or shine. By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our [terms of service](https://about.nyadventureclub.com/terms). Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours

From Exploring NYC History and Neighborhoods

Morningside Heights Tour + Optional Live Jazz Outdoors Afterwards

Wed, Aug 12, 10:00 PM

4.9

**Note change of meeting place: 125th Street & Broadway inside The Forum at Columbia University.** RSVPs begin Wednesday, July 29th at 9:00pm. Space is set aside for new members and first and 2nd timers who land on the waiting list **Email me at hankorenstein@gmail.com if you would like a spot.** This is the last in a series of three tours to raise awareness and money for a very special non-profit called the Broadway Mall Association (BMA), which helps keeps Broadway beautiful from 72nd Street to 168th Street with plantings, landscaping and art exhibits. Read more about BMA: here: http://broadwaymall.org/ **Cost: $10:00 payable in cash at the tour. All proceeds to the BMA.** **Estimated walking distance: 2.5 Miles**. There is uphill walking during the first 1/2 mile of the tour. **Schedule:** **5pm - 6pm**: Optional social hour at Dear Mama Cafe, located a 2 minute walk from our meeting place which is inside The Forum at Columbia University. **If you wish to eat, have a drink and/or use the restroom be sure to arrive early!** There are public restrooms at The Forum downstairs and also in the building where Dear Mama Cafe is located at 611 West 129th Street. https://www.dearmamacoffee.com/ **Schedule:** **6pm - 7:45pm**: Guided Walking Tour **7:45pm - 8:30pm**: Optional live jazz outdoors at Grant's Tomb (free), courtesy of Harlem's Jazzmobile. Music starts at 7pm. Artist description below. *Note: Limited seating - there are some benches and grassy areas.* **Tour ends at Grant's Tomb, 122nd Street & Riverside Drive**, convenient to the #1 subway at 125th or 116th Streets and Broadway, M4, M5, M104 buses. **Overview** Morningside Heights is a unique neighborhood due to its co-existence of residential and institutional buildings. In addition to some distinctive pre-war apartment buildings designed by the most prominent architects of that era, the neighborhood boasts seven colleges and universities including Columbia University, Bank Street College of Education, Manhattan School of Music and Barnard College. Europeans first knew Morningside Heights as Vandewater Heights after 17th century Dutch farmer and landowner, Harmon Vandewater. After several centuries of agriculture in the 1800s as part of the village of Bloomingdale, several institutions were built including the Leak and Watts Orphan Asylum and the Blooming Insane Asylum. The opening of the subway into Morningside Heights in 1904, coupled with the neighborhood’s magnificent parks and prestigious institutions, led to a building boom of speculative apartment house construction, attracting middle-class residents who could now commute directly downtown to work. In addition, Morningside Heights offers historic and monumental houses of worship – The Cathedral of St. John The Divine (the world’s largest Gothic Cathedral), and The Riverside Church which has the tallest bell tower in North America. Grant’s Tomb National Memorial includes the largest mausoleum in the U.S. and is the only place in NYC of a final resting place of a U.S. President. Some 19th century scholars called Morningside Heights the “Acropolis of the New World.” **This Evening's Jazzmobile Musician:** Steve Oquendo Nonet playing Latin Jazz. A trumpeter and band leader, of Puerto Rican and Dominican ancestry, Oquendo has toured all parts of the globe, including Africa, Europe, South America and the Caribbean. He has recorded and performed with a wide and diverse range of artists, which include collaborations with, Destiny’s Child, Big Pun, Swiss Beatz, Angie Martinez, Juan Luis Guerra, and Mana. He has also performed with Celia Cruz, Ruben Blades, Cheo Feliciano, Wynton Marsalis, Jon Faddis, Arturo Sandoval, India, George Lamond, Eddie Palmieri, Ray Santos, Milly Quezada, The Tito Rodriguez Orchestra, The Machito Orchestra, and many more. (Pictured above: The Peace Fountain, outside of The Cathedral of St. John The Divine).

30 attendees

Governors Island - Partly in the Dark & at Sunset, Members Appreciation Event

Fri, Aug 21, 10:00 PM

From New York City Hiking Tours

4.9

IF THIS IS YOUR FIRST EVENT WITH US, IMMEDIATELY AFTER YOU RSVP WHETHER YOU ARE ON THE WAIT LIST OR NOT, YOU MUST SEND ME YOUR E-MAIL TO MY E-MAIL AS EXPLAINED BELOW. THIS EVENT HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED FROM AUGUST 7. We have another event on Labor Day weekend as well. I use capital letters to emphasize stuff not to shout at you! I may do this with my other group. Please join that group at: [https://www.meetup.com/nyc-wanderers/?eventOrigin=your_groups](https://www.meetup.com/nyc-wanderers/?eventOrigin=your_groups) We will try to beat the heat once again. I consider this a Members appreciation event. I WON'T ACCEPT MONETARY CONTRIBUTIONS ON THIS EVENT. THERE WILL BE NO FOOD STOPS. PLEASE BRING SNACKS AND WATER. If somehow this presents a serious hardship to you, try to deal with it. Don't be a baby! The wait list for this group does NOT operate in a conventional way. Those on the wait list will not be moved to the going list automatically. IF APPLICABLE, ALWAYS JOIN THE WAIT LIST WITH LOW PRIORITY WHICH IS FREE. IF THERE IS A WAITLIST, IT APPEARS MEETUP WILL ASK YOU IF YOU WANT TO JOIN MEETUP + BUT IN SMALLER LETTERS AT THE TOP OF THE PAGE YOU CAN CLICK CONTINUE WITH THE FREE PLAN. There is NEVER a need to pay extra to use Meetup's High Priority wait list classification for this group. SOME PRIORITY IS INITIALLY GIVEN TO THOSE WHO HAVE ATTENDED EVENTS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS AND HAVE FEW CANCELLATIONS. WE CAN ALSO ADD SOME FIRST TIMERS TO THIS EVENT WHO ARE ACTUALLY SERIOUS ABOUT JOINING US. IF YOU HAVE NEVER ATTENDED AN EVENT BEFORE WITH THE GROUP, I AM ASKING FOR YOUR HELP AND COOPERATION AS I PLAN THE EVENT. I AM REQUIRING THAT YOU SEND ME AN E-MAIL TO [bsb2@att.net](http://bsb2@att.net/) AS SOON AS YOU RSVP, EVEN IF YOU ARE ON THE WAIT LIST, AND PUT YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS IN THE BODY OF YOUR MESSAGE TO ME. THIS WILL HELP ME COMMUNICATE MORE EFFECTIVELY WITH THOSE WHO RSVP. SOMETIMES MEETUP MESSAGES DO NOT GET DELIVERED OR READ FOR A VARIETY OF REASONS. IF YOU CAN'T ABIDE BY THIS SIMPLE REQUEST, YOU ARE GOING TO END UP ON THE NOT GOING LIST. (NO GUESTS UNLESS YOU HAVE ATTENDED AN EVENT BEFORE WITH THIS GROUP. AS A FIRST TIMER, YOUR GUEST CAN SIMPLY SIGN UP JUST AS YOU DO.) TO GET ON THE WAITLIST, WHEN YOU CLICK "ATTEND" A SCREEN WILL APPEAR ASKING YOU TO PAY BUT AT THE BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN YOU CAN JUST SELECT JOIN WAIT LIST WITH LOW PRIORITY. DISREGARD MEETUP'S ATTEMPT TO CHARGE MORE TO GAIN WAITLIST PRIORITY-THAT IS NEVER NECESSARY FOR THIS GROUP. Some folks have told me they consider this their favorite event because...Last few times we did this event it was magical. (Unfortunately part of the Island will be closed off as it gets dark so it is not as magical as in the past but it is still somewhat magical!!!) I AM GOING TO LIMIT SPACE ON THIS EVENT TO AROUND 15-20 MEMBERS. NO GUESTS UNLESS YOU HAVE ATTENDED EVENTS BEFORE WITH THIS GROUP AND HAVE FEW CANCELLATIONS. We are going to explore Governors Island and will be on the Island as the sun is setting. We will walk as it starts to gets dark -yes there are lights there but not that many! The views of the New York City skyline are great. (Photo by Marjorie). In the past, we have done this several times in late summer and once in the fall. This will be a fun, fast paced 4-5 mile tour of the Island. It's quiet, uncrowded, and a bit eerie out there when it is dark. We will be stopping a number of times to briefly talk about what we see. I will keep things moving. YOU WILL NEED TICKETS IN ADVANCE FOR THE FERRY. I WILL PROVIDE INFO ON HOW TO GET TICKETS TO THOSE ON THE RSVP LIST ONCE WE GET CLOSER TO THE DAY OF THE EVENT. THERE IS A COST -$5-TO THE FERRY FOR SOME FOLKS. DO NOT GET TICKETS UNTIL YOU HEAR FROM ME. Ferry cost is $5.00 round trip unless you are a Governors Island member, senior 65 or have IDNYC, etc. There may be a security check before you board the Ferry. Please leave your unlawful weapons at home (I actually know alot about this based on personal experience!). PLEASE ALSO READ "WHAT WE'RE ABOUT" ON THIS MEETUP'S HOME PAGE BEFORE YOU RSVP IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE WAIVER OF LIABILITY ON "WHAT WE'RE ABOUT” NOW SPECIFICALLY REFERENCES THE CORONA VIRUS. (THE WAIVER OF LIABILITY HAS BEEN POSTED SINCE THE INCEPTION OF THIS MEETUP GROUP) MEETING DETAILS WILL BE SENT BY E-MAIL TO THOSE WHO RSVP NO LATER THAN THE EVENING BEFORE THE EVENT AND POSSIBLY SOONER. IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO, ON YOUR DESKTOP, PLEASE CLICK ON YOUR PROFILE WHICH IS ON THE TOP RIGHT OF THE SITE, THEN CLICK "SETTINGS", THEN CLICK E-MAIL UPDATES" ON THE LEFT. MAKE SURE YOUR E-MAIL UPDATES ARE ON AND WHERE IT SAYS "UPDATES ABOUT YOU”, CHECK MESSAGES BOX. THIS WILL HELP TO INSURE YOU GET MESSAGES FROM ME. I LIKE TO THINK THOSE MESSAGES ARE IMPORTANT. IT LOOKS LIKE YOU CAN EVEN CUSTOMIZE YOUR SETTINGS TO GET MESSAGES FROM SELECT GROUPS. We will meet NO LATER than 6 P.M to catch the ferry. If the weather forecast is bad, I will post a notice on the day of the event by 12 P.M. If there is no notice, we go. After we conclude our visit, the plan is to catch the 9 PM. ferry and arrive back on Manhattan ten minutes later near multiple subway lines. I am also going to ask that people NOT post any comments or questions prior to the event. You have more than enough information to do this once you get the meeting details. No offense, but I don’t need to know-and probably neither does anyone else- what you are doing that day if you can’t make it or what you think the weather will be. You may even think you have some deep insights to something or other but please keep that deepness to yourself. AFTER the event, post as many comments and photos as you like. Please respect my wishes on this.

10 attendees

Exploring the Gilded Age Mansions of Carnegie Hill

Sat, Aug 22, 3:00 PM

From New York City Art, Film, Museum, Social Club

Tickets: $39.98 (advance registration required) Click the link below to register for this event: [https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1993933767574](https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1993933767574) When American steel tycoon Andrew Carnegie purchased a swath of property on Fifth Avenue at 90th Street at the turn of the 20th century, he raised many eyebrows across High Society — after all, that part of Manhattan was considered the boonies, too far uptown from the acceptable social center. But Carnegie's foresight eventually won out as other influential Americans soon followed with homes of their own. From the Carnegies, Whitneys, and Vanderbilts to the Posts, Huntingtons, and Rockefellers, it's time to uncover some of Fifth Avenue's turn-of-the-century mansions belonging to some of America's most powerful families of the early 20th century. Join [New York Adventure Club](http://www.nyadventureclub.com "http://www.nyadventureclub.com") as we hit the streets and explore the Manhattan neighborhood of Carnegie Hill, best known for its wide range of historic homes and cultural institutions along Fifth Avenue between 86th and 98th Streets. Led by NYC tour guide, Ginny Poleman, our curated path through New York’s most exclusive neighborhood dating back over a century will include: * A **then-and-now comparison of the neighborhood** using maps, illustrations, and vintage photos dating back to the 19th century * A **walk past world-class museums**, including the Neue Galerie and the Jewish Museum, which were once private mansions * **Insider stories surrounding some of Fifth Avenue’s most notable families**, including why Andrew Carnegie purchased up property around him; why Grace Vanderbilt moved uptown to the “gardener’s cottage”; and how banker Felix Warburg’s father-in-law wasn’t too happy with his gothic chateau-esque mansion * A **look at Beaux Arts architecture** that defined the era that tied into the aesthetic of New York during the City Beautiful Movement * A discussion of **the architects who built the great mansions and museums along Fifth Avenue** and beyond, such as Stanford White, CPH Gilbert, the team of Carrère & Hastings See you there! \*Please bring a water bottle and comfortable pair of shoes as we’ll be doing a lot of walking! \*\*This tour concludes at Fifth Avenue and 94th Street **About Ginny** Ginny Poleman is a graduate of Cornell University, a licensed NYC tour guide, docent for the Municipal Art Society, as well as an educational and costume collection guide for New York’s largest art museum. Additionally, she offers private tours for her own company, NYC Encounters, covering New York City Art, Architecture, and History. You can follow her on Instagram and Facebook at @Art_Encounters and @NYC.Encounters. Disclaimer Event takes place rain or shine. By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our [terms of service](https://about.nyadventureclub.com/terms "https://about.nyadventureclub.com/terms"). Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours

3 attendees

LET'S GO ON A PRIVATE TOUR OF THE AMERICAN IRISH HISTORIAL SOCIETY

Tue, Aug 18, 3:00 PM

## A Private Tour of the American Irish Historical Society Join the **New York City Art, Film, Museum, Social Club** for a very special private visit to the **American Irish Historical Society**, one of New York City’s most distinguished cultural institutions. Our group will enjoy a docent-led tour through three stories of the Society’s historic Fifth Avenue townhouse, including the lobby, exhibition spaces, and architectural highlights of the building. Along the way, we will learn about the history of the mansion, the founding and mission of the American Irish Historical Society, and its important role in preserving and celebrating Irish-American history and culture. The centerpiece of our visit will be the current exhibition: ## 👑 *Grace Kelly: Drumiltra’s Irish-American Princess* Before becoming Princess Grace of Monaco, Grace Kelly was one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actresses and an enduring symbol of elegance, beauty, and American sophistication. What is less frequently explored is the importance of her Irish-American heritage. This exhibition examines Grace Kelly’s deep family connection to Ireland and the ways in which her Irish roots remained part of her identity throughout her extraordinary life. The title of the exhibition refers to **Drumiltra**, the Kelly family’s ancestral home in Ireland. Through photographs, historical materials, and interpretive displays, the exhibition traces Grace Kelly’s journey from Philadelphia to Hollywood, from Hollywood to Monaco, and from American movie star to European royalty. It also explores how she continued to maintain a meaningful connection with Ireland and her family’s ancestral homeland. ## 🏛️ What Our Private Tour Will Include Our docent-led visit will include: * The architecture and history of the Society’s Fifth Avenue mansion * The origins and mission of the American Irish Historical Society * A guided walk through three stories of the building * The story of Grace Kelly’s Irish-American family background * Her rise from Hollywood actress to Princess of Monaco * Her relationship with Ireland and her ancestral heritage * Time after the tour to explore the exhibition more closely * An opportunity to ask questions of the Society’s staff This event offers a wonderful combination of: 🎬 **Hollywood history** 👑 **Royal history** ☘️ **Irish-American heritage** 🏛️ **New York architecture** 📚 **Cultural history** It should be a fascinating and elegant morning inside one of Fifth Avenue’s most distinctive historic institutions. *** # 📅 Event Information **Date:** Tuesday, August 18, 2026 **Time:** 11:00 AM–12:00 PM \* **Location:** American Irish Historical Society **Admission:** $12.50 per person **Format:** Private docent-led group tour **Tour Length:** Approximately one hour \* **Note**: You will have time after the tour to explore the Historical Society more closely *** # ⚠️ Important Attendance Information This is a privately arranged group tour with limited capacity. Please register only if you are fully committed to attending. Your reservation holds a place that another member may otherwise be unable to obtain. The tour will involve walking through three stories of the building. Additional accessibility information will be posted once confirmed by the Society. Please arrive at least **10–15 minutes early** at (**10:45 AM-10:50 AM**) as our group must be assembled and ready to begin promptly at **11:00 AM**. Late arrivals may miss part of the tour and may not be able to join the group once the docent-led visit has begun. *** # 💳 Payment and Cancellation Policy The admission price is **$12.50 per person**. Final payment instructions, cancellation terms, and any registration deadline will be posted once the reservation arrangements are confirmed with the American Irish Historical Society. Because this is a privately scheduled event, payments should be considered nonrefundable unless otherwise stated. *** # ✨ A Special Private Experience This is not simply an exhibition visit. It is an opportunity to enter a historic Fifth Avenue mansion, learn about one of America’s most famous actresses and princesses, and explore the Irish-American heritage that remained an important part of Grace Kelly’s remarkable life. We hope you will join us for this distinctive and memorable private tour.

17 attendees

Secrets of the East River: NYC's Hidden Infrastructure by Ferry

Sat, Aug 15, 2:50 PM

Tickets: $55.80 ( incl. $5.80 fees ) (advance registration required) Click the link below to officially register for this experience: [https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1993575025567](https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1993575025567) New York runs on systems most of us never stop to think about — the barges hauling our trash, the tunnels moving wastewater, and the plants keeping it all flowing. With many of these sites clustered along the East River, what kinds of structures are hiding in plain sight along its banks? Step aboard an NYC ferry and get ready to explore the essential infrastructure that keeps the city clean, running, and (mostly) rat-free. Join [New York Adventure Club](http://www.nyadventureclub.com "http://www.nyadventureclub.com") as we embark on a one-of-a-kind ferry trip along the East River to explore the vital water and waste systems that keep New York City running. Led by licensed guide and urban planner Rayn Riel — who has worked on real-world infrastructure projects across sanitation, wastewater, and beyond — our unique experience from Lower Manhattan to the Bronx and back will include: * **A look at the journey of your trash and recyclables**, spotting the barges that ferry them toward landfills, incinerators, or recycling facilities * **A glimpse of NYC’s 14 wastewater treatment plants** and the century‑old sewer and utility tunnels beneath the river — some predating the subway * **A view of the Hell Gate Bridge’s three‑in‑one structure**, explained so you’ll see what most miss * **A ride past hidden sites** like North Brother Island, once home to NYC’s deadliest disaster * **A float past the Bronx River mouth**, NYC’s only true freshwater river * **Unexpected sights along the way**, including a decommissioned prison barge, the evolving Fulton Fish Market, and Roosevelt Island’s forgotten elevator (along with the site of its once-infamous sewage fountain) * **An earpiece for each guest** to hear the guide over the sounds of the ferry **This experience is limited to only six guests.** See you there! \*This ticket includes roundtrip NYC Ferry service between Wall Street / Pier 11 & Soundview. \*\*Guests are free to disembark earlier on the return voyage at the East 34th Street or Stuyvesant Cove ferry landing as the tour content will be finished by then. \*\*\*Each NYC Ferry has food and snacks available for purchase, as well as a restroom. \*\*\*\*This experience will take place indoors on the trip up to Soundview, and outdoors on the return trip to Manhattan (weather permitting). **Tour Schedule** * (0m) Gather at Meeting Location * (30m) Depart Pier 11 on Soundview Ferry * (1hr 30m) Turnaround at Throgs Neck / Ferry Point Park * (2hr - 2hr 30m) Disembark at Preferred Ferry Landing - East 34th Street, Stuyvesant Cove, or Pier 11 **About Rayn Riel** Rayn is an urban planner and tour guide based in New York City. He’s worked on infrastructure projects across the five boroughs and is passionate about exploring how cities function. Disclaimer Event takes place rain or shine. By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our [terms of service](https://about.nyadventureclub.com/terms "https://about.nyadventureclub.com/terms"). Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours

Exclusive Tour Inside the Woolworth Building: NYC’s Cathedral of Commerce

Thu, Aug 20, 10:00 PM

Tickets: $45.25 ( incl. $5.25 fees ) (advance registration required) Click the link below to officially register for this experience: [https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1993933959147](https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1993933959147) In the early 20th century, the Woolworth Building in downtown Manhattan not only dominated the NYC skyline, but also held the title of "tallest building in the world" for over 17 years. What secrets lie behind its towering limestone and terracotta façade? Now’s your chance to step inside one of New York’s most breathtaking interiors — a hidden architectural marvel that's been off-limits to the public since 2020 (until now). Join [New York Adventure Club](http://www.nyadventureclub.com "http://www.nyadventureclub.com") for an **exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Woolworth Building** — commissioned by retail magnate Frank Woolworth in 1910 to house his company’s corporate headquarters, this neo-Gothic style skyscraper designed by architect Cass Gilbert laid claim to the world’s tallest building from its opening in 1913 until 1930. Led by licensed NYC tour guides and Woolworth Building experts Bob Gelber or Ed Welter, this official experience — **and the only way inside this private building** — will include: * **The story behind the “Cathedral of Commerce,”** from its creation by retail magnate F.W. Woolworth to its groundbreaking design by Cass Gilbert * **A look at the exterior’s intricate terracotta façade**, rich with neo-Gothic ornamentation and symbolic details * **A private tour of the soaring lobby**, with its marble-clad walls, vaulted ceilings, and hidden symbols embedded in the architecture * **A visit to the subterranean vault**, where the building’s original safe deposit boxes are tucked beneath its towering frame * **A special trip to the mezzanine balcony**, offering a close-up view of the vaulted mosaic ceiling, richly inspired by the opulence and patterns of the Byzantine Empire See you there! \*There are no public restrooms on the tour, so please plan accordingly \*\*This tour is limited to the lobby and first sub-level \*\*\*Please refrain from wandering around the lobby before, during, or after the tour **About Bob** After retiring from the New York State Court System, Bob Gelber became a licensed New York City tour guide to share his deep knowledge and passion for his hometown. Over the past twelve years, he has led visitors through neighborhoods many tourists overlook, while also serving as a docent at the Woolworth Building and volunteering at both the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Open House New York. A longtime member of the Guides Association of New York City, Bob has served on its Board of Directors and several key committees. From Central Park to the Lower East Side — and even chocolate-themed walks through SoHo — Bob brings history to life with every step. **About Ed** With over four decades of experience in construction and nearly 15 years in the tourism world, Ed Welter brings a unique perspective to New York City's built environment. After starting his guiding career at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in 2010, Ed went on to become a senior docent and trainer at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, where he has been sharing the site’s powerful story since its earliest days. A licensed NYC tour guide since 2012, Ed also led Woolworth Building tours from 2014 until their pause in 2020 — and is excited to return as the tour program resumes with New York Adventure Club. His deep knowledge and passion have guided countless tours across Lower Manhattan, from the Brooklyn Bridge to City Hall Park, including topics like the Five Points, the African Burial Grounds, and the history of terrorism in New York. **Testimonials** "The tour of the lobby was full of secrets and mysteries and astonishing design. The lobby tour guide was kind, passionate, and extremely knowledgeable." -Simon "Very informational. Knowledgeable lobby tour guide." -Jacqueline "The guide was very knowledgeable and history interesting. My first with adventure club, not the last. I enjoyed it very much." -Judy "...The guide was great… provided just enough information and stories, answered questions… and best of all really enjoyed seeing this iconic building up close! Wonderful event. Just the right amount of time." -Aimee "A fascinating combination of history, architecture and biography in a magnificent building. The guide was exceptional." -Beth "Informative on architecture, history, and history of Woolworth himself. Also notable comments on the strains between Woolworth and his architect, Cass Gilbert. Excellent speaker, humorous, personal, and interested in all facets of the building." -Margaret "The history and love that went into building this magnificent building" -Jojo "The information about Woolworth himself and the history of the 5 and 10 business was particularly good. Makes me want to learn more. Of course, just getting access was a treat. It's kind of a hidden treasure." -Leandro "It was highly informative and the guide was engaging." -E "Didn’t realize that this beautiful building was not open to the public so it was very special. Also the building was awesome. Guide was terrific." -Murray "The guide was so knowledgeable, explained everything in an interesting way, was patient with questions and managed the group well. It was outstanding!!" -Betsy "Tour guide's knowledge of the subject." -Lucien Disclaimer By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our [terms of service](https://about.nyadventureclub.com/terms "https://about.nyadventureclub.com/terms"). Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours

The Secret Eats of Chinatown, Manhattan Food Crawl

Sun, Aug 16, 3:00 PM

Tickets: $71.63 ( incl. $6.63 fees ) (advance registration required) Click the link below to register for this event: [https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1993537707949](https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1993537707949) While Chinatown might seem touristy these days, it's still hiding some of the best bites in NYC...if you know where to look. Get ready to experience a food crawl that will lead you to the neighborhood's best-kept secrets (if you can keep it hush-hush). Join [New York Adventure Club](http://www.nyadventureclub.com/) as we journey through the twisted back streets of present-day Chinatown to eat at some of the neighborhood’s best culinary destinations, while learning about the highs and lows it has endured over the past several generations. Led by prominent neighborhood expert Mike Morgenthal, our culinary experience will include: * A **custom-made NY Adventure Club route** to showcase the best Chinatown eateries hiding in plain sight * The **story of Chinatown** **throughout New York’s history**, from Five Points to the first Chinese language theater in New York City to the neighborhood of today * A bite at several different off-the-beaten-path Chinatown eateries, from **scallion pancakes and dumplings, to beef jerky and steamed buns** Come hungry! \*Your ticket includes tastings at every eatery on the tour \*\*There are no bathroom breaks on the tour \*\*\*Please bring water and a pair of comfortable shoes as we’ll be on our feet for the duration of the tour \*\*\*\*This experience ends at the corner of Grand and Mott Sts. \*\*\*\*\*Food served for this experience cannot be altered for individual dietary needs. Please contact support[at]nyadventureclub[dot]com with any allergies the tour guide should be aware of. **Testimonials** "I liked the thoughtfulness of the guide for our comfort." -Nancy "Great tastings, really nice tour guide and a good group of people on the tour." -Rhonda "The tour guide spoke in a loud and clear voice. He certainly knew the history of Chinatown and took us to five excellent restaurants." -Joy "Mike was a great guide - approachable, clear, composed. He gave some great history and background of the area without overwhelming. The food segments went smoothly as well." -Jessica "Fun, relaxed pace. Great tour guide." -Randy "Mike was friendly, knowledgeable and considerate. Food was great too." -Jim "The food! And the guide! Found out some interesting stuff!" -Jessica "Mike was a great tour guide, very knowledgeable and personable. He took us to places we’ve never been." -Alyson "It was everything I expected. Delightful way to spend 2 hours, sampling good Chinese delights, while also learning some history of the area." -Joel "Fantastic guide, compelling food." -Mike "Guide was engaging and fun." -Kent "Wandering through Chinatown with a knowledgable guide, stopping to sample Chinese food is very special." -Sheila "Well paced. Very informative. All delicious." -Sara "Mike and the food were awesome. Knowledgeable and informative. Great personality." -Jason "The variety in food selection was wonderful." -Paul "I liked the guide, the participants - it was such a pleasant tour" -Susan "Good food, not to long walk, interesting history" -Lisa "Tour guide was very knowledgeable." -Suzanne "I enjoyed the food and history of the neighborhood - Michael was extremely knowledgeable" -Ann "Guide was very knowledgeable about the history of the area. Very interesting." -Joan "Variety of foods sampled and restaurants I'd not have found on my own." -William "Mike was very smart and did a great job!" -Stephanie "Thought the tour guide was very good. He was interesting and it was a good mix of talking about chinatown and also some yummy food tastings and also we got to sit a few times which was nice in such hot weather." -Lorraine "Good spread of different foods" -Joel "Very knowledgeable guide, interesting information, good food, well-paced tour." -John "The guide was very well prepared with the food orders called into the establishments and with napkins and paper plates and bags to take home the extras. The portions were generous." -Dawn "Everything! Informative & excellent restaurants." -Rachael "Great guide with lots of knowledge and a good sense of humor." -Kenneth "Mike really knew his history about Chinatown. Also the food places he recommended were really good." -Nancy "Mike was knowledgeable, professional and kind" -Debbie "It delivered what we wanted - cool out of the way places to eat with delish food. It was fab. Can't wait to do the next one." -Joy **Disclaimer** Event takes place rain or shine. By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our [terms of service](https://about.nyadventureclub.com/terms).

From Adventure, Activities and Random Events

DC’s Secrets Of Grand Central History Tour & Oyster Bar Social

Tue, Aug 11, 10:30 PM

4.7

\*\***Get tickets here:** https://newyorksocialnetwork.com/events/dcs-secrets-of-grand-central-history-tour-oyster-bar-social-2/ \*\*RSVPs on MeetUp only represent a portion of those ACTUALLY attending. How many are attending? Who is going to be there? What can I expect? Any questions email Dave@newyorksocialnetwork.com\*\* **Cost: $25 ($15 for VIP Members) covers the tour only.** Join NYSN founder Dave Cervini for a fun evening of socializing and exploring inside Grand Central Terminal, one of NYC’s most iconic landmarks. Packed with history, architectural beauty, and hidden secrets, Grand Central offers surprises around every corner. A small portion of the tour will take place outdoors. Throughout the night, you’ll visit places inside the terminal you never knew existed! After the tour, we’ll stay at Grand Central for drinks and socializing at the famous Oyster Bar with the group. **What to Expect** 6:30 PM: Meet across from Grand Central. Learn the rich history of the terminal, including the two previous train stations that occupied the site from 1871–1901. You’ll see rare, fascinating photographs that bring the past to life and deepen your appreciation of this extraordinary building. Explore the newly opened East Side Access: Grand Central Madison—a major addition to the terminal. After the tour, we’ll enjoy food, drinks and socializing at one of the fun venues there. **FAQs** **Can I come alone?** Yes! Most guests attend solo—it’s a fantastic way to meet new people. **What’s included?** $25 ($15 for VIP Members) covers the tour only. **Dress Code:** Casual. \*\*Ages:\*\*21+ **Questions?** Email dave@newyorksocialnetwork.com or call 212-873-2256 (Mon–Fri, 10 AM–4 PM). **Refund Policy:** Nonrefundable unless the event is canceled. **Venue:** Meet at Pershing Square Cafe **Address:** 90 East 42nd Street, Under Park Avenue Bridge, New York, New York, 10017 \*\***Get tickets here:** https://newyorksocialnetwork.com/events/dcs-secrets-of-grand-central-history-tour-oyster-bar-social-2/

1 attendee

Rooftop/Penthouse Social Hour (Mix & Mingle Meetup)

Fri, Aug 14, 10:30 PM

From I love Museums and Culture Events

3.6

**\*TO ATTEND GET TICKETS AT:** [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rooftop-social-hour-tickets-1997148433727](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rooftop-social-hour-tickets-1997148433727) (This is co-organized by 30+ groups so don't go by RSVPs you see here. We'll have a good # attending. Must prepay to attend.) What a perfect way to spend a Summer Friday on a beautiful NYC rooftop! Whether you’re a long-time Meetup member or brand new to the group, this is a fun and welcoming night designed to help you meet, mix and mingle with others! We’ve reserved a private space on the rooftop overlooking Lincoln Center, providing lots of space to sit, mingle, and connect. Our staff will be there to greet new members and introduce them to veteran participants, making it easy to socialize. This night also brings together members from **other Meetup and social networking groups**, giving you even more people to connect with! What to expect: * **Music at conversational levels** * **Interactive mingling activities** with **prizes** * **Networking with members from multiple social groups** * **Casual, welcoming atmosphere** FAQS: **How many members will attend?** This is a multi-Meetup group event. This page only shows a small portion of the actual attendees. Based on other RSVPs and members who have already prepaid, we'll have a good amount attending! **Can I come alone?** Yes about 90% of those attending will be coming solo. But you can also invite friends to join you. Everyone must have a ticket to enter. **What is the suggested age range?** 30s and older. **Is there a dress code?** We recommend neat casual. No sweats. Jeans ok. For more fun events follow: [https://www.eventbrite.com/o/new-york-city-social-events-10797526283](https://www.eventbrite.com/o/new-york-city-social-events-10797526283)

16 attendees

Grand Central Mystery & History Scavenger Hunt

Thu, Aug 13, 11:00 PM

From Adventure, Activities and Random Events

4.7

\*\***Get tickets here:** https://newyorksocialnetwork.com/events/grand-central-mystery-history-scavenger-hunt-21/ \*\*RSVPs on MeetUp only represent a portion of those ACTUALLY attending. How many are attending? Who is going to be there? What can I expect? Any questions email Dave@newyorksocialnetwork.com\*\* **Cost: $25 General Admission** **$20 VIP Members (advance purchase)** **Or pay $35 cash/Venmo at check in** Discover secrets, solve a mystery, and make new friends! You don’t need any special skills — just a sense of adventure and curiosity! This unique scavenger hunt is all about connecting, uncovering history, exploring Grand Central and solving a mystery. **🕖 Schedule & Details:** Check-In: 7:00pm sharp in front of The Oyster Bar on the lower level. (Don’t be late!) Teams: Come solo or with friends — 99% of participants will be paired up on-site. 4-6 people per team. Hunt Time: 75 minutes to solve the clues and crack the case. **📖 The Story:** Meet Up Mary, a beloved figure on the NYC social scene, met a tragic end at Grand Central… and now it’s up to YOU to solve the mystery of what happened! Follow clues throughout the station in this fresh, all-new version of our Grand Central hunt. **🎟️ Cost:** $25 General Admission $20 VIP Members (advance purchase) Or pay $35 cash/Venmo at check in **👥 Ages:** 21+ **👕 Dress:** Casual & comfy (you’ll be on the move!) **💬 Questions or issues?** Email dave@newyorksocialnetwork.com or call 212.873.2256 (M–F, 10am–4pm) **🚫 Refund Policy:** Nonrefundable unless canceled. If you’re sick or test positive for COVID, credits may be issued with a doctor’s note or positive test result (credits may vary in value and apply only to select events). 🕵️‍♀️ Join us for a night of mystery, discovery, and connection — right in the heart of NYC! **Venue:** Meet in front of The Oyster Bar Restaurant Dining Concourse **Address:** 89 East 42nd street, Lower level Dining Concourse, New York, NY, 10017, United States \*\***Get tickets here:** https://newyorksocialnetwork.com/events/grand-central-mystery-history-scavenger-hunt-21/

1 attendee

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