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Art and culture activities in New York

Book unique activities hosted by local experts on Airbnb.

Art and culture activities led by local experts

Discover unique experiences hosted by inspiring locals.

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4.95 out of 5 average rating, 39 reviews

The History and Craft of Natural Incense

Take a deep breath and relax as you discover the therapeutic craft of incense making. • You’ll discover the origins of incense and its use in ancient timekeeping and ceremonial practices while savoring traditional Korean tea and snacks. • Learn how incense once served as a precursor to perfume and its diverse applications in rituals and medicine. • Immerse yourself in the art of natural incense making by mixing your own batch with organic woods, herbs, resins + oils. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and inspired, with your very own personalized scent packaged in a beautifully crafted pine wood box.

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 72 reviews

New York graffiti chronicles with Inkhead

Join me, Inkhead, a graffiti writer with three decades documenting and obsessing over NYC’s graffiti. We’ll explore the gritty and grimy streets of the Lower East Side, where every wall tells a story. • We’ll walk part of the Manhattan Bridge, exploring its vibrant and prolific graffiti, while discussing stories behind iconic NYC writers. • Explore various techniques, and delve into NYC’s rich history of graffiti. • Gain an insider’s perspective of how NYC graffiti culture has evolved into a global subculture. • Grab a slice from Scarrs, an iconic NYC pizza spot. * You’ll walk away with an insider’s perspective of the NYC graffiti scene and be able to explain to your friends the differences between graffiti and street art. Experience happens, rain or shine… *pizza is not included

5 out of 5 average rating, 4 reviews

Tour Manhattan's design scene with interior designers

Take a curated two-hour walking tour with us, the founders of Giv Studios, through Lower Manhattan’s vibrant design hubs. We’ll explore some of our favorite galleries and showrooms that highlight the city’s dynamic art scene. You’ll leave the experience with a zine highlighting this tour as well as unique insights into New York City’s ever-evolving creative culture, discovering emerging talents, and new design perspectives.

5 out of 5 average rating, 11 reviews

Chelsea gallery tour with an award-winning art critic

Discover the vibrant art scene in Chelsea, home to some of New York City’s most renowned galleries, or simply deepen your perspective on its cultural significance. You’ll have an insider’s perspective on the current shows and learn about the larger cultural context of these spaces. • Visit top galleries such as Hauser & Wirth, Pace Gallery, David Zwirner, Lisson Gallery, and Jack Shainman. • Learn about the current exhibitions and how these galleries influence the contemporary art world. • Hear insights into the New York City art scene and my background as an art critic and curator. You’ll gain a layered understanding of how Chelsea’s galleries shape the art world while championing emerging artists.

5 out of 5 average rating, 4 reviews

Catacombs by Candlelight "vip experience"

Meet me in Little Italy/NOLITA for a real New York City tour experience unlike any other to explore the off-limits graveyards and catacombs of Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, the city’s first and oldest. Cornerstone laid in 1809, it’s home to the remains of many prominent Catholic New Yorkers. • I’ll greet you with a coffee or beverage of your choice from a local cafe before we visit the McCloskey Room in the Basilica Parish House to view rare artifacts uncovered during the restoration of 2013. • Explore the Chapel Altagracia, a hidden gem rarely open to the public, before heading to the basilica’s graveyards, which were established in 1800 and predate the church. • Descend into the catacombs to view the passages of crypts, vaults and sarcophagi of notable New Yorkers, including the Delmonico restaurant family, Honest John Kelly from Tammany Hall and Brigadier General Thomas T. Ecker to name a few. You'll leave after an urban exploration that even the most diehard New Yorkers haven’t had, as well as a 10 percent discount voucher to spend in the gift shop.

5 out of 5 average rating, 3 reviews

Untold stories of Harlem with an author and film scholar

Journey through Harlem with me—a historian and CUNY professor—as I share untold stories of how African immigrants have helped shape the borough’s history and culture. • We’ll start at the Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market, an artisan market that serves as a cultural and economic hub for the African immigrant community. • Next, we’ll explore Little Senegal, a vibrant testament to the growing African presence in Harlem, where I’ll highlight key figures and events that shaped this neighborhood’s significance. • Additional stops along our tour will include the iconic and still thriving Apollo Theater, as well as other cultural landmarks that showcase the lasting connection between Harlem and the African diaspora. At the end of our walk, you’ll have gotten a rare glimpse into Harlem’s history and the important role African immigrants have played in its development. You’ll also receive a copy of my book, Africans in Harlem: An Untold New York Story, to continue exploring what you’ve learned.

5 out of 5 average rating, 3 reviews

Explore East Side jazz history & enjoy a live show

Discover the underground jazz history of New York’s East Village and experience the next generation of musicians in our new Lower East Side jazz club. From iconic sites that shaped the genre to an unforgettable live performance, this evening celebrates the spirit of jazz and its deep connection to New York City’s incredible music scene. • Begin with a exploration of the East Village, visiting significant sites like the Charlie Parker House and Slugs Saloon. Learn about their role in shaping jazz history in an area that became a haven for experimental and avant-garde jazz. • Head to our club, Close Up, for a live show inspired by the venues and musicians you’ve just explored. • Enjoy a complimentary drink, meet the band after the performance, and stay for an optional jam session, a uniquely NYC tradition. Wrap up this immersive experience with a deeper connection to the East Village’s jazz legacy—and how it lives on in the Lower East Side.

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Discover the Jewish history of the Garment District

In the early 20th century, most of America’s ready-made clothing came from New York City’s Garment District. This walking tour will explore the Jewish history of the Garment District and the schmata (“rag”) trade. • First, we’ll stop by 48–54 West 25th Street, one of the area’s first clothing manufacturing buildings. • Next, we’ll walk through the Fur District on 31st Street, where many of the Jewish radicals who worked in this luxury trade helped organize the labor movement. • We’ll also visit the Garment Worker Sculpture, an iconic piece of public art commemorating the contribution of Jewish immigrants to America’s clothing industry. We'll talk about the architecture and monuments we stop at, and I’ll share stories about the important role Jewish immigrants played in the “needle trades.

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An intro to NYC's ballroom scene at Royal House of LaBeija

New York City’s iconic ballroom culture is the stuff of legend, and the Royal House of LaBeija invites you to experience it up close. Through this immersive introduction, you’ll explore the history, artistry, and energy of ballroom, learning from the legendary house that helped shape this cultural phenomenon. • After a warm welcome, you’ll learn the history of the Royal House and its role in shaping ballroom culture, including the legacy of the trailblazing Crystal LaBeija. • Watch as we demonstrate key categories like Vogue, Face, Runway, and Performance, and then join the grandstanding with hands-on guidance to master the basics. • Show off your new skills in a lively, supportive mock ball competition emceed by Royal House members, complete with music, energy, and plenty of fun. • Celebrate your hard work as the competition concludes with a ribbon and ultimate bragging rights awarded to the winner. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a total beginner, you’ll leave inspired, energized, and connected to the one-of-a-kind world of ballroom.

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Financial District public art walk with a curator

Explore the Financial District’s iconic public art scene through a walking tour with a curator, visiting sculptures by renowned 20th-century artists and gaining insights into the evolving role of public art in urban spaces. • Visit Zuccotti Park and Louise Nevelson Plaza, where we’ll engage in lively conversation about the role of architecture and design in public art and the importance of location. • See pieces like Group of Four Trees by Jean Dubuffet and the Red Cube by Isamu Noguchi, and learn about the artists’ intentional decisions to interact with the surrounding environments in unique ways. • Learn about the history of public art in the Financial District, and the artists who lived and worked in the Coenties Slip area. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how public art transforms urban landscapes, enriches civic spaces, and shapes cultural identity.

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4.98 out of 5 average rating, 587 reviews

The Soul of Harlem Walking Tour

As a New Yorker, I’ve lived in all 5 Boroughs of NYC. However, my birthplace was Harlem. Thus, I will show you the place dear to my heart – the village of Harlem. This unique, soulful walking experience will occur in one of four sections of Harlem - Central Harlem. This section was the Heart and Soul of the Harlem Renaissance and the Civil Rights movement in America. Our journey will begin with a birds-eye view of 125th Street looking westward – this will give us a photographic preview of some of the locations we will visit. We will then walk to the former homes of the Harlem Renaissance central figures, Langston Hughes, Madam C.J. Walker, James W. Johnson, etc. On this 10,000-step journey, we will pass several Harlem murals that capsulize Harlem’s glorious past. We will also see where Martin Luther King spoke, suffered a near-death experience, and was hospitalized. Two places of particular interest will be explored – the Harlem Jazz Museum (Thurs-Sat only) & the Schomburg Library for African Studies (Mon-Sat). At the Schomburg, we will see a mosaic cosmogram containing the ashes of Langston Hughes underneath it. To round out our experience, we will walk upon Harlem’s “Walk of Fame;” and see monuments of Civil Rights trailblazers and the famous Sylvia’s Restaurant, named after the “Queen of Soul Food” Sylvia Woods. I’m looking forward to meeting you and your guests.

5 out of 5 average rating, 112 reviews

Picture Perfect New York

- Join me on one of the most fun experiences in New York City as we explore together and snap timeless, candid photos of you during your trip. The goal is to create memories you cannot forget. Please reach out with any questions! Choose from iconic locations like Central Park, SoHo, Dumbo, Brooklyn Bridge, Fort Tryon Park, West Village, or Times Square. In just one hour, I’ll guide you through your chosen setting, capturing candid and posed shots that reflect the essence of NYC. Want to explore even more? Extend your session for an additional hour or more and let’s head to multiple locations. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, family, or friends, this experience is tailored to capture your NYC story. Each session includes a carefully curated online gallery with all images professionally edited with basic light and color corrections, delivered to you within 2 - 4 business days perfect for sharing and reliving your NYC adventure. Let’s make your trip unforgettable with beautiful photos in the city that never sleeps!

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 709 reviews

Dumbo and Brooklyn Bridge Photoshoot

My IG: @capture_by_j, But I prefer to be contacted here instead. I'll only communicate through the Airbnb platform. You'll receive 25 to 27 photos for each person you add to the experience ( 2 people 56-60 pictures) within a few days after the photoshoot is over, in 4 to 7 days. These photos will be sent to you through a link here on Airbnb that captures the essence of your trip. you will enjoy the privacy of a personal photoshoot with just you or your party. The best part is that the photos are included in the experience, so no extra payment is required. Additionally, it’s about 40-60 minutes Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! We'll be exploring the iconic Brooklyn Bridge and the charming neighborhood of DUMBO, capturing stunning views and romantic moments along the way. I'll be snapping photos of you and your loved ones as we take in the breathtaking scenery, from the bridge's majestic towers to the cobblestone streets and picturesque piers. Let's create some unforgettable memories together! Please note that if you're more then 15 minutes late I’ll leave Once I give you the pictures, the responsibility transfers to you. The link to access to the added photos will remain available 6 months, so remember to keep them safe. Please be aware that I am not liable for any of your belongings during the photoshoot

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 1480 reviews

See 30+ Top New York Sights.Fun Guide!

30+ New York Sights in one tour! Fun local guide I will guide you on an exploration of New York’s major landmarks. This will give you a good idea of the history, culture & legends of one of the world best-loved cities We start on Wall St. Where we will see iconic buildings, Ground Zero & The NY stock exchange (Bull statue & Fearless girl statue) Walking to City Hall we glimpse the Brooklyn Bridge and the famous Court Houses that took down the Mafia We then go through the 5 Points, China Town & Little Italy districts. Lots of history in this area. Gangsters, amazing food & iconic buildings (The Woolworth Building : Fantastic Beasts Connection) The Iconic Flatiron building is our next stop. Once we have taken photos of this iconic landmark we continue up 5th. Great photo of Empire State Building & the Chrysler Building, Bryant Park and we go inside the famous Grande Central Train Station. Next on our list is Times Square / Rockefeller Centre Top of 5th Avenue is our next destination. Sights include : St Patrick's Cathedral, Trump Tower, The Plaza & many more! Last stop : The Plaza You will see everything! Other things to note This is a walking tour :wear comfortable shoes Plenty of opportunity to buy food & drinks along the way Slow paced and good fun! We do not go inside any of the main attractions Gratuities not included

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 96 reviews

Hidden Gems, Great Structures, Fun Art

Join me on a tour of NYC’s greatest structures, hidden gems, and public art—the kind most tourists (and even locals) never notice! Along the way, we’ll: Discover stunning bridges and buildings with incredible stories Encounter whimsical and playful public art hidden in plain sight Relax in beautiful parks and atriums that few visitors ever find Hear fascinating, dramatic, and often funny stories—some of them deeply personal Come see a side of New York that most people miss! What folks are saying: “This is the best walking tour I've ever been on in any country, bar none. The skyscrapers stop being just buildings… but relatable places of living breathing history. ...John..injected a quality of magic and wonder into locations on our everyday commute. It was like every corner and every brick had a hidden surprise that we didn't know about.” Xia Fei “Embarking on this tour with John was an absolute delight! His passion for NYC’s structures, hidden gems, and public art is contagious. I discovered hidden treasures and fascinating stories that truly brought the city to life. John’s knowledge and friendliness made the hours fly by, leaving me thoroughly enchanted with the experience. Highly recommend for both tourists and locals alike!” Yunied "…Wonderful” Patricia “…a fascinating walk” Stuart Contact me if you don't see a date or time that works for you

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 246 reviews

Central Park Tricycle Tour

------ NO tour for 1 person ------ Minimum needed 2 persons per reservation because it is private tour. It is not sustainable to do tour for 1 person. We will not do tour for 1 person. So do not book if you are solo traveler. Thank you. My team is ready to give you an unforgettable tour experience! We’ve been leading Central Park tricycle tours since 2011, so you can trust that we know every corner and hidden gem of the park. This tour is best suited to the first-time visitors to Central Park. We'll share deep knowledge of Central Park, history, movie locations and celebrity homes. Stop at the most famous places and take pictures while explaining the significance. Enjoy 3 stops to go for a walk at the most beautiful spots: The Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge and Strawberry Fields. In warm months you can also extend regular tour for second hour to see more of the park. Price is double and you can pay in cash for second hour. Just let us know beforehand if you want to extend for second hour. Other things to note: It is recommended that you book at the beginning of your vacation. In case of rain you can reschedule to next day. We do not conduct tours in the rain. For those, who are looking unique experience, it is not. It's a classic tour: history, sightseeing and fun. No more than 3 pax allowed in tricycle. No pick ups from hotels/Airbnb apartments. Tips required!!!

4.85 out of 5 average rating, 127 reviews

Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty & Manhattan Tour

This 5 hour tour lets you see and experience the three big attractions in NYC. Brooklyn Bridge Statue of Liberty Manhattan and its historical & iconic buildings and sights We start at York Street Metro Station in Brooklyn’s trendy Dumbo neighborhood, at the foot of the world-famous Brooklyn Bridge – a great spot to get a photo of both the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges. After a quick introduction from your guide, we head to Brooklyn Bridge Park under the Brooklyn Bridge, where civil war era warehouses have been turned into vibrant restaurants and bars. We continue to Brooklyn Heights and the promenade – made famous by many movies and TV Shows. After our quick tour of Brooklyn, we start our walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. This is where we will see the best views of the Manhattan skyline, so keep your camera handy! Once we have crossed over the bridge we head into Lower Manhattan. You will see a lot in this area; China Town, Little Italy, 5 points, 9/11 memorial, Ground Zero, Woolworth Building, City Hall, Wall St & The NY Stock Exchange and much more! Our last stop is Battery Park. Located on the southern tip of Manhattan, this is where the ferries and boats arrive to take passengers to the Statue of Liberty & Staten Island. The 30-minute Staten Island ferry is free to all to use and it gives incredible views of The Statue of Liberty

5 out of 5 average rating, 20 reviews

Discover Hidden NYC Subway Secrets Below Manhattan - Private

(Private) Join me to explore the busiest rapid transit system in the Western Hemisphere and Western world, discovering the purpose, politics, and possibilities of the NYC subway! Highlights: • Uncover abandoned stations hidden in plain sight, including the famous 1904 City Hall Station. • Explore a deep station where you would have needed scuba equipment only 10 years ago during catastrophic subway flooding. • Remember the 9/11 terror attacks and stand on subway platforms which had totally collapsed under the WTC 20 years ago. • Discover how to get to an old wine cellar under the Brooklyn Bridge from inside a subway station. • Experience the newest downtown subway stations and discover NYC's other subway, the PATH train to New Jersey. • Explore how the subway operates and learn about some of the technology keeping it moving 24/7. • Learn about the past, present, and future of mass transit in the region. Notes: • Subway fare provided! • Individual ear pieces provided so everyone can hear perfectly. • Tour only visits public areas. • Experience involves walking up and down steps.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 1330 reviews

Hasidic Brooklyn

To many, the world of Hasidic Jews is shrouded in mystery and secrecy—well, not anymore. On this experience, you get to see first hand the daily lives, rituals, and customs of the Hasidic community, guided by a member of the community and being able to access places seemingly closed off and hidden to the outsider. An opportunity to be able to ask any questions about the Jewish faith, culture, and philosophy. We kick off the experience inside a Hasidic home, and learning about what it takes to keep a Kosher home. Then its off to the streets of Crown Heights, starting with exploring the world famous “770” Synagogue, getting a glimpse into the hustle and bustle of daily prayer services. Next stop is a Jewish scribe, seeing up close the intricate details involved in producing the Torah Scrolls. Followed by a walk down the avenue, visiting the local shops, and seeing the traditions dating back to the early 1800’s. If you don’t see availability for when you would like to join, please message us and we will try to accommodate. The experience will be hosted by Yoni or Mayer. The experience continues rain, snow or shine (just come prepared).

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 111 reviews

New York photoshoot- top locations

I will show you the beautiful places in NYC, both touristic and hidden, help you to pose and feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera and capture your memories of this amazing city. I have several pre-planned routes for you to choose from, just send me a request to get a full list. I’m also opened to your ideas, let me know, what your vision is and what kind of photoshoot you need. Please feel free to send a message with any questions you have, I will be happy to answer and navigate you Equipment included

Art and culture activities in New York

Art and culture activities led by local experts

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