Holdouts: A NYC Architecture Walking Tour

Overview

This 2.5 hour walking tour around the Midtown Manhattan shows-and-tells the fascinating stories of holdouts—the intriguing side effect of Manhattan's pressure cooker real estate industry: when a property owner (or lease holder) refused to sell to a developer, forced them to rework their plans, and forever changed the city streetscape. Stories, like the elderly lady who never knew any other home; or the poker player-like landlord who overplayed his hand; or the restauranteur whose long term lease (justifiably) demanded budget-busting sums, all add a human dimension to these transactional anomalies. And personal stories that were otherwise lost, are awesomely amplified by the everlasting impression left behind: seemingly ill-planned entrances for skyscrapers, odd shaped buildings, 20-story tall notches in office towers, are just some of the 16 examples of holdouts we'll see.

This tour is based on the book, Holdouts! By Alpern and Durst.

City: New York City

Thu 24 Apr

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $79.00

Make a reservation

Thu 24 Apr

Starting at $79.00

Make a reservation

New York City Tours

Unique Activities (21) Transfers & Transportation (175) Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises (252) Entry Tickets (96) Sporting Events (4) Good for Small Groups (27) Seasonal & Holiday Tours (113) Walking Tours (705) Outdoor Activities (48) Limitied Availability Tours (29) LGBT Friendly Tours (9) Family-friendly Activities (8) Wildlife Activities (6) Solo Travelers' Tours (147) Food & Drinks (96) Travelers recommend (174) Good for Groups (32) Top Activities (75) Guided Audio Tours (10) Art, Culture & History (406) Attractions to explore (43) Sustainable Tours (1) Limousine Transfers (5) Donut Walking Tour (2) Virtual Experiences (1) Additional fees (7) DSA non-compliant (17)

What's Included

Professional guide

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes

What To Expect

Citicorp Center

Not a holdout, but a fascinating story is associated with the construction of this building, whose main pillar supports are not in the corners, but in the middle of the side.

Amster Yard

If this oases is open at the time of the tour, we stop in for a moment. A time capsule where histories clash and the city meets the suburbs - - a much earlier one!

Chrysler Building

Stunning views of this stunning landmark are had along here.

United Nations Headquarters

We view the Secretariet Building down the block as we continue to pass and discuss holdouts and how they've influenced the streetscapes today.

42nd Street

We end our downtown part of the walk at 42nd Street, where a single holdout survived history.

Grand Central Terminal

As we make our way to the west side and the uptown portion of the tour we will pass through Grand Central. While not associated with a any holdouts, a mini-tour of this iconic landmark is very possible.

Brooks Brothers

This historic New York City institution had a holdout as a neighbor.

Diamond District

Worth noting the block where $440 million in diamonds are traded daily. The entrance a block to the north as we cross Fifth Avenue is flanked by 12' diamond sculptures.

Show 5 more stops

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (29)

Amanda G

Mar 2019

We have a new way of looking at NYC now thanks to our tour and guide Rob. This is the way you should see and learn about midtown Manhattan, whether it’s the first time you go or if you’ve come every day for years. We learned so much, Rob was funny, knowledgeable, everything you could want + We loved this tour so much we are going to try his others too!

nyctravelertovt

Feb 2019

Had a great time in NYC with Bob today. He gave us a great tour through Manhattan's business district and holdouts. He was extremely knowledgeable, and kept my two young sons intrigued.My wife and I loved the tour, and Bob even walked us through Grand Central Station. I was impressed with how much information we learned in on afternoon.

Response from Host

Feb 2019

Thank you! The tourists are as important as the guide in making a great tour, and your family is awesome! Rob

Go817297

Feb 2019

I have always enjoyed walking historical tours when traveling; however this was in my backyard all this time and was amazing! Robert is so personable and interesting that he had my 12 year old son asking questions and excited about the history of New York. I forcible dragged my 2 sons and husband to join me and they can not thank me enough. robert is obviously well versed,knowledgeable and intelligent,however his demeanor and charisma had every one engaged and entertained for the rigorous pace through the 3 hour adventure. We can not wait to book the other tours! my sons made me promise not to go with out them.thank you for a great educational family outing completely UNPLUGED.

Response from Host

Feb 2019

Thank you for your wonderful review, it was a pleasure showing your family around the neighborhood. I hope to see you all again. Best wishes, Rob