Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 18 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour worth booking?
Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour is a 2-hour experience in New York, United States, from $29 per person. It scores 71 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 18 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 71 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (18)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $29 per person
Go beyond the postcard views and discover the stories that transformed Midtown Manhattan into the heart of New York City. Rather than simply stopping for photos, your expert local guide reveals the history, architecture,
What you get
About this experience
Go beyond the postcard views and discover the stories that transformed Midtown Manhattan into the heart of New York City. Rather than simply stopping for photos, your expert local guide reveals the history, architecture, and fascinating people behind the city's most recognizable landmarks. Step inside Grand Central Terminal to admire its spectacular celestial ceiling, uncover the rivalry that fueled New York's legendary skyscraper race, and learn how Fifth Avenue, Park Avenue, Rockefeller Center, and Times Square became symbols of the city’s ambition and innovation. Along the way, experience the contrast between Midtown's bustling streets and its hidden architectural treasures, gaining a deeper appreciation for the history and stories that millions of visitors pass by every year.
What's included
Included
- Professional local guide
- Inside visit to Grand Central Terminal
- Guided walking tour of Midtown Manhattan
Not included
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Times Square
Begin your Midtown adventure at the crossroads of the world. Explore the history behind Times Square’s transformation from a horse-carriage district into one of the most famous entertainment centers on the planet. Your guide will share the stories behind the dazzling lights, Broadway theaters, iconic billboards, and the legendary New Year's Eve ball drop that has made this one of New York City's most recognizable landmarks.
15 minutes here
Bryant Park
Take a stroll through Bryant Park, one of Midtown Manhattan’s most beloved green spaces surrounded by some of New York’s most iconic architecture. Discover how this park transformed from a neglected area into a vibrant gathering place for locals and visitors, and learn about the history of the surrounding landmarks, including the New York Public Library.
15 minutes here
Admire the stunning Beaux-Arts architecture of the New York Public Library and meet Patience and Fortitude, the iconic marble lions that have welcomed visitors for more than a century. Learn about the history behind one of the world's greatest libraries, its role in New York City’s cultural life, and the architectural details that make this landmark a favorite stop in Midtown Manhattan.
10 minutes here
Chrysler Building
dmire the Art Deco masterpiece of the Chrysler Building, one of New York City’s most iconic skyscrapers. Learn the fascinating story behind its race to become the tallest building in the world, the ambitious vision of its creators, and the architectural details—including its famous stainless-steel spire—that have made it a symbol of New York’s innovation and style.
10 minutes here
MetLife Building
Discover the story behind the MetLife Building, one of Midtown Manhattan’s most recognizable skyscrapers. Originally built as the Pan Am Building, this massive structure changed the skyline above Grand Central Terminal and sparked debate among New Yorkers about modern architecture. Learn how it reflects the evolution of Midtown from a railroad hub into a center of business, transportation, and innovation.
10 minutes here
Grand Central Terminal
Step inside the magnificent Grand Central Terminal and discover why this Beaux-Arts masterpiece is considered one of New York City’s greatest architectural treasures. Admire the famous celestial ceiling, uncover the hidden details throughout the terminal, and hear the fascinating stories behind its construction, near-demolition, and remarkable preservation. More than just a transportation hub, Grand Central is a symbol of New York’s ambition, innovation, and history.
15 minutes here
Park Avenue
Stroll along elegant Park Avenue, one of New York City’s most famous boulevards, and discover how this once-industrial corridor transformed into a symbol of sophistication and success. Admire the grand apartment buildings, corporate towers, and carefully designed streetscape while learning how Park Avenue became one of Manhattan’s most prestigious addresses.
15 minutes here
St. Patrick's Cathedral
Admire the breathtaking neo-Gothic architecture of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a remarkable landmark rising among Midtown’s modern skyscrapers. Learn about the history, design, and construction of this iconic cathedral, and discover how it has remained a place of faith and a symbol of New York City for more than 150 years. If time and conditions allow, your guide may take you inside to experience its stunning interior.
15 minutes here
Rockefeller Center
Conclude your Midtown journey at Rockefeller Center, a masterpiece of architecture, art, and urban design. Learn the story behind this ambitious project built during the Great Depression and discover how it became a world-famous destination for entertainment, culture, and business. See iconic landmarks including Radio City Music Hall, the famous skating rink, and the plaza where generations of New Yorkers and visitors have gathered.
15 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
New York
The tour departs from the US Army Recruiting Office Times Square, in front of the large electronic American flag on West 43rd Street. (7th Avenue) Meet your guide on the sidewalk side of the kiosk.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
The tour ends in Rockefeller Center, near 30 Rock.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Thu, Fri
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- New York City By Foot
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 18 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
18 verified traveler reviews for Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
A great tour!
This was what I was looking forward to the most and Garrett made it even better than I was hoping. Great stories, views, easy walking even through the crowds of Times Square. This was really a great way to start a trip to New York City!
Response from the operator: So happy to hear it lived up to your expectations—and Garrett made it even better! Great way to start your NYC adventure!
via Tripadvisor
Must Do even for locals
I avoid midtown usually since I live in nyc but I brought some friends and I’m so glad I joined. It gave me a new appreciation for my city. Garrett was such a great and accommodating guide.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience! We're so glad Garrett helped you gain a new appreciation for your city, and we're thrilled you enjoyed the tour with your friends!
via Tripadvisor
Great tour with Garrett!
This is my favorite walking tour company and I love taking their tours in any city I go to. Garrett's walking tour of Midtown is no exception. He taught us so much about this part of the city and pointed out the best photo ops. My daughter was very excited about her TikTok after thsi tour!
Response from the operator: Thank you for the wonderful feedback! We're so glad Garrett's Midtown tour provided great insights and photo ops for you and your daughter!
via Tripadvisor
An insider‘s view
Joey was just great at bringing the city to life. Any of us can read about the history of NY, but to be with someone who can share their experience and inside tips is invaluable. The tour was at a good pace, with lots of time for banter. And yes, Joey, I did try the banana pudding at Magnolia Cafe! Time well spent. THANK YOU!
Response from the operator: Thank you for your wonderful review! We're so glad Joey made your tour unforgettable with his personal insights and great pace, and we're happy you got to enjoy that delicious banana pudding!
via Tripadvisor
Fun, educational tour with Mary
My wife and I did the Midtown Manhattan tour with Mary. She was great! We were lucky that we were the only ones signed up for the mid-week tour, so we had her all to ourselves. She did a great job of learning what we were interested in and gearing her commentary to that. She worked near Times Square for twenty years, and had a lot of great info about the whole area we toured. Despite the craziness of Midtown, we walked at an easy pace and it was very calm and enjoyable.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your fantastic review! We're so glad Mary tailored the tour to your interests and made your Midtown experience both calm and enjoyable, even in the heart of the city!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Thu, Fri
- Price range
- $29 to $39
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 71
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for New York.
How much does Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour cost?
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Prices start at $29 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in New York usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour take?
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Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in New York is not rushed.
Is Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 71 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 18 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in New York, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour?
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Around 6 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in New York can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in New York and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Midtown Manhattan: Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central New York within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in New York?
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New York has more bookable experiences than any other city on Outty, and the quality spread is brutal. Observation decks are commoditised, so we score them on timed-entry reliability and sunset slots. Food tours and borough walks are where the ranking really separates operators, and the top scores in the city all come from small-group guides. On Outty we rank every New York experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Grand Canyon VIP Helicopter Tour, Half-Day Bus Tour of NYC Top Highlights, NYC Bus Tour of Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens: Art, Food & Sports. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit New York?
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September to early November, and late April through June. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in New York?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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