what's included
Cut off from the subway, Red Hook feels like a small fishing village in the shadow of the Freedom Tower. Cobblestone streets, working piers, and old warehouses now house artists, distillers, bakers, and designers. Few tours go here — and even fewer know how to do it right.
We start near Wall Street with coffee and background, then ferry across the harbor for amazing skyline views. From there, we walk Red Hook’s streets and stories — stopping for tastings or a sit-down meal, depending on your group’s vibe.
Some Stops on This Tour:
- You’ve done Times Square and are ready for the real New York.
- You love stories about transformation—neighborhoods, people, cities.
- You’re curious about urban planning, food culture, architecture, or maritime history.
- You want to explore with someone who actually knows the city—deeply, personally, and professionally.
- Depending on the day, we might sample:
- BBQ from a smoke-stained shack with a cult following
- Key lime pie made steps from the water.
- Tacos from a food truck with Michelin-level flavor.
- Chocolate made bean-to-bar in a converted factory.
- Cold brew from a roastery you’ll never find on your own.
- Lobster rolls with a buttery crunch and Atlantic attitude.
- Italian heroes from a 100-year-old sandwich shop that hasn’t changed a thing—and shouldn’t.
Red Hook Brooklyn:
Small Town in the Shadow
of the Big City
Hop on the Q train and discover the flavors, sights, and stories of Brooklyn’s communities, offering you the “Real New York” experience. This isn’t just a tourist tour—it’s an insider’s adventure where you’ll see Brooklyn through the eyes of its diverse residents. Whether you’re exploring historic sites or hidden gems, this tour provides a unique perspective on one of New York’s most iconic boroughs.
Some Stops on This Tour:
- Brooklyn Heights Promenade: Classic Views and Timeless Elegance.
- Borough Hall: The Cultural Crossroads of Brooklyn.
- Church Avenue: The Soul of Brooklyn’s Caribbean Community.
- Victorian Flatbush: A Step Back in Time.
- Cortelyou Road: Brooklyn’s Eclectic Heartbeat.
- Avenue J: A Slice of Jewish Tradition and Flavor.
- Brighton Beach: Eastern Europe by the Sea.
- Coney Island: Brooklyn’s Playground.
Around the World in a Day: Brooklyn's Q Train Tour
what's included
what's included
If you’re seeking a private walking tour in NYC that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions, Mike is the perfect guide to show you hidden gems and untold stories of the city. Explore local markets, off-the-beaten-path restaurants, and unique spots that most visitors would never find on their own. Mike’s insider knowledge includes places like Russian banyas or the legendary Polar Bears Club in Coney Island, where brave souls swim in the icy Atlantic waters—a rare New York experience few know about.
Unlike typical tours that focus on well-known tourist hotspots, Mike Chooses is about discovering the true essence of New York City. Join Mike on a curated walking tour designed to show you the hidden gems and iconic landmarks that make NYC one of the most fascinating cities in the world.
Some Stops on This Tour:
- Upper West Side: your classroom to understanding NYC.
- Central Park: explore hidden gems and amazing vistas of NYC.
- Grand Central Terminal: an iconic gateway to NYC’s historical evolution .
Why This Tour is Unique:
- Start Your Day Like a True New Yorker
- Explore the Neighborhood’s Rich Cultural History
- Discover New York’s Housing Evolution
- See Hidden Gems of the Upper West Side
- Visit a Legendary Family-Run Market
- Stand on a Corner that Changed New York Forever
Upper West Side: Your Guide to Understanding NYC
what's included
Tour Packages
Mike Choses: The Ultimate Custom NYC Tour
About NYC Explained Tours
Experience the best NYC walking tours with NYC Explained. Our tours offer a unique opportunity to uncover the city’s hidden gems, vibrant neighborhoods, and rich history. Go beyond the usual tourist hotspots and dive into private walking tours in NYC that reveal residential streets and local haunts rarely seen by visitors.
Discover the True Essence
of New York City
Immerse yourself in the heart of New York City with our private walking tours in NYC. Uncover the stories and hidden gems that make this city truly unique. From its iconic landmarks to lesser-known spots, our NYC walking tours take you beyond the ordinary and into the vibrant neighborhoods that define the essence of New York City.
Experience the city like never before with historical tours of New York that reveal the rich cultural tapestry woven throughout the city’s diverse communities. Let us show you the real New York, off the beaten path and filled with fascinating history, architecture, and local secrets.
Stroll through tree-lined avenues, explore local stores, and connect with locals to discover what makes New York City truly unique. From authentic New York bagels to ethnic eateries in diverse neighborhoods, our tours provide a glimpse into city life like a true New Yorker.
After exploring the must-see attractions, let Mike Gantcher guide you through engaging historical tours of New York, unraveling the stories behind NYC’s past and present. Learn how this iconic metropolis became a cultural and culinary hub, with its blend of traditions and innovation.
Meet Mike Gantcher, your licensed guide for private walking tours in NYC. With over 30 years of residency in New York City, Mike brings a unique perspective to his historical tours of New York, offering insights into the city’s sociological, architectural, and economic evolution.
Mike’s diverse career—spanning roles from working in factories to the NY Stock Exchange and nonprofit affordable housing development—shapes his deep understanding of New York’s rich history and diverse communities. His firsthand experiences across multiple industries and his interactions with a wide range of people provide an unparalleled tour experience, blending personal anecdotes with the city’s vibrant stories.
Emphasis on Expertise.
With three decades spent in the heart of New York City, Mike has witnessed the dynamic changes that have shaped the metropolis into what it is today. Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks or discovering hidden gems off the beaten path, Mike’s expertise ensures you gain a true insider’s perspective, making every tour a memorable, informative journey through New York’s past and present.
About Mike Gantcher
A: Our tours are primarily designed for adults and teenagers. Children under 14 may find the tours challenging and tiring.
Q: Are the tours suitable for children?
A: We typically meet guests at their Manhattan or Brooklyn hotels. If needed, we can arrange a meeting at a mutually agreed location.
Q: Where do we meet for the tour?
A: Our tours are private and priced for up to 6 people. The listed prices reflect the total cost for the group, not per person.
Q: Is the tour pricing per person or per group?
A: Yes, our tours run rain or shine. If you’d like to reschedule due to weather, please check the 5-day forecast and inform us within 48 hours.
Q: Do the tours run in bad weather?
A: We require at least 48-hour notice for cancellations. Please notify us as soon as possible if you need to cancel your tour.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: We focus on lesser-known, fascinating areas of New York City. We encourage you to visit iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty on your own.
Q: Why don’t your tours include the Statue of Liberty?
A: While tipping is not required, it is customary in the US to tip for excellent service. If you enjoyed your tour, your guide would greatly appreciate a gratuity.
Q: Should I tip the guide?
A: No, subway fares and meals are not included. Subway fares typically average $10 per person for a six-hour tour, and $4 to $6 for shorter tours. Meal costs depend on your choice of restaurant.
Q: Are subway fares and meals included in the tour price?
A: Depending on your preference, we can stop for a quick bite like pizza or a hot dog, or sit down for a more leisurely meal. However, longer meals may affect the time available for other sights.
Q: Is there a lunch break during the tour?
Gallery
I learned about the evolution of New York architecture, and lesser-known stories that made the area even more captivating.
He was very attentive and always open to questions. The pace was perfect, giving us enough time to explore each location and absorb the stories without feeling rushed.
I highly recommend this guide to anyone who wants to dive deep into New York’s history in an authentic way. Made my visit to New York even more special!
Jader B.
"He is a true expert in the city’s history and culture"
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Sara is the best! We worked with her with her Mini Sleep Plan and she gave us the tools to help get our 5 month old on a better schedule. She was extremely helpful whenever I had questions or concerns throughout the week and was encouraging through rough sleep moments. Not only was she able to give my husband and I more confidence in our daughter’s schedule but she was also able to help us identify what our biggest area of improvement was. The Mini Plan is great for anyone who needs some extra support with baby’s sleep but is on a tighter budget. We couldn’t be more thankful!
"We now feel so much more confident about handling tricky moments or changes of schedule and learned to be flexible with sleep."
Natalie Thorpe
She respects whatever philosophies you have and brings her expertise to the table to marry tried and true methods with your unique approach to parenting your child. The result? Someone in your corner. Someone supporting you and your child every step of the way. Someone invested in your success. Sara knows her stuff and is kind, respectful and an all around wonderful human being. Call her today and start getting some sleep!
"She fully aligns with your beliefs and curates individualized plans based on what is important to you."
Anita Mirandi
I cannot recommend Sara and her services enough. I don't even know how to properly thank her for giving us our sleep and sanity back. Her approach is clear and very well thought out. If you told me a month ago I would have a baby finally sleeping through the night, I wouldn't have believed it - now I can wholeheartedly say it's because of Sara's guidance and support that our little guy is finally doing it. Thank you Sara!
"She's available for every question, texts to check in, adjusts according and she is so supportive of everything motherhood"
Ashley Gottschalk
Sara provided the support and guidance we needed to help our family get into a routine of healthy sleep. Her methods are individualized, sensitive and nurturing. Our 4 year old was resisting sleep training that we provided to our other kids. Sara understood immediately where we needed to make small changes and give our child the structure to feel safe and rested. Sara checked in frequently to provide support and reassurance.
We are so happy to have found Not A Peep!
"Her methods are individualized, sensitive and nurturing"
Eli & Mary
Sara provided the support and guidance we needed to help our family get into a routine of healthy sleep. Her methods are individualized, sensitive and nurturing. Our 4 year old was resisting sleep training that we provided to our other kids. Sara understood immediately where we needed to make small changes and give our child the structure to feel safe and rested. Sara checked in frequently to provide support and reassurance.
We are so happy to have found Not A Peep!
"Her methods are individualized, sensitive and nurturing"
Eli & Mary
Let's plan your perfect NYC adventure. Whether you know exactly what you want to see or have no idea where to start, I'm here to help create an experience you'll never forget.
nycexplained@gmail.com
+1 917-533-9979
