Explore New York City Like a Local
Discover the hidden gems and authentic experiences with licensed expert guide Mike Gantcher.
About NYC Explained Tours
New York City Explained offers a unique opportunity to delve into how people live today in the city that never sleeps. Venture beyond tourist hotspots into residential neighborhoods rarely seen by visitors. Stroll through tree-lined streets, explore local haunts, and engage with locals to gain a deeper understanding of what it means to call this dynamic metropolis home.
Immerse yourself in the fabric of city life as you walk through local neighborhood stores and hidden gems not typically frequented by tourists. From authentic New York bagels to ethnic eateries tucked away in diverse neighborhoods, experience the city like a true New Yorker.
After you’ve experienced the “tourist stuff,” Mike will unravel the mysteries of NYC’s past and present. Gain insights into why New York City stands out among American cities, from its diverse array of cultures coexisting in tight quarters to its renowned culinary scene reflecting this cultural tapestry.
About Mike Gantcher
Meet Mike Gantcher, your licensed and experienced guide who brings New York City to life through various lenses—sociological, historical, economic, architectural, and more. With over 30 years of residency in NYC, Mike’s in-depth knowledge and passion for the city provide an unparalleled tour experience.
Mike’s diverse occupational background, from working in factories to the NY Stock Exchange, and from nonprofit affordable housing development to investment bank trading desks, offers a unique perspective shaped by interactions with an incredible diversity of people and socioeconomic classes. His extensive experience and rich personal anecdotes make every tour an engaging and informative journey through the heart of New York City.
Emphasis on Expertise
With three decades of living in the city that never sleeps, Mike has witnessed and participated in the dynamic evolution of New York City. His tours go beyond the surface, offering deep insights and stories that reveal the true essence of the city. Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks or hidden neighborhood gems, Mike’s expertise ensures you experience New York City like a true insider.
Discover the True Essence of NYC
Immerse yourself in the heart of New York City and uncover the stories and hidden gems that make this city unlike any other. Explore its vibrant neighborhoods and experience the city like never before.
Tour Packages
Gallery
Upper West Side: Your Guide to Understanding NYC
If you’re a first or second-time visitor to New York City and you’ve already checked off the must-see tourist attractions, it’s time to dive deeper into the “real” New York. NYC Explained offers a unique tour of the Upper West Side that transforms this iconic neighborhood into a living classroom. This is not just a sightseeing tour—it’s an action-packed, immersive experience that covers information in an unscripted way, through the eyes of a local NYC expert who lived on the Upper West Side for 25 years and in New York City for 35 years. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of New York City from various perspectives, including historical, economic, architectural, and most importantly, sociological.
Why This Tour is Unique:
- Start Your Day Like a True New Yorker
- Explore the Neighborhood’s Rich Cultural History
- New York’s Housing Evolution
- See the Hidden Gems of the Upper West Side
- Visit a Legendary Family-Run Market
- Stand on a Corner that Changed New York Forever
Around the World in a Day: Brooklyn's Q Train Tour
Embark on a unique journey through Brooklyn’s diverse neighborhoods with Around the World in a Day: Brooklyn’s Q Train Tour. This one-of-a-kind experience takes you from the historic charm of Brooklyn Heights to the lively boardwalk of Coney Island, all while exploring the rich cultural tapestry that makes Brooklyn one of the most vibrant places in the world. Hop on the Q train and get ready to discover the flavors, sights, and stories of the communities that call Brooklyn home. This is a tour for those who want to see the “Real New York,” not just the “Tourist New York.” You’ll see NYC through the eyes of all different types of New Yorkers during this ultimate insider tour of Brooklyn.
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
Mike Chooses: The Ultimate Custom NYC Experience
Let Mike lead you on a truly one-of-a-kind adventure through New York City! With 35 years of local experience and a degree in Urban Studies, Mike brings a unique perspective to every tour. His deep expertise in NYC history, real estate, and geology, further enhanced by his studies at Columbia University and Cooper Union, gives him unparalleled insight into the city. If you’re looking for a more authentic, personalized journey through the city, Mike is the perfect guide to show you the hidden corners and untold stories of New York.
This tour is a true exploration of hidden gems—local stores, markets, and restaurants that most visitors would never find on their own. Mike has the insider knowledge to take you places like Russian banyas or down to Coney Island to watch the legendary Polar Bears Club take their weekly winter swim in the icy Atlantic waters—an experience few visitors know about.
Unlike other tours that hit the usual tourist spots, Mike Chooses is all about discovering places that even New Yorkers may not know exist. You’ll explore the local markets of Queens, the hidden cafés of Brooklyn, or even private clubs in Manhattan that Mike himself is a member of. If you’re lucky, he may even invite you inside for a drink!
Frequently Asked Questions
Cancellation Policy
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: We require at least 48-hour notice for cancellations. Please notify us as soon as possible if you need to cancel your tour.
Weather
Q: Do the tours run in bad weather?
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.
Pricing
Q: Is the tour pricing per person or per group?
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.
Meeting Point
Q: Where do we meet for the tour?
A: We typically meet guests at their Manhattan or Brooklyn hotels. If needed, we can arrange a meeting at a mutually agreed location.
Suitability for Children
Q: Are the tours suitable for children?
A: Our tours are primarily designed for adults and teenagers. Children under 14 may find the tours challenging and tiring.
Statue of Liberty
Q: Why don’t your tours include the Statue of Liberty?
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.
Lunch Breaks
Q: Is there a lunch break during the tour?
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.
What’s Included
Q: Are subway fares and meals included in the tour price?
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.
Tipping
Q: Should I tip the guide?
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.
