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Art and culture activities in New York

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Art and culture activities led by local experts

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5 out of 5 average rating, 26 reviews

Sketching at The Met Museum

During our sketching tour at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, prepare to see the museum’s masterpieces in a whole new light. You’ll explore select galleries with a seasoned artist and pause to draw iconic sculptures and artworks while learning the stories behind them. • Before we roll up our sleeves and start sketching, you’ll receive a brief drawing lesson. • We’ll peruse galleries spanning American, Roman, and Greek art and I’ll help you sketch what you’re seeing. • You’ll leave with your own original sketches to remind you of your visit! What you’ll get: admission, sketchbook, pencil, and eraser. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Create a ceramic postcard with a New York sculptor

Design a travel-friendly keepsake in a beautiful, peaceful Central Park garden studio. Enter the studio Watch a demonstration of hand-building and carving methods. Brainstorm designs Sketch ideas inspired by New York City's iconic structures. Manipulate the clay Shape, carve, and add text, images, and designs. Coat and mail Choose a glaze and learn about shipping your postcard home.

5 out of 5 average rating, 8 reviews

Explore niche perfumes in Brooklyn with a perfumer

Take a personalized scent journey through Williamsburg with a professional perfumer. The theme of our route is exploration through scent and its connection to memory, identity, and artistry. • After you book the tour, I’ll connect with you to get an idea of the scents you are looking for. Then I’ll create a personalized card of fragrances to look for at the perfumers we visit. • We’ll stop in at three brands—D.S. & Durga, Byredo, and Stele. At each stop, the team members will give you an overview of the brand’s fragrances, and I’ll offer my assistance as you shop. • I have a relationship with all of these brands, some of which will offer you exclusive discounts during the tour. On this one-of-a-kind shopping experience, you’ll get insider access to some of New York City’s most exciting niche perfumers as well as expert guidance in choosing the perfect fragrances for you.

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.

5 out of 5 average rating, 1 reviews

Before Stonewall: A queer walking tour of Greenwich Village

Join a journalist on a walking tour of Greenwich Village, visiting the homes and haunts of LGBTQ+ writers who lived, worked or were incarcerated in the decades before the Stonewall riots. • We'll meet up near the site of Eve's Hangout, considered by some to be the first lesbian bar in New York City and whose proprietor holds a special place in queer literary history. As we walk to other historic sites we'll hear more about the nightlife scene of the early 20th century, and how luminaries like Audre Lorde and Lorraine Hansberry navigated queer life. • We'll visit the former site of the Women’s House of Detention, which housed many incarcerated queer people, and I'll share its relevance to early LGBTQ+ life in the Village. • After stops to honor and consider other queer women whose literary works left lasting impressions on both our culture and the literary canon, we'll conclude at Henrietta Hudson, a lesbian bar open since 1991, to talk about present-day LGBTQ+ life in New York and beyond. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the lives of LGBTQ+ people whose work, activism and bravery led to the modern queer rights movement, and I'll send you on your way with a list of further readings if you'd like to continue learning about this fascinating era! The tour has a bathroom break at the halfway mark, and we'll walk about 1.5 miles in total.

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, 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, 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.

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4.95 out of 5 average rating, 2354 reviews

The Full-Day "See It All" NYC Tour!

(PLEASE NOTE: If you need a date that's full or not on the calendar, please message us. We will do our best to squeeze you in!) Hi folks! New York City is the greatest city in the world and I want you to have the greatest time ever! This is mostly a walking tour but we also take the subway and of course a gorgeous boat ride on the harbor to see the Statue of Liberty! Our tour is also great for groups & families. Here is the itinerary: This is a Full Day Tour. We cover a LOT!! -Explore beautiful Central Park -See the magnificent & world famous Plaza Hotel -Stroll along expensive & fancy 5th Avenue -Magnificent architecture of St. Patrick's Cathedral ( we go INSIDE not just outside!) -Rockefeller Center/NBC Studios -Diamond District -Times Square (the most exciting place in the world!) -Lunch Break -Freedom Tower -9/11 Memorial -Wall Street (NY Stock Exchange) -Boat Ride Across scenic New York Harbor! -Statue of Liberty/ Ellis Island views -New York Skyline views -Brooklyn Bridge views We'll also view movie & TV locations, stop for plenty of pictures, try to spot celebrities, and much more!

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

4.97 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

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 1243 reviews

The Speakeasy Adventure- A Tipsy Trip Through History

Welcome! Walk with us through Midtown New York as we retrace the immigrant progress toward the American Dream during Prohibition. As masters of the art of storytelling, we’ll guide you into one of New York's speakeasies where we'll toast to a prohibition cocktail and tell the tale of the period’s most notorious gangsters and infamous bootleggers. Then, we’ll explore the catalysts behind Prohibition at our next stop and focus on the women of the Gilded Age, and the movement that gave rise to an oil king. To round off our journey together, we'll walk you around the edge of Times Square and finally we’ll discuss the demise of Prohibition over cocktails at our last venue stop. You will be guided by myself or one of my well trained colleagues. *purchase necessary: please expect beer from $10-18 and wine/cocktails from $18-25 *no late arrivals, rescheduling is subject to availability Other things to note: -Drinks are NOT included. -Prepare to comfortably walk 1.5 miles at a moderate pace. -Time for food and mingling provided. -We are not wheelchair accessible

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).

5 out of 5 average rating, 83 reviews

Tour & Photo Session at four iconic locations

TIME CHANGE REQUESTS ARE ACCEPTED IF AVAILABLE! This tour will cover 4 iconic locations: Brooklyn Bridge, Dumbo, Times Square & Central Park. During the tour, you will learn some fun/historical facts while also learning which are the most unique and best photo spots at each selected location. I will take photos of each guest with a professional camera at each location and share pointers on how to take good photos with your cellphones for future travels.

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 156 reviews

Central Park Spectacular Photoshoot

My IG: @capture_by_j, But I prefer to be contacted here instead. I'll only communicate through the Airbnb platform If you have a different time in mind, simply send me a request and I'll let you know my availability 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. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! We'll be exploring CENTRAL PARK neighborhood capturing stunning views and beautiful moments along the way. I'll be snapping photos of you and your loved ones as we take in the breathtaking scenery, from the lakes, majestic bridges and beautiful pathways, Let's create some unforgettable memories together Please note that if you're more than 15 minutes late without notifying me, I will assume you're unable to make it. Once I give you the pictures, the responsibility transfers to you. The link to access to the added photos will remain available for 6 months, so remember to keep them safe. Please be aware that I am not liable for any of your belongings during the photoshoot

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 287 reviews

Brooklyn Bridge Tour, but with yelling

So, uh, why does New York build "really, really big things?" We tend to do that a lot. This is a fast-paced & funny walking essay that explores the answers to that question through the story of the Brooklyn Bridge. And to do so, we have to look the historical stories of immigration, engineering and political machines. With this tour, we use the bridge and it's bloody, weird history to get a deeper understanding of what is not only New York City, but what makes any city a city. Other things to note - This will be a mile of walking, with frequent breaks so be prepared to do a little exercise. - We will not end the tour where we start, but in a neighborhood called DUMBO where there will be many transportation options to easily get you where you need to go.

5 out of 5 average rating, 2 reviews

Private Central Park Pedicab Tour

Private Central Park Pedicab Tour is meticulously crafted to show you the park's most captivating sights. Get ready to tick off your Central Park bucket list and discover hidden gems along the way. Here's a taste of the magic you can expect: * Landmark Mania Prepare to be wowed by iconic places like the stunning Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, a movie favorite. Cruise by the elegant Bow Bridge, a popular spot for proposals and picture-perfect moments. * Secret Stops Revealed: One of the best parts about a Private Central Park Tour is uncovering hidden treasures you wouldn't find on your own. Our guide might whisk you away to a charming bridge with a fascinating history, or a tucked-away garden bursting with vibrant blooms. * Fresh Air & Fun Facts: The best part? You get to relax and enjoy the fresh air while we do all the navigating and storytelling. We'll share fun facts and interesting tidbits about the places you see, bringing the park's history and significance to life. * A Perfect Hour: One-hour pedicab tour is meticulously designed to provide a comprehensive and enjoyable overview of the park's highlights. The tour covers a comfortable distance, allowing you to see more than you could manage on foot without feeling rushed.

Art and culture activities in New York

Art and culture activities led by local experts

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