The Story Behind NY's Evolving Skyline An Architectural Journey Through History
5

The Story Behind NY's Evolving Skyline An Architectural Journey Through History

By Kitt Garrett New York Sites & Insights
Recommended by 100% of travellers
100% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Lowest price guarantee

Ages 0-120
Duration: 1h 58m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Audio guide: English
More
Written guide
Print or digital reading material such as a guide, map, brochure, etc.
: English
More


  • PDF of self-guided walking tour of the sites mentioned in the virtual tour.


Start:
  • Castle Clinton National Monument, New York, NY 10004, USA
    Castle Clinton in Battery Park is a good starting point for your self-guided walking tour.
End:
  • 20 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001, USA
    20 Hudson Yards, NYC is a good point to stop with shopping, restaurants and restrooms.

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Pushchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 309084P4

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Most travellers can participate
  • Electric wheelchairs may have difficulty navigating some corners of NYC's streets.
  • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

  • All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.

If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 309084P4

From
ÂŁ20.35
per group (up to 15)
Select date and travellers
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.

Similar experiences

Itinerary
  • New York, NY 10004, USA
    Castle Clinton in Battery Park is a good starting point for your self-guided walking tour.
  • 1
    From the time Henry Hudson sailed into New York’s Harbor, the City has been a hub of trade and commerce. See how New York’s architectural styles changed over 400 years from Georgian, Federal, Greek Revival, Romanesque Revival, Italianate, Renaissance Revival, Gothic Revival, “Queen Anne”, Neo-Classic to the modern period we see today. We’ll look at the future of New York City through zoning and the needs of the people who work and live side by side in towering skyscrapers and landmarked neighborhoods. See how the waterfront has been transforming from industrial to recreational neighborhood by neighborhood and how public and private partnerships are creating new destinations.
  • 20 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001, USA
    20 Hudson Yards, NYC is a good point to stop with shopping, restaurants and restrooms.
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
  • Kitt Garrett New York Sites & Insights
    43
    United States
    Joined in May 2021
  • Elizabeth C
    0 contributions
    1.0 of 5 bubbles
    Technical glitch
    Unfortunately the YouTube video had a glitch and kept replaying the first 1min20sec I loved walking the Highline but did not get the experience I paid for
    Written 29 August 2022
  • renee k
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    wonderful insight of the highline, it's background and development
    This is a wonderful insight into the continuing development of the HighLine and the area surrounding it. The virtual experience and the detailed map accompanying the tour makes it easy to identify the buildings and understand the forever changing NY skyline.
    Written 15 April 2022
  • jillcU7201TK
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Exploring the High Line with Kitt is to appreciate New York at a richer level.
    Oh so well done! I am stunned and delighted by the range, depth, and quality of the material covered - from the Dutch, to today, and beyond. Along with the very interesting history of the High Line itself, Kitt weaves together geography, trade, technology, architecture, important personalties, and lots of fun trivia. Helpful maps and photos support every aspect. Thank goodness it can be downloaded to enjoy again, which I certainly will do. What a value.
    Written 26 February 2022
  • N9572AImarthar
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Grand Central Station through history and to the present
    This was totally fascinating! Kitt's narrative is incredibly interesting and broadly informative. I love how she gave not only the history of Grand Central and surrounding area, but also insight on recent changes and developments, to bring the listener full circle. Her photos - especially the older ones - are lots of fun. And the way she circles and arrows specific sites allows the watcher to feel grounded and know exactly what she's talking about and what to look for when visiting. I highly recommend!
    Written 8 December 2021
  • Excursion53249
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    True tour of Grand Central
    Many tours exist on the internet about Grand Central, but few offer the in depth, myth busting, well presented timeline in beautiful visuals, accurate history as Kitt Garret’s does. Kitt is a true NYC treasure to tourism and these presentations created by her are another fine example.
    Written 23 November 2021
  • 916maribethk
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A New Look at Grand Central
    I just finished watching Kitt Garret’s virtual presentation of The Story Behind Grand Central Terminal. It’s a wonderful and informative tale of this exquisite terminal. I’ve lived in New York for most of my adult life and wasn’t aware of so much about this beauty from its humble beginning to the gracious terminal it has become. I will never walk through Grand Central Station again without taking the time to look up or look around at the large and small wonders of this building. Maribeth Kraus
    Written 15 November 2021
  • ChristopherA1703
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A must for History Buffs
    I have seen numerous documentaries about Grand Central Terminal. For the most part each of them tell the same story fit within a one-hour television slot. Due to the detailed work put into this virtual tour by Kitt, I learned things that I never knew about Grand Central. By far this is probably the most comprehensive collection of details put together about the GCT & its surroundings. I can’t wait to re-visit the terminal with my new found knowledge & fresh set of eyes. I highly recommend this tour to anyone thinking of visiting GC or interested in learning more about the great structure.
    Written 13 November 2021
  • Richard L
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The Story Behind NY’s Evolving Skyline an Architectural Journey Through History
    I recently found a new resource to help me enjoy my time in New York City in future visits. What made the city the way it is and why? Why is there such a mishmash of the types and styles of architecture? Who created the vast variety of architectural jewels in NYC? The answer to these and other questions about NYC are provided by Kitt Garrett in a virtual tour of NYC. Kitt Garret, a longtime provider of knowledgeable expert custom visits to New York City has a new venture offering a slate of virtual tours of New York. Her Architectural Journey Through History virtual experience is a 2-hour wealth of information about why the very history of the city has influenced how the buildings, plazas, and other features of the city were built in the manner they were. The stories of the people that inhabited the neighborhoods and the buildings they built are interesting and help you understand why the city has become a, if not the capital of the world. Richard L.
    Written 26 October 2021
  • Captjohn101
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A Grand history!!
    Like so many people I’ve probably traveled through Grand Central Terminal a 1000 times and never really gave a thought to the magnificent history, grand architecture and construction of Grand Central Terminal. Kitt Garrett’s tour is beyond interesting, educational and a fun experience. Don’t miss it. I am looking forward to taking the rest of the tours of NYC by Kitt.
    Written 12 October 2021
  • 240dyannk
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Central Park experience
    I have been to Central Park before but now I can really appreciate it so much more. I have been inspired! The stories and History bring the Park alive. I had no idea what a story I was about to walk through. How meaningful each area,monument, garden etc. are. It was fascinating to hear how it was funded over the years The guide Kitt told stories so well and with such enthusiasm that I was really impressed. Not only do I plan to learn more about NY from this source but already have passed this along to a friend who will be visiting NY soon. What a treat!
    Written 10 October 2021
  • petermQ5551AU
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A grand old building that serves a modern need.
    Loved the fact I could get behind the scene information about the building and it's history. Also all of the history about the surrounding neighborhood was facinating.
    Written 19 August 2021
  • penelopem598
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The hub of the City
    Been to the station many times even so I learned many new facts about the current building and it’s history
    Written 15 August 2021
  • ExpSusaedition272406
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    No Stone Unturned !
    I'm a born and bred New Yorker and have worked as a NYC tour guide for over 20 years !! Even with all that experience, Kitt Garrett's Story Behind Central Park video introduced me to so much I never knew about Central Park !!! You come away with an understanding of the history of its creation, all the challenges the park has faced over the years, the philosophy ( a park for all strata of society ), the animal life, ( yes....wait to you see )) the gardens, lakes, statues, design concepts... the brilliant minds that created it, I could go on and on.... But most important, a million ways to enjoy the park that you never thought of !! if you're visiting New York, of course you must visit Central Park .. But don't go without downloading the pdf and taking it with you ! You can easily follow the narrative, and her photos, past and present are fantastic ! They'll make finding spots to view so easy. This video is by far the most comprehensive one out there. It truly is an awesome achievement !!
    Written 6 June 2021
  • MerrieD13
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Kitt Garrett's The "Not To Be Missed" Tours!!!
    Kitt Garretts’ Amazing Tour of Grand Central Terminal Made Everything “Come Alive” for me. I had worked with Grand Central Terminal in my prior life when I owed Visitor Magazines in NY, but learned things on Kitts’ tour that I never knew before ,and that was after working with Grand Central Terminal for over 10 years. Her tour brought back such wonderful memories of so many thing: the Kodak Colorama and playing Tennis at the Vanderbilt Tennis Club; stories of Joe Baum bringing back The Oyster Bar, Rainbow Room and many other restaurants. It triggered such fond memories of working with Joe at the Rainbow Room creating major events for the Hospitality Industry, specifically the Concierge Community. I stood so many times at the information booth, never realizing there was no door to get in or out. And then to learn the secret of how the staff does get there was such a surprise. Mum’s the word. I also loved the story of the clock and the #6…again my lips are sealed. This was one of the most interesting comprehensive tours I have ever taken. I have already spoken with friends of mine both out of town and locally as it’s something you don’t want to miss.
    Written 4 June 2021
  • gfx88
    0 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Virtually Amazing - understanding the High Line better
    This is a (great) virtual experience, first off. I've been to the High Line before but never really 'got it'. Listening to Kitt Garrett explain why it was a big deal, how it was made and all the amazing buildings nearby was priceless! I'm planning to go back to visit NYC later this summer and I'm now planning on another trip to the High Line to see the parts I missed before. Here's a really great part: you can download a PDF and open it on your phone so when you visit, you'll have all the best information with you. The other part I liked is that the narrator (Kitt?) is very easy to listen to and explains everything in a very fun way. Even weird things like 'air rights' are understandable the way she explains it. (And air rights are apparently very important along the High Line!)
    Written 3 June 2021
See all 43 reviews
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Popular mentions

We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
5.0
5.0 of 5 bubbles18 reviews
Excellent
18
Very good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0

Barbara S
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2021
This talk was an extraordinary journey through the history of NYC's development told through a well researched architectural narrative. As a native New Yorker, I learned so much about the city that I love and will reference this talk frequently as I "re-explore" famous landmarks and buildings that I walk pass time after time.
I wholeheartedly recommend this talk for those who live in NY as well as first time visitors.
Written 21 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for you watching my history of NYC through its architecture and look forward to hearing which neighborhood you will explore next with fresh eyes!
Written 25 October 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

michaelnyc2017
New York City, NY3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2021
Bravo Kitt Garrett for opening up the wonders of New York to visitors to our great city. Her architecture tour is informative and entertaining and certain to encourage visitors to start exploring America's largest city.

As a long time New Yorker I even discovered several buildings that I have often seen but did not know their historical significance.

For all those who are planning a visit to Gotham, I have a suggestion, get a Metro Card and use Kitt's tour to guide you through one of the world's most exciting cities,
Written 25 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to watch my history of NYC through its architecture and discover the wonderful history of buildings you have walked past on previous strolls through the City! Keep looking up to see the wonderful tops of buildings.
Written 25 October 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

steeleaway
New York City2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2021
When you are planning a tour to experience the history of New York City with its rich heritage, outstanding architectural design,different cultures speaking in a variety of languages, the Architectural Journey through History Tour is perfect for you. Kitt's tour makes your visit to New York City an experience of discovery unlike any other. The virtual tour is an exceptional well researched guide which prepares you to understand the history of development, the neighborhoods, and the continual evolution. You will learn about how NYC evolved from an island inhabited by Native Americans, visited by European explorers and first settled by Europeans in 1624. This is only the beginning-every place you walk and every building you look at has a story to share as you explore the sites on your walk of discovery. Your exclusive private guide will include stories about the people who made this city what is is today. Regardless of how long you have lived in the city or how many times you have visited , there is always something new to learn. Kitt Garrett has meticulously researched the history and architecture of neighborhoods, historic sites, building techniques and the latest developments which continue to make NYC one of the leading visitor destinations in the world. Welcome to your journey of discovery.

s
Written 10 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your enthusiastic support of my efforts to showcase the history of NYC by walking through its streets, looking up and marveling at the splendid architecture. The different styles will remind you of when they were constructed and what was happening in NYC during that time. Enjoy your stroll through history.
Written 25 October 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Bette M
Avon, CT1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2023
Kitt is very methodical and organized in her narrative tour of NYC and it's architecture. I thoroughly enjoyed her detailed descriptions and locations of each structure and the reason for it's particular choice. It provided a true history of the great city and how it evolved. She also took us into the future of what buildings might look like and the approach to preserving airspace. I highly recommend these informative and educational narratives prior to visiting NYC so to enhance your knowledge and to more fully appreciate the experience.
Written 28 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Colin M
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2021
This is the perfect travel companion! Kitt's attention to the small details of the architecture transport you through history, giving you a window into the past while enjoying the present of this vibrant city.

The pacing of her information is spot-on. After two hours, I felt like an expert on New York without ever feeling overwhelmed with information overload. The accompanying pictures helped me visualize myself walking in the footsteps of history.

I cannot recommend her tours more highly!
Written 24 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for inspiring locals and visitors see NYC with fresh eyes! Remember to download the pdf of the virtual tour to your device so you can reference the street addresses and neighborhoods as you explore on your own. Capture those architectural details with your camera and upload them into Tripcast to create your own memory book!
Written 19 August 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

James C
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2021
Kitt Garrett's virtual "Architectural Journey Through History' was fabulous! As a native New Yorker who now lives in the Washington, DC area, I was amazed at the breadth and scope of facts she p[resented, in a very interesting and appealing format. As a student of architecture and history, I loved the way she wove together the history of NYC with its evolving architecture and trends, able to deftly point out some architectural gems in the city.

Any one interested in visiting and traveling around NYC for a few days, would greatly benefit from taking this virtual tour as a prelude to their actual visit.

Brava!! I will most assuredly will watch her Grant Central Terminal virtual tour, as well!
Written 23 December 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for watching the Architectural tour of NYC! I am delighted that as a student of architecture you found the scope of the historical facts interesting in the presentation. The architectural gems of the City are what makes our evolving skyline so interesting and am excited to hear your thoughts about the Grand Central Terminal tours as well.
Written 24 December 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

foodie2323
Lansdale, PA3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2021
For anyone contemplating a trip to New York City this talk is invaluable.

Kitt Garrett makes the city come alive with her knowledge, passion and expertise.

The information she shares covers decades of the city's development into present day and beyond

on the coming years.



Even if you know the city, have visited many times or in fact, live there-you will come away with a

new enhanced perspective and appreciation for the architecture, the history, the challenges, the accomplishments

of our forefathers who turned out to be very forward thinking.



It is a 2 hour journey of pure pleasure, education and entertainment.
Written 21 December 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your enthusiastic review of NYC's Evolving Skyline! Walking around NYC, looking up and realizing what was happening in history as these buildings were being built is a joy for the explorer and history lover. Am so happy that you found this new enhanced perspective and appreciation for the architecture, history, and the challenges, our forefathers encountered as they built for the future of NYC.
Written 22 December 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

gfx88
Maplewood, NJ16 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2021
So, I bought another virtual tour (High Line) from Kitt Garrett and loved it, so I thought I'd give this one a try too. I really like how she presents stories and even some of the more obscure but important facts (like 'air rights' - which no one could ever *really* explain to me, even though I've been on a few NYC tours before and they're the whole reason for all the new giant towers).
She (I'm guessing it's her narrating) doesn't sound like she's reading, but like she's just talking to me.
Does this cover the *entire* history of NYC? Pretty much yes! It's really great how she breezes through 400 years and explains everything about architecture and buildings without getting too technical or confusing. But in the end I felt a lot smarter and ready to explore the city on my own. It made me see the city in a whole new way, and a way where all the time periods connected in interesting ways.
Like I said, I've been to NYC before but the next time I go (later this summer) I'm going to take the PDF she gives you and find all the cool stuff I've never seen that she told me about -- like the building that almost fell down but was saved secretly by a student!
Written 3 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your enthusiastic response to hearing the stories about the history of the High Line and Hudson Yards! The process of researching the stories to uncover the secrets, myths, and truths as fascinating and I am happy you enjoyed it. Remember to download the pdf of the virtual tour so when you visit on your own, you can find the locations you want to photograph and upload into Tripcast to create your own memory book!
Written 19 August 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Jim O
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2021
Kitt has developed and presented a university research level of detail about New York history and architecture. It is, however, fun, insightful, fascinating!
Our Long Island high school used to sponsor NYC day trips presented by teachers who lived and worked the city historical scene for decades. Kitt's presentation is better than those actual field trips especially her use of photographs and the timely arrows pointing to specific architectural features. Wonderfully helpful.
Many podcasts use professional voices to read their material. I favor author presented casts. Kitt reads her own material in a calm, fun (there is that word again), clear voice with her unique understanding of the points of emphasis.
Written 22 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
So happy that you enjoyed the history of NYC through its architecture and could reference your own visits and those of your teachers and students as they visited on field trips! NYC is constantly changing and each stroll through our streets opens doors to wonderful new adventures while learning about the past.
Written 25 October 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Anne1326
Norfolk, VA21 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2021
Kitts talk on the architecture of New York City is fascinating! Beginning with the early history of New York she takes the listener on a journey of not only the architectural highlights, but so many interesting and little-known facts about New York. Her explanations are detailed, yet easy enough for the average listener to understand and follow. There is much material to absorb and having the option to pause the video and watch at your own leisure makes it perfect for those who wish to take notes, or come back to an earlier segment.
We are excited to have this new knowledge about a city we love to visit, and I know this will add another dimension to our next trip. I highly recommend this presentation for anyone who visits New York and wants to see beyond the surface!
Written 31 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your enthusiasm about the history of NYC and the wonderful architecture created by so many talented architects. Please remember to download the pdf to your device so you have it with you when you explore the City using the addresses to visit on your own. Take lots of photos and upload them to Tripcast to create your own memory book to share with family and friends!
Written 19 August 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Showing results 1-10 of 18
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

The Story Behind NY's Evolving Skyline An Architectural Journey Through History provided by Kitt Garrett New York Sites & Insights

All New York City HotelsNew York City Hotel DealsLast Minute Hotels in New York City
All things to do in New York City
Day Trips in New York City
RestaurantsFlightsHoliday RentalsTravel StoriesCruisesCar Hire