From political rallies to punk shows, the East Village has always been a stage for change; after all, where else can you find New York’s oldest bar, a hidden speakeasy, and the home of Yiddish theater within blocks of each other? It's time to hit the streets and explore a neighborhood where immigrant stories, artistic revolutions, and historic landmarks collide on every corner.
Join New York Adventure Club as we uncover the rich and layered history of Manhattan’s East Village — once considered part of the Lower East Side, this ever-evolving enclave has been a key hub for immigrant communities, radical movements, and boundary-pushing artists for over two centuries.
Led by licensed tour guide and native New Yorker Richard Soden, this unique walk through one of New York's most eclectic neighborhoods will include:
- A look at the East Village’s immigrant and artistic roots — from German beer halls and Ukrainian churches to Yiddish theaters and Puerto Rican social clubs
- An exploration of St. Mark’s Place and surrounding streets — where speakeasies, protests, and counterculture movements took hold
- A dive into the neighborhood’s performance legacy — from the Jewish Rialto to CBGB, where Yiddish stars and punk icons shaped New York’s cultural scene on very different stages
- A visit to McSorley’s Old Ale House — the city’s oldest bar, serving pints and stories since 1854
- A walk through Tompkins Square Park — exploring its history of activism, key monuments, and the burial site of Peter Stuyvesant
See you there!
*Please bring a water bottle and comfortable pair of shoes as we’ll be doing a lot of walking!
**Our experience will conclude at St. Mark's Church in-the-Bowery on Second Avenue between 10th and 11th Streets
About Richard
"I am a native New Yorker who was born and have lived on the lower east side all my life. I love this city and all its beauty and peculiarities, and I love sharing it with native New Yorkers, newcomers, and returning visitors. I enjoy telling stories which I'll share with you. You’ll learn the many secrets about the city I call 'home.'"
Disclaimer
Event takes place rain or shine.
By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.
Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours
