Fifth Avenue in the Gilded Age:
Address to Impress

Step back in time to New York’s glittering Gilded Age as you stroll along Manhattan’s most prestigious Avenue. This fascinating journey reveals how Fifth Avenue transformed from a quiet residential street into America’s grandest address. Marvel at the magnificent architecture of surviving mansions and learn the captivating stories of the powerful families who called them home. From Caroline Astor’s legendary ballroom to the Vanderbilt’s French château, discover how New York’s elite used their vast industrial fortunes to reshape the city’s landscape. Your guide will unveil the hidden histories, architectural details, and social intrigue that defined this extraordinary era, while showing how Fifth Avenue’s golden age continues to influence the vibrant heart of New York City today.

 

Fifth Avenue Association NYC logo

Tours in partnership with  Fifth Avenue Association(opens in a new tab).

 

Historic Sites
Legendary luxury
Expert Guided Experience
fifth-avenue-gilded-age-style-architecture-highlights

Tour Highlights

Star Icon Step into the world of New York’s elite and uncover the untold stories of the influential families who built opulent mansions along Fifth Avenue.

Star Icon Trace the dramatic evolution of the neighborhood from a glamorous residential enclave to the bustling commercial heart of Manhattan.

Star Icon Marvel at the architectural wonders that defined an era, and uncover hidden remnants of Gilded Age grandeur.

Star Icon Explore how Fifth Avenue became a global shopping mecca where elegance and luxury reign supreme.

Star Icon Dive into the real-life inspirations behind HBO’s The Gilded Age and uncover the true stories that rival the drama on screen.

Tour Details


Tour Type

Professionally guided holiday walking tour.


Duration

90 minutes


Price

$49 USD per person


Inclusions

Expert Licensed Local Guide


Meeting Point

New York Public Library
Fifth Avenue at 41st Street
Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
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Directly behind the Fortitude Lion


Ending Point

Grand Army Plaza
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Please note...

Policies

We want you to have a great experience and will do our best to accommodate you. Even with the best intentions we understand that sometimes things happen. We ask kindly that you please take a moment to review our policies:

  • Reservations:  Advance reservations are required for all tours and can be booked securely online.  For larger groups, alternate options, availability or general questions please contact us(opens in a new tab)
  • Schedule:  Tours start promptly at the designated meeting location for your chosen tour.  We recommend you plan to arrive a few minutes early.  If you anticipate a delay in arrival please call us at (646) 320-1277.
  • Exchanges and Refunds:  If for any reason you cannot make your scheduled tour we will be happy to reschedule your tour for another day.  If you must cancel your tour we will provide a full refund of your tour at your request with a minimum of 24 hours notice.
  • Weather:  All tours are conducted on a year round basis, rain or shine.  If inclement weather is expected or there is a severe weather advisory warning in effect around the time of the tour, we will contact you to discuss all options including or rescheduling the tour to another day or provide a refund.
  • Dress:  For the most enjoyable experience we suggest dressing appropriately for the weather and wearing comfortable walking shoes.
  • Photos:   Bring a fully charged phone or camera.  Your guide is happy to take photos for you at your request.
  • Rest stops:  We want you to have the most comfortable and enjoyable experience.  Please let your guide know if there is anything you need along your journey such as a seat, a restroom, a break from outside conditions or provisions.
  • Accessibility:  Our tours take place on level terrain and are stroller and wheelchair friendly. Please notify your guide if any participants might require special accommodation or accessibility during the tour.
  • Transportation:  We believe the  best way to experience New York City is on foot.  Our tours are walking tours that go at a comfortable leisurely pace.  We can provide private transportation or assist with public transportation for an additional fee upon request.
  • Safety:  We follow all of the most current federal, state and local guidelines and follow best practices to ensure the safety for all. Our tours take place primarily outdoors unless otherwise noted.

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