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PRIVATE TOUR OFFERING: George Washington’s New York Walking Tour
Discover the fascinating people and historic landmarks George Washington encountered during his three transformative stays in New York City!
Step back in time to the eighteenth century and follow in the footsteps of George Washington as you explore the historic streets of Lower Manhattan. In three pivotal periods—1776, 1783, and 1789 to 1790—Washington left an indelible mark on the city, as did the city on him.
Imagine it: April 1776. The British just evacuated Boston, and General Washington arrived in New York, a deeply contested city that the Marquis de Lafayette called the “pivot” of operations. The fate of the new nation teetered on the general’s every move. Over the next few months, he led the Continental Army in five fierce battles in and around the city, beginning with the monumental Battle of Brooklyn and ending with the ill-fated Battle of Fort Washington. Fast forward to 1783—Washington reenters the city as the war comes to a close. His emotional farewell to his officers at Fraunces Tavern was the prelude to his greatest act of leadership. And finally, in 1789, he returned once again—this time to lead the nation as president under its fresh but fragile Constitution. The tour is led by a licensed tour guide and historian with over twenty-five years of experience in educating and entertaining.
On this immersive walking tour, you’ll walk the same streets as Washington during these three critical periods. You’ll visit historic sites and discover the stories behind them—stories of courage, sacrifice, and perseverance. Marvel at the hidden gems of American history brought to life with vivid accounts and reproductions of paintings of key moments.
A few highlights . . .
- Stand at the site of the Commons, where the Sons and Daughters of Liberty heard the Declaration of Independence read aloud for the first time.
- Learn about the courageous women who played pivotal roles during the war.
- Explore the historic grounds of Trinity Church, the first of which burned down in the Great Fire of 1776 while Washington was in the city. Visit the resting place of his aide-de-camp and later Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton.
- Relive Washington’s poignant farewell to his officers at Fraunces Tavern.
- Uncover the story of thousands of African Americans who fought for their liberty and earned Certificates of Freedom after the war.
- Witness history at a 1766 colonial church Washington frequented during his presidency.
- Marvel at today’s Federal Hall, the site of the first U.S. Capitol where Washington took his momentous presidential oath.
- Stand near the East River where you’ll discover a little-known battle that nearly ended the Revolution and hear the gripping tale of Washington’s resilience in the face of defeat.
- Discover the remarkable history of empowered African American congregants of a church who founded the first African Methodist Episcopal Church in New York
. . . and so much more!
This isn’t just a tour—it’s a journey into the heart of America’s beginnings, told through Washington’s experiences. The past comes alive as you hear the powerful words of Washington, Abigail Adams, Benjamin Tallmadge, Martha Washington, and others. Uncover stories and unexpected moments, all on the very streets where history was made. You’ll encounter New York City in a new light, one that will inspire and transform your understanding of America’s beginnings! Sign up today!
