Feeling flush? Head to 'Reserve Cut', a high-end steakhouse just several blocks away
The original Federal Hall was the birthplace of North American government. Built in 1700 as New York’s City Hall, it later served as the first capitol building of the USA under the constitution. It was also the site of George Washington’s inauguration as the first president in 1789, and where the US Bill of Rights was introduced in the first congress. Although the original building was demolished in 1812, this memorial was built on the same site on Wall Street just thirty years later.
The memorial is marked by a giant statue of George Washington himself, and the sense of history about the place is palpable. Guided tours of the building are offered throughout the day and its exhibits include George Washington’s Inauguration Gallery, along with the bible he used and the very slab of stone he stood on while taking his oath, and an exhibition on the struggles of John Peter Zenger, who was jailed, tried and acquitted of libel for exposing government corruption in his newspaper.
Even today the building’s symbolic significance remains strong: on September 6th, 2002, roughly 300 members of the US Congress convened there in a show of support for the city, which was still recovering from the trauma of 9/11. Just four blocks away from the World Trade Centre site, this was the first meeting of Congress in New York since 1790.
A Tale of Two Cities
The classical architecture of the Federal Hall National Memorial reflects two North American ideals. The Doric columns of the facade were inspired by those of the Parthenon in Athens and acknowledge Greece, the birthplace of democracy. Inside, the domed ceiling resembles that of Rome’s Pantheon and evokes the republican ideals of the Roman empire. Together, they represent the form of government the USA aspires to.
Beginning with views of the Statue of Liberty, you will learn about the history of perhaps the most iconic city in the world as you absorb the truly vibrant atmosphere of the city that never sleeps, from Wall Street to the bustling streets of Downtown Manhattan, the sparkling brilliance of Times Square and end with tickets to see the glorious views from the Top of the Rock - the sky-high observatory at the Rockefeller Centre.
On your private full-day tour of New York City, you will:
Your tour begins in the heart of Wall Street, where you'll discover the most famous financial district in the world. Begin with an introduction to the history of New Amsterdam - that became New York in Battery Park - with glorious views out towards the Statue of Liberty, before exploring the highlights of Wall Street, including the statues of the Fearless Girl and Charging Bull, the New York Stock Exchange and the Federal Bank - where you'll hear all about the history and formation of the modern financial institutions and systems invented by Alexander Hamilton.
Your tour continues to the National 9/11 Memorial and Ground Zero— the original site of the World Trade Center. Here, your guide will share the history of the World Trade Center and discuss the tragic events of 9/11 when the two terrorist planes crashed into the Twin Towers, forever changing the modern world.
Next, it's time to take a New York metro ride - the most popular - and fastest - way of travelling around the city to Midtown Manhattan! First, you'll explore Grand Central Terminal, the most iconic transportation hub in the United States, with beautiful celestial ceiling murals and stunning Beaux-Arts architecture.
It is the setting of many movies and novels and is also famous for its shopping, bars, and restaurants - it is the second most visited landmark in New York after Times Square. Enjoy a delicious lunch in the area - your guide will be happy to make recommendations.
After lunch, explore the iconic area of Midtown Manhattan - famous for its skyscrapers, high-end shopping and of course Broadway theatre scene!
Enjoy a tranquil stroll through Bryant Park, a lovely green oasis in the heart of busy Midtown. See the New York Public Library - flanked by two giant lions, and admire the art deco skyscrapers the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building, that made up New York's world-famous skyline.
Walk along the iconic 5th Avenue famous for its department stores - admire the stunning window displays at Saks, and the historical contrast of St Patrick's Cathedral, an impressive neo-gothic construction that was opened in 1879. Famous for its spires, stained glass windows, and titanic bronze doors - the cathedral has hosted many famous funerals including Babe Ruth and Bobby Kennedy.
Head to the amazing Times Square, known as the 'crossroads of the world to see the news ticker on the One Times Square Building, the NASDAQ board, and the myriad of flashing neon signs that lead you onto the bright lights of Broadway!
Finally, passing by the iconic Radio City Hall, your guide will give you your tickets to 'The Top of the Rock', the Rockefeller Observation deck at the top of the Rockefeller Centre.
Your guide will show you the entrance and leave you to enjoy a perfect end to a perfect day - with a breathtaking bird’s eye view of Manhattan and the rest of the Big Apple.
Please note that tour guides are not allowed to guide inside the Statue of Liberty Museum and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Your guide will give you full information on each island and then silently accompany you through the museums. He/she will be able to answer questions you may have but not actually “guide” you through the museums.
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