Midtown Manhattan, New York City Self-guided GPS audio walking tour - Iconic Architecture & Historical Sites
Places: 22 POIs
Distance: 3.04 mi
Duration: 1h:44m
GPS-guided narration through
Your Smartphone
Tour #2337
About this English self-guided 1h:44m walking tour in New York
Hello there and welcome to this UCPlaces tour of Manhattan in New York City!
We will start at the Empire State Building and finish at Columbus Circle.
On this tour we will see some amazing architecture, visit some historical sites, take in some beautiful scenery, and learn a lot of fun facts about Manhattan that you didn’t know you needed to know!
Are you ready to explore? Great! Just follow your navigation to our starting point and I'll meet you there!
- 1For the best experience, begin at the tour's recommended starting point and follow the stops in order.
- 2Want to start somewhere else? Simply use Start At on the tour screen, before tapping Start Tour, to begin from any stop.
- 3Need to detour or skip a stop along the way? Tap Tour Assistant (
![UCPlaces AI Bot Icon]()
) to use Force Play, Skip, and Back, for full flexibility.
) to use Force Play, Skip, and Back, for full flexibility.
Route Preview
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Places (POIs) visited during this tour
Place #1
![Map Pin]()
Recommended Starting Point
Distance: 0.34mi
, Attraction : Famous Building
1 E 33rd St 11th floor, New York, NY 10016, USA
The Empire State Building
Welcome to a New York City icon!
The Empire State Building is not just a building; it’s a living legend.
Located in the heart of Manhattan, it’s New York City’s most famous symbol. Built in 1931, it held the title of "the tallest building in the world" for nearly 40 years. The iconic structure, designed in the Art Deco style, rises to a height of 381 meters (443 meters if you include the antenna).
Construction of the Empire State Building began in 1930 and was part of the "race to the skies." At the time, other skyscrapers, like the Manhattan Bank Building and the Chrysler Building (which we’ll visit later), were also being constructed.
The architectural design was entrusted to the firm of architect William Lamb, whose milestones included a simple yet impressive Art Deco style.
For $44 per adult, you can visit the observation deck on the 86th floor, which offers stunning panoramic views of New York and its key landmarks, including Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
For $79 per adult, you can take the elevator up 16 more floors to the 102nd floor for a more intimate viewing experience. I suggest saving your money for one of the two recommended observation points in this tour, either the Empire State Building or the Chrysler Building—at least one is a must-see. Note that prices may vary depending on the season.
The Empire State Building wasn’t just a skyscraper; it was a cultural phenomenon. People came from all over the world to marvel at its stunning Art Deco facade and ride the fast elevator. It’s said that the views from the top were so breathtaking they once cured someone of a fear of heights. The building has served as the backdrop for countless iconic films like *King Kong*, *Spider-Man*, *The Avengers*, *Independence Day*, and *Sleepless in Seattle*.
During World War II, the building's lights were dimmed to conserve electricity but still flashed patriotic Morse code messages to boost soldiers' morale. Yes, a skyscraper that’s also a patriot.
Today, the impressive Empire State Building still stands tall and stars in thousands of Instagram selfies every day. It’s not just a building; it’s a symbol of the power, ambition, and daring spirit of New York.
Here are some must-know facts:
- The building is struck by lightning an average of 25 times a year.
- It was built during the Great Depression at record speed—410 days, or roughly four and a half floors per week.
- Over 3,400 workers, many of them immigrants, participated in the construction project.
- The spire, added to make it the tallest, was originally designed as a mooring mast for airships, adding another 200 feet to its height.
- Every year, a stair-climbing race to the 86th floor (1,576 steps) is held. The record: less than 10 minutes! Ready, set, go!
The building’s exterior lighting at night changes for events and holidays, and you can even request custom lighting for your birthday through the building’s website if you submit your application at least three months in advance.
Alright, let’s keep moving! Follow the navigation instructions to East 34th Street!
The Empire State Building is not just a building; it’s a living legend.
Located in the heart of Manhattan, it’s New York City’s most famous symbol. Built in 1931, it held the title of "the tallest building in the world" for nearly 40 years. The iconic structure, designed in the Art Deco style, rises to a height of 381 meters (443 meters if you include the antenna).
Construction of the Empire State Building began in 1930 and was part of the "race to the skies." At the time, other skyscrapers, like the Manhattan Bank Building and the Chrysler Building (which we’ll visit later), were also being constructed.
The architectural design was entrusted to the firm of architect William Lamb, whose milestones included a simple yet impressive Art Deco style.
For $44 per adult, you can visit the observation deck on the 86th floor, which offers stunning panoramic views of New York and its key landmarks, including Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
For $79 per adult, you can take the elevator up 16 more floors to the 102nd floor for a more intimate viewing experience. I suggest saving your money for one of the two recommended observation points in this tour, either the Empire State Building or the Chrysler Building—at least one is a must-see. Note that prices may vary depending on the season.
The Empire State Building wasn’t just a skyscraper; it was a cultural phenomenon. People came from all over the world to marvel at its stunning Art Deco facade and ride the fast elevator. It’s said that the views from the top were so breathtaking they once cured someone of a fear of heights. The building has served as the backdrop for countless iconic films like *King Kong*, *Spider-Man*, *The Avengers*, *Independence Day*, and *Sleepless in Seattle*.
During World War II, the building's lights were dimmed to conserve electricity but still flashed patriotic Morse code messages to boost soldiers' morale. Yes, a skyscraper that’s also a patriot.
Today, the impressive Empire State Building still stands tall and stars in thousands of Instagram selfies every day. It’s not just a building; it’s a symbol of the power, ambition, and daring spirit of New York.
Here are some must-know facts:
- The building is struck by lightning an average of 25 times a year.
- It was built during the Great Depression at record speed—410 days, or roughly four and a half floors per week.
- Over 3,400 workers, many of them immigrants, participated in the construction project.
- The spire, added to make it the tallest, was originally designed as a mooring mast for airships, adding another 200 feet to its height.
- Every year, a stair-climbing race to the 86th floor (1,576 steps) is held. The record: less than 10 minutes! Ready, set, go!
The building’s exterior lighting at night changes for events and holidays, and you can even request custom lighting for your birthday through the building’s website if you submit your application at least three months in advance.
Alright, let’s keep moving! Follow the navigation instructions to East 34th Street!
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Place #2
![Map Pin]()
Distance: 0.17mi
, Attraction : Famous Street
351 5th Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA
5th Avenue
We are going to turn right on 34th street and head over to Park Avenue, but I wanted to tell you all about 5th Avenue, which is the street we have been walking along. Fifth Avenue is the stuff of legends, stretching from the artsy vibes of Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village all the way up to 142nd Street in Harlem. This avenue is like Manhattan’s runway, flaunting luxury, fashion, and culture as if it's strutting in the latest designer collection.
Starting downtown, Fifth Avenue kicks off near NYU, where students pretend to study while actually scoping out the best food trucks. As you head north, you enter the glitzy heart of Midtown, where Fifth Avenue shows off its true colors as the ultimate shopping paradise. Here, you'll find high-end boutiques, flagship stores, and luxury brands that make your credit card sweat just by walking past. Saks Fifth Avenue and Tiffany & Co. are basically temples of retail therapy, where window shopping is a high-stakes sport.
But don’t worry, Fifth Avenue isn't all about burning holes in your wallet. It's also home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. The New York Public Library, guarded by the ever-patient Patience and Fortitude, offers a grand entrance at 42nd Street. We will be visiting there soon.
If you journey further up Fifth Avenue, you’ll hit the Museum Mile, a cultural buffet with institutions like the Met, the Guggenheim, and the Museum of the City of New York. Although these sites are not part of this tour, you may want to check it out in the future. This stretch is a playground for art lovers and history buffs, where you can pretend to be sophisticated while secretly trying to remember the last time you dusted your bookshelf.
Central Park, the city’s leafy sanctuary, cozies up to Fifth Avenue from 59th to 110th Street. It’s the perfect place to escape the concrete jungle, have a picnic, or just marvel at the squirrels who are living their best lives.
Finally, as you approach the upper stretches of Fifth Avenue, things get a bit more residential, with elegant apartment buildings and historic brownstones. It’s like the avenue is saying, “Even I need to chill sometimes.”
In essence, Fifth Avenue is New York City’s showpiece—diverse, dynamic, and full of life. Whether you’re splurging on fashion, soaking in culture, or just people-watching, Fifth Avenue offers an experience that’s as unforgettable as a New York minute.
Keep on strolling. Up next is Park Avenue.
Starting downtown, Fifth Avenue kicks off near NYU, where students pretend to study while actually scoping out the best food trucks. As you head north, you enter the glitzy heart of Midtown, where Fifth Avenue shows off its true colors as the ultimate shopping paradise. Here, you'll find high-end boutiques, flagship stores, and luxury brands that make your credit card sweat just by walking past. Saks Fifth Avenue and Tiffany & Co. are basically temples of retail therapy, where window shopping is a high-stakes sport.
But don’t worry, Fifth Avenue isn't all about burning holes in your wallet. It's also home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. The New York Public Library, guarded by the ever-patient Patience and Fortitude, offers a grand entrance at 42nd Street. We will be visiting there soon.
If you journey further up Fifth Avenue, you’ll hit the Museum Mile, a cultural buffet with institutions like the Met, the Guggenheim, and the Museum of the City of New York. Although these sites are not part of this tour, you may want to check it out in the future. This stretch is a playground for art lovers and history buffs, where you can pretend to be sophisticated while secretly trying to remember the last time you dusted your bookshelf.
Central Park, the city’s leafy sanctuary, cozies up to Fifth Avenue from 59th to 110th Street. It’s the perfect place to escape the concrete jungle, have a picnic, or just marvel at the squirrels who are living their best lives.
Finally, as you approach the upper stretches of Fifth Avenue, things get a bit more residential, with elegant apartment buildings and historic brownstones. It’s like the avenue is saying, “Even I need to chill sometimes.”
In essence, Fifth Avenue is New York City’s showpiece—diverse, dynamic, and full of life. Whether you’re splurging on fashion, soaking in culture, or just people-watching, Fifth Avenue offers an experience that’s as unforgettable as a New York minute.
Keep on strolling. Up next is Park Avenue.
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Tour itinerary stops | Additional places you'll see on this self-guided tour
Place 1
The Empire State Building
Place 2
5th Avenue
Place 3
Park Avenue
Place 4
MetLife Building
Place 5
Chrysler Building
Place 6
Grand Central Terminal
Place 7
New York Public Library
Place 8
Bryant Park
Place 9
Times Square
Place 10
One Times Square
Place 11
Broadway Street
Place 12
Father Duffy Square
Place 13
Radio City Music Hall
Place 14
Top of the Rock
Place 15
Rockefeller Center
Place 16
St. Patrick's Cathedral
Place 17
St. Thomas Church
Place 18
The Museum of Modern Art
Place 19
Carnegie Hall
Place 20
Central Park
Place 21
Columbus Circle
Click below for full access to this tour
Have any questions about this tour? Or a general travel / self-guided tours question? That's completely natural
+ How long does this tour take?
Most travelers complete this tour in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on pace, time spent at each stop, and optional detours. Having said that, please remember that self-guided tours are extremly flexible (you can start, pause, continue anytime) and everyone has their own pace.
+ What does this tour include?
This self-guided walking tour includes 22 stops, covering top attractions such as The Empire State Building, 5th Avenue, Park Avenue, MetLife Building, Chrysler Building.
+ Where does the tour start?
The tour starts at The Empire State Building (Address: 1 E 33rd St 11th floor, New York, NY 10016, USA). You can begin the tour there or join from any stop along the route.
+ What type of tour is this?
This is a self-guided walking tour designed to be completed on foot through walkable areas and city highlights.
+ Can I do this tour at my own pace?
Yes, this is a self-guided walking tour, so you can start anytime and explore at your own pace. You can pause, skip stops, or spend more time at places that interest you. You can even split it into multiple days. Explore however feels right for you.
+ Is this a walkable tour?
Yes, this tour is fully walkable and designed to follow a comfortable route through pedestrian-friendly areas.
+ Do I need anything in order to take the tour?
There is one thing that you need - A mobile phone (with the UCPlaces app installed and active location services, and a cellular data plan with a decent signal for downloading the tour) and comfortable walking shoes! But here are some recommendations for a great experience: 1. Make sure your phone is fully charged and bring a mobile charger/battery. 2. Bring earphones for the best experience. 3. Bring a bottle of water and dress appropriately according to the weather forecast.
+ How will I navigate from point to point during the tour?
The tour uses GPS-based navigation through the UCPlaces app, with automatic audio playback and step-by-step directions between stops. Just follow the route (cross streets carefully using crosswalks) and listen to the audio guide. Use the resume feature to continue the from where you recently stopped (or closed the app). Easily skip or go back to stops.
+ Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
Yes, self-guided tours are ideal for families and small groups, allowing everyone to explore comfortably without being tied to a fixed schedule.
+ What makes a self-guided tour better than a guided tour?
Self-guided tours are more flexible, affordable, and personalized. You can avoid crowds, choose your pace, and focus on the stops that interest you most.
+ I installed the app and it's now asking for GPS and media access permissions, why?
The app is your tour-guide, it needs to know where you are located on the map to be able to trigger the points of interest. It also needs access to audio and media files to provide you with this experience.
+ What happens if there are unexpected roadblocks or navigation issues?
We have been working hard to deliver a great experience. Though you may run into unexpected obstacles (the world is constantly changing), our app has multiple features and mechanisms in place to help you overcome them, including: AI assistance, force play an audio if you can't reach the stop, skip or return to stops, automatic rerouting and more.
+ Can I take the tour in my language?
Though all of our tours are primarily in English, many tours are muyltilingual (including: Spanish, German, Portuguese, French, Japanese, Hebrew, French, Arabic and more...). The tour language options depend on the specific tour - You can easily check which languages are available in the tour screen!