New York Adventure Club

https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1986099993545

This is a re-aired recording of this program’s most recent live webinar. Once the viewing period ends, this recording will not be offered again for at least one year.

Containing over 245 miles of tracks and 36 lines across five boroughs, the New York City subway system is one of the largest and most extensive public transportation networks in the world. But even more impressive are the unique sights and bites at every one of the 472 stations — from cultural landmarks, to authentic cuisines, to everything in between. With the help of modern technology, it's time to hop on a New York City subway from end-to-end to explore incredible local wonders from the comfort of your home — and without ever having to swipe your MetroCard.

Join New York Adventure Club for the first stop on our Virtual NYC Subway Adventure series — an immersive take on a subway stop tour that features a virtual visit to unique attractions and local highlights surrounding every single station on a New York City subway line. Next stop: The 1 Train, which contains 38 stops across 15 miles between the Bronx and Manhattan.

Led by New York City local and licensed tour guide Jim Ryan, our carefully curated and jam-packed exploration of every stop on the 1 train — featuring shops, restaurants, museums, statues, parks, bookstores, and much more — will include:

• A visit to the best carrot cake in the city
• Teeing-off at the nation’s oldest public golf course
• A trip to a Manhattan neighborhood that's not on Manhattan island
• Offbeat subway culture including impromptu (and not always welcomed) musical and dance performances
• The story behind a theatre named in honor of everyone’s favorite Vulcan
• The fine arts epicenter of NYC
• Touching memorials and statues, ranging from war monuments to individual dedications
• A stroll around New York City's oldest parks

Afterward, we'll have a Q&A with Jim — any and all questions about the stops along the 1 train are welcomed and encouraged!
Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay for one week.
See you there, virtually!

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar
**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you're using the latest version of your internet browser
***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week
****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!

Testimonials
"Jim makes it interesting, is knowledgeable and loves what he does." -Marcia
"So much prep work to make this a seamless experience. Well researched and curated. Brisk, original, and fun. Loved the radio voice too." -Jessica
"It was well-organized, easy to follow, and showed me places I hadn't been aware of. It is evident that the producers put a good deal of time into its preparation." -Randi
"Really interesting and enjoyable format and topic!" -Elizabeth
"It was well paced and very interesting!" -Mary
"Great speaker. More please!" -Julie
"Great use of multimedia and a mix of historical, culinary, cultural and architectural info." -Linda
"James the tour guide was great. He was very informative, knowledgeable and witty." -Marienne
"Showing the points of interest at each stop, including restaurants and groceries." -Peter
"I enjoyed the history regarding areas at the subway stops. Highlighting points of interest as well as, the “subway performers” was very interesting. The presentation was well planned." -Patricia
"Enjoyable, well-paced presentation. Had a lot of interesting information, but never dragged - and at the same time was never overwhelming, either. The presenter was engaging and entertaining, with a nice voice and a sense of humor." -Mary
"I liked the format and of course Jim who was a very knowledgeable guide who clearly showed his interest in his subject - Jim's style and remarks were the best part of the tour." -Karen
"Loved the emersion aspect with the videos like you were riding the train." -Noelle
"Loved all the sites you chose to highlight." -Deborah
"I liked learning about places that I ride by all the time but never knew were there." -Paul
"Brought back memories when I lived in NYC. Liked how the subway stops looked like -- enjoyed seeing the art tiles." -Julia
"It was fun to get an "overview" NYC has soooooo many places to explore I love getting perspective of someone who lives and words there." -Paul G."
"So many interesting sites and facts along the 1 train route...it was great! Jim did a super job pointing them and offering the history behind them." -Russ
"I learned so much about the UWS I did not know. I loved the format, music and tour person." -Jill
"It was fast paced and thorough. Just plain fun "going" on the subway and view things at each stop." -Hillary
"The tour was organized engaging and informative. Can’t wait for future train tours." -Elizabeth
"Was the best of the best! Terrific and spellbinding! I cannot wait until another one of the subway line tours!" -Stephen
"The details, the format, the points of interest and general knowledge and the way the speaker delivered the info regarding the NYC points of interest along the no 1subwsy train." -Maureen
"Loved the footage of riding in the trains (including the musical guests) and mix of historic and neighborhood locales. Also Jim is very conversational so easy to listen to." -Gail
"Very well organized, informative, and fun!" -Barry
"Learning about places I was totally unfamiliar with although I grew up in the Bronx and lived in New York for 40 years. It was like visiting a foreign country!" -Rosalie
"The tour guide was great -- clear and entertaining -- and I enjoyed finding out about new places along the 1 Train route." -Nancy
"Feeling like you were actually hopping on and off the train and seeing the sights." -Kathy
"Love the fast paced format that allows for an overview of the whole subway line in one webinar." -Martha
"Loved the people performing on the subway- you could make an entire presentation just of that." -Sarah
"I was able to take a tour to places that I haven't seen in person." -Jo
"Love the concept-- see much more in a short period of time than ever could have in person." -Carl
"Engaging and knowledgeable guide actually encompassed the whole route of the train, with lots of interesting and often offbeat site pointers and a wealth of really top-quality images, both still and moving." -Kenneth
"I learned a lot about NYC I never knew and I grew up in Paramus was always in the city from 15." -Rocco
"Jim is a very polished yet relaxed and entertaining speaker. I loved the mix of sites he chose to highlight and the range from grand buildings to small bookstores, with a few well-chosen interludes of subway entertainers." -Jane
"Interesting way to approach an interesting topic." -Thomas
"I am an explorer at heart and love to roam the streets of any city to find new places of interest. That's what this trip was like for me at this time of virtual adventure." -Lorelei
"LOVED this format - I can't wait for other lines!!" -Carly
"The knowledge and ability to give facts and anecdotes in a familiar and friendly way via the on-line platform. A win from all angles, content, visual, speaking style, personal asides, terrific! Thank you for the different take on a virtual tour, I am a repeat customer, this was my first virtual trip, it was fun, will definitely sign up for others." -Carol
"Great way to bring the fun "stops" on the subway stops! Rode the 1 train to college. Nice to see it now 30 years later!" -Cynthia
"I enjoyed taking the #1 train and visiting the stations and seeing the sights along the way. Great commentary. Hopefully we can take trips on other lines in the future. Thank you." -David
"[I liked] the discussion of the particular places at each stop" -Marguerite
"I wrote down the info presented, and I'll explore the line with this info in hand. Can't wait! I hope you do one for all the lines - I would attend every one of them! I'm new to your forum, and I an really enjoying it. Thank you!" -Aleisa
"Mr. Ryan is very knowledgeable and shares his info in an entertaining way. His speaking voice is clear and soothing, almost ASSMR." -Mark

Disclaimer
By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.
Categories: Virtual, Landmarks

https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1985826347061

How did a New York City carriage house originally built for the personal secretary of legendary American financier J.P. Morgan eventually become a professional society dedicated to the art of illustration in America? And what legacy has it crafted since its inception in 1901? It's time to explore a historic five-story townhouse in the Upper East Side where famous illustrators like N.C. Wyeth, Rube Goldberg, and Norman Rockwell once roamed the halls.

Join New York Adventure Club for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour through the Museum of Illustration at the Society of Illustrators, the oldest non-profit dedicated to promoting the art of illustration in America.

Led by a Society of Illustrators member, our special experience through their historic townhouse will include:

• A brief history of the Society's historic townhouse, which was originally a carriage house built in 1875 for William P. Read, a personal secretary for financier J.P. Morgan
• The origin story of the Society of Illustrators, from its founding fathers to its rapid growth in the 20th century
• View the current exhibitions on display at the Museum of Illustration and take a rare trip inside the archives, which contains original works from famed illustrators throughout the century, one of the most comprehensive collections of this genre in the world
• A look inside the Society's historic library, with its famous tiled fireplace with art dating back to the 1940s

The tour will conclude in the Society’s Hall of Fame Gallery, where attendees can stay and purchase drinks. Don’t forget to take a look at the stunning Norman Rockwell painting, "Christmas Coach," just behind the bar!
Click here to see pictures from one of our last visits to the Society of Illustrators!
See you there!

*The Society of Illustrators does not have an elevator

Testimonials
"Great building and great artwork" -Marilyn
"The interesting details and facts about the collection, seeing the 'behind the scenes' areas." -Emile
"Fascinating history. We were lucky to have the Director to show us round who was so nice and passionate about the work they do at the Society, including some fantastic outreach projects." -Lindsay
"The gentleman was an excellent speaker who shared a wealth of information about the Society, the artwork and the artists." -Barbara

Disclaimer
By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.
Categories: In-Person, Mansions & Private Clubs

https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1986099995551

This is a re-aired recording of this program’s most recent live webinar. Once the viewing period ends, this recording will not be offered again for at least one year.

Flashback to seven years after the Civil War, and New York was a city convulsing with social upheaval and sexual revolution. Drink, sex, and gambling seduced young men and women flooding into the burgeoning city; women horned in on men’s turf, trading on Wall Street, and demanding the vote (with one even running for President of the United States); a breakdown of basic law & order had the press calling the city a “Paradise for Murderers." This is the story of New York City in 1872 and the people, places, and moments that defined it.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore New York City during the extraordinary year of 1872, a year defined by vices, suffrage, and scandal at the beginning of the Gilded Age.

Led by Brooklyn author and storyteller Bill Greer, our digital showcase running from the Battery to Central Park will include:

• Political turbulence that rocked the city, including the downfall of Boss Tweed and his Tammany Hall Ring, and the mini-pandemic that threatened the November election
• Key figures in the early Women's rights movements, such as abortionist Madame Restell, and sisters Victoria Woodhull and Tennie Claflin (aka "The Queens of Finance"), who upended Wall Street by opening a brokerage firm doors away from the New York Stock Exchange
• What life was like in Manhattan's most notorious neighborhoods of the time, from “Little Bohemia” of Bleecker Street to The Bowery, an open market for venality of all flavors
• The partisan political warfare among the newspapers of Printing House Square, which included the Times, Herald, Tribune, and World

Afterward, we'll have a Q&A with Bill — any and all questions about New York City back in 1872 are welcomed and encouraged!
Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay for one week.
See you there, virtually!

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar
**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you're using the latest version of your internet browser
***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week
****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!

About Bill
Bill Greer is the author of the nonfiction narrative A Dirty Year: Sex, Suffrage, and Scandal in Gilded Age New York. His earlier novel, The Mevrouw Who Saved Manhattan, paints a portrait of the city’s founding as New Amsterdam. As an officer and trustee of the New Netherland Institute, he chaired the Institute’s program to establish the New Netherland Research Center with the New York State Library. He has spoken on New York history throughout the Hudson Valley.

Testimonials
"Bill’s incredible knowledge of that era. He really made it come alive and it serves as a great companion to reading his book which I have done and thoroughly enjoyed." -Marilyn
"I really enjoyed it. I don’t like in America but the webinars are so interesting I think I’d like to visit" -Etta
"Interesting stories that wove together people and incidents I only knew a little bit about." -Diana
"I liked the delightful, totally knowledgeable presenter." -Horace
"Interplay of events & social history, & contrast w/ today's dramas" -Sharon
"It was tremendously informative and interesting." -Margo
"Nice detailed stories about the time period. Colorful characters." -Cooke
"Bill's relaxed, informative narration. The high quality visuals and the way he knitted it all together. A snapshot of a time in my beloved city." -Mildred
"The content was fascinating and informative. The presenter was very well prepared." -Carol
"Well documented. I learned some new things about 19th century life in NY." -Ellen
"Fascinating part of the history of the city I love." -Cathy

Disclaimer
By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.
Categories: Virtual, Moments in History

https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1986222086729

In the early 20th century, the Woolworth Building in downtown Manhattan not only dominated the NYC skyline, but also held the title of “tallest building in the world” for over 17 years. What secrets lie behind its towering limestone and terracotta façade? In celebration of the building’s anniversary, this special tour edition will go beyond the lobby — from the historic streets that shaped its creation to rarely seen spaces high above the city.

Join New York Adventure Club for a special 113th anniversary edition of our behind-the-scenes tour of the Woolworth Building — commissioned by retail magnate Frank Woolworth in 1910 to house his company’s corporate headquarters, this neo-Gothic style skyscraper designed by architect Cass Gilbert held the title of the world’s tallest building from its opening in 1913 until 1930.

Led by licensed NYC tour guides and Woolworth Building experts Bob Gelber or Ed Welter, this official experience — and the only way inside this private building — will include:

• The story behind the “Cathedral of Commerce” — from its creation by retail magnate F.W. Woolworth to its groundbreaking design by Cass Gilbert
• A walk outside to visit City Hall Park & the surrounding historic district — uncovering over 250 years of New York City history, from colonial gatherings and revolutionary protests to the 1776 reading of the Declaration of Independence, along with nearby landmarks like Newspaper Row, the Park Theatre, P.T. Barnum’s American Museum, and early transit developments beneath your feet
• A private tour of the soaring lobby — with its marble-clad walls, vaulted ceilings, and hidden symbols embedded in the architecture — including a trip to the second-floor Triptych Balcony
• A visit to the subterranean vault — where the building’s original safe deposit boxes are tucked beneath its towering frame
• Rare access to the 26th floor — offering a rare opportunity to experience the building from above and take in a unique perspective of Lower Manhattan

See you there!

*There are no public restrooms on the tour, so please plan accordingly.
**This tour requires the use of stairs between certain areas. If you are unable to go up or down one flight of stairs, please message support[at]nyadventureclub[dot]com so elevator arrangements with the Woolworth Building can be made.
***Please refrain from wandering around the lobby before, during, or after the tour.
****Please wear comfortable footwear as there are no opportunities to sit down.

About Bob
After retiring from the New York State Court System, Bob Gelber became a licensed New York City tour guide to share his deep knowledge and passion for his hometown. Over the past 20+ years, he has led visitors through neighborhoods many tourists overlook, while also serving as a docent at the Woolworth Building and volunteering at both the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Open House New York. A longtime member of the Guides Association of New York City, Bob has served on its Board of Directors and several key committees. From Central Park to the Lower East Side — and even chocolate-themed walks through SoHo — Bob brings history to life with every step.

About Ed
With over four decades of experience in construction and nearly 15 years in the tourism world, Ed Welter brings a unique perspective to New York City's built environment. After starting his guiding career at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in 2010, Ed went on to become a senior docent and trainer at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, where he has been sharing the site’s powerful story since its earliest days. A licensed NYC tour guide since 2012, Ed also led Woolworth Building tours from 2014 until their pause in 2020 — and is excited to return as the tour program resumes with New York Adventure Club. His deep knowledge and passion have guided countless tours across Lower Manhattan, from the Brooklyn Bridge to City Hall Park, including topics like the Five Points, the African Burial Grounds, and the history of terrorism in New York.

Testimonials
"The tour of the lobby was full of secrets and mysteries and astonishing design. The lobby tour guide was kind, passionate, and extremely knowledgeable." -Simon
"Very informational. Knowledgeable lobby tour guide." -Jacqueline
"The guide was very knowledgeable and history interesting. My first with adventure club, not the last. I enjoyed it very much." -Judy
"...The guide was great… provided just enough information and stories, answered questions… and best of all really enjoyed seeing this iconic building up close! Wonderful event. Just the right amount of time." -Aimee
"A fascinating combination of history, architecture and biography in a magnificent building. The guide was exceptional." -Beth
"Informative on architecture, history, and history of Woolworth himself. Also notable comments on the strains between Woolworth and his architect, Cass Gilbert. Excellent speaker, humorous, personal, and interested in all facets of the building." -Margaret
"The history and love that went into building this magnificent building" -Jojo
"The information about Woolworth himself and the history of the 5 and 10 business was particularly good. Makes me want to learn more. Of course, just getting access was a treat. It's kind of a hidden treasure." -Leandro
"It was highly informative and the guide was engaging." -E
"Didn’t realize that this beautiful building was not open to the public so it was very special. Also the building was awesome. Guide was terrific." -Murray
"The guide was so knowledgeable, explained everything in an interesting way, was patient with questions and managed the group well. It was outstanding!!" -Betsy
"Tour guide's knowledge of the subject." -Lucien
"One of the best tour guides we’ve ever had—beyound knowledgeable. Keep up the good work Adventures Club—We love ya. ❤️❤️" -Slo
"Beautiful building. The tour guide exceeded all expectations. Not only was he friendly, polite and kind but was very knowledgeable and transported this in a very comptehensive, humourous and articulate way to his audience. A really amazing guide! A tour worth doing and for the company: keep that tour guide!" -Anja
"I liked the guides vast knowledge of the history of the family" -Laura
"engaging, educational & fun. Great tour - lots of history & a fun experience!" -AC
"I like to explore spaces that are typically closed off to the public. I also loved the architecture and design of the building as well as the history of the Woolworth family." -Simone
"Great content and history. Loved the stories about the construction, companies in the building, Woolworth, etc." -Maile
"In depth history of construction + architectural details. Loved the style and humor of the guide." -Judy
"Our guide is very engaging. His knowledge and enthusiasm for his subject matter really shines through. This was one of the very best tours we've ever taken in NYC." -Carol
"access to a building that is normally off limits to visitors, the information about the earliest, most renowned tenants e.g. Nikola Tesla, Manhattan Project etc. it was great and I've already recommended it to several friends" -L
"Everything...first look after so many years." -Jeffrey
"Oour tour guide was wonderful - we enjoyed his manner, his insights annd his vibe. We were especially lucky to hav his colleague there, who also provided great stories. And the building is a delight. How awesome to have access that you never have to those beautiful spaces!!! So fabulous. We all loved it." -Jessica
"Amazing to finally get in to see the building, especially having studied in there for 2 years!!" -Amy
"Absolutely spectacular tour!! The guide was fantastic and it was such a privilege to get to see this incredible building." -Emily
"Interesting to see the building and great guide" -Lorraine
"So interesting" -Joyce
"Bobs enthusiasm and knowledge. It was really enjoyable. Thank you." -Arabelle
"Blend of architecture and personal stories about Mr. Woolworth. It was good! I’m going to try another NYAC tour." -Mary
"Bob was terrific guide and gave great info. Learned a lot. Well worth it" -Geo

Disclaimer
By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.
Photo Credit: Middle Right - nycgovparks.org
Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours