New York Adventure Club

Tickets: $15.71 ( incl. $3.71 fees ) (includes access to the full replay for one week)

Click the link below to officially register for this experience:

https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1974997310120

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.

'Twas a cold, winter eve on December 6th, 1810, when a group of New York City's business and cultural leaders — including a young Washington Irving and Clement Clark Moore, and New York Historical Society founder John Pintard — gathered to celebrate the birthday of 4th century Christian bishop and miracle worker St. Nicholas. While a toast was in order, the meeting had another goal: to create a symbol of peace in a New York City rocked by social unrest around Christmas time. A consensus was reached and St. Nicholas' Dutch name, SinterKlaas, was adapted to the American-sounding one of Santa Claus. This is the true, magical story of the world's most legendary New Yorker.

Join New York Adventure Club as we journey back in time to uncover the origins of Santa Claus, who became a symbol of generosity, joy, peace, prosperity, patriotism, and politics since his modern adaptation took New York City by storm over 200 years ago.

Led by NYC tour guide Jared Goldstein, our exploration of the untold story of Santa Claus and his New York roots will include:

• The evolution of Santa Claus into the one we know and love today, and why New York can take most of the credit
• The darker side of Christmas in New York, including the Christmas Riot of 1806, and how Santa domesticated the holiday
• Santa's adoption in political, social, and commercial campaigns, from Union Propaganda during the Civil War, to gracing stamps used to raise money for charity, to being the official Coca-Cola holiday mascot
• A virtual trip to the Clement Clark Moore residence in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood to unwrap some Christmas surprises, including where ‘A Visit From St Nicholas’ was rumored to be penned, and why Santa’s big day moved from December 6th to the 24th
• Little known NYC connections with Santa, such as how Macy's supports Santa, a famous newspaper editorial titled "Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus," and how the creator of Uncle Sam helped changed the image of Santa Claus to a man from originally an elf

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 Jared
Jared the NYC Tour Guide led New York City’s only Santa Claus Bi-Centennial Tour in 2010, because someone had to mark the occasion, and it became a passion. It was chronicled by the Jewish Daily Forward. He has since led this tour privately for years, as well as for fellow Guides and the Guides Association of New York City. This was covered in the New York Times.

Testimonials
"Enlightening info about Santa that otherwise never would have known!" -Tony
"The presenters easy delivery. He used lots of pictures. Easy access." -Sarah
"I love the history and so many photos. Is the newlywed I lived in Madison Square they had no idea of its past glories. I’ve pass the stories on to my family about the tree in the electrified aspect in the toy companies. Just a great program!" -Sharon
"Jared is extremely engaging! His wealth of knowledge is amazing! I learned so much and I loved the old pictures and photos! Thanks!!!" -Michele
"Fascinating informative, fun!" -Olga
"I love the fun facts about NY and Santa that was new info to me." -Sheila
" I knew zero about Jared’s subject except for who wrote the “Night Before Christmas”. Jared has done a unique thing by presenting this anniversary of Santa Claus in New York that I don’t think anyone else has ever done. So many stories, so many facts, so many photos, so much fun! I can tell this presenter is fascinated with his subject and he also has the thoroughness of an historian. Great mix for a presentation." -Sharon
" I like the topic and the presenter was passionate and knowledgeable about his topic" -Marie
" Jared gave a comprehensive overview of how our modern-day Santa came to be in a clear and fun way." -C
" Love Jared, he is our favorite NYC Tour Guide." -Anne
" Loved the topic…perfect timing for this time of year. I also love that the presenter incorporated a multicultural perspective into the webinar." -Cristina
"Learned a lot about the history in the US" -Shirley
"It was a joy to attend this event which had a lively engaging pace and a wealth of wonderful information to impart all of which was new to me. I am glad I attended and I shall be recommending Jared the Tour Guide's in-person tours to friends and family, who find themselves in NYC this holiday season or later on. Given how enjoyable Jared's virtual talk was I feel good about recommending his in person tours now." -Kate

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

Tickets: $12 (includes access to the full replay for one week)

Click the link below to officially register for this experience:

https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1969416822732

Across Europe, the holiday season is more than lights and gifts — it's a cherished time when centuries-old traditions come to life through music, markets, and unforgettable flavors. What makes each region's celebration so distinct? From sipping warm vin chaud in a medieval square to listening to carols drift through candlelit cathedrals, it’s time to uncover the stories, rituals, and sensory magic that define a truly European Christmas.

Join New York Adventure Club for a festive four-part series exploring the sights, sounds, and spirit of Europe’s most beloved Christmas markets and holiday traditions. In Part Four: Kraków, we’ll journey to Poland’s cultural capital to experience the rich folklore, festive warmth, and timeless beauty of one of Europe’s most atmospheric holiday destinations.

Led by tour guide Kelsey Betzelberger, this experience — featuring plenty of firsthand photo and video walkthroughs, intriguing anecdotes, and expert insights — will include:

• Main Market Square — A walk through Rynek Główny, Kraków’s historic heart, aglow with lights, towering trees, and stalls brimming with handmade treasures
• Polish Flavors — A taste of comforting seasonal fare like pierogi with mushrooms and cabbage, smoky oscypek cheese with cranberry, and warm grzaniec galicyjski mulled wine
• Szopki Krakowskie — A look at the city’s dazzling, UNESCO-recognized nativity cribs — miniature palaces crafted from foil, glass, and color, unique to Kraków
• Carols & Folk Music — An introduction to Poland’s Christmas soundtrack, blending church bells, folk instruments, and traditional kolędy sung in festive harmony
• Artisan Markets — A glimpse at the craftsmanship behind handmade wooden toys, ornaments, and decorations that reflect Poland’s deep creative traditions

Afterward, we'll have a Q&A with Kelsey — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged!
Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay through one week after the entire series concludes.
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 after the series finale
****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week since the series finale, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!

A Walk Through Christmas Markets of Europe Series
Part 1: Munich (Friday, December 5 @ 1:00pm ET)
Part 2: Strasbourg (Friday, December 12 @ 1:00pm ET)
Part 3: Brussels (Friday, December 19 @ 1:00pm ET)
Part 4: Kraków (Friday, December 26 @ 1:00pm ET)

About Kelsey
I'm Kelsey, from Explore with Kelsey, a passionate tour guide and expatriate opera singer originally from Chicago. With Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Northwestern University, I've traveled to 50 countries, and lived in Austria, Germany, Italy, Croatia, France, England, The Netherlands, and now Valencia, Spain, where I'm happily settled with my husband and our two cats. My mission is to share my love for exploration and cultural discovery with my fellow travelers, igniting curiosity and fostering a deeper appreciation for the world's wonders.

Disclaimer
By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.
Photo Credit: Main - Yevhenii Dubrovskyi, Top Right & Bottom Right - Rudolph Musngi
Categories: Virtual, Landmarks

Tickets: $39.98 ( incl. $4.98 fees ) (advance registration required)

Click the link below to officially register for this experience:

https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1974920847418

Over the past century, Grand Central Terminal has captivated people from around the world with its architectural beauty, unique brick and mortar eateries, and endless transit possibilities. It’s also full of secrets — from being the target of a failed Nazi sabotage mission during WWII to containing hidden areas that keep it and its train traffic running each day. It's time to explore one of the most perfect train terminals in the world like never before.

Join New York Adventure Club as we venture through Grand Central Terminal — one of the most beautiful and famous train terminals on Planet Earth — along with the new Grand Central Madison LIRR station located 150 feet underground.

Led by NYC Tour Guide Gary Dennis, our unique ground-level and subterranean experience through this urban wonder of the world will include:

• The history of New York Central, the company that built Grand Central Terminal as well as the two preceding incarnations of the terminal built at the same location (third time's a charm!)
• The incredible story of how Grand Central Terminal escaped the wrecking ball, and what the Landmarks Preservation Commission, Former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and the United States Supreme Court had to do with it
• Mysteries of the terminal revealed including why there's a hole in the ceiling, how artists messed-up one of its most defining artworks, and how to find its hidden cocktail lounge
• A trip 15 stories down to the 700,000 square foot Grand Central Madison to visit incredible new works of art — opened in 2023, this LIRR station was the final piece of East Side Access, a decades-long infrastructure project that finally brought Long Island Rail Road trains to Grand Central Terminal
• Rare photos from secret areas throughout the terminal, including the Tiffany Clock room, catwalks, and more

See you there!

**Please wear comfortable shoes as we’ll be on our feet for most of the tour

***This tour does not access any restricted areas

About Gary Dennis

"I am a native New Yorker, NY subway aficionado, and product of an insanely competitive family of "know it alls". My parents, younger brothers, and I all love New York City history, and to get some parental attention I had to be historically correct and entertaining at the same time.

"I love this city and all its peculiarities, and I love sharing it with newcomers, returning visitors or native New Yorkers— I'll tell you these and other fascinating things you never knew about this amazing place I call home because 'there are 8 million stories in the naked city' and I will share with you as many as possible."

Disclaimer

Event takes place rain or shine.

By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.

Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours

Tickets: $50.53 ( incl. $5.53 fees ) (advance registration required)

Click the link below to officially register for this experience:

https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1974888666163

Perched on a hill overlooking the Hudson River in Tarrytown, NY is a majestic estate that is a definitive American icon of architecture and landscape. Who are the families that once called this incredible property home, and how has the mansion changed over the past 150 years? It’s time to explore one of the most lavish estates of the Hudson River Valley in all its seasonal splendor.

Join New York Adventure Club for a special access holiday tour at Lyndhurst Mansion, which is considered one of America’s finest Gothic Revival mansions and an outstanding example of 19th-century landscape design.

Led by one of Lyndhurst’s most experienced docents, our intimate indoor exploration of the former Jay Gould estate — featuring both festive décor and selected behind-the-scenes access — will include:

• The history of Lyndhurst Mansion and its former occupants, including New York City mayor William Paulding, merchant George Merritt, and railroad magnate Jay Gould
• A walkthrough of notable first-floor rooms, richly decorated for the holidays with dozens of Christmas trees and period-inspired décor
• A visit to the second floor, featuring decorative bedrooms, Tiffany and La Farge stained-glass windows, and seasonal collection items brought out specifically for the holiday display
• Rare access to select back-of-house areas, including the servants’ quarters and historic kitchen
• A special winter ascent to the 5th-floor observatory tower, offering unusually clear Hudson River views thanks to the bare trees — the first time winter tower access has ever been offered to guests
• A look at Lyndhurst in pop culture, including its appearance in The Gilded Age

Come experience the magnificence of Lyndhurst Mansion during the holidays — a stunning Gilded Age home even more magical in winter.
See you there!

*Some areas of the tour will require climbing stairs
**Due to limited food options at Lyndhurst Mansion, attendees are highly encouraged to bring their own snacks
***Please wear a comfortable pair of shoes as we’ll be on our feet for the duration of the tour
****Transportation to Lyndhurst Mansion is not included
*****This holiday tour focuses exclusively on the mansion interiors and does not include outdoor exploration or landscape touring.

Transportation
*Please double check train departure times the day before as schedules can shift due to track work.
**Please bring cash for taxi ride to/from Tarrytown Station to Lyndhurst Mansion

By Public Transit: Take the Hudson Line Metro-North Train from Grand Central Terminal, and disembark at the Tarrytown Station — cabs are available from in front of the station. If using Uber, reserve a ride several minutes before arriving at the station to reduce waiting time.
If you'd like to walk, disembark one stop earlier at Irvington Station and take the Old Croton Aqueduct trail right to the property — click here for a Google Maps view of the walking route (Approx. 30-40 minute walk)
Metro-North tickets can now be purchased via your smartphone — click here for more details.
Trains from Tarrytown depart for GCT roughly every 30 minutes.

By Car: Attendees may park at Lyndhurst Mansion for free — grounds fee is waived for tour ticket holders.

Testimonials
"I’ve been to Lyndhurst Mansion many times. This expanded tour was the best I’ve ever experienced." -Virginia
"Rick was fun and knowledgeable. We learned so much about the property and the family. Very happy we got to see everything." -Katie
"Loved the tour guide and the venue" -Elizabeth
"Interesting site. Excellent guide. Small group." -Paul
"Best guide ever. Knowledgeable Beyond expectations and great sense of humor." -Catherine
"Our tour guide was very knowledgeable, friendly and made the experience more interesting then I originally thought it would be" -Peter
"Great tour guide, incredible estate" -Kelly
"The guide was delightful. Spoke clearly with great knowledge love & humor. Saw a great deal" -Joan
"Our docent, Rick, was the best! personable, knowledgeable, accommodating, funny" -Vicky
"The guide, Rick, was outstanding - extremely knowledgeable but also entertaining. Very thorough tour - saw every part of the home." -Melanie
"Our guide was extremely entertaining. He knew so much trivia that it really made the tour special" -Richard
"Very comprehensive visit to the mansion" -Leonard
"We saw EVERYTHING" -Dorothy
"Rick was fun and knowledgeable. We learned so much about the property and the family. Very happy we got to see everything. This was such a great experience. Just the right size of the group. Rick kept us laughing the whole time. Not that you have any control over the weather, but it was perfect. I already recommended it to several people." -Katie
"Loved the tour guide and the venue" -Elizabeth
" Rick is just so good. He knows so much, is engaging, and pacing and volume was all good. Easy to hear and follow. I was a little worried about a 3 hour tour but it was perfect and didn't feel too long or tiring. Rick curated the perfect info." -Nancy
" Very easy to sign up and get to, very well organised." -Jenny
" It included many things, our guide Rick was fabulous (funny, knowledgeable, considerate), and the place itself was gorgeous." -Victoria
" Our guide Rick was the perfect balance of being incredibly knowledgeable and social. I loved the triple combination tour—I definitely felt like a VIP." -Jessica
" I loved being able to go up into the tower...I loved going to the pool area and my favorite was the bowling alley! The guide was great and so knowledgeable made the tour even better!" -Lisa
" Our tour guide/docent was amazing. He had so much knowledge and gave a wonderful interesting tour. We loved being able to enter and see areas usually off-limits to a regular tour. Our guide also also had so much behind the scenes information that brought the mansion’s history and the family’s history to life. Loved this tour!! I would recommend this tour to everyone I know!!" -Howard
"Knowledgeable tour guide, seems to love his job, lots to explore in the house with three different families living there for over 100 years" -Rebecca
"Full access to some of the normally off limit areas but the best part was the guide Rick. He was not only knowledgeable but had a real passion for the house and the history" -Robert
"I liked that we got to see parts of the mansion that typically groups don’t get to see. I like that our group was 9 people, which wasn’t too large." -Robert B.
"Behind-the-scenes access and having such a knowledgeable and engaging guide. Rick's passion for the estate and its inhabitants was infectious!" -Catherine
"The tour was unhurried so there was time for a lot of background/history. Plenty of time for questions too. It was worth the travel and the cost." -Leandro
"The guide was amazing. It was very intimate. Definitely recommended" -Jean
"It was a small group. It was informative. Great location." -Ecindy
"Lyndhurst mansion was fascinating. Our guide, Mary, was so informative and engaging. We really enjoyed her company and all she had to share." -Kimberly

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