East Village Walking Tour

Discover the Counterculture and History of the East Village

Explore the East Village, one of New York City’s most vibrant and rebellious neighborhoods, with GuruWalk’s expert local guides. Known for its punk rock history, immigrant roots, speakeasies, and thriving arts scene, this pay-what-you-want walking tour will take you through the streets that shaped NYC’s underground culture.

Why Choose an East Village Walking Tour with GuruWalk?

A Neighborhood with a Unique Identity

Unlike other parts of Manhattan, the East Village has long been a hub for artists, musicians, and activists. From the Beat Generation to the birth of punk rock, this tour dives into its rich cultural history.

Flexible Pay-What-You-Want Model

Enjoy a high-quality guided experience without upfront costs. Pay what you think the tour is worth at the end.

Local Guides with Insider Knowledge

Our passionate guides will show you hidden alleyways, historic venues, and legendary bars while sharing stories of the revolutionaries, writers, and rock stars who once called this place home.

For a deeper look at another cultural hotspot in NYC, check out the Greenwich Village Walking Tour, which covers the West Village’s artistic and literary history.

Must-See Highlights on an East Village Walking Tour

1. St. Mark’s Place

One of the most iconic streets in the East Village, St. Mark’s Place was home to punk legends, underground bookstores, and the city’s counterculture movement.

2. CBGB’s & The Birthplace of Punk Rock

Stand outside the former location of CBGB, the club that launched the careers of bands like The Ramones, Blondie, and Talking Heads.

3. Tompkins Square Park

This park has long been a center for political protests, poetry readings, and alternative culture. Today, it remains a local gathering spot full of energy.

4. Historic Immigrant Streets

Discover the area’s immigrant past, from the Ukrainian community to its long history as a refuge for new arrivals to New York.

5. Speakeasies and Hidden Bars

Learn about the secret Prohibition-era speakeasies that still operate today. Your guide will reveal the best hidden spots for a drink after the tour.

6. The Poetry and Literary Scene

Visit landmarks associated with the Beat poets, Allen Ginsberg, and the Nuyorican literary movement.