cool nyc
Things to do
Popular
Cruise ship visitors
Guides
  • Tours by category
  • Tours by accessibility
  • Tours by feature
  • Tours by time
  • Tours by the numbers
  • Day Trips
  • Shore excursions
  • Cruise ships
  • Cruise lines
  • Calendar
  • Attractions
  • Recommendations
  • Nearby places
Language $Currency
Login / Sign up
Bookings
Bookings
Wallet
$0.00
Wishlists
Wishlists
Cool Rewards Rewards
Gift cards
Profile
Help Center
Language
Log out
New York City
Gift Cards Gift Cards Rewards Rewards Specials Specials Group Travel Group Travel Contact Contact
Start your search
Change your search
Place or activity
Select Dates
You booked this experience
You're departing on
Google Calendar
Apple Calendar
Microsoft Outlook
Make your trip unforgettable

Private Tour: Colonial and Revolutionary New York

2 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 2 reviews collected by Cool NYC and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| New York City, USA
Book online or call us

from $75 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Private Tour: Colonial and Revolutionary New York Image 1
Private Tour: Colonial and Revolutionary New York Image 2
Private Tour: Colonial and Revolutionary New York Image 3
Private Tour: Colonial and Revolutionary New York Image 4
Private Tour: Colonial and Revolutionary New York Image 5
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 27 (0) days in advance.
2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 1 more
Spanish

Overview

New York wasn’t a sideshow to the American Revolution—it was the center of it. This tour follows the city’s transformation from a divided colonial port to the first capital of the United States.

Before independence was declared, violence had already erupted here—months before Boston. From that moment, we trace the Revolution across New York: where resistance formed, where Washington’s army struggled to hold the city, and where the Declaration of Independence was first read to the troops on July 9, 1776.

We follow the collapse and survival of the American cause—from the escape from Brooklyn to seven years of British occupation—and end where it all came full circle, with the evacuation of British forces in 1783.

This is the Revolution as a continuous story—exactly where it happened.

What's Included

  • Guided Tour
  • Gratuity
See 1 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

43 Park Row
New York, NY 10038, USA

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

PX3P+XG
New York, NY 10004, USA

Ends at Bowling Green, steps from multiple subway lines, the Staten Island Ferry terminal, and ferries to the Statue of Liberty.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Tweed Courthouse

We begin at the steps of the Tweed Courthouse, on ground once surrounded by British barracks, a jail, and the city’s poorhouse. This was a center of unrest in the years leading to the Revolution. Here, the Sons of Liberty defied British authority, raised liberty poles, and clashed with soldiers. We’ll focus on the lesser-known New Yorkers—artisans, laborers, and merchants—who organized resistance before independence was even imagined.
Read more

15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

The Municipal Building

Behind one of the most imposing government buildings in New York lies one of the darkest chapters of the Revolution. This area was tied to the prison system where thousands of American prisoners died during the British occupation—on land and in the waters of the East River. We’ll also identify the site of the first Presidential Mansion and the original location of the Bank of New York, linking the suffering of the war to the foundations of the new nation.
Read more

15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

St. Paul's Chapel

At this colonial-era church, we step into both the personal and national consequences of the Revolution. We’ll visit the resting place of a key figure from the 1775 campaign in Quebec and examine how the war forced both patriots and loyalists into exile at different moments. The chapel also witnessed one of the most symbolic early events of the new republic, tying the Revolution directly to the creation of the United States government.
Read more

15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

John Street United Methodist Church (pass by)

Founded in 1766, this is the oldest Methodist congregation in North America and one of the most important religious sites of early New York. While Anglicanism was the established church, the city was already religiously diverse, especially in areas like the North Ward. Here, we focus on the everyday New Yorkers—artisans, laborers, and immigrants—whose lives shaped the city during the Revolution.Just behind the church stood the house Thomas Jefferson leased while serving as Secretary of State under George Washington. This stop marks a shift in the story—from revolution to nation-building—where the future of the United States was shaped not only by war, but by negotiation, compromise, and political conflict.
Read more

South Street Seaport Historic District

Colonial New York was deeply tied to Britain—commercially, financially, and culturally—but resistance took shape along the waterfront. Here, merchants and sailors pushed back against imperial control. We’ll cover the early violence that erupted in New York before the Boston Massacre, as well as the strategic retreat that preserved Washington’s army and kept the Revolution alive in its earliest days.
Read more

15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Wall Street

Wall Street was already a place of power before the Revolution—home to a slave market, a growing financial center, and some of the city’s most prominent residences. At its core lies one of the most consequential intersections in American history, where we encounter the site that became the birthplace of the United States government.Here, the Revolution, finance, and politics converge. We’ll explore how money, power, and information—sometimes through formal institutions, sometimes through informal networks and espionage—shaped both the war and the nation that followed, on one of the most influential streets in the world.
Read more

20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Federal Hall

At this site, the Revolution transitions into government. Here, George Washington was inaugurated in 1789, and the first Congress met under the new Constitution. We’ll examine how a fragile confederation became a functioning federal system—through financial policy, political compromise, and the early structures that still define the United States today.
Read more

20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Trinity Church Wall Street

Trinity Church stood at the center of colonial New York’s religious and political life. Severely damaged during the Great Fire of 1776, it became a symbol of the city’s destruction during the British occupation. Its reconstruction after the war mirrors New York’s broader recovery.In its churchyard, we connect the Revolution to the early republic through the people who shaped it—founding figures, signers of the Declaration of Independence, financiers, judges, and Treasury officials who moved between commerce, law, and government. Alexander Hamilton, buried here, anchors that story. This is where power consolidated after the war, as the same networks that supported resistance helped build the institutions of the new nation.
Read more

15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Fraunces Tavern Museum

One of the most important surviving sites of the Revolutionary era, Fraunces Tavern served as a hub of political and military activity. Here, Washington delivered his farewell to his officers in 1783, marking the end of the war. The tavern also operated as a center of communication and intelligence, where merchants, officers, and revolutionaries exchanged information that shaped the conflict.
Read more

10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Bowling Green

We end where British power once stood strongest—at the site of Fort George, overlooking Bowling Green. From here, the British controlled New York for seven years, turning it into the military and political center of their North American operations.What began on July 9, 1776—when Washington’s troops first heard the Declaration of Independence—finds its conclusion here. On November 25, 1783, British forces evacuated the city, and American troops returned. The war in New York had come full circle.At this final stop, we examine what that transition actually meant: the return of patriot refugees, the departure of loyalists, and the transfer of power from empire to republic. From occupation to independence, the story that began at our first stop ends here.
Read more

15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 9 more stops

Additional Info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Private Tour: Colonial and Revolutionary New York?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-5648988P2

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
2 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 2 traveler reviews collected by Cool NYC and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
2
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 27 (0) days in advance.
New York City Tours
Attractions
Cruise Port
Guides
Calendar
View more
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

New York City Highlights Tour: Small Group w/FREE LIBERTY CRUISE
5.0 (35)

New York City Highlights Tour: Small Group w/FREE LIBERTY CRUISE

Connect Midtown, Lower Manhattan, and the Brooklyn waterfront on a compact small group tour of New York City. See Times Square, Central Park, Rockefeller Center,...

4 to 5 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (35)
from
$68
The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City
4.5 (328)

The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City

See the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks and building up close on this popular helicopter tour of New York City, while taking off and landing...

18 to 20 minutes Free Cancellation
4.5 (328)
from
$305
Niagara Falls 2-Day Tour from NYC with Corning & Finger Lakes
4.6 (306)

Niagara Falls 2-Day Tour from NYC with Corning & Finger Lakes

Swap the city for roaring water on this two-day small-group escape from New York to Niagara Falls. The drive upstate eases you in, with optional...

2 days Free Cancellation
4.6 (306)
from
$228
Private Driving Highlights Tour of New York (Half Day)
4.4 (5)

Private Driving Highlights Tour of New York (Half Day)

A private guide and separate chauffeur will pick you up from your Manhattan or Brooklyn hotel and take you on an adventure through the highlights...

5 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.4 (5)
from
$1,685
New York City Highlights Tour: Small Group w/FREE LIBERTY CRUISE

Connect Midtown, Lower Manhattan, and the Brooklyn waterfront on a compact small group tour of New York City. See Times Square, Central Park, Rockefeller Center, …More

5.0 (35)

New York City Highlights Tour: Small Group w/FREE LIBERTY CRUISE

5.0 (35)

Connect Midtown, Lower Manhattan, and the Brooklyn waterfront on a compact small group tour of New York City. See Times Square, Central Park, Rockefeller Center,...

4 to 5 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (35)
from
$68
The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City

See the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks and building up close on this popular helicopter tour of New York City, while taking off and landing …More

4.5 (328)

The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City

4.5 (328)

See the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks and building up close on this popular helicopter tour of New York City, while taking off and landing...

18 to 20 minutes Free Cancellation
4.5 (328)
from
$305
Niagara Falls 2-Day Tour from NYC with Corning & Finger Lakes

Swap the city for roaring water on this two-day small-group escape from New York to Niagara Falls. The drive upstate eases you in, with optional …More

4.6 (306)

Niagara Falls 2-Day Tour from NYC with Corning & Finger Lakes

4.6 (306)

Swap the city for roaring water on this two-day small-group escape from New York to Niagara Falls. The drive upstate eases you in, with optional...

2 days Free Cancellation
4.6 (306)
from
$228
Private Driving Highlights Tour of New York (Half Day)

A private guide and separate chauffeur will pick you up from your Manhattan or Brooklyn hotel and take you on an adventure through the highlights …More

4.4 (5)

Private Driving Highlights Tour of New York (Half Day)

4.4 (5)

A private guide and separate chauffeur will pick you up from your Manhattan or Brooklyn hotel and take you on an adventure through the highlights...

5 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.4 (5)
from
$1,685

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

New York Catacombs by Candlelight
4.7 (2,889)

New York Catacombs by Candlelight

Enjoy this fascinating 90 minute group tour that introduces you to all of the secrets of the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral. Enter off...

1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.7 (2,889)
from
$38
New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour (includes bus, walking tour and ferry ride!)
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (13,379)

New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour (includes bus, walking tour and ferry ride!)

Experience the best of New York City with a knowledgeable, licensed tour guide by your side. Our guides will make your journey unforgettable as they...

6 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (13,379)
from
$99
Museum of Ice Cream New York City Admission Ticket
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.0 (1,202)

Museum of Ice Cream New York City Admission Ticket

Taste your way through global ice cream flavors, explore immersive installations, ride NYC’s longest indoor slide, dive into the iconic Sprinkle Pool, and create sweet...

60 to 90 minutes
4.0 (1,202)
from
$49
Circle Line: 2.5hr - Complete Manhattan Island Cruise
4.6 (3,129)

Circle Line: 2.5hr - Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

The first, the original, the iconic Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. Visitors’ #1 choice for sightseeing cruises in New York. With over 80 million passengers and...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.6 (3,129)
from
$35
New York Catacombs by Candlelight

Enjoy this fascinating 90 minute group tour that introduces you to all of the secrets of the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral. Enter off …More

4.7 (2,889)

New York Catacombs by Candlelight

4.7 (2,889)

Enjoy this fascinating 90 minute group tour that introduces you to all of the secrets of the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral. Enter off...

1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.7 (2,889)
from
$38
New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour (includes bus, walking tour and ferry ride!)

Experience the best of New York City with a knowledgeable, licensed tour guide by your side. Our guides will make your journey unforgettable as they …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (13,379)

New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour (includes bus, walking tour and ferry ride!)

4.8 (13,379)

Experience the best of New York City with a knowledgeable, licensed tour guide by your side. Our guides will make your journey unforgettable as they...

6 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (13,379)
from
$99
Museum of Ice Cream New York City Admission Ticket

Taste your way through global ice cream flavors, explore immersive installations, ride NYC’s longest indoor slide, dive into the iconic Sprinkle Pool, and create sweet …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.0 (1,202)

Museum of Ice Cream New York City Admission Ticket

4.0 (1,202)

Taste your way through global ice cream flavors, explore immersive installations, ride NYC’s longest indoor slide, dive into the iconic Sprinkle Pool, and create sweet...

60 to 90 minutes
4.0 (1,202)
from
$49
Circle Line: 2.5hr - Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

The first, the original, the iconic Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. Visitors’ #1 choice for sightseeing cruises in New York. With over 80 million passengers and …More

4.6 (3,129)

Circle Line: 2.5hr - Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

4.6 (3,129)

The first, the original, the iconic Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. Visitors’ #1 choice for sightseeing cruises in New York. With over 80 million passengers and...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.6 (3,129)
from
$35

Things To Do in New York City

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool NYC customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Private Tour: Colonial and Revolutionary New York?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EST).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Guided Tour.
The following is NOT included:
  • Gratuity.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

The minimum age to participate is 3..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Private Tour: Colonial and Revolutionary New York is as follows:

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Private Tour: Colonial and Revolutionary New York will be included in your confirmation email from Cool NYC. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Guided Tour
  • Gratuity

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Report Product Issue

Activity name