Midtown East NYC Architecture Walking Tour

Explore the architectural gems of East Manhattan where New York’s history and innovation come alive through iconic buildings and compelling stories of architectural landmarks and historical events.
Explore the architectural gems of East Manhattan with Build Tours, where New York’s history and innovation come alive through iconic buildings and compelling stories. This tour takes you through some of the most legendary sites in the city, from the grandeur of Grand Central Terminal and the classic Art Deco elegance of the Waldorf Astoria to the cutting-edge design of One Vanderbilt. Discover the soaring Art Deco style of the Chrysler Building, the pioneering green architecture of the Ford Foundation, and the international modernist vision of the United Nations complex. As you walk through each landmark, you’ll uncover the architectural styles, influential architects, and historical events that have shaped East Manhattan into a world-renowned urban landscape. Join us to experience the fusion of art, history, and architecture that defines New York City’s eastern heart.

Important buildings featured:

Grand Central Terminal, Reed and Stem and Warren and Wetmore, 1913
One Vanderbilt, KPF, 2016-20
MetLife Building, Architects Collaborative, 1962
Helmsley Building, Warren and Wetmore, 1929
JP Morgan Chase, Norman Foster, 2025
Waldorf Astoria, Schultze and Weaver, 1931
St. Bartholomew's Church, Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue, 1919
Chrysler Building, William van Alen, 1930
Ford Foundation, Roche Dinkeloo, 1967
Tudor City, Fred French & Co.,1928
United Nations complex, Oscar Niemeyer, Le Corbusier, 1948

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.