From US$15 per person
Book tickets on Viator (opens in a new tab): Tenement Tales: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of The Lower East SideYou book and pay on viator.com. Inclusable may earn a commission.
5.0 / 5 from 2 reviews on Viator
- Group size
- Up to 15
- Language
- English
- Rating on Viator
- 5.0 / 5 · 2 reviews
About this tour
The Lower East Side’s tenements, synagogues and storefronts have, within them, the story of America.
On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll discover how the densest slum in human history became an incubator for comedy, social justice, and entrepreneurship that transformed the nation. You’ll find out how hardship bred both humor and hope in the Lower East Side, from the perspectives of pushcart peddlers, labor organizers, and immigrants dreaming of a better life.
This tour starts at Straus Square, named after a German-Jewish immigrant who rose from selling china plates to owning Macy’s department store. You’ll walk past the building that once housed a daily Yiddish newspaper that championed labor rights, and former synagogues that welcomed thousands of worshippers. Along the way, you’ll discover how mutual aid societies helped newcomers find housing and jobs, and how women led the largest labor strikes of their era.
Accessibility, as stated by the supplier
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
Meeting point: This tour starts at Straus Square Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading. The nearest accessible public restroom to the meeting point is about 130 m away in a straight line, from the NYC Open Data public restrooms list.
Provided through Viator and not verified by Inclusable. Ask the supplier about your specific needs before you book.
Itinerary
View itinerary · 10 stopsHide itinerary
- 1
We'll pass by the Forward Building, adding to the historic charm of the neighbourhood.(pass by)
- 2
We'll also pass by the Jarmulowsky Building, an early 20th century NYC gem.(pass by)
- 3
We'll also pass by the Museum at Eldridge Street, originally a synagogue. However, entry to the Museum itself is not included in this tour.(pass by)
- 4
We'll also pass by the Tenement Museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past. However, entry to the museum itself is not included in this tour.(pass by)
- 5
We'll also pass by the University Settlement House, the very first settlement house in America. However, entry to the house itself is not included in this tour.(pass by)
- 6
We'll also pass by the Russ & Daughters, a classic NYC eatery. However, entry itself is not included in this tour.(pass by)
- 7
We'll also pass by the Katz's Delicatessen, a pillar of New York cuisine. However, entry to deli is not included on the tour.(pass by)
- 8
We'll also pass by The Angel Orensanz Foundation, the building that housed the first synagogue in the Lower East Side. However, entry to the building itself is not included in this tour.(pass by)
- 9
We'll also pass by Economy Candy, a classic NYC candy shop. However, entry to the shop itself is not included in this tour.(pass by)
- 10
We'll end the tour at the Essex Street Market, a mainstay of NYC.(pass by)
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions
Included
- Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- App for Android and iOS
- Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
- Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Not included
- Smartphone and headphones
- Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
- Food and drink
- Transportation
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Nearest accessible public restroom to This tour starts at Straus Square Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading
The nearest accessible public restroom to This tour starts at Straus Square Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading is Seward Park Library, NYPL, New York, about 130 m away.
Seward Park Library, NYPL · about 130 m away in a straight line
New York, NY (library)
Sunday: Closed, Monday: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm, Tuesday: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm, Wednesday: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm, Thursday: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm, Friday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Saturday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm — Open year round
Source: the NYC Open Data public restrooms list, data as at 30 October 2026. Distances are straight-line, not the walking route, and facilities can change — check before you rely on one.
Location & contact
- Area
- New York
- Meeting point
- This tour starts at Straus Square Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading
- Contact
- The tour operator’s own details aren’t published. Questions about access or your booking go through Viator, which handles the booking and passes your request to the operator.
Keep exploring
More wheelchair accessible things to do in New York City
1,111 tours and experiences in New York City where the supplier states wheelchair access, with their own access notes first.
Manhattan Sky Tour: New York Helicopter Flight
New York
4.4 · 1,465 reviews on Viator
Experience the Big Apple from above on a thrilling 12–15 minute helicopter tour departing directly from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport. Skip the long drives to out-of-state airports—board right in the heart of NYC for maximum sightseeing efficiency and immediate access to the skyline. Soar in comfort aboard modern, state-of-the-art Bell 407 aircraft as you enjoy breathtaking, panoramic views of Manhattan’s most iconic landmarks. Sweep past a towering Statue of Liberty and historic Ellis Island, take in the sobering view of Ground Zero, and glide over the bustling financial hub of Wall Street. Marvel at the soaring architecture of the Empire State Building before catching a bird's-eye view of lush Central Park. Whether it’s your first time in New York or a bucket-list holiday splurge, this flight offers the premier, hassle-free way to see the city’s crown jewels in record time.
“For passengers with mobility issues, you will need to transfer from your wheelchair to the helicopter seat and be able to sit with your legs bent. For passengers weighing under 150 lbs, our staff can assist you into the helicopter and will ensure your wheelchair is brought to and from the heliport during your flight. For passengers over 150 lbs, you must either be able to transfer on your own or have someone with you who can assist in getting you into the helicopter. Please let us know about any mobility issues in advance”
FromUS$284
View tour
Madame Tussauds New York City Admission Ticket
New York
4.3 · 827 reviews on Viator
Step into the spotlight at Madame Tussauds New York, the world-famous wax museum in Times Square with over 200 lifelike figures of celebrities, athletes, and historical icons. Pose for epic selfies with stars like Bad Bunny, Lady Gaga, and the Kardashians, and explore interactive attractions like the Glow Gala and Broadway experiences. Located in the heart of Manhattan, this unforgettable NYC attraction brings pop culture, history, and entertainment to life in one incredible destination. Experience Jumanji 4D and enter the wild with a fast-paced, immersive safari mission bringing the world of Jumanji to life like never before. With thrilling 4D effects that throw you right into the action, prepare for a safari bursting with laughs, chaos and edge of your seat excitement as the jungle comes roaring to life around you. Every safari promises adventure, and every creature is bigger, louder and closer than you’d ever imagine!
“Madame Tussauds New York is handicapped accessible. Wheelchairs are available upon request at the box office on a first-come, first-served basis”
FromUS$37
View tour
New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour
New York
4.4 · 818 reviews on Viator
Take to the skies on a helicopter tour to see New York's amazing skyline! On this scenic 18-20-minute helicopter flight you'll soar through the sky and experience a bird's eye view of Manhattan's world famous landmarks. This is the best view you can get of New York City!
“For passengers with mobility issues, you will need to transfer from your wheelchair to the helicopter seat and be able to sit with your legs bent. For passengers weighing under 150 lbs, our staff can assist you into the helicopter and will ensure your wheelchair is brought to and from the heliport during your flight. For passengers over 150 lbs, you must either be able to transfer on your own or have someone with you who can assist in getting you into the helicopter. Please let us know about any mobility issues in advance.”
FromUS$319
View tourFrom US$15
Book and pay on viator.com