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Art and culture activities in New York

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Art and culture activities led by local experts

Discover unique experiences hosted by inspiring locals.

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4.94 out of 5 average rating, 34 reviews

The History and Craft of Natural Incense

Take a deep breath and relax as you discover the therapeutic craft of incense making. • You’ll discover the origins of incense and its use in ancient timekeeping and ceremonial practices while savoring traditional Korean tea and snacks. • Learn how incense once served as a precursor to perfume and its diverse applications in rituals and medicine. • Immerse yourself in the art of natural incense making by mixing your own batch with organic woods, herbs, resins + oils. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and inspired, with your very own personalized scent packaged in a beautifully crafted pine wood box.

5 out of 5 average rating, 14 reviews

Sketching at The Met Museum

During our sketching tour at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, prepare to see the museum’s masterpieces in a whole new light. You’ll explore select galleries with a seasoned artist and pause to draw iconic sculptures and artworks while learning the stories behind them. • Before we roll up our sleeves and start sketching, you’ll receive a brief drawing lesson. • We’ll peruse galleries spanning American, Roman, and Greek art and I’ll help you sketch what you’re seeing. • You’ll leave with your own original sketches to remind you of your visit! What you’ll get: admission, sketchbook, pencil, and eraser. Suitable for all skill levels.

5 out of 5 average rating, 6 reviews

Hands-on embroidery workshop with an NYC fashion designer

Step into the world of sustainable fashion and design with my hands-on embroidery workshop. • We'll begin with a tour of my vintage storefront and studio in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where you can explore a curated selection of one-of-a-kind, handmade pieces and rare vintage. • With step-by-step guidance from me, you'll learn how to stitch a custom New York-themed design onto a vintage handkerchief or sustainable garment of your choice. • While working on your embroidery, I'll share insights about reworking vintage clothing, sustainability, and the New York fashion industry. Not only will you gain a deeper insight into the embroidery process, but you'll get your own personalized keepsake to wear out.

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 60 reviews

New York graffiti chronicles with Inkhead

Join me, Inkhead, a graffiti writer with three decades documenting and obsessing over NYC’s graffiti. We’ll explore the gritty and grimy streets of the Lower East Side, where every wall tells a story. • We’ll walk part of the Manhattan Bridge, exploring its vibrant and prolific graffiti, while discussing stories behind iconic NYC writers. • Explore various techniques, and delve into NYC’s rich history of graffiti. • Gain an insider’s perspective of how NYC graffiti culture has evolved into a global subculture. • Grab a slice from Scarrs, an iconic NYC pizza spot. * You’ll walk away with an insider’s perspective of the NYC graffiti scene and be able to explain to your friends the differences between graffiti and street art. Experience happens, rain or shine… *pizza is not included

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Explore East Side jazz history & enjoy a live show

Discover the underground jazz history of New York’s East Village and experience the next generation of musicians in our new Lower East Side jazz club. From iconic sites that shaped the genre to an unforgettable live performance, this evening celebrates the spirit of jazz and its deep connection to New York City’s incredible music scene. • Begin with a short walking tour of the East Village, visiting key landmarks like the Charlie Parker House and Slugs Saloon. Learn about their role in shaping jazz history in an area that became a haven for experimental and avant-garde jazz. • Head to our club, Close Up, for a live show inspired by the venues and musicians you’ve just explored. • Enjoy a complimentary drink, meet the band after the performance, and stay for an optional jam session, a uniquely NYC tradition. Wrap up this immersive experience with a deeper connection to the East Village’s jazz legacy—and how it lives on in the Lower East Side.

5 out of 5 average rating, 8 reviews

Chelsea gallery tour with an award-winning art critic

Discover the vibrant art scene in Chelsea, home to some of New York City’s most renowned galleries, or simply deepen your perspective on its cultural significance. You’ll have an insider’s perspective on the current shows and learn about the larger cultural context of these spaces. • Visit top galleries such as Hauser & Wirth, Pace Gallery, David Zwirner, Lisson Gallery, and Jack Shainman. • Learn about the current exhibitions and how these galleries influence the contemporary art world. • Hear insights into the New York City art scene and my background as an art critic and curator. You’ll gain a layered understanding of how Chelsea’s galleries shape the art world while championing emerging artists.

5 out of 5 average rating, 4 reviews

Explore niche perfumes in Brooklyn with a perfumer

Take a personalized scent journey through Williamsburg with a professional perfumer. The theme of our route is exploration through scent and its connection to memory, identity, and artistry. • After you book the tour, I’ll connect with you to get an idea of the scents you are looking for. Then I’ll create a personalized card of fragrances to look for at the perfumers we visit. • We’ll stop in at three brands—D.S. & Durga, Byredo, and Stele. At each stop, the team members will give you an overview of the brand’s fragrances, and I’ll offer my assistance as you shop. • I have a relationship with all of these brands, some of which will offer you exclusive discounts during the tour. On this one-of-a-kind shopping experience, you’ll get insider access to some of New York City’s most exciting niche perfumers as well as expert guidance in choosing the perfect fragrances for you.

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Tour Manhattan's design scene with interior designers

Take a curated two-hour walking tour with us, the founders of Giv Studios, through Lower Manhattan’s vibrant design hubs. We’ll explore galleries and showrooms that highlight the city’s dynamic art scene. • Begin the journey at Raisonné, a contemporary design gallery specializing in contemporary and historical works. Programming focuses on pioneering voices from the past with an emphasis on mid-century French and radical Italian design. • A 14-minute walk scenic walk brings us to Egg Collective, an NYC based showroom and furniture store. It represents he perfect blend of contemporary craftsmanship, timeless design, and female-led creativity in the city’s thriving design scene. • Then we will head to to R & Company, a multi-room furniture and art gallery that captures the energy of New York’s creative scene through its contemporary design exhibitions that feature emerging and established designers and artists. • We’ll then end the tour at Quarters, a concept furniture shop and cafe centered on understated luxury and curated design. The store embodies an ethos of intentionality and quality, making it a haven for those who value aesthetics and sustainability. You’ll leave the experience with a zine highlighting this tour as well as unique insights into New York City’s ever-evolving creative culture, discovering emerging talents, and new design perspectives.

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Gilded Age NY with an architectural historian

In the 1910s and 1920s, the streets between Fifth and Park avenues in Manhattan were transformed into a millionaires’ district. Join an architectural historian for a two-hour walking tour of the Upper East Side, where you’ll learn about the rise of this neighborhood. • Beginning at the Knickerbocker Club, we’ll walk around the neighborhood, stopping at significant mansions, brownstones, and early-20th-century apartment buildings. • Along the way, I’ll share stories of the oil barons and newspaper tycoons who lived here and frequented the Upper East Side’s elegant clubs. • Our final stop is the Payne Whitney House, which is now the French Embassy. We’ll look inside the foyer, which used to host an original Michaelangelo, and the Venetian Room. You’ll leave having gained a better sense of New York history, as well as insight into the lives of the architects and residents who built the Upper East Side.

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Untold stories of Harlem with an author and film scholar

Journey through Harlem with me—a historian and CUNY professor—as I share untold stories of how African immigrants have helped shape the borough’s history and culture. • We’ll start at the Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market, an artisan market that serves as a cultural and economic hub for the African immigrant community. • Next, we’ll explore Little Senegal, a vibrant testament to the growing African presence in Harlem, where I’ll highlight key figures and events that shaped this neighborhood’s significance. • Additional stops along our tour will include the iconic and still thriving Apollo Theater, as well as other cultural landmarks that showcase the lasting connection between Harlem and the African diaspora. At the end of our walk, you’ll have gotten a rare glimpse into Harlem’s history and the important role African immigrants have played in its development. You’ll also receive a copy of my book, Africans in Harlem: An Untold New York Story, to continue exploring what you’ve learned.

Top-rated art and culture activities

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4.91 out of 5 average rating, 680 reviews

Private Photoshoot at the Famous Brooklyn Bridge/Dumbo

My IG: @capture_by_j, But I prefer to be contacted here instead. I'll only communicate through the Airbnb platform. If you have a different time in mind, simply send me a request and I'll let you know my availability. You'll receive 25 to 27 photos for each person you add to the experience ( 2 people 56-60 pictures) within a few days after the photoshoot is over, in 4 to 7 days. These photos will be sent to you through a link here on Airbnb that captures the essence of your trip. The best part is that the photos are included in the package, so no extra payment is required. Additionally, you can enjoy the privacy of a personal photoshoot with just you or your party. The experience is about 40 to 60 min by ground size You are going to be be exploring Brooklyn Bridge and dumbo place where you will never forget And I will be photographing you or you party to capture those moments In case of rain, we can reschedule instead of canceling, depending on the intensity. Please note that if you're more then 15 minutes late I’ll leave Once I give you the pictures, the responsibility transfers to you. The link to access to the added photos will remain available 6 months, so remember to keep them safe. Please be aware that I am not liable for any of your belongings during the photoshoot. depending on your group side size

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 757 reviews

Private Photoshoot at the Famous Time Square

My IG: @capture_by_j, But I prefer to be contacted here instead. I'll only communicate through the Airbnb platform. You'll receive 25 to 27 photos for each person you add to the experience ( 2 people 56-60 pictures) within a few days after the photoshoot is over, in 4 to 7 days. These photos will be sent to you through a link here on Airbnb that captures the essence of your trip. The best part is that the photos are included in the package, so no extra payment is required. Additionally, you can enjoy the privacy of a personal photoshoot with just you or your party. The experience is about 40 to 60 min by group size You gone be exploring Time Square, midtown during the day as well In a city Where celebrities and people all over come to explore. building, streets and restaurants a place where you will never forget And I will be photographing you or you party to capture those moments In case of rain, we can reschedule instead of canceling, depending on the intensity. Please note that if you're more than 15 minutes late without notifying me, I will assume you're unable to make it. Once I give you the pictures, the responsibility transfers to you. The link to access to the added photos will remain available for 6 months, so remember to keep them safe. Please be aware that I am not liable for any of your belongings during the photoshoot

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 1239 reviews

The Speakeasy Adventure- A Tipsy Trip Through History

Welcome! Walk with us through Midtown New York as we retrace the immigrant progress toward the American Dream during Prohibition. As masters of the art of storytelling, we’ll guide you into one of New York's speakeasies where we'll toast to a prohibition cocktail and tell the tale of the period’s most notorious gangsters and infamous bootleggers. Then, we’ll explore the catalysts behind Prohibition at our next stop and focus on the women of the Gilded Age, and the movement that gave rise to an oil king. To round off our journey together, we'll walk you around the edge of Times Square and finally we’ll discuss the demise of Prohibition over cocktails at our last venue stop. You will be guided by myself or one of my well trained colleagues. *purchase necessary: please expect beer from $10-18 and wine/cocktails from $18-25 *no late arrivals, rescheduling is subject to availability Other things to note: -Drinks are NOT included. -Prepare to comfortably walk 1.5 miles at a moderate pace. -Time for food and mingling provided. -We are not wheelchair accessible

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 153 reviews

Times Square Vibrant Photoshoot

Well hello! Let’s have a Photoshoot! You’ll receive a preview link of all photos in 24 hours. You can select 1 complimentary image per person to be edited and purchase as many additional photos as you want! A Website link to download included/purchased photos will be available for 2 weeks before being removed. It’s your responsibility to check the one website link that is provided to you to see if I have updated/uploaded your edits/unedited. I will not notify you. Public Bookings ($69 per person) Includes: 1 Edited Photo Additional Purchases: Each additional Edited Photo costs: $25 To receive Unedited Gallery to download: $60 It takes 4-7 days to receive edits and 1 day to receive unedited photos from the time of payment. *Private Bookings (Starting Rate: $375+) Includes: All Unedited Photos AND 10 Edited Photos.* ‼You must book a private booking for any special events. (Proposal, products, covers, maternity, engagement, etc) If you would like to do a photoshoot somewhere else you must book a private booking as well but please message me first before booking if wanting a different location‼ This will be a once in a lifetime 40-60 minute public group or private photoshoot. Check out my other experiences: Central Park: https://www.airbnb.com/l/UWwEQmG0 Brooklyn Bridge/Dumbo: https://www.airbnb.com/l/LFajow3l Times Square After Dark: https://www.airbnb.com/l/fO5HT2A2

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 315 reviews

Private Photoshoot in the World Famous New York City

My IG: @capture_by_j, But I prefer to be contacted here instead. I'll only communicate through the Airbnb platform. For yours specific location in NYC, just send me a message. And If you have a different time in mind, simply send me a request and I'll let you know if I’m available, You'll receive 25 to 27 picture for each person you add to the experience ( 2 people 56-60 pictures) within a few days after the photoshoot, in 4 to 7 days. These photos will be sent to you through a link here on Airbnb that captures the essence of your trip. The best part is that the photos are included in the package, so no extra payment is required. Additionally, you can enjoy the privacy of a personal photoshoot with just you or your party. We'll explore one amazing location in New York City, chosen by you. Simply send me a message with your preferred location, whether it's Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, Central Park, SoHo, Upper East Side, Christmas decorations… In case of rain, we can reschedule instead of canceling, depending on the intensity. Please note that if you're more than 15, I will assume you're unable to make it. Once I give you the pictures, the responsibility transfers to you. The link to access to the added photos will remain available for 6 months, so remember to keep them safe. Please be aware that I am not liable for any of your belongings during the photoshoot

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 2325 reviews

The Full-Day "See It All" NYC Tour!

(PLEASE NOTE: If you need a date that's full or not on the calendar, please message us. We will do our best to squeeze you in!) Hi folks! New York City is the greatest city in the world and I want you to have the greatest time ever! This is mostly a walking tour but we also take the subway and of course a gorgeous boat ride on the harbor to see the Statue of Liberty! Our tour is also great for groups & families. Here is the itinerary: This is a Full Day Tour. We cover a LOT!! -Explore beautiful Central Park -See the magnificent & world famous Plaza Hotel -Stroll along expensive & fancy 5th Avenue -Magnificent architecture of St. Patrick's Cathedral ( we go INSIDE not just outside!) -Rockefeller Center/NBC Studios -Diamond District -Times Square (the most exciting place in the world!) -Lunch Break -Freedom Tower -9/11 Memorial -Wall Street (NY Stock Exchange) -Boat Ride Across scenic New York Harbor! -Statue of Liberty/ Ellis Island views -New York Skyline views -Brooklyn Bridge views We'll also view movie & TV locations, stop for plenty of pictures, try to spot celebrities, and much more!

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 1305 reviews

Hasidic Brooklyn

To many, the world of Hasidic Jews is shrouded in mystery and secrecy—well, not anymore. On this experience, you get to see first hand the daily lives, rituals, and customs of the Hasidic community, guided by a member of the community and being able to access places seemingly closed off and hidden to the outsider. An opportunity to be able to ask any questions about the Jewish faith, culture, and philosophy. We kick off the experience inside a Hasidic home, and learning about what it takes to keep a Kosher home. Then its off to the streets of Crown Heights, starting with exploring the world famous “770” Synagogue, getting a glimpse into the hustle and bustle of daily prayer services. Next stop is a Jewish scribe, seeing up close the intricate details involved in producing the Torah Scrolls. Followed by a walk down the avenue, visiting the local shops, and seeing the traditions dating back to the early 1800’s. If you don’t see availability for when you would like to join, please message us and we will try to accommodate. The experience will be hosted by Yoni or Mayer. The experience continues rain, snow or shine (just come prepared).

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 107 reviews

New York photoshoot- top locations

I will show you the beautiful places in NYC, both touristic and hidden, help you to pose and feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera and capture your memories of this amazing city. I have several pre-planned routes for you to choose from, just send me a request to get a full list. I’m also opened to your ideas, let me know, what your vision is and what kind of photoshoot you need. Please feel free to send a message with any questions you have, I will be happy to answer and navigate you Equipment included

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 1006 reviews

Brooklyn Bridge cinematic photo walk

This experience takes place at the Brooklyn Bridge Park and Brooklyn Bridge, but I’m always open to capture clients at different locations upon request for an additional charge. Because of my background working side by side with models and actors, my clients appreciate my directions in front of the camera. My main priority is to create lasting memories of your trip to New York City while adding some flavor to your social media! For my photographs, we can start in the morning at Brooklyn Bridge Park with the best light and least traffic. We will explore the Brooklyn Bridge Park, along with other respected cultural locations. I can assure you will find new places to bring your friends to Brooklyn and photographs to make your friends back home wish they were with you. My evening experience is at the Brooklyn Bridge when the light is low & we can get great pictures of you with the sunset in the background. As an avid traveler who's traveled the world, I enjoy meeting new people from other countries. Once we become acquainted, you will become my model for 1 hour. I am excited to share my 10+ years of experience working in the fashion & advertising industry with you. A preview link will be provided to all the photos. You can pick up to 1 complimentary and purchase as many extra photos as you want. All unedited photos and 10 edits are included for private group bookings.

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 715 reviews

The Ultimate Manhattan Secondhand Shopping Day

By the end of this 6-store marathon shopping experience for all ages and genders (we love families, parent/child, couples, solo travelers, friend groups!), you'll have BAGS of secondhand bargain deals and a massive smile on your face! Shop NYC fashion treasures of your dreams; contemporary designer names to trendy brands + unusual high quality pieces can be found. Our team of personal shoppers give you exemplary personal care & attention. You leave feeling like a secondhand style star! Let us make your secondhand shopping experience effortless, easy and successful. - Group tours: $65 per person - Custom 100% private tours $325 up to 4 people per group (can be luxury minded routes) - Book for others - message for info how! - Gift certificates available - Credit cards accepted - Stores sell totes - Tour operates rain or shine - ALL guests need paid ticket Stores offer sizes 0 - 18, + tons of men's options including dedicated men stores. Teens 14+ do not need adult to accompany them WE MEET: Ace Hotel lobby, 20 W 29th and Broadway, Manhattan & end 25th and 6th Ave WHAT YOU'LL GET: - 30-50 mins shopping each store - Styling tips, store background & we love finding you finds! - Shopping assistance & guidance - Bags of deals! $10-$60 average - 6 stores & weekend: Market included - Grab & go cafe stop if requested along the way - bring snacks / water! - LGBTQ welcome!

Art and culture activities in New York

Art and culture activities led by local experts

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