Dutch New York: Brooklyn & Queens Historical Walking Tour
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Overview
Experience early Dutch New York in Brooklyn and Queens through the eyes of a local expert. This historical walking tour dives deep into the Dutch settlement of New Amsterdam, revealing its rich history and cultural impact on modern-day New York City. The guide, with a background in archaeology and fluency in both Dutch and English, brings a unique perspective to the exploration of this pivotal period.
Participants can expect to visit key historical sites, including New Amsterdam Plein & South Ferry, where the journey begins, and Bowling Green, the site of the original Fort Amsterdam. The tour also includes a walk along Wall Street, uncovering its transformation from a defensive wall to a financial powerhouse. Along the way, participants will discover hidden gems and hear captivating stories that bring the Dutch colonial era to life.
This experience includes a personal tour guide for the duration of the tour, ensuring an intimate and informative exploration. It excludes any personal expenses, food, or drinks. This walking tour offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and discover the Dutch roots of New York City.
Highlights
Expert-Led Exploration: Delve into Dutch New York with a knowledgeable guide fluent in Dutch and English.
Historical Hotspots: Visit New Amsterdam Plein, Bowling Green (Fort Amsterdam Site), and Wall Street.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a more intimate and personalized tour with a small group.
Uncover Hidden Stories: Hear captivating tales and discover the rich history of Dutch New Amsterdam.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally praise the guide's expertise and the engaging historical content. Some mention the lack of shade and potential mobility challenges.

The guide is knowledgeable and passionate.
The tour is a great way to learn about history.
The walking pace is easy and comfortable.
The small group size makes the tour feel personal.
Some locations have limited shade.
The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
The Journey
New Amsterdam Plein & South Ferry
Begin your historical adventure at New Amsterdam Plein, a bronze map meticulously recreating the original Dutch colony. Located next to the South Ferry subway, this spot offers a tangible connection to the past. Stand on this historical ground and imagine the Dutch sailors' first glimpse of Noten Island (Nut Island), the nascent settlement that would evolve into New York City. Discover tales of discovery, settlement, and the ambitions that fueled this early colonial endeavor, setting the stage for the city's vibrant future.
Bowling Green (Fort Amsterdam Site)
Stand upon hallowed ground, the original site of Fort Amsterdam, now the charming Bowling Green. Envision the bustling activity of early settlers as you hear captivating tales of their arrival in Lower Manhattan. Learn about the construction of the fort and the complex interactions between the Dutch colonists and the native Lenape people. While the museum visit is excluded, this site serves as a poignant reminder of the foundations upon which modern New York was built, a pivotal chapter in the city's unfolding narrative.
En Route to Significant Historical Landmark
As we make our way to another historical landmark, delve deeper into the lives of the early New Amsterdam settlers. Uncover the stories of their daily existence, their challenges, and their triumphs. Explore the diverse tapestry of cultures that shaped the colony, including the often-overlooked history of enslaved Africans and Jewish immigrants who contributed to the unique identity of New Amsterdam. This moving segment weaves together narratives of resilience, adaptation, and the forging of a new society, giving us a glimpse into the intricate fabric of early New York.
Wall Street
Conclude your historical exploration on Wall Street, the heart of New York's financial district and the very place where New Amsterdam transitioned to British control. Reflect on the events surrounding the handover of the city, marking a significant shift in its destiny. Visualize the bustling colonial street transforming into the financial powerhouse it is today, understanding the enduring legacy of Dutch ingenuity and the forces that propelled New York to global prominence. Feel the pulse of history beneath your feet as you stand at this crossroads of empires and innovation.
Know Before You Go
This experience includes a personal tour guide who will be with the group for the entire tour. It does not include food, drinks, personal expenses, or transportation to the meeting point. Please meet the guide at the designated meeting location. The tour involves walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and bring water, especially on hot days. There isn't much shade at some of the locations, so wearing a hat and applying sunscreen is a great idea.