Lower East Side Backstory

Sponsored by City Lore

• Location: New York
• Travel Type: Walking
• Tour Duration: 30 minutes
• Language:

Looking for a new way to explore off-the-beaten-path communities? Long Island Traditions and City Lore interview everyday people to give you an authentic look into communities of yesterday and today.

Look behind the curtain of one of New York's oldest yet vibrant neighborhoods. As you walk through this historic district, you will meet some of the unique characters that helped mold this colorful community. The Lower East Side offers a rich culture, diverse history, and beautiful architecture, making it one of the crown jewels of the Big Apple.

This 4-stop audio tour will lead you to:
+ The Museum at Eldridge Street
+ The 6th Street Community Center
+ Yonah Schimmel's Bakery
+ Jim Power's Mosaic Trail

At the Museum at Eldridge Street, you'll delve into the history of this synagogue turned museum. Hanna Griff-Sleven, a former programs director at the site, shares her journey from a chance visit to her vision of preserving and celebrating the neighborhood's heritage. You'll hear about the building's restoration, Yiddish music concerts, and even a Jewish literary salon.

Visit the Sixth Street Community Center, originally a synagogue, now a hub for food justice, grassroots organizing, and various community programs. Hear from Executive Director Howard Brandstein about the building's history, transformation, and its role in supporting the neighborhood, from community-supported agriculture to youth programs.

No trip to the Lower East Side is complete without a stop at Yonah Schimmel's Knish Bakery. Established in 1890, this iconic bakery has been serving up traditional knishes for over a century. Sink your teeth into a piece of history and enjoy the flavors of this Jewish culinary tradition. Explore the time-tested recipes that have delighted generations of New Yorkers.

Explore the mosaic-decorated light posts created by Jim Power, lovingly known as 'the Mosaic Man.' Discover the stories behind each of the 80 mosaic-decorated light posts that celebrate the neighborhood's history and culture. From gangsters to John Lennon, these works offer a unique and vibrant perspective on the Lower East Side.

Tour Sponsor
This tour is brought to you by City Lore a group whose mission is to foster New York City's – and America’s – living cultural heritage through education and public programs in service of cultural equity and social justice.

Find More Tours Near You
If you are interested in more audio tours in this region, check out the New York City's West Village, and New York Crime tours. To find more tours in the New York area (or wherever your travels may take you) visit TravelStorys.com. Every place has a story.