NYC: Guided Delicious Donut Tour with Tastings

If you’re a fan of sweets or just curious about New York’s vibrant food scene, the Guided Delicious Donut Tour might be just the treat you’re looking for. This experience promises a chance to sample some of the city’s top donuts while exploring iconic neighborhoods like Greenwich Village and Union Square. Although I haven’t done this tour myself, plenty of travelers seem to enjoy it, making it a popular choice for those who want a fun, casual way to indulge in NYC’s famous culinary culture.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines tastings with stories—you’re not just eating donuts, you’re also learning little tidbits about the city and its architecture. The guides seem knowledgeable and friendly, which can really elevate the experience. Plus, at just $69 per person, it offers a good balance of value and fun. However, keep in mind that it’s a fairly brisk, two-hour walk, so if you’re after a more leisurely, sit-down tasting, this might not be your perfect fit.

One thing to consider is the tour’s focus on walking through neighborhoods; if mobility or weather is a concern, plan accordingly. That said, it’s suited for most people who can comfortably walk and enjoy a variety of donuts. It’s especially great if you’re traveling with friends, family, or even a group of colleagues looking for something playful and different.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned NYC explorer, this donut tour can add a sweet twist to your trip. It’s especially ideal for those who love food, want to learn about the city in a relaxed setting, or are just looking for a memorable, tasty experience that doesn’t require hours of planning.

Key Points

• Tasty Sampling: The tour includes curated donut tastings, featuring iconic and unique donuts that showcase NYC’s bakeries at their best.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness and interesting stories about NYC’s architecture, film spots, and neighborhoods.
• Neighborhood Exploration: The walk takes you through Greenwich Village and Union Square, offering a glimpse of the city’s lively streets and culture.
• Value for Money: At $69, you get a two-hour guided tour with tastings, which is a fair price considering the quality and local insight.
• Flexible and Inclusive: The tour is wheelchair accessible, suitable for groups of all sizes, and available in the morning and afternoon.
• Family and Group Friendly: It’s a fun activity for family outings, group gatherings, or even a unique first date idea.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect on the Tour

The Underground Donut Tour is designed to give you a delicious overview of NYC’s donut scene. You meet your guide inside Unregular Bakery, conveniently located between E 12th and E 13th Streets, where you’ll be greeted wearing a tour t-shirt or sweatshirt. From here, your two-hour journey begins, and it’s not just about eating—your guide will share interesting facts about the city’s history, architecture, and even some film locations.

The Donut Tastings

The tour’s highlight is the curated donut tasting. You’ll sample a bombolone, a rich Italian-style donut, known for its soft texture and sweet filling—something that sticks out as a memorable treat. Later, in Greenwich Village, you’ll get to choose from a wall of donuts in different shapes, styles, and flavors, which keeps the experience fun and interactive. An exquisite brioche donut is also part of the lineup, offering a different take on the classic.

Travelers have raved about the variety and quality of the donuts. One reviewer mentioned, “The donuts and stores had lots of variety to choose from and the donuts were delicious.” Another noted that the last stop offered “the best donut I’ve ever had—crisp, not too sweet, with a creamy center,” which speaks to the quality and care put into these sweet treats.

The Neighborhood Stroll

While the tastings are the main event, the walk through neighborhoods adds context and charm. Expect to hear stories and fun facts about NYC’s architecture, film locations, and cultural landmarks, making it more than just a food tour.

Guests particularly appreciated the easy walking pace, and the fact that the stops are conveniently located within walkable neighborhoods meant no long bus rides or complicated logistics. One review highlighted, “All the doughnut shops were great, easy walking around and helped us see more of NYC than we had before!”

The Guides Make a Difference

Many reviews emphasize the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Heather, for example, was described as “so knowledgeable and happy to answer questions,” which makes a big difference when you’re learning about a city while enjoying some sweet bites. The guides also offer helpful suggestions for other things to do around NYC, adding value beyond just the donuts.

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The Practicalities

The tour costs $69 per person, which includes the tastings, guide, and neighborhood exploration. It’s a fairly short, two-hour activity, perfect for fitting into a busy day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as it’s an outdoor walking experience.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, so most travelers with mobility needs should be able to join. No pets, smoking, alcohol, or drugs are allowed, ensuring a family-friendly, respectful atmosphere.

Breaking Down the Experience

The Itinerary

The tour begins at Unregular Bakery, a cozy spot that sets the tone for a casual, friendly experience. Once you meet your guide, the walk takes you through Greenwich Village and Union Square, two of NYC’s most iconic neighborhoods. Along the way, your guide shares interesting nuggets about the city’s architecture, history, and culture—these stories add depth to the food-focused outing.

The Donuts

Expect a mix of traditional and innovative donuts. The bombolone gives you a taste of Italy, while the wall of donuts at Greenwich Village offers a variety of flavors—think classic glazed, chocolate-dipped, or more adventurous options. The brioche donut is highlighted as a standout, with one reviewer calling it “an exquisite masterpiece.”

The Guide’s Role

Guides seem to be the backbone of this tour. They’re praised for their engaging personalities and wealth of knowledge. Multiple reviews mention guides like Heather, Missy, and Jacob, who make the experience lively and informative. The ability to ask questions and get local insights is a real plus.

The Value

At $69, you’re paying for more than just donuts—you’re paying for a curated experience, local insight, and a chance to explore NYC in a new way. Considering the quality of the tastings and the interaction with guides, it’s a reasonable price for a two-hour cultural and culinary adventure.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers eager to indulge in NYC’s sweet side, but it’s also great for those who enjoy a bit of sightseeing combined with tasty bites. It’s an especially good fit for groups, couples, or families looking for a fun, lighthearted activity. If you’re into learning about a city’s neighborhoods through food and stories, this tour offers a charming way to do just that.

While it’s accessible and suited for most, people with mobility challenges should note the walking involved. Also, if you prefer longer, sit-down tastings or a more in-depth food experience, this might feel a little quick.

Final Thoughts

The NYC Guided Delicious Donut Tour offers a delightful mix of tasting, learning, and exploring. With friendly guides, quality donuts, and neighborhood charm, it’s a sweet way to spend a couple of hours in the city. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for a fun group activity, or simply craving some of NYC’s best donuts, this tour covers all those bases.

The price is reasonable, especially given the personalized experience and the insider stories you’ll hear along the way. It’s a playful, accessible, and tasty way to see parts of NYC you might not otherwise explore deeply.

If you’re a fan of food, curious about city life, or just want a different way to experience NYC’s vibrant neighborhoods, this donut tour could be just the ticket. Just be prepared for a walk, and you’ll leave with a happy belly and maybe some new favorite flavors.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, it’s generally suitable for most age groups that can handle walking and tasting donuts. However, it’s best for those who can walk comfortably and are not restricted by mobility issues.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable activity without taking up your whole day.

Where do I meet the guide?
You meet inside Unregular Bakery, between E 12th and E 13th Streets, where the guide will be wearing a donut tour t-shirt or sweatshirt.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, so most guests with mobility needs can participate comfortably.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as it’s an outdoor walking experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift.

Is there an option to reserve now and pay later?
Absolutely, the tour offers a “Reserve & Pay Later” option, so you can secure your spot without immediate payment.

This tour stands out as a fun, tasty, and informative way to experience NYC’s neighborhoods and culinary scene. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned local, it offers a delightful blend of flavors and stories that will leave your sweet tooth satisfied—and your curiosity piqued.

You can check availability for your dates here: