Body Snatchers of New York

If you’re drawn to the eerie side of history or love exploring the city’s little-known stories, the Body Snatchers of New York tour might just catch your interest. This two-hour walk dives into the shadowy world of grave robbing, corpse thefts, and the strange tales that have haunted New York’s burial grounds for over two centuries. It’s not your typical sightseeing trip—this one digs up some of the city’s most bizarre and chilling true crime stories.

What really caught our attention are two aspects: first, the tour’s focus on true stories, shared by someone with nine years of cemetery research under their belt. Second, the way it brings historical body thefts into the present day, making these stories feel surprisingly relevant. The only potential downside? It’s not suitable for children under 12, so if you’re traveling with young kids, this might not be your best pick. Still, if you’re curious about the macabre side of New York, this tour fits the bill.

This experience is ideal for history buffs, true crime lovers, or anyone with a taste for the weird and wonderful. It’s a small-group tour—just 10 people max—so you get a more personal, engaging experience. Just be ready for some spooky stories and a walking route that covers a few of the city’s historic burial sites.

Key Points

• Historical focus: The tour explores body snatching from the 1780s to today, blending history and true crime.
• Expert guide: Led by James, a cemetery specialist with nine years of research, offering insightful stories.
• Cost-effective: At $35 per person, it offers an affordable way to learn about a lesser-known aspect of New York history.
• Small-group experience: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more engaging, less rushed tour.
• Location convenience: Starts at Trinity Church near Wall Street and ends at Foley Square, both easily accessible.
• Not family-friendly: Suitable for ages 12 and up, and not wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Atmosphere
The tour kicks off outside Trinity Church, a historic site with a lot of character. James, the guide, will meet you to the right of the closed gates, holding a black clipboard and sporting a cemetery-themed T-shirt. His approachable manner and extensive knowledge immediately set a tone that’s both serious and engaging. Expect to start in a quiet, slightly eerie area—perfect for the stories ahead.

The Grave Robbing Stories
We loved the way the tour unpacks the fascinating history of body snatching. For example, you’ll hear about medical students inciting riots by stealing corpses, which led to some tense, sometimes violent, confrontations. These stories highlight how desperate the medical community was for cadavers before laws changed, and how the thefts often turned into full-blown scandals.

Desecrated Graves and Missing Bones
One of the more vivid stories involves grave desecration and the theft of skulls, which were often prized souvenirs or used for scientific study. According to reviews, “all stories are incredible but true,” which adds a lot of credibility and makes the experience all the more compelling. You’ll learn about the fates of some of the city’s most infamous stolen bones and the sometimes bizarre motives behind these crimes.

The Most Bizarre Cases
The tour also features some truly strange tales, like the case of a body held for ransom and the mystery of the last pirate of New York. These stories are woven into the overarching theme of body theft as a crime that persisted for centuries. It’s a reminder that, even today, these dark deeds don’t seem entirely relegated to the past.

Practical Details
At $35, the tour is fairly priced for a two-hour walk led by a knowledgeable guide. There are no additional fees, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—making it flexible for changing plans. The tour is conducted in English, so no worries if that’s your language of choice.

What You’ll Not Love
While the stories are captivating, the walk covers some uneven or limited-access areas, and the end location at Foley Square doesn’t have nearby restrooms. Also, it’s not suitable for children under 12 or wheelchair users, so prepare accordingly.

Accessibility & Logistics
The tour starts at the Wall Street subway stop, with nearby restrooms available at Whole Foods. It ends at Chambers Street station, so you’ll find transit options convenient. Since it’s a small group, expect a more intimate experience where you can ask questions and engage with the guide.

Why This Tour Truly Stands Out

The authenticity of the stories, combined with the guide’s expertise, offers a rare glimpse into New York’s darker history. We loved how the stories reveal a city that, beneath its shiny surface, has a long, sometimes gruesome, history of body theft and scientific obsession. The stories are well-researched, and James’s passion shines through, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

For someone interested in true crime, history, or the macabre, this tour is a solid choice. It’s also a good option if you want an activity that’s different from the usual tourist fare—no crowds, just fascinating stories and a walk through history. The price point makes it accessible, especially considering the personalized touch of a small-group tour.

Of course, if you’re squeamish about death or grave desecration, this might not be your cup of tea. But for those curious about the darker side of urban history, it could be a highlight of your trip.

Final Thoughts

The Body Snatchers of New York tour offers a compelling, well-researched look at an unusual slice of the city’s past. It’s a perfect pick for history buffs, crime enthusiasts, or anyone intrigued by the grisly stories that lie beneath the city’s bustling streets. The tour’s affordability, small-group setting, and knowledgeable guide make it a worthwhile addition to your NYC itinerary.

If you’re after a unique experience that combines storytelling with a dose of the creepy and historical, this tour is worth considering. Just remember it’s not suitable for younger children or those with mobility challenges. Overall, it’s a thoughtfully curated, engaging journey into New York’s lesser-known history of body theft—definitely one for those who like their stories a little darker.

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FAQ

Is this tour appropriate for children?
It’s generally recommended for ages 12 and up, as the stories involve death and desecration, which might be upsetting for younger kids.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts outside Trinity Church near Wall Street and ends at Foley Square, close to the Chambers Street subway stop.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the $35 fee covers the entire tour. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly if needed.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is in English.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, giving you flexibility in your travel planning.

If exploring New York’s darker, stranger side sounds intriguing, the Body Snatchers of New York tour could be a surprisingly memorable part of your visit. It’s an opportunity to learn about the city’s secrets and maybe shiver a little in the process.

You can check availability for your dates here: