The Nasty Women of Fidi : Lower Manhattan Walking Tour

If you’re looking to see New York City from a different angle, this tour promises a lively, provocative look at some of the city’s most trailblazing women. Instead of dry dates and boring facts, this 90-minute walk highlights women who defied norms, made waves, and left a lasting mark on the city’s streets and skyline. It’s a great way to learn about history with a little spice—and a lot of attitude.

We particularly like how this tour focuses on women who weren’t just “nice” or “well-behaved” but disruptive, daring, and downright inspiring. The stories are often scandalous enough to keep you hooked, and the guide’s enthusiasm makes it even more engaging. Plus, it’s a fairly accessible outdoor experience, so it can fit into most schedules and mobility needs. But, of course, it’s not for everyone—if you’re after a comprehensive historical deep dive, this might be a more playful, themed tour than a serious history lesson.

One potential drawback? The tour emphasizes storytelling and highlights specific figures, but it only visits outside sites—so if you’re a history buff craving inside access or detailed architecture, you might want to look elsewhere. Still, if you appreciate lively narrative and want to support stories of women who refused to stay in the background, this tour offers some fun insight.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, bold personalities, and a dash of scandal. It’s perfect if you’re curious about lesser-known stories or want a more spirited way to explore the Financial District.

Key Points

• Focus on women who challenged norms and built NYC’s skyline and financial power.
• Outdoor walking tour that covers iconic sites with stories behind them.
• Accessible and flexible with free cancellation and pay-later options.
• A mix of success and scandal makes history fun and engaging.
• In-depth guide narration provides context beyond what you see.
• Primarily outside sites, no inside venues visited.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Serious Details of the Tour

This tour is a solid choice for those who want a short, accessible introduction to some of NYC’s most influential women. It costs $34 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the amount of storytelling and the guided experience. For 1.5 hours, you’ll explore a range of landmarks in the Financial District, which is the heart of NYC’s economic history.

The meeting point is at 7 State Street, right across from the Staten Island Ferry landing—an easy spot to find, especially if you’re arriving by ferry or subway. From there, your licensed guide will lead you through the streets, weaving in tales of remarkable women whose achievements might often be overlooked.

What You’ll See and Learn

The tour hits several notable sites, each with its own story. You’ll start at the Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine, giving a nod to influential figures before diving into the stories of women who broke barriers in finance, engineering, and activism.

The Fearless Girl statue is a highlight. It’s not just a photo-op but a symbol of women’s empowerment, and your guide will probably share its story—how it challenged the status quo on Wall Street. Outside the New York Stock Exchange, you’ll hear about women who made waves in the financial world, despite the male-dominated environment.

Other stops include 55 Wall Street—a building tied to some of the more scandalous stories—and Trinity Church, which has witnessed generations of history, including women who pushed boundaries in their roles in society. We loved that the guide reveals unseen fingerprints of women who helped shape the neighborhood—these are stories you might not find in typical guidebooks.

The Stories and Their Impact

The tour isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about understanding how women influenced the evolution of Lower Manhattan. From engineers who defied gender norms to finance moguls who shattered glass ceilings, these women transformed the city’s streets into symbols of progress and resilience.

Many reviews mention how the tour’s storytelling is lively and engaging, with guides providing background that makes the sites come alive. One reviewer even said, “It’s a hot mess of scandals and triumphs,” capturing that playful spirit the tour offers.

What to Expect and Considerations

Since this is an outdoor walking tour, be prepared for the weather—dress comfortably and wear good shoes, because you’ll be on your feet for about an hour and a half. The pace is moderate, suitable for most fitness levels, but it’s not a tour designed for inside exploration or extended stops.

It’s worth noting that the tour is guided in English and is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for many travelers. The tour operates mainly in the afternoon, perfect if you want a daytime activity that mixes sightseeing with storytelling.

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Value and Practical Tips

At $34, this tour offers a cost-effective way to learn about some of NYC’s fiercest women. Given that it only visits outside sites, it’s a quick but rich experience—ideal if you’re short on time or want a different perspective without the hefty price tag of museums or inside venues.

If you’re a fan of history with a rebellious twist, you’ll find this a refreshing take. However, if you’re expecting a comprehensive, in-depth historical lecture, this might lean more towards storytelling and highlights than exhaustive history.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for history buffs who like their stories spicy and full of personality, and for those curious about women’s roles in shaping NYC but don’t want a long or inside-based tour. It’s also suited for travelers who enjoy walking tours that combine education with entertainment. If you’re traveling with others who like a bit of scandal and empowerment stories, this is a good pick.

If you’re after a family-friendly experience, keep in mind it’s outside and may not be suitable for very young children—though older kids with an interest in history and stories of strong women might enjoy it.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fun, spirited look at NYC’s history through the lens of women who refused to stay behind the scenes. For just over an hour and for a reasonable price, you’ll get a lively guide, fascinating stories, and a chance to see some iconic city landmarks from a fresh perspective.

It’s best for travelers who love stories of triumph and scandal, enjoy walking outdoors, and want a taste of NYC’s gritty, powerful side. It’s not a deeply academic tour, but it’s a memorable slice of the city’s lesser-told stories—those of women who built, challenged, and changed NYC in ways that still resonate today.

If you’re in the mood for a lively, engaging, and slightly rebellious experience in Lower Manhattan, this tour is worth considering. It’s more than just sightseeing; it’s a celebration of women’s resilience and influence, wrapped in a fun and approachable package.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it an inclusive option for many travelers.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity without taking up too much of your day.

Where does the tour start? The meeting point is at 7 State Street, right in front of the Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine.

Does the tour include inside visits? No, this is an outdoor walking tour. All sites are viewed from the outside.

What’s the price? It costs $34 per person, which is a reasonable rate considering the guided storytelling involved.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility.

Is it available in the evening? The tour is usually offered in the afternoon, but check with the provider for specific times during your visit.

Is this suitable for kids? While it’s not specifically designed for children, older kids interested in history or stories of powerful women might enjoy it. Check your group’s interests.

Do I need to prepare anything? Just wear comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, and bring your curiosity. The tour guide will provide all the stories and context.

If you’re ready to see New York in a different light, this tour might just be the spicy, empowering experience you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: