In July of 2022 we offered our first Rock and Roll Tour to overwhelming demand – so we’re bringing it back in 2023. 

Rock n’ roll has been deeply rooted in our neighborhoods since the art form was first invented, with many of its greatest practitioners drawn here to live or perform, while others had their careers launched here. Alongside Rock n’ Roll history is the rich history of architecture in our neighborhoods. We’ll discover both the history of those who impacted music, as well as the architectural history of the places where they made such an impact.

From the Ramones to the Beastie Boys, and Patty Smith to Nirvana, our neighborhood is lined with the buildings that opened their doors to these icons of rock n’ roll. Songs such as The Ramone’s “I Just Wanna Have Something to Do” reference the precise locations in our neighborhoods.

The venues that once set the stage for legendary bands may be of the past, but the buildings still stand in the present. No one tour can comprehensively cover all of the rock history in our neighborhood. Below find a detailed description for each tour so you can choose the one that most appeals to you. Follow the Village Preservation team as we guide you through the architectural history of Rock N’ Roll and uncover the star-studded background of our streets.

Want more tours like this? Let us know what you think!

East Village Rock and Roll Tour: Part A

This tour will begin at the NE corner of 4th Ave and 11th Street, in front of the Cooper Station Post Office and head to Webster Hall. We’ll end the tour near Tompkins Square Park at the Pyramid Club’s location on Avenue A between 6th and 7th streets. In between, we’ll visit three more sites where rock history was made in our neighborhoods. Learn interesting facts about album covers, what happened in recording studios in our neighborhoods, and sites that impacted how rock and roll was performed in the East Village and far beyond.

Meet up location: NE corner of 4th Ave and 11th st in front of the Cooper Station Post Office (93 4th Ave, New York, NY 10003)

Rock Tour: Part B will be offered in May 2023. 

Accessibility: The meet up location is outdoors and sidewalk accessible. The tour will last about 75 minutes and will be an active walking tour across NYC streets and sidewalks.

Individual registration is required for each tour.