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In the early 20th century, the Woolworth Building in downtown Manhattan not only dominated the NYC skyline, but also held the title of "tallest building in the world" for over 17 years. What secrets lie behind its towering limestone and terracotta façade? Now’s your chance to step inside one of New York’s most breathtaking interiors — a hidden architectural marvel that's been off-limits to the public since 2020 (until now).

Join for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Woolworth Building — commissioned by retail magnate Frank Woolworth in 1910 to house his company’s corporate headquarters, this neo-Gothic style skyscraper designed by architect Cass Gilbert laid claim to the world’s tallest building from its opening in 1913 until 1930.

Led by licensed NYC tour guides and Woolworth Building experts Bob Gelber or Ed Welter, this official experience — and the only way inside this private building — will include:

• The story behind the “Cathedral of Commerce,” from its creation by retail magnate F.W. Woolworth to its groundbreaking design by Cass Gilbert
• A look at the exterior’s intricate terracotta façade, rich with neo-Gothic ornamentation and symbolic details
• A private tour of the soaring lobby, with its marble-clad walls, vaulted ceilings, and hidden symbols embedded in the architecture
• A visit to the subterranean vault, where the building’s original safe deposit boxes are tucked beneath its towering frame

for a preview of the experience 📽️

See you there!

*There are no public restrooms on the tour, so please plan accordingly.

**This tour is limited to the lobby and first sub-level. If you require elevator access between floors, please message support[at]nyadventureclub[dot]com so arrangements with the Woolworth building can be made.

***Please refrain from wandering around the lobby before, during, or after the tour.

****Please wear comfortable footwear as there are no opportunities to sit down.

About Bob

After retiring from the New York State Court System, Bob Gelber became a licensed New York City tour guide to share his deep knowledge and passion for his hometown. Over the past 20+ years, he has led visitors through neighborhoods many tourists overlook, while also serving as a docent at the Woolworth Building and volunteering at both the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Open House New York. A longtime member of the Guides Association of New York City, Bob has served on its Board of Directors and several key committees. From Central Park to the Lower East Side — and even chocolate-themed walks through SoHo — Bob brings history to life with every step.

About Ed

With over four decades of experience in construction and nearly 15 years in the tourism world, Ed Welter brings a unique perspective to New York City's built environment. After starting his guiding career at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in 2010, Ed went on to become a senior docent and trainer at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, where he has been sharing the site’s powerful story since its earliest days. A licensed NYC tour guide since 2012, Ed also led Woolworth Building tours from 2014 until their pause in 2020 — and is excited to return as the tour program resumes with New York Adventure Club. His deep knowledge and passion have guided countless tours across Lower Manhattan, from the Brooklyn Bridge to City Hall Park, including topics like the Five Points, the African Burial Grounds, and the history of terrorism in New York.

Testimonials

"The tour of the lobby was full of secrets and mysteries and astonishing design. The lobby tour guide was kind, passionate, and extremely knowledgeable." -Simon

"Very informational. Knowledgeable lobby tour guide." -Jacqueline

"The guide was very knowledgeable and history interesting. My first with adventure club, not the last. I enjoyed it very much." -Judy

"...The guide was great… provided just enough information and stories, answered questions… and best of all really enjoyed seeing this iconic building up close! Wonderful event. Just the right amount of time." -Aimee

"A fascinating combination of history, architecture and biography in a magnificent building. The guide was exceptional." -Beth

"Informative on architecture, history, and history of Woolworth himself. Also notable comments on the strains between Woolworth and his architect, Cass Gilbert. Excellent speaker, humorous, personal, and interested in all facets of the building." -Margaret

"The history and love that went into building this magnificent building" -Jojo

"The information about Woolworth himself and the history of the 5 and 10 business was particularly good. Makes me want to learn more. Of course, just getting access was a treat. It's kind of a hidden treasure." -Leandro

"It was highly informative and the guide was engaging." -E

"Didn’t realize that this beautiful building was not open to the public so it was very special. Also the building was awesome. Guide was terrific." -Murray

"The guide was so knowledgeable, explained everything in an interesting way, was patient with questions and managed the group well. It was outstanding!!" -Betsy

"Tour guide's knowledge of the subject." -Lucien

"One of the best tour guides we’ve ever had—beyound knowledgeable. Keep up the good work Adventures Club—We love ya. ❤️❤️" -Slo

"Beautiful building. The tour guide exceeded all expectations. Not only was he friendly, polite and kind but was very knowledgeable and transported this in a very comptehensive, humourous and articulate way to his audience. A really amazing guide! A tour worth doing and for the company: keep that tour guide!" -Anja

"I liked the guides vast knowledge of the history of the family" -Laura

"engaging, educational & fun. Great tour - lots of history & a fun experience!" -AC

"I like to explore spaces that are typically closed off to the public. I also loved the architecture and design of the building as well as the history of the Woolworth family." -Simone

"Great content and history. Loved the stories about the construction, companies in the building, Woolworth, etc." -Maile

"In depth history of construction + architectural details. Loved the style and humor of the guide." -Judy

"Our guide is very engaging. His knowledge and enthusiasm for his subject matter really shines through. This was one of the very best tours we've ever taken in NYC." -Carol

"access to a building that is normally off limits to visitors, the information about the earliest, most renowned tenants e.g. Nikola Tesla, Manhattan Project etc. it was great and I've already recommended it to several friends" -L

"Everything...first look after so many years." -Jeffrey

"Oour tour guide was wonderful - we enjoyed his manner, his insights annd his vibe. We were especially lucky to hav his colleague there, who also provided great stories. And the building is a delight. How awesome to have access that you never have to those beautiful spaces!!! So fabulous. We all loved it." -Jessica

"Amazing to finally get in to see the building, especially having studied in there for 2 years!!" -Amy

"Absolutely spectacular tour!! The guide was fantastic and it was such a privilege to get to see this incredible building." -Emily

"Interesting to see the building and great guide" -Lorraine

"So interesting" -Joyce

"Bobs enthusiasm and knowledge. It was really enjoyable. Thank you." -Arabelle

"Blend of architecture and personal stories about Mr. Woolworth. It was good! I’m going to try another NYAC tour." -Mary

"Bob was terrific guide and gave great info. Learned a lot. Well worth it" -Geo

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Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours