NYC Basketball Walking Tour

New York, US

Included

  • inclusion
    Basketball (playing at the courts will be based on availability)
  • inclusion
    Professional tour guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Please bring water
  • exclusion
    Subway fare (client will need to pay for 3 subway rides - $8.70)

Meeting Point

We will meet at the steps of the James A Farley US Post Office - 8th Ave and 33rd St (Across from Madison Square Garden). - Uber/Lyft: James A Farley Building, 421 8th Ave, New York, NY 10001 - Cab: tell the driver "8th Avenue and 33rd Street" - Subway: A, C, E Train to "34th St - Penn Station"

Meeting point

421 8th Ave, New York, NY 10001 , United States

End point

End Point

We will end our tour at the Basketball Courts in Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Meeting point

150 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden, often referred to as MSG, is a world-renowned sports and entertainment arena. It has a rich history and is considered one of the most iconic venues in the world. It is the home arena for the New York Knicks of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and has also hosted notable events such as the NBA All-Star Game. Here we will begin the story of the history of basketball in NYC along with some other historical information about the legendary stadium! This will also include a 30-40 min subway trip to our next destination, Rucker Park.

Duration 30 minutes
2

Holcombe Rucker Park

Rucker Park, located in Harlem, is a legendary outdoor basketball court that holds a special place in the history of streetball and urban basketball culture. Since its establishment in the 1950s, Rucker Park has become synonymous with the raw, energetic style of street basketball and has attracted some of the best players from the city and beyond. The park has witnessed legendary players such as Julius Erving, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James gracing its asphalt court, earning it a reputation as a breeding ground for future stars. With its legendary tournaments and the caliber of players it has hosted, Rucker Park has become an emblem of the vibrant basketball scene in Harlem and a symbol of the spirit of the community. We can attempt to play or shoot some hoops here based on court availability. This will also include a 30-40 min subway ride to our next destination, West 4th Street Courts.

Duration 60 minutes
3

West 4th Street Courts

The West 4th Cages, or The Cage, is an iconic outdoor basketball court in Greenwich Village, known for its intense competition and as a gathering place for basketball enthusiasts. With its challenging design and storied history, it embodies the spirit of New York City streetball culture and holds a special place in the hearts of players and fans alike. We can attempt to play or shoot some hoops here based on court availability. This will also include a 15-20 min subway ride to our next step, Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Duration 40 minutes
4

Brooklyn Bridge Park Basketball Courts

Brooklyn Bridge Park Basketball Courts, located in the scenic Brooklyn Bridge Park along the East River, offer a picturesque setting for basketball enthusiasts to enjoy the sport while taking in stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. We can attempt to play or shoot some hoops here based on court availability.

Duration 40 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant participants
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by The Native NYC Tour

What our experts say

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    Bring water for hydration
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    Wear comfortable walking shoes
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    Check subway schedules in advance
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    Explore nearby Harlem for great food
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    Don't miss the views at Brooklyn Bridge

More About this Experience

Introduction

Welcome to the NYC Basketball Walking Tour, where you'll uncover the rich history and passion that New York City has for the sport. From legendary arenas and iconic streetball courts to the vibrant basketball culture that permeates the city, this tour is an immersive experience for any basketball enthusiast. Led by a professional NYC tour guide with a genuine love for the game, you'll embark on a comprehensive journey through the city's basketball heritage.

What to expect?

During this 240-minute tour, get ready to explore the historical sights that have shaped New York City's basketball legacy. Starting at the original site of Madison Square Garden, you'll hear fascinating stories about the birth of basketball and its connection to the city. From there, you'll delve into the heart of the game with visits to Rucker Park and the West 4th Cages, where streetball legends have left their mark. Finally, you'll conclude at the Brooklyn Bridge Park Basketball Courts, where you can take in breathtaking views while enjoying a hoop session if court availability permits.

Who is this for?

The NYC Basketball Walking Tour is designed for anyone who shares a passion for basketball, whether you're an avid player, a dedicated fan, or a curious traveler looking to immerse yourself in the city's sports culture. This tour invites individuals of all ages and backgrounds to delve into the vibrant history and current scene of basketball in NYC. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this experience will deepen your appreciation for the game and its profound impact on New York City.

Why book this?

This tour stands apart from others with its unique blend of historical insight, local perspectives, and an opportunity to see some of New York City's most iconic basketball landmarks. Led by a knowledgeable guide who is not only a professional NYC tour guide but also a basketball enthusiast, you'll gain a deep understanding of the sport's significance in the city. From visiting Madison Square Garden to playing on legendary courts like Rucker Park and the West 4th Cages, this experience promises to be both informative and exciting, providing you with an unforgettable connection to the basketball culture of NYC.

Good to know

Before booking the NYC Basketball Walking Tour, it's important to note that the tour involves walking and utilizing the subway three times. This ensures that you'll be able to fully immerse yourself in the city's diverse basketball hotspots. Comfortable footwear and a sense of adventure are recommended as you explore the history and culture of basketball in NYC. Don't worry if you don't have a basketball with you – the guide will bring one along, allowing you to shoot some hoops at the various tour stops if court availability permits. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of New York City basketball and discover the city's love and passion for the sport.

Reviews

Feedback from previous participants reflects their enthusiasm and satisfaction with the NYC Basketball Walking Tour. Many praised the informative and engaging nature of the tour, highlighting the guide's expert knowledge of both basketball and the city's history. Participants were thrilled to visit renowned landmarks like Madison Square Garden and play on legendary courts like Rucker Park and the West 4th Cages. The experience left them with a deep appreciation for the sport's impact on NYC's cultural fabric. Whether you're a basketball fan or simply curious about the game's influence on this iconic city, the NYC Basketball Walking Tour promises a memorable and eye-opening journey. Join us and discover the vibrant history and culture that make New York City a basketball lover's paradise.

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