Walking Tour of 1970's Music Venues of the East Village

New York, US
90% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (10 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    My years of experience of clubbing and working in the music business in nyc

Meeting Point

We will meet in front of the Apple Bank which used to be The Fillmore East off the corner of East 6th Street and 2nd Avenue. The number 6 train is 3 blocks away, the R/W is 4 Blocks and the M15 leaves you off across the street.

Meeting point

105 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003 , United States

End point

End Point

We will end in front of what used to be The Bottom Line, right down the block from the R/W trains and Washington Square Park.

Meeting point

15 E 4th St, New York, NY 10003 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

East Village

Travel back to the 1970s, to an East Village when apartments were cheap, music was great, and you had to show up in person to buy tickets! We’ll visit the sites of the legendary Fillmore East, the long gone CBGB’s, and The Bottom Line, places that launched the careers of some of the biggest names in music. We’ll also walk to some lesser known, but equally significant, sites where artists honed their craft and first gained a following, places like Club 82, On the Rocks, and Great Gildersleeves. Were you at The Bottom Line in 1975 when Bruce Springsteen first blew the socks off the music world with Born to Run? Or did you see Patti Smith at CBGB’s in 1976 after the release of Horses? What a SHOW! We’ll also revisit some of the legendary shows of The Who and Pink Floyd at the Fillmore East, as well as the New York Dolls at the Mercer Arts Center. Along the way we’ll dip our toe into the world of Disco at the site of Infinity, a dance club destroyed by fire in 1979.

Duration 120 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
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Ann McDermott

What our experts say

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    Grab a coffee at Cafe Mogador nearby.
  • icon
    Visit Washington Square Park after the tour.
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    Check out the East Village bars post-tour.
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    Bring comfortable shoes for walking.
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    Consider a visit to the Bowery Ballroom later.

More About this Experience

Introduction: A Journey through the Legendary Music Venues of the 1970s East Village

Step back in time to the vibrant and rebellious 1970s music scene of the East Village, where rock was king, apartments were cheap, and the sheer energy was electric. This immersive walking tour will take you on a nostalgic trip to the iconic sites that shaped the careers of the biggest names in music. From the legendary Fillmore East to the iconic CBGB's and The Bottom Line, you'll experience the places where history was made and music legends were born.

What to expect?

During this two-hour tour, get ready to explore the hidden gems and lesser-known venues where artists honed their craft and gained a passionate following. From Club 82 to On the Rocks and Great Gildersleeves, immerse yourself in the rich history of the East Village music scene. Relive the unforgettable shows that shook the Fillmore East, including those of The Who and Pink Floyd. Feel the spirit of rebellion as you revisit the groundbreaking performances of Bruce Springsteen at The Bottom Line and Patti Smith at CBGB's. Discover the birthplace of punk rock, where raw talent transformed into musical magic.

Who is this for?

This tour is designed for all music lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an authentic experience in the heart of New York City's vibrant cultural scene. Whether you were there during the 1970s and want to relive the memories or you simply appreciate the influential music of that era, this tour will transport you to a time when the East Village was a mecca for all things rock and lyrics echoed the spirit of a generation.

Why book this?

This tour offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into the rich tapestry of music history, exploring the places that defined an era. Led by knowledgeable guides, you'll gain insider insights into the stories behind the legendary venues. The tour's carefully curated itinerary strikes the perfect balance between well-known landmarks and hidden gems, ensuring an authentic, immersive experience. Prepare to be captivated by the energy and passion that once filled these iconic halls, as you witness firsthand the birthplace of musical legends.

Good to know

The tour starts at the historic Apple Bank, previously known as The Fillmore East, a convenient location accessible by various subway lines. Be prepared for a journey that spans two hours, during which you'll uncover the fascinating musical history of the East Village. The tour ends in front of The Bottom Line, conveniently located near the R/W trains and Washington Square Park. Come dressed comfortably and be ready to soak in the sights and sounds of a bygone musical era.

Reviews

Experience-goers have raved about this tour, describing it as a thrilling and nostalgic journey into the heart of the 1970s music scene. Many reviewers have praised the knowledgeable and passionate guides, who bring the history and stories to life. Previous participants have expressed their gratitude for the unique opportunity to relive the shows of their youth and learn more about the artists who shaped their musical tastes. Overall, the tour has received glowing reviews for its authenticity, attention to detail, and ability to transport participants back in time to an era that forever shaped the world of music.

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