Explore New York’s Layered History
Take a Big Onion Walking Tour and discover New York’s rich history through memorable stories and little-known facts.
Chelsea and The High Line Walking Tour
Explore the history and architecture of Chelsea with a walk along the High Line.
Our tour explores the historic and architectural evolution of the area originally named for the London borough. Chelsea features a dynamic and rich history as it moved from rural farmland in the 1700s to the industrial hub of Manhattan in the early 1900s. Our walk *may* include the High Line (conditions—including COVID social distancing access—permitting).
Stops could include The Chelsea Hotel, “Death Alley,” General Theological Seminary, sites associated with Dylan Thomas, Clement Clark Moore, Janis Joplin, John Sloan, and the birthplace of the Oreo cookie.
Customized option for private walks: Big Onion can lead a tour of the High Line from 34th Street to the Meatpacking District or in the other direction. We will discuss the history and architecture of the High Line and incorporate the buildings, sites, and stories of the surrounding neighborhoods. Please call us at (212) 439-1090 ext. 3 or email us for more information or to arrange.
Tour Info
Cost: $30
$20 Seniors and Full-Time Students
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Tour Schedule
July 2025
Tour Reservations
Big Onion requires all walkers to reserve and pay in advance. Prepayment helps us determine group size and appropriate guide numbers.
NOTE: You will select your date in the next step.
For bigger groups, consider private walking.
Whether you are looking to integrate a tour into your academic curriculum or entertain out-of-towners, a Big Onion walking tour is a great way to experience the city.
For more information or to arrange, please call (718) 499-3001 or email info@bigonion.com.
Meeting Location
Location
In front of the TD Bank (202 West 23rd Street) located on the southwest corner of West 23rd Street and 7th Avenue.
Subway Trains
C/E/F/1 to 23rd Street.
FAQS for Walking Tours
Guides
The finest group of tour guides anywhere. Most of us are full-time graduate students researching and writing doctoral dissertations in history, passionate about the history, architecture, and people of New York.
Finding Your Guides
All guides carry an 8×11 sign that says “Big Onion Walking Tours.”
Time and Distance
All tours last approximately two hours. We start on time and walk between one and two miles at a moderate walking pace, stopping at various sites along the tour.
Rain/Inclement Weather
Big Onion generally presents tours rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather, please call our hotline [(888) 606-WALK (9255) ext. 1] to confirm our schedule.
Tips
Gratuities are always appreciated but never expected.
Reschedule Policy
With 24+ hours prior to a walking tour, Big Onion offers a full credit for the value of the booking. Credits will be given as Gift Cards in dollar amounts. Gift Cards are good for two years and can be used on any Big Onion outing. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior to the tour or no-shows cannot be credited.
Walks are held rain or shine but may be canceled for severe weather. In the event of a Big Onion cancellation full refunds or rescheduled tickets will be offered.
More Questions? Check out How it Works for more details.
Helpful Links
Local Weather Forecast
NYC Subway Map
Weekly Service Advisories
Subway Fares