Best walking tours USA
Explore America's iconic cities on guided walking tours. Discover San Francisco, Washington, New York and more, through their history and cultural riches.
American city walking tours, guides and tips
- Immerse yourself in American history with immersive guided tours.
- Discover unique anecdotes told by local experts.
- Visit iconic monuments and little-known places.
- Enjoy themed tours of art, architecture and culture.
- Enjoy an authentic experience far removed from traditional tourist circuits.
Guided walking tours offer an intimate and immersive way to discover U.S. cities. Whether you're a history buff, architecture buff or simply curious, these walks immerse you in the cultural and historical identity of each destination. Here's a complete guide to the best walking tours in six iconic U.S. states and cities.
San Francisco is a fascinating city that lends itself perfectly to exploration on foot. With its iconic hills, diverse neighborhoods and rich history, the city offers ideal self-guided tours for lovers of culture, architecture and beautiful views. Here's a guide to the best walking tours in San Francisco's iconic neighborhoods.
These hilltop neighborhoods offer breathtaking views of the city and the bay. The Nob Hill self-guided tour takes you past historic luxury hotels and Grace Cathedral, a neo-Gothic masterpiece. On the way down to Russian Hill, don't miss Lombard Street, the world's most winding street. It's the perfect stroll for lovers of history and spectacular scenery.
The Haight-Ashbury neighborhood evokes the 1960s, with its bohemian atmosphere and vintage boutiques. This self-guided tour includes points of interest such as the Red Victorian and the homes where counter-culture icons like Janis Joplin lived. Nearby Golden Gate Park offers a tranquil getaway to end the tour.
South of Market (SoMa) is a vibrant neighborhood at the heart of San Francisco's technology and art scene. A self-guided tour takes you to renowned museums such as SFMOMA and contemporary art galleries. Fans of modern architecture will be delighted, while history buffs can discover the industrial roots of this rapidly transforming area.
This route highlights imposing monuments such as San Francisco's City Hall, inspired by the dome of the Invalides in Paris. You can explore the museums and theaters around Civic Center before discovering the Tenderloin district, rich in social and cultural history. This walk offers a unique perspective on San Francisco's contrasts.
Union Square is a shopper's paradise, with its luxury boutiques and iconic department stores. The Financial District, meanwhile, plunges you into the economic heart of the city. A self-guided tour takes in the modern architecture of the skyscrapers, as well as historic landmarks such as the Transamerica Pyramid and the Ferry Building.
Chinatown, one of the largest and oldest Chinatowns outside Asia, offers an immersive experience. From historic temples to artisanal stores, every street corner is bursting with life and color. As you head towards North Beach, the Italian Quarter, you'll discover authentic cafés, historic bookstores and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for a gourmet break.
Fisherman's Wharf is a must-see destination for visitors to San Francisco. This self-guided tour takes in the lively docks, the Maritime Museum and the sea lions at Pier 39. It's also the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood and spectacular views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.
With its varied neighborhoods, San Francisco lends itself to self-guided explorations that reveal all the richness and diversity of this mythical city. Whether you're drawn to history, art or culture, each tour offers a unique adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, is a city rich in history, culture and iconic monuments. Walking through its varied neighborhoods allows you to fully immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere. Here's a guide to the best self-guided tours to discover Washington and the surrounding area.
Washington, D.C., offers an exceptional variety of walking tours, each revealing a unique aspect of the city and its history. Whether you're drawn to historic monuments, charming neighborhoods or solemn places, these self-guided tours will help you discover the richness and diversity of the American capital.
Massachusetts is a state rich in history, culture and unique landscapes. Its capital, Boston, is packed with historic sites and charming neighborhoods that are ideal for exploring on foot. Here's a guide to the major self-guided tours to explore Boston and other iconic Massachusetts destinations.
The Freedom Trail is undoubtedly Boston's most famous circuit. This 4 km-long trail links 16 major historic sites, retracing the history of American independence. You'll visit such landmarks as Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere's house and the Old North Church. This paved trail is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Boston's historic soul.
Beacon Hill is one of Boston's most picturesque neighborhoods, with its cobblestone streets, gas street lamps and red-brick houses. This self-guided tour will take you past sights like Louisburg Square and Acorn Street, one of the most photographed streets in the United States. A stroll here offers an immersion in Boston's historic charm and timeless elegance.
Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States, and the Public Garden, known for its magnificent flowerbeds and pond, are must-sees for nature and history lovers. A stroll through these parks allows you to discover iconic statues, such as that of George Washington, and enjoy a quiet moment in the heart of the city.
The North End is Boston's oldest residential neighborhood and a popular destination for authentic Italian restaurants. This self-guided tour includes historic sites such as Paul Revere's house and the Old North Church. As you stroll through its lively alleyways, you can also enjoy delicious cuisine in the many trattorias.
Charlestown, north of the Charles River, is home to historic sites such as the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution, the world's oldest warship afloat. This tour also offers breathtaking views of Boston from the Charlestown hills.
Across the Charles River, Cambridge is famous for being home to the prestigious universities of Harvard and MIT. A self-guided tour of the Harvard campus transports you to a setting where history and innovation coexist. Don't miss Harvard Square and its iconic bookstores.
Nantucket, a picturesque island off the coast of Massachusetts, is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Its rose-covered cottages, pristine beaches and whaling museums offer a unique experience. This self-guided tour explores the maritime essence of this destination.
With its diverse neighborhoods and fascinating history, Massachusetts is a prime destination for self-guided tour enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the historic streets of Boston, the intellectual energy of Cambridge or the maritime charm of Nantucket, these tours will allow you to discover everything this state has to offer.
New York City, with its unique energy and incredible diversity, is a city that is best revealed by exploring its streets. Walking tours immerse you in the history, culture and architecture of this fascinating megalopolis. Here are three not-to-be-missed self-guided tours to discover the gems of Manhattan.
Lower Manhattan, the birthplace of New York, offers a captivating blend of history and modernity. This self-guided tour starts in Battery Park, where you can admire the Statue of Liberty in the distance. From there, head to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum for a moment of contemplation and reflection.
Continue to Wall Street, the financial heart of the United States, to discover iconic sites such as the New York Stock Exchange and the Charging Bull statue. Don't miss Trinity Church, one of the city's oldest churches, before finishing in the historic South Street Seaport district, home to quaint restaurants and boutiques.
Midtown Manhattan is the vibrant heart of New York, known for its iconic skyscrapers and electrifying atmosphere. Start your visit in Times Square, where the glowing screens and energetic passers-by create an unforgettable atmosphere.
From Times Square, head to Bryant Park and the New York Public Library, a haven of peace amidst the urban bustle. Next, take time to admire the Empire State Building, one of the city's most recognizable symbols, before continuing on to Grand Central Terminal. This historic station boasts impressive architecture and a famous astronomical mural on the ceiling.
Finish your stroll at Rockefeller Center, an iconic complex where you can enjoy panoramic views from the Top of the Rock or shop in its many boutiques.
Although technically part of Midtown, Central Park deserves a tour of its own. This vast green space is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Start your stroll at Bethesda Terrace, with its iconic fountain, then explore The Mall, an elm-lined alley leading to the Literary Walk.
Visit the Bow Bridge for spectacular photos, and continue on to Strawberry Fields, a tribute to John Lennon. Don't forget to explore the many lakes, meadows and trails throughout the park for a complete experience.
New York is a city that reveals every detail when you take the time to explore it on foot. Whether you choose to discover the fascinating history of Lower Manhattan, the energy of Midtown or the tranquility of Central Park, each tour promises an unforgettable experience. These walks let you feel the unique soul of the city that never sleeps.