Architecture Tours and Urban Experiences in New York City
Discover New York through expertly guided architecture tours, private experiences, and curated urban programs.
Build Tours invites you to experience New York through the eyes of an architect. Our tours reveal the spaces, structures, and stories that define this extraordinary city, from iconic landmarks to hidden architectural gems. Guided by expert architects, you’ll uncover the people, designs, and ideas that shaped New York and connect with it on a deeper level. Join a public tour with fellow architecture and art lovers, or arrange a private tour for your family, group, or company for a curated and exclusive experience of New York.
Choose Your Experience in New York
Public Tours
Join small-group walking tours exploring New York’s most remarkable buildings and neighborhoods.
- weekly scheduled tours
- small groups
- architecture-focused
Private Tours
Discover the city through a private architecture tour tailored to your interests and schedule.
- neighborhood tours
- custom itineraries
- signature experiences
Group Programs
Curated architecture and urban development programs for universities, companies, and international delegations.
- academic programs
- corporate experiences
- delegation visits
Explore our Architecture Tours in NYC
Our small-group tours explore the architecture, art, design, and history that define New York’s most distinctive neighborhoods. Led by expert architect guides, each tour offers a deeper understanding of the city’s character and creativity. Join one of our weekly public tours for an engaging and memorable experience of New York.
Financial District
Downtown Interiors
Soho & the Village
Chelsea & the High Line
Hudson Yards Interiors
Midtown South
Midtown East
Midtown North
Midtown Interiors
Plan Private Architecture Tours in NYC
Experience New York on your own terms with a private tour designed around your interests and schedule. Choose from one of our curated itineraries or collaborate with us to create a fully customized experience for your family, group, company, or school. Book a private tour directly or reach out to craft a personalized experience just for you and your guests.
Custom Tours & Signature Experiences
Enjoy a personalized architecture experience in New York with a private guide. Our private tours offer flexible scheduling, customized routes, and deeper discussions tailored to your interests.
Custom Private Tours
Let us design your unique tour and customize it based on your interests, knowledge and goals.
Signature Experiences
Bespoke, access-driven architectural and urban journeys for discerning travelers and private groups.
Plan Architecture Tours for Groups and Institutions
Build Tours organizes curated architecture and urban development programs for universities, corporate teams, conferences, and international delegations visiting New York.
Academic & Student
Architecture study visits for universities, design schools, and study-abroad programs.
Corporate & Professional
Urban and architectural experiences for corporate groups and leadership teams.
Custom Group Programs
Let us design your program and customize it based on your interests and goals.
Discover our full range of architecture tours and urban programs designed for academic groups, professional delegations, and corporate visits to New York.
Our Clients
Trusted by universities, professionals, companies and institutions visiting and based in New York.
Testimonials
I think I can speak on behalf of the team and say that we thoroughly enjoyed the tour. It was really amazing to hear a different point of view and perspective about the architecture in the neighborhood. My lunchtime walks will surely have new meaning, and I will continue to learn about the landscape of New York! Absolutely fascinating.
Great event, thank you again.
Why Choose Build Tours
By Architects for Everyone
Our guides are architects, urban planners, professors and city experts who share deep knowledge in an engaging and accessible way.
Fully Customizable
We work with you to offer you the experience you desire. Our tours can be fully customized to suit your interests, preferences and audience.
Meaningful & Memorable
Our tours are immersive, interactive and engaging experiences that transform the way you see New York and deepen your connection to the city.
Founder and Architect Guides
Build Tours was founded by architect, urban designer and professor Ivan Shumkov PhD to offer a deeper way of understanding cities through architecture, urbanism, and lived experience.
Ivan Shumkov
Ivan is the a New York based architect, urban planner, entrepreneur, professor at Columbia University, and the founder of Build Tours.
William Singer
William is an architect and urban planner, currently working as a discerning Code and Zoning Specialist for the NYC Department of Buildings.
Joseph Lengling
Joe is an architect, developing and leading tours that capitalize on the many streets and sites he has traversed during his life in New York City.
Partners and Friends
Gift Cards
Give the gift of New York. Our gift cards never expire and can be redeemed for any of our public or private tours. Offer an unforgettable architectural experience to someone you love.
FAQ
Are the tours suitable for visitors without an architecture background?
Yes. Our tours are designed for anyone curious about the architecture and history of New York. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a professional in the field, or simply interested in the city, our guides make the experience engaging and accessible.
What is the difference between public and private tours?
Public tours follow scheduled departures and are open to small groups of participants. Private tours are reserved exclusively for your group and can be customized in terms of schedule, route, and focus.
How large are the tour groups?
Public tours are typically limited to small groups of up to 10 guests to ensure an engaging and interactive experience. Private tours can be tailored for families, friends, or professional groups.
Do you offer tours for universities, companies, or delegations?
Yes. We design architecture and urban programs for universities, corporate groups, and institutional delegations visiting New York. These experiences can be customized around specific themes, buildings, or urban topics.
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Experience New York Through Architecture
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