Fairfield University Offers New York City Walking Tours
Fairfield University Offers New York City Walking Tours
FAIRFIELD â History buffs and New York-lovers interested in learning more about some of the cityâs most important national landmarks, their histories, and their architectural styles are invited to participate in two New York walking tours this fall, presented by University College at Fairfield University.
The first tour on September 25 will take participants on a stroll through the Central Park West neighborhood with stops at 11 New York City and five national landmarks.
Participants will visit the Sheepfold in Central Park, enter the Dakota and walk past the Majestic and learn their history. Stories about Dorothy Parker, Mae West, Walter Winchell, and others will come vividly to life.
âWe focus on the Art Deco apartment houses that make the Central Park West skyline and I talk about the development of Central Park West,â said Arthur Pommer, the certified New York City tour guide who will host both tours.
The Roosevelt Island walking tour takes off on Saturday, October 2, at 2,pm. A breathtaking view of Manhattan awaits participants, following a tramway ride to Roosevelt Island. Participants will then walk from one end of the island to the other, enjoying 14 stops along the way. These stops include the Chapel of the Good Shepard, the Lighthouse and the Welfare Island Bridge. Attendees will hear about Nellie Bly, the first female investigative reporter, and learn the origins of the 1856 Smallpox Hospital.
âWe focus on the history of the island, its development, what it is today, and what it was in the past,â said Mr Pommer. âThe tour will examine fascinating stories of the cityâs past. At one time there was a prison and insane asylum on the island. They had some prisoners taking care of the mental patients.â
Ms Bly exposed the unsavory practices in a groundbreaking story published at the turn of the 20th Century.
The cost for each tour is $35. Comfortable shoes are a must. Transportation to New York City is not included. Participants will meet their guide at a predetermined location in New York for the tour. Tours last approximately three hours and are limited to 20 participants. To register by phone, call 203-254-4288. For more information, call 203-254-4307 or visit the University College website at www.Fairfield.edu.