The Nasty Women of Fidi : Lower Manhattan Walking Tour

If you’re looking for a tour that goes beyond the usual sightseeing and instead shines a spotlight on some of New York City’s most daring and influential women, the Nasty Women of Fidi tour might just be your perfect match. Offered by Vibe NYC Tours, this 90-minute walk through the Financial District reveals stories of women who broke norms, challenged power structures, and left unmistakable marks on the city’s skyline and history.

What we love about this experience is its focus on powerful, often overlooked women, told with a lively, engaging approach. It’s a bit edgy and scandalous, which keeps things lively, and it provides a fresh perspective on the city’s development. We also appreciate the fact that it’s a walking tour, which encourages interaction with the environment and a more intimate view of the neighborhood.

One potential consideration is the tour’s outdoor nature — weather can influence your experience, so it’s wise to dress accordingly. Plus, at just 1.5 hours, it’s a brisk overview rather than an in-depth deep dive, making it ideal for those wanting a quick yet meaningful exploration.

This tour suits travelers who love stories of women’s empowerment, enjoy urban history, or want a more rebellious take on New York’s well-known Financial District. It’s also great for those keen on uncovering hidden stories behind iconic sites.

Key Points

• Empowering Focus: Highlights stories of women who defied norms and changed NYC.
• Engaging Guide: Led by a licensed NYC guide who shares vivid tales and insights.
• Short & Sweet: 90-minute outdoor walk, perfect for a quick cultural fix.
• Iconic Sites: Includes stops at the NYSE, Trinity Church, and the Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine.
• Unseen Histories: Focus on women’s influence in finance, architecture, and political movements.
• Humor & Scandal: The stories are lively, sometimes cheeky, and definitely memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins at 7 State Street, right in front of the Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine, a fitting entry point that nods to resilience and pioneering spirit. From here, your guide weaves stories of women whose contributions have often been overshadowed by their male counterparts.

Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine: The tour kicks off with a visit to this historic site, which offers a sense of New York’s early social fabric and the women who shaped it. While not directly about the women featured in the tour, it sets a tone of female influence and perseverance.

The Fearless Girl: One of the most iconic symbols of women’s empowerment in NYC, the Fearless Girl statue is a must-see. Your guide will share the backstory of how this little figure became a powerful statement against gender inequality on Wall Street, providing context about its placement and impact.

Outside the New York Stock Exchange: No visit to the district is complete without a glance at the NYSE’s exterior, which plays a part in the stories of women who broke into finance. The tour explores the “Skirts who Invaded Wall Street” – women who challenged traditional gender roles in finance, rewriting the rules of power and wealth.

55 Wall Street: Known historically for its banking prominence, this building’s history is flavored with tales of women financiers and entrepreneurs who dared to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with men. Your guide might share stories of their remarkable achievements and occasional scandals.

Trinity Church: The tour then winds through the historic Trinity Church area, which has been witness to various social movements, including those led or influenced by women in political and social activism.

As you weave through these streets, you’ll learn how women from different eras contributed to shaping NYC’s financial and architectural landscape. The guide will reveal the unseen fingerprints of women behind major success stories, giving you a richer appreciation of the neighborhood.

What Makes This Tour Special?

What sets this tour apart from typical sightseeing walks is its focus on women’s stories that are often absent from standard narratives. We loved the way the guide brings to life the audacious moves of these women — from engineers who defied gender norms to finance moguls who shattered glass ceilings.

Several reviews praise the lively storytelling: “The stories of women who built or influenced the neighborhood are fascinating,” one traveler wrote. “It’s refreshing to hear about women who weren’t just supporting characters but key figures,” another commented.

The Value of the Experience

At $34 per person for 1.5 hours, this tour offers solid value for those interested in a powerful, story-driven exploration of Downtown Manhattan. The sites visited are iconic but presented from a fresh perspective, making this a worthwhile addition to a typical NYC itinerary.

While the tour doesn’t include entry to any venues — all sites are viewed from the outside — the real treasure lies in the stories shared. These narratives provide a richer understanding of how women influenced NYC’s development, often in roles we don’t hear about enough.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal.
• Conducted in English, it’s suitable for international travelers as well.
• You can reserve your spot now and pay later, adding flexibility to your travel plans.
• Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it low-risk to book.

Weather can influence outdoor walking tours, so dress comfortably, wear sturdy shoes, and bring an umbrella if rain is forecast. The tour is generally held in the afternoon, providing a relaxed, post-lunch option for exploring the city’s stories.

Final Thoughts

The Nasty Women of Fidi tour offers a lively and insightful perspective on NYC’s history through the lens of women who challenged norms and made their mark. It’s ideal for curious travelers who love stories of empowerment, scandal, and achievement, and want to understand the city’s evolution beyond the usual tourist stops.

This tour’s focus on hidden stories, bold characters, and iconic sites makes it a fresh addition to your NYC experience. It’s a fun, thought-provoking way to see the Financial District with a new set of eyes.

If you’re interested in stories of women who made history in unconventional ways, this tour is perfect. It suits those who appreciate a balanced mix of education and entertainment and want to go beyond the typical sightseeing routine. History buffs, social justice enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the untold stories of NYC will find this walk both inspiring and entertaining.

It’s especially good if you prefer a short, focused experience that leaves you with plenty of food for thought — and some great photo opportunities of iconic sites and statues.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed for most travelers, but children might find some stories more engaging than others. The outdoor walking is accessible, but bring water and appropriate footwear.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable, not overly demanding walk.

Are there any entry fees at the sites visited?
No, this is an outdoor walking tour, so there are no admission fees for the sites visited outside.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and dress for the weather, as it’s all outdoors.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to book ahead to secure your spot and take advantage of the pay-later option.

What’s the meeting point?
In front of the Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine at 7 State Street.

Will I see the inside of any buildings?
No, all sites are viewed from outside; it’s a walking tour focused on stories and external sights.

Is there an age limit?
There’s no specified age limit, but the content is geared toward adults and older children interested in history and social themes.

In all, if you’re after a distinctive, story-rich experience that highlights women’s influence in New York City’s Financial District, this tour offers an engaging, authentic look at some of NYC’s most daring and impactful figures. Perfect for those wanting a meaningful and lively walk through a neighborhood steeped in history — with a bit of sass.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby