Budget Gossip Girl Tour 90 min

If you’ve ever watched Gossip Girl and dreamed of wandering through the Upper East Side’s posh streets, this private 90-minute tour offers a perfect way to do just that. For $135 per person, we found this experience to be a lively, personalized romp through the show’s most famous spots. Led by guides like Kenan, who are not only knowledgeable but also eager to share behind-the-scenes stories, this tour combines sightseeing with photo opportunities, making it ideal for fans eager to see their favorite locations up close.

Two things we especially appreciated were the guide’s knack for storytelling — Kenan’s ability to share engaging details and make us laugh — and the chance to get professional-quality photos at each memorable site. The tour’s intimate nature means you won’t be stuck in a big crowd, so you can take your time at each stop. The only potential drawback? The 90-minute duration means it’s a quick blitz of the most iconic locations, so if you’re looking for a deeper exploration of NYC or the series, you might want to consider combining this with other activities.

This experience suits die-hard fans of Gossip Girl who want to see the key filming spots without breaking the bank. It also works well for those who enjoy a relaxed, guided stroll — or pedicab ride — through the upscale Upper East Side. If you’re after a fun, lighthearted way to feel part of the show’s world, this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour means you won’t be sharing the spotlight and can tailor photo stops.
• Iconic Landmarks: Visits to The Met Steps, Empire Hotel, Bethesda Fountain, and more tied directly to memorable scenes.
• Knowledgeable Guide: Guides like Kenan bring the show to life with stories and humor.
• Photo Opportunities: Guides double as photographers, capturing your moments at famous spots.
• Efficient and Focused: The 90-minute ride keeps it lively without overwhelming.
• Great for Fans: Perfect for Gossip Girl enthusiasts wanting a quick, themed tour of the Upper East Side.

A Detailed Look at the Gossip Girl Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at 1700 Broadway, conveniently close to public transportation options. The entire experience takes place on a pedicab — an open-air cycle rickshaw-style vehicle — which makes exploring the narrow, upscale streets of the Upper East Side both intimate and comfortable. This mode of transport allows you to soak in the sights without the fatigue of walking or the hassle of traffic, providing a relaxed way to glimpse Manhattan’s luxury neighborhoods.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The Metropolitan Museum of Art Steps

Our first stop was the Met Steps, an instantly recognizable scene from Gossip Girl. Here, Blair and her friends often gathered, making it a perfect opening shot. We loved how our guide explained the significance of this location in the show, and the opportunity to snap a photo on these iconic steps set the tone perfectly. Best of all, access is free, so no additional admission costs here.

The Plaza Hotel

Next was the Plaza Hotel, another show-stopper. This luxurious landmark is where Chuck Bass waited for Blair, and where some of the most dramatic scenes took place. For Gossip Girl fans, standing outside the hotel, imagining the characters’ interactions, added a special thrill. We appreciated the guide’s insider tips about the hotel’s history and its role in the series, which enriched the experience beyond just sightseeing.

St James’ Church

The tour then took us to St James’ Church, where Blair’s first royal wedding to Prince James was filmed. That moment is etched in Gossip Girl fans’ memories, and stepping into the same space where Blair’s real-life story unfolded made the experience feel authentic. It’s a quiet spot amidst the hustle, and our guide pointed out details that connected the church to the show’s plot.

Bethesda Fountain in Central Park

A brief ride brought us to Bethesda Fountain, an iconic Central Park site where Chuck and Blair’s wedding scene was shot. Standing here, you can almost hear the echoes of the characters’ vows, and it’s a must-see for fans. Our guide shared fun behind-the-scenes tidbits, making the visit more meaningful. Plus, the surrounding park provides a beautiful backdrop for photos.

The Empire Hotel

No Gossip Girl tour would be complete without a visit to the Empire Hotel — Chuck Bass’s lair. The building’s distinctive crown-like roof makes it a standout, and stopping here allowed us to soak in the atmosphere of the show. The guide pointed out filming angles and shared stories about the series’ use of this location, adding depth to the visual experience.

Gar Pond in Central Park

Finally, we made a quick stop at Gar Pond, where Blair took Dorota to feed the ducks. It’s a quieter, more relaxed spot that contrasts sharply with the glitz of the other locations. This stop gave us a breather and a chance to reflect on the show’s more personal moments.

What the Tour Includes

Throughout the tour, our guide doubled as a personal photographer, snapping shots at each location. This added value means you leave with high-quality photos that capture your Gossip Girl moments — a perk you won’t get from just walking by on your own. The tour is private, so your group can ask questions, linger, or move at your own pace, which is a big plus.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

Many travelers have praised guides like Kenan for their expertise and engaging storytelling. As one reviewer said, “Kenan was very knowledgeable and just made the tour a great experience. He made us laugh and kept stopping to see if we wanted any photos.” Others loved the way the guide pointed out where characters lived or scenes were filmed, making the locations come alive.

Some reviews mentioned how easy it was to relax and enjoy the experience, thanks to the comfort of the pedicab and the personalized attention. The comments also highlighted how much fun it was to see the impressive landmarks and take photos at each stop, making it not just a sightseeing tour but a memorable photo shoot as well.

Practical Details and Considerations

• The price of $135 per person may seem steep for a 90-minute tour, but when you consider the personalized service, expert guide, and photos included, it offers good value, especially for fans.
• The tour lasts about an hour and a half, which is enough to see all key locations without feeling rushed.
• Booking well in advance (often booked 32 days ahead) guarantees you a spot, especially during peak seasons.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, including service animals, and is accessible near public transportation.
• Since it’s a private experience, only your group participates, avoiding crowded group tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a Gossip Girl fan eager to see the Upper East Side’s most famous spots without the hassle of navigating alone, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially appealing if you want a mix of sightseeing and photos, with a guide who keeps things lively. Those who appreciate storytelling and insider tips will find it particularly rewarding.

Travelers looking for a quick, affordable way to tick off filming locations will also find this a good match. Keep in mind, it’s a focused experience, so if you’re after in-depth history of NYC or more extensive sightseeing, this might be a complement rather than a substitute.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This private Gossip Girl tour offers a compact, fun way to step into the world of your favorite TV series. The combination of expert guidance, personalized photos, and memorable landmarks ensures it’s a worthwhile investment for Gossip Girl enthusiasts. The experience isn’t just about seeing locations; it’s about feeling part of the show’s glamorous universe, even if just for a moment.

For travelers who appreciate detailed storytelling, enjoy snapping photos with a professional guide, or simply want a unique angle on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for those who want to keep things intimate, relaxed, and highly personalized — making your Gossip Girl dreams a little more real.

FAQ: Your Quick Guide to the Gossip Girl Tour

Is this a walking tour?
No, it takes place on a pedicab, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the ride while exploring the neighborhood.

What locations are visited on the tour?
Stops include The Met Steps, The Plaza, St James’ Church, Bethesda Fountain, The Empire Hotel, and Gar Pond, all connected to the series.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 90 minutes, making it a quick but comprehensive glance at the key filming spots.

Is the tour private?
Yes, only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I get photos during the tour?
Absolutely. Guides like Kenan double as photographers, capturing moments at each stop.

What is the cost?
$135 per person, which includes the guide, transportation via pedicab, and photos.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.

When should I book?
It’s best to book at least a month in advance, as the tour is often booked 32 days ahead.

Are there any extra costs?
No, the stops are free; some locations like The Met or The Plaza may have their own admission fees, but these aren’t included in the tour price.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refundable.

Whether you’re a Gossip Girl fanatic or just love exploring Manhattan’s posh neighborhoods, this tour offers a fun, intimate, and photo-ready way to enjoy the city’s glamorous side.