Columbia University Tours and Activities

See New York City’s breathtaking skyline and the many iconic sights of the city on this helicopter flight. Soar over the Big Apple with an exclusive sightseeing tour of the Manhattan skyline and beyond, including the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, One World Trade Center and Central Park, to name just a few, plus Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty and much more. Then continue up the Hudson River to see even more of Manhattan. A variety of departure times are available throughout the day to fit into almost any schedule.

See New York City’s breathtaking skyline and the many iconic sights of the city on this helicopter flight. Soar over the Big Apple with an exclusive sightseeing tour of the Manhattan skyline and beyond, including the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, One World Trade Center, and Central Park, to name just a few, plus Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty and much more. Then continue to see Brooklyn, Staten Island and more. A variety of departure times are available throughout the day to fit into almost any schedule.

See the sights of New York City from up in the air on this nighttime helicopter tour of the city. Take off, and soar over the NYC as you take in aerial views of some of the most famous sights. See the Statue of Liberty, the Rockefeller Center, and Times Square all lit up, and then pass over the George Washington Bridge. This adventure is a shared experience with other travelers.

Experience the rich cultural legacy of Harlem and the soul-stilling rhythms of gospel on an immersive Sunday morning tour. Travel through the northern Manhattan neighborhood with a guide while learning about the history of the area and its landmarks like the Apollo Theater, Sugar Hill and Columbia University. Then, join a local Baptist congregation for a Sunday service featuring the exuberant vocals of a live gospel choir. 

Explore the best of Uptown New York City on this narrated, hop-on hop-off, double-decker bus tour. Visit many of Upper Manhattan’s top attractions and locations — like the historic neighborhood of Harlem, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Columbia University and the Apollo Theater, just to name a few. Select the day pass, then board at any of the stops and get to know the sights and sounds of Uptown Manhattan in customized fashion, with live onboard commentary from a professional tour conductor.

Get an in-depth look at the thriving culture of Harlem during this 4-hour sightseeing excursion including the chance to attend a Gospel mass at a local church. Learn about Harlem’s religious side by attending a Gospel mass and touring the famous St. John the Divine church. You’ll also explore Harlem landmarks like the Apollo Theater, Sylvia’s restaurant, and much more.

Explore the Manhattan neighborhood of Harlem on a leisurely bike tour with a guide who introduces you to area's historical and cultural sights. Cycle up to Croton Aqueduct Gate House, toward Striver's Row, past the Schomburg Center, and more. Gain insight into the rich and diverse history of the region from your guide as you pedal around.

Fall in New York City offers some of the most amazing views. Avoid the crowds and enjoy the sights from a 1920s style yacht during this cruise from Manhattan. Board your boat at Chelsea’s Pier 62, and grab a drink at the bar before setting sail on the Hudson River. Along the way, see landmarks like the George Washington Bridge and Palisades Park, and dive into a delicious complimentary lunch.

Experience some of New York City’s less touristy corners with this two-wheeled excursion in Harlem and the Bronx. Embark on a 25 mile journey from 129th Street and enjoy activities that include exploring Manhattan’s historic black neighborhood, cruising by the Bronx Zoo, marveling at Alexander Hamilton’s home, capturing memorable photos of the Apollo Theater, and checking out the Edgar Allan Poe Cottage.

A guided tour through a couple of centuries of entertainment, criminal and general history. The criminal and entertainment history of the area between the old Bloomingdale Road (Broadway) and Riverside Drive. Starting at the Cathedral Of Saint John The Devine (the largest gothic structure in the world) tour highlights include Humphrey Bogart's childhood home, the building that inspired the spooky building in the original Ghostbusters, buildings designed by famous New York architects. Former homes of Hollywood legends, legendary writers, legendary composers and even a couple of legendary criminals. See sites that played host to battles during the Revolutionary War, while George Washington escaped north in September 1776.

You only have limited time to explore Manhattan but don’t want to see it from behind the glass of a bus. On this e-bike tour, be part of the urban bustle as you cruise the varied terrain of Central Park and the hills of Morningside Heights with ease. See Bethesda Terrace, browse the kosher goods at Zabar’s, and hear about the history of the Apollo Theater in Harlem.