The Nasty Women of Fidi : Lower Manhattan Walking Tour

If you’re looking to explore New York City’s Financial District through a different lens, this tour offers an eye-opening glimpse into the lives of women who defied norms, broke barriers, and sometimes stirred up a little trouble. While many tours focus on the well-worn tales of Wall Street and iconic landmarks, this one stands out by shining a spotlight on the women behind the scenes — from engineering pioneers to finance trailblazers and scandalous figures.

We love how this experience takes a refreshing, unapologetic approach to history, emphasizing stories of grit, rebellion, and achievement. Plus, the tour’s moderate cost of $34 makes it accessible for most travelers wanting a cultural boost without breaking the bank. The 1.5-hour duration means you get a concise yet meaningful walk, perfect for an afternoon exploration. However, if you’re after a deep dive into every detail of NYC’s history, this might feel a bit quick.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers, history buffs, or anyone eager to hear stories that aren’t usually told. If you’re interested in women’s history, empowerment, or just want a fun way to see lower Manhattan with a twist, this could be just right.

Good To Know

• Authentic stories of women who shaped NYC, often in unexpected ways
• Accessible price point for a 90-minute guided outdoor experience
• Highlights iconic sites like the Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine, Fearless Girl, and Wall Street outside the NYSE
• Focus on trailblazers across engineering, finance, and political movements
• Informative guide-led walk with insights into overlooked figures
• Wheelchair accessible and flexible cancellation policy

This tour isn’t your typical sightseeing jaunt. Instead, it aims to uncover the stories behind the buildings and statues that stand in lower Manhattan, connecting them to the women who influenced or built them. As the guide leads you along the streets, you’ll learn that many of these women used intelligence, courage, and sometimes scandal to leave their mark on the city.

Starting at the Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine, the tour immediately sets a tone of resilience and empowerment. Elizabeth Ann Seton was the first native-born American to be canonized, but the tour’s focus is on women who dared to challenge societal expectations. From here, the group moves through the heart of the Financial District, encountering landmarks that host stories of pioneering women in finance and engineering.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the most compelling aspects of this experience is how it balances fun facts with deeper narratives. You’ll learn that the Fearless Girl statue isn’t just a photo-op but a symbol of women’s power in a traditionally male-dominated space. The guide will share stories of women who invaded Wall Street, challenging the gender norms of their times and rewriting rules in finance.

For those interested in architecture, the stops at 55 Wall Street and Trinity Church reveal how women contributed to NYC’s skyline and spiritual landscape. The stories include more than just achievements; they include scandals and bold moves that shook the social elite. One reviewer noted, “The stories of women who broke barriers while wearing skirts are as inspiring as they are scandalous.”

What to Expect at Each Site

Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine: This peaceful spot marks the beginning of the journey. The guide shares her story of faith and resilience, setting a tone of empowerment.

The Fearless Girl: Outside the New York Stock Exchange, this statue symbolizes female strength and defiance. Your guide will explain its significance and how it represents more than just a photo spot.

NYC Stock Exchange (outside): While you don’t enter, you’ll hear about women who challenged the male-dominated financial sector, including stories of finance titans who shattered glass ceilings here.

55 Wall Street: An architectural marvel that has witnessed numerous stories of women influencing finance and politics throughout history.

Trinity Church: Beyond its Gothic beauty, this site hints at women’s roles in community and spiritual life.

Throughout the walk, your guide will weave in tales of visionary engineers who defied gender norms to help build the city’s iconic skyline, as well as scandalous figures whose daring moves made headlines and challenged societal expectations.

Practical Details and Experience Quality

The tour lasts roughly 90 minutes, making it ideal for a quick, engaging outing. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering an intimate environment where questions are encouraged. The guide, a licensed NYC expert, is praised for their storytelling skills and ability to bring history alive with humor and insight.

Since it’s an outdoor walk, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The tour’s wheelchair accessibility ensures inclusivity, making it suitable for a diverse range of travelers.

The meeting point at 7 State Street in front of the Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine is easy to find, just across from the Staten Island Ferry landing. The flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance) adds peace of mind for spontaneous plans.

Value and Cost Analysis

At $34 per person, this tour offers a unique perspective at an affordable price. Compared to typical guided tours that focus mainly on landmarks, this experience emphasizes storytelling and discovery, enriching your understanding of NYC’s development. You won’t just see sites — you’ll learn how women’s actions and achievements influenced the city’s growth, politics, and culture.

While the tour is short, the density of stories and sites packed into this time makes it feel like a well-curated mini-history lesson. It’s particularly good value for those short on time but eager to walk away with a fresh perspective.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for:

• History lovers interested in women’s contributions
• Travelers seeking unique stories beyond the standard NYC fare
• Women’s rights advocates or anyone curious about gender norms and barriers
• First-time visitors wanting a quick, meaningful introduction to lower Manhattan
• People with mobility needs (wheelchair accessible)

It’s less suited for those craving a deep-dive into every detail of NYC’s history or a longer tour, but it’s a delightful snapshot with memorable stories.

The Nasty Women of Fidi walking tour offers a lively, engaging way to explore lower Manhattan through the stories of powerful, audacious women. It combines historical facts with a spirited narrative that makes these women’s achievements feel relevant and inspiring today. The price point makes it accessible, and the manageable duration fits easily into a busy sightseeing schedule.

If you’re interested in stories of rebellion, empowerment, and trailblazing women, this tour provides a nuanced look at the city’s evolution. The outdoor setting, friendly guides, and meaningful content make it a worthwhile addition to any NYC visit — especially if you want a break from traditional sightseeing and a boost of empowerment.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for adults and older children interested in history and stories of women’s achievements. It’s a walking outdoor tour, so keep mobility in mind.

Are there any indoor venues included?
No, this is strictly an outdoor walking tour. All sites are outside or in public spaces, so dress appropriately for the weather.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it perfect for a quick but meaningful exploration.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 7 State Street, in front of the Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine, just across from the Staten Island Ferry landing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers a guided outdoor walk led by a licensed NYC guide. No additional venues or attractions are included in the ticket price.

Whether you’re drawn by the stories of scandal, innovation, or empowerment, this tour offers a fresh perspective on NYC’s history through the lives of the women who shaped it. It’s a spirited, affordable way to get to know the city’s hidden side—one that celebrates the fierce, fearless women who dared to challenge the status quo.

You can check if your dates are available here: