Join us for an exclusive private exploration of the art and architecture of NYC's Financial District and Ground Zero! Our Build Tours event will take you on a journey through the stunning sights and structures that define this iconic neighborhood. Led by Dr. Ivan Shumkov, you'll uncover the hidden gems and fascinating history of the area. This in-person event will meet at the SeaGlass Carousel, and continue walking along Braodway until reach the World Trade Center. Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the art and architecture of New York with fellow enthusiasts!

At the southern tip of Manhattan, east and west sides of the island converge in the stunning eruption of sky scrapping buildings, which define New York’s iconic skyline. In this tour, we will explore the dynamic contrasts of old and new in the city’s financial district by examining its distinctive architecture, which speaks to New York’s colonial past as well as showcases some of its boldest contemporary developments.

2 or 4 Hours, Private Walking Tour

Base price includes 4 people. Additional cost per each additional person.

Famous building featured on this walking tour:

Battery Park, Various, 1990- now
New Amsterdam Plain and Pavilion, UN Studio, 2009
Trinity Church, 1846
Federal Reserve, York & Sawyer, 1924
Equitable Building, Graham & Associates, 1915
Federal Hall, Town & Davis, 1842
60 Wall St., Kevin Roche & John Dinkeloo, 1988
Woolworth Building, Cass Gilbert, 1912
Custom House, Cass Gilbert, 1907
Chase Manhattan, Gordon Bunshaft (SOM), 1960
Marine Midland Building, Gordon Bunshaft (SOM), 1967
Zuccotti Park, Cooper, Robertson & Partners, 2006
Fulton Station, Grimshaw, 2015
East River Waterfront, Shop Architects, 2011
Schemerhorn Row, Unknown, 1810-1812
Brooklyn Bridge, John Roebling, 1883
8 Spruce Street, Frank Gehry, 2010
9/11 Memorial, Michael Arad and Peter Walker, 2011
9/11 Museum, Snohetta, 2014
WTC1, David Childs (SOM), 2015
WTC2, in-process
WTC3, Richard Rogers, in-process
WTC4, Fumihiko Maki, 2015
WTC5, Kohn Pederson Fox, in-process
WTC7, David Childs (SOM), 2015
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, Santiago Calatrava, 2020
Perelman Performing Arts Center, REX, 2023
Oculus Path Station, Santiago Calatrava, 2015

Your guide:

Dr. Ivan Shumkov is a New York based licensed architect, urban planner, entrepreneur, and professor with more than 20 years of experience across the private, public, and academic sectors. He is the founder of Build World and Build Academy, organizations dedicated to providing professional solutions and education for the built environment.

Ivan combines his experience of practicing and teaching architecture with his passion for discovering and sharing the history and secrets of New York. His tours provoke curiosity, show hidden urban gems, and give opportunities for experiencing and understanding art and architecture in a unique way. He helps his guests to see and connect the city through the eyes of an architect. They are activated and transformed by these immersive experiences and view the city in a new way.

Build Tours can organize lunch, dinner or happy hours before or after the tour upon request.