Start at Astor Place and proceed through Colonnade Row, once home to notable families such as the Astors and Delanos during the 1830s. Walk approximately a mile and finish at today’s Civic Center, previously the site of the historical Five Points neighborhood. In the mid-19th century, visitors commonly walked from Colonnade Row and Washington Square to areas regarded as slums. Along the route, observe architectural styles like Georgian, Federal, and Greek Revival from that era. Continue down Broadway to view the transition from the 1840s village-like charm into New York’s first modern city center, with shops, theaters, and accommodations reminiscent of London or Paris. Reach the area around Canal Street, passing iconic buildings, and conclude by learning about the characteristics of Five Points and Mulberry Bend.
