NYC Revolutionary Trail Guide Unveiled

The Alliance for Downtown New York has teamed up with the City University of New York’s Gotham Center for New York City History to produce a guide to the NYC Revolutionary Trail, the three-mile self-guided tour that traces 16 pivotal sites of the American Revolution in Lower Manhattan. The trail details the events, people and places that defined Lower Manhattan’s central role in the American Revolution from 1763 to 1789.

In anticipation of next summer’s 250th anniversary celebrations of American independence, the NYC Revolutionary Trail guide foregrounds Lower Manhattan as a pillar of the American Revolution. Readers will learn about historical landmarks such as Trinity Church, Fraunces Tavern and Federal Hall, which remain important tourist sites to this day, as well as sites of significance that no longer exist such as Fort George and Golden Hill. Visitors are recommended to set aside at least 90 minutes to complete the full self-guided tour of all featured sites. 

“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, there is no better time to rediscover the essential role that Lower Manhattan played in the founding of our nation,” Downtown Alliance President Jessica Lappin said. “We’re proud to partner with the Gotham Center to help visitors and New Yorkers alike connect with our history.”

The Gotham Center has developed a comprehensive multimedia experience for the NYC Revolutionary Trail that includes a supplemental app that provides 75 minutes of audio narration as well as character profiles, select video and bonus text and imagery. The trail is part of a larger undertaking the organization is undergoing for America 250.  

“In less than two hours, visitors can follow the full arc of the American Revolution, from the earlier major battle to British evacuation,” said Gotham Center Director Peter Christian-Aigner. “We’re thrilled to partner with the Downtown Alliance to bring this history to life and hope people will take the tour as the 250th anniversary draws near.” 

The NYC Revolutionary Trail guide marks the Downtown Alliance’s first major initiative in anticipation of 2026, a milestone year that will bring heightened attention and activity to Lower Manhattan.  

View the guide here.