★ Hi, I’m Tim Ries, founder of Tourist New York. Since 2019, I’ve been transforming the way visitors and locals experience the five boroughs. With over 20 years of deep-rooted experience in NYC tourism—including my tenure as the Director of Visitor Services at the High Line—I specialize in crafting immersive journeys through the city’s iconic landmarks and best-kept secrets. 

Whether you’re looking to check off those essential, 'must-see' NYC walking tours everyone needs to experience at least once, beat the crowds with an exclusive Early Bird outdoor excursion, or arrange a premier Corporate Onboarding experience, I provide tailored journeys that help newcomers and lifelong fans alike bond while uncovering the rich, layered history of the city. I'm ready to help you discover your New York.

Personalized Tours & Expert Services

From historical walking tours and culinary crawls to specialized architectural deep-dives, my services are fully customizable to meet your group's unique needs. My expertise includes:

• Neighborhood Immersions: SoHo, Greenwich Village, Chelsea, and the Upper West Side.

• Iconic Landmarks: Detailed tours of Grand Central Terminal, Central Park, and the Financial District.

• Specialized Experiences: Art & Architectural tours, Bicycle tours, and Student-focused educational outings.

• Professional Logistics: Private bus tours and expert Step-On Guide services for larger groups.

★ As a licensed NYC tour guide and a proud member of the Guides Association of New York City (GANYC), I’ve led thousands of explorers through our streets. My background isn't just in navigation; it’s in storytelling. I’ve presented at The New York Times Travel Show and even contributed to a NYC food encyclopedia, ensuring that every tour I lead is seasoned with authentic local insight and historical depth.

★ The Man Behind the Map: When I’m not guiding, I’m usually exploring the city with my wife and son from our home base in southeast Brooklyn. I am an avid collector of vintage postcards from the 1920s–1940s—a hobby that allows me to share the "layered history" of NYC streetscapes with my clients. Whether I’m hiking, traveling, or behind the lens of my camera, I am constantly finding new ways to celebrate the city I love.

Why choose Tim and Tourist New York?

"Top-rated local expertise meets fully customizable private outings. From the first light of an Early Bird tour to the strategic team-building of a corporate crawl, we don't just show you New York—we help you live it."

Ready to explore? Inquire today to schedule your NYC experience - info@touristnewyork.com