West 40th Street: A Walk Around the Block Reveals Layers of NYC History

Janes Walk

CANCELED

Led By Marcos Baer

By walking the block bounded by West 40th Street and West 39th Street between 6th Avenue and Broadway, we can gain an understanding of the evolution of land use, zoning, and architecture from the late 19th century to today. The development of the block has been impacted by wider changes in the area, from a textile-garment district to office buildings, modes of transportation, and cultural destinations. We will use pictorial maps from different dates to track these changes. Tour participants will be able to appreciate buildings following pre-1916, post-1916, and post-1961 zoning rules. Architectural styles range from Gothic skyscrapers to the International Style to contemporary architecture.

Accessibility

The route distance is a walk around the block, so not too challenging. Nearby public transport include MTA Bryant Park Station as well as Times Square.

Location Information

RSVP is required and capacity is limited. Meeting location, ending location, and directions will be provided via email before walk date.

guided

Friday, May 1, 2026
11:00 AM
1 hour

Borough: Manhattan
Theme: Art & Architecture, History & Culture
Language: English
Fog in New York's Garment District on January 16, 2013. Photo: Wikimedia Commons, Jeff Turner from Grafton, West Virginia.
Fog in New York's Garment District. Photo: Wikimedia Commons, Jeff Turner from Grafton, West Virginia.