Get ready to take a journey through the streets of New York City’s East Village, where the iconic musical Rent was born. Our interactive walking tour, “The Inspiration of Rent,” will take you to the actual locations that inspired Jonathan Larson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece.

From the historic streets of Tompkins Square Park to the iconic Life Cafe, where the characters of Rent would gather to share their stories, you’ll get to experience the sights and sounds that shaped the musical. Our expert guides will share behind-the-scenes stories, anecdotes, and insights into the creation of Rent, and how it became a cultural phenomenon. But that’s not all – you’ll also get to participate in interactive musical performances, singing along to your favorite Rent songs at the very locations that inspired them. Imagine belting out “Seasons of Love” in the very same park where the characters would meet, or singing “La Vie Boheme” in front of the iconic Life Cafe.

This 2-hour tour is a must-do for any Rent fan, or anyone who loves musical theatre, history, or just wants to experience the magic of New York City. So come and join us on this unforgettable journey, and discover the inspiration behind one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals.

PUBLIC TOUR: 

2 Hour Tour for only $49

(Children 10 and under are free!)

PRIVATE TOUR: 

2 Hour Tour for only $89

(Children 10 and under are free!)

LOCATION: This tour meets outside the New York Theatre Workshop

ENDING LOCATION: Outside the 6th & B Community Garden on Avenue B and East 6th Street
 
 

LENGTH: 2 Hours; 1/2 mile in length 
 

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 20 people
 

TOUR TIMES: Monday, Thursday, and Sunday at 11am
 

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

Our professional licensed tour guides are gifted triple threats who weave groups around New York's bustling streets, brandishing their love of the stage and of the city along half-mile routes that cover origins of musical theater and Broadway history. Each tour guide brings a tablet with photos and videos to help share New York's unique theatre history. (*Please note that we do not go inside any of the equity theatres due to union restrictions however we will entertain you with backstage stories and personal experiences.)