New York City's 'Garbage and Rats' Walking Tours Attract Growing Interest

New York City has seen a surge in popularity for unconventional walking tours that delve into the city's pervasive issues of sanitation and rodent infestation. These unique experiences, which offer a gritty look at urban realities, have garnered significant attention, as highlighted by recent social media discussions. Social media user Linda Xie recently clarified the nature of one such outing to her friends, stating, > "My friends are complaining that I got them to sign up for a rats walking tour in nyc but I had to remind them that it was a garbage and rats walking tour."

Among the prominent offerings is the "Garbage & Rats in NYC walking tour," led by Suzanne Reisman, a self-proclaimed "rat whisperer" and graduate of the city's Rat Academy. This tour guides participants through Manhattan's alleys, exploring the history of trash disposal, rat biology, and the city's ongoing battle with rodents since 1626. Priced at approximately $40, Reisman's tours frequently sell out, indicating a strong public appetite for this unusual perspective on New York.

Another popular figure in this niche is Kenny Bollwerk, known as "Rat Daddy" on social media platforms like TikTok, who leads "NYC RAT WALKING TOURS." Bollwerk's tours, which originated from his viral "RatTok" videos, take participants to known rat hotspots, blending urban legends, late-night culture, and real-time commentary on the city's rodent problem. His excursions are also highly recommended by attendees, with many praising his knowledge and ability to provide an authentic, albeit "disgusting," New York experience.

These tours provide context to New York City's enduring struggle with its rat population, estimated by some to be around 225,000. The city has actively engaged in mitigation efforts, including the establishment of a "Rat Czar," Kathleen Corradi, and initiatives like the "Rat Academy" and "NYC Rat Pack" to educate citizens on rat prevention. Recent strategies, such as the mandated use of closed-lid trash containers, aim to reduce the "all-you-can-eat buffet" that rats enjoy on city streets.

The unexpected appeal of these "garbage and rats" tours lies in their ability to offer an authentic, unfiltered glimpse into a less glamorous but integral part of New York City life. Participants often express a fascination with the city's grittier side, finding the tours both educational and entertaining. This growing interest underscores a public curiosity about the urban ecosystem, transforming a common nuisance into a unique tourist attraction.