“I Give Historical Cat Tours Of NYC” – Local Historian Teams Up With Bodega Cat Expert To Create The Most Purrfect Walking Tour Ever
Look, we all know cats basically rule the internet (and our hearts). But did you know they’ve also been secretly ruling New York City for generations? Two cat-obsessed New Yorkers have joined forces to create what might just be the most unique – and adorable – walking tour in the Big Apple’s history.
🐱 The Origin Story
Meet Peggy Gavan, NYC’s resident cat historian (yes, that’s a real thing!). While most people were writing about boring old human history, Peggy was busy documenting hundreds of fascinating feline tales on her blog, “Hatching Cat of Gotham.” She eventually became such an expert that Rutgers University Press asked her to write books about it!
Then there’s Dan Rimada, the genius behind Bodega Cats of New York. In what can only be described as the most perfect NYC match since bagels met cream cheese, these two cat enthusiasts met while filming a documentary about Old New York’s cats.
“Within a week, we had a name and had the website up and running,” Gavan shared. “I just couldn’t believe how it all came together so smoothly.” And thus, Cats About Town (CAT) Walking Tours was born!
🐱 What Makes This Tour So Special?
First off, where else are you going to learn that a cat once saved Brooklyn Borough Hall from burning down? (We need this cat’s story turned into a movie, stat!)
The tours have been selling out since they started, and honestly, we’re not surprised.
Here’s what you get:
– A super fun 2-hour walking tour through either Brooklyn Heights or the Financial District
– Stories about NYC’s most legendary cats throughout history
– Optional visits to cat cafes (because obviously)
– A free ticket for your next tour if you spot a cat during the walk (though Gavan admits, “I’ve only had two cat sightings!”)
– The chance to geek out about cats with other cat people (finally, your cat photos will be appreciated!)
🐱 The Best Part?
Gavan shows up in cat ears. We repeat: YOUR TOUR GUIDE WEARS CAT EARS. “When we’re on the tours, I have my sign and my cat ear outfit and I get so many people taking pictures. Everybody laughs and they share how they think this is such a great idea,” she says.
Plus, everyone on the tour gets to share stories and photos of their own cats. It’s basically like scrolling through a cat Instagram feed, but in real life, with actual human interaction and historical facts thrown in!
🐱 Want to Join the Fun?
The tours are taking a little winter catnap but will be back in spring 2025. And here’s a pro tip: they’re offering gift certificates for future tours. (Valentine’s Day gift idea, anyone?)
In a world full of typical tourist traps, these cat-loving history buffs have created something truly special. Because let’s be honest – regular history tours are fine and all, but they’re about 100% better when you add cats to the mix.
Would you take a cat-themed historical tour? Let us know in the comments! And don’t forget to share this with your cat-obsessed friends (we all have at least five of them) who need to know this exists! 🐱
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More info: catsabouttowntours.com
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