big Apple Greeter - Visitor FAQ

What is Big Apple Greeter?
How can I spend time with a New Yorker?

Visitor Frequently Asked Questions

How can I meet a Big Apple Greeter?

Can I meet a Greeter more than once during my stay?

How much does it cost?

How will I be matched with a Greeter?

When and how will I receive information about my Greeter?

Am I guaranteed to be matched with a Greeter?

If no Greeter is available for me, can I join another group?

Does Big Apple Greeter have scheduled tours that I could sign up for?

Why doesn’t Big Apple Greeter list New York City neighborhoods for me to choose from?

My group has more than 6 people. Will you make an exception for us?

Is Big Apple Greeter a New York City agency?

How is Big Apple Greeter funded?

Is everyone a volunteer?

Are there other Greeter programs in other cities?

How can I start a Greeter program in my city?

How can I meet a Big Apple Greeter?

Once your plans to visit New York City are confirmed (arrival and departure dates are set, accommodations are confirmed), fill out and submit the Visit Request Form at least 4 weeks in advance of your arrival.

Can I meet a Greeter more than once during my stay?

Since many visitors would like to meet a Greeter, please submit only 1 request for a Greeter.

How much does it cost?

Big Apple Greeter services are completely free for the visitor, and there is a no-tipping policy. Every Greeter is a volunteer.

How will I be matched with a Greeter?

Matches are made according to the language and neighborhoods requested by the visitor. When possible, visitors’ interests are also taken into consideration.

When and how will I receive information about my Greeter?

If a match is made before you leave home, we will telephone or email you with information about your Greeter.
If a match is made after you arrive in New York City, we will telephone or fax your hotel with information.

Am I guaranteed to be matched with a Greeter?

Unfortunately, Big Apple Greeter receives many more visitor requests than we are able to fill, so sometimes no Greeter is available for a visitor.
During the busy times of year the visit date you ask for may already be filled. You will receive an email or telephone call from us with our regrets that no Greeter is available for you.

If no Greeter is available for me, can I join another group?

Greeters are not shared among groups. When a Greeter is matched with you or your group, the Greeter will meet only you or your group.

Does Big Apple Greeter have scheduled tours that I could sign up for?

Big Apple Greeter does not offer scheduled tours that are open to the general public.
Every Greeter visit is unique; there are no pre-set itineraries, theme tours or scheduled start times.
For information on public walking tours, contact NYC & Company at www.nycvisit.com.

Why doesn’t Big Apple Greeter list New York City neighborhoods for me to choose from?

There are too many neighborhoods in New York City’s 5 boroughs to list!
If you do not have a preference, tell us “Greeter’s Choice” and leave the neighborhood up to your Greeter.

My group has more than 6 people. Will you make an exception for us?

Greeters are not professional tour guides, and we are unable to accept groups of 7 people or more.
Larger groups that split up and submit separate requests are also not accepted.

Is Big Apple Greeter a New York City agency?

No. Big Apple Greeter is an independent, non-profit organization.

How is Big Apple Greeter funded?

We receive financial support from corporations, foundations and individuals. Click here to make a secure donation online and here to see a list of our donors.

Is everyone a volunteer?

Seven paid staff are in addition to about 30 volunteers who administer the program, plus about 300 volunteer Greeters who meet with visitors.

Are there other Greeter programs in other cities?

Yes! There are Greeter programs in Chicago, Illinois; Fairbanks, Alaska; Houston, Texas; Toronto, Canada; and Melbourne and Adelaide, Australia.

How can I start a Greeter program in my city?

Contact Gail Morse, Big Apple Greeter Director of Marketing and Public Relations, for more information at pr@bigapplegreeter.org or 212-669-8198.

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