Oppenheimer in New York

Step into the story of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the "father of the atomic bomb." Explore pivotal locations on the Upper West Side that shaped Oppenheimer’s upbringing, education, and radical thinking. Learn how New York’s intellectual and political movements, including the New Deal, influenced his rise and groundbreaking work on the Manhattan Project. Visit key atomic bomb history sites and trace the Oppenheimer family’s immigrant journey, and reflect on how Oppenheimer’s controversial legacy continues to shape global science and politics today.

Tour Highlights

  • Walk in Oppenheimer’s Footsteps: Explore the Upper West Side, where Oppenheimer’s early experiences in New York City contributed to his future as the leader of the Manhattan Project

  • Discover His Groundbreaking Education: Visit important locations that reflect Oppenheimer’s unique education in New York, which deeply shaped his scientific and political views

  • Trace His Family’s Immigrant Journey: Learn about the rise of Oppenheimer’s immigrant family in America and how it shaped his views and career

  • Uncover Manhattan Project Sites: Explore New York City’s role in the Manhattan Project, visiting places tied to the creation of the atomic bomb

  • Reflect on Oppenheimer’s Legacy: Gain insight into how Oppenheimer’s legacy continues to influence global politics, science, and ethics, rooted in the ideas and influences he encountered in New York City

Meeting point: OUTSIDE 94 Corner Cafe, 2518 Broadway, NY 10025 on the corner of Broadway and West 94th Street, beside the 94th St & 93 St East Side of Broadway exit to the 96th Street subway (Upper West Side, Manhattan)

Endpoint: Columbia University, Morningside Heights

Tour length: 2.5 hours

Distance covered: 1.7 miles

Meeting point: OUTSIDE 94 Corner Cafe on the corner of Broadway (east side) and West 94th Street (south side)

This is an extensively researched tour given by a professional historian that should not be missed on a visit to New York. The tour is both educative and enlightening in that it contextualizes Oppenheimer & Co. as part of the broader revolutions in thought occurring in both place and time. The tour leader is highly entrepreneurial and a pleasure to spend an afternoon with.

Jake L (Tripadvisor) 5*

A wonderful tour! Krombie is so knowledgeable and funny, she carefully curated this tour to showcase the various circles of society that influenced Oppenheimer's upbringing, moral philosophy, and career. We heard about the thriving expat Jewish community on the Upper West Side, along with the intellectual, scientific, and artistic circles that influenced him. Even though this is a relatively new Purefinder tour, Krombie seems like she already has an excellent grasp of material and was happy to answer questions or elaborate further. Highly recommend, looking forward to another tour with her soon!

Maggie K (Tripadvisor) 5*

Second tour with Purefinder. Highly educational walking tour filled with Krombie’s endless knowledge and theatrical delivery. My partner is a lifelong New Yorker and we have both lived on the upper west side for many years. We had no idea that Oppenheimer, his ancestors, and his children had such a presence and influence here. Many cool factoids about the man and his contemporaries who resided here. These tours are the best in NYC for sure.

rodeonyc (Tripadvisor) 5*

We loved the Oppenheimer tour. It was compelling, eye-opening, and thought provoking. Our guide was brilliantly informed, and found ways to tie so many different movements of the time into the conversation. So while it was Oppenheimer focused, you really got a sense of society, politics and the city at the time!

Annie T (Tripadvisor) 5*