STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Staten Island is affectionately referred to by local resident Michael Spence as New York City’s hidden gem, and he is on a mission to share its beauty and culture with the world.
Spence founded Staten Island Discovery Tours in April, aiming to offer both newcomers and visitors a guided exploration of the borough he holds dear.
“My job is to bring people here, show them what Staten Island has to offer,” Spence declared.
He highlights must-see destinations such as Snug Harbor and the Lighthouse Museum while emphasizing the essential experience of enjoying a slice or two of local pizza.
With nearly four decades of experience in the tourism industry, Spence is no newcomer to guiding tours.
Starting his career at an NYC bus tour company at the age of 25, he transitioned to leading private tours throughout the Big Apple for 38 years.
When he relocated from the Lower East Side to Staten Island in 2007, he instantly forged a connection with his new surroundings, igniting a desire to share that affinity with others.
“It’s a part of New York City that doesn’t get the recognition it deserves,” he expressed.
As an entrepreneur, Spence has owned several boutiques on Staten Island, specializing in women’s apparel and accessories.
He previously launched Big City Tours in 2019, providing tours in major cities including New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 led to the closure of that business, prompting Spence to realign his focus on highlighting Staten Island specifically.
Located in St. George, near the Staten Island Ferry Hawks Stadium, Staten Island Discovery Tours aims to craft a vibrant weekend destination for both residents and visitors alike.
The tours feature curated experiences that highlight Staten Island’s rich historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty, incorporating waterfront walks and neighborhood explorations.
Each tour is uniquely designed to share the borough’s special stories with travelers, all led by Spence and his exuberant personality.
“Our team is comprised of a diverse group of professionals, all handpicked and New Yorkers with extensive knowledge,” Spence noted.
Together, they seek to provide top-notch guided tours that offer unique insights and unforgettable experiences that showcase the heart of Staten Island.
Spence’s latest venture doesn’t just focus on tourism; it also aims to promote small business growth and strengthen community connections.
The St. George Walking Tour, priced at $17, invites participants to explore streets adorned with Victorian-era buildings like the Staten Island Courthouse and the Tompkinsville Library.
During the hour-long tour, attendees can also learn about the St. George Theater’s history while visiting local shops and sampling unique eateries.
A highlight of the tour culminates with a visit to a local pizzeria to enjoy authentic New York City pizza.
For those interested in a more extensive experience, a two-hour bus tour priced at $29 features stops at noteworthy sites such as the Alice Austen House, Snug Harbor Cultural Center, and the 9/11 Memorial.
Additionally, a six-hour Staten Island day trip, priced at $149, merges elements from both walking and bus tours, concluding with tickets to a Staten Island Ferryhawks game.
A 90-minute Staten Island Pizza Tour, priced at $29, is also available, allowing visitors to explore multiple North Shore pizzerias and learn about the area’s pizza culture.
“My challenge here is getting tourists off of the ferry to enjoy the beautiful Staten Island waterfront,” Spence identified.
Since opening in April, they have experienced a good number of online sales and walk-ins, yet Spence aims to increase traffic even further this summer.
New Businesses in Focus is a column dedicated to highlighting stories from new business owners on Staten Island.
For more information about Staten Island Discovery Tours, interested individuals can visit their website or reach out via email.
Staten Island Discovery Tours at a Glance
Address: 75 Richmond Terrace
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ystatenislandtours.com
image source from：https://www.silive.com/business/2025/06/tour-company-offers-a-genuine-glimpse-into-the-heart-of-staten-island.html
