Our History

Founded in 1992 by Lynn Brooks, Big Apple Greeter was the world's first free “Welcome Visitor” program.

In her travels, Lynn met many who yearned to visit New York City, but were fearful and overwhelmed by its scale. She wanted the world to know the city as she did—a series of delightful little towns, diverse neighborhoods of mom-and-pop stores, and fun places to dine. Above all, a place with friendly people who would go out of their way to say “welcome.”

Big Apple Greeter’s nearly 300 volunteers now accompany about 5,000 visitors a year to more than 100 neighborhoods in all five boroughs. These new friends have come from all 50 states, more than 100 countries and have been greeted in more than 20 languages.

And Lynn Brooks’ idea has spread throughout the world. Today, 122 cities in 31 different countries boast free Greeter programs. On virtually every continent. Throughout Europe. Argentina to Egypt. Japan to Kazakhstan. Together they form the International Greeter Association and all honor our founder, Lynn Brooks.

NYC & Company is also a proud partner of Big Apple Greeter.