Soul of Harlem History and Heritage Walking Tour

Overview

Discover the streets where Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, and other cutting-edge Harlem Renaissance players put American music on the world map.

And where Fidel Castro slept after being kicked out of a midtown hotel for having chickens in his room.

Harlem's history is also one of the city's most dramatic, having gone through many ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic changes over the past roughly 400 years.

This has resulted in a diverse array of places of worship, theaters, homes, and eating establishments.

Join us uptown on our signature, award-winning two-hour Harlem walking tour.

City: New York City

Wed 07 May

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $49.00

Make a reservation

Wed 07 May

Starting at $49.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

2 Hour Guided Walk through the History of Harlem

Led by local Harlem residents & Award winning Tour Guides

Most immersive Harlem Tour of New York

(SUNDAYS ONLY) Skip the Line Access to Gospel Experience at Local Church

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What To Expect

Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

Start your exploration at one of New York Public Library's renowned research libraries, which serves as a cultural institution for the exhibition and preservation of African-American experience. Experience periodic exhibitions dedicated to The Harlem Renaissance, Civil Rights Era, & The Black Lives Matter Movement.

Abyssinian Baptist Church

Established over 220 years in New York City, and in Harlem since 1902, it is one of the oldest Baptist churches in the United States.

Strivers' Row

Walk in this historic district of beautiful row houses with alleyways, rear shared and courtyards built in the 1890's. Home to the likes of tap dancer and actor Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, heavyweight boxer Harry "BLACK PANTHER" Willis, Congressman Adam Clayton Powell Jr. & William Marion Cook - 1st Black Broadway Musical composer.

Bill's Place

Located on Harlem's original Swing Street, owner and Harlem jazz icon Bill Saxton performs with the best in the business, including American jazz and swing singer Billie Holiday.

Apollo Theater

"WHERE STARS ARE BORN & LEGENDS ARE MADE." Celebrating 90 years this year with concerts by USHER, Smokey Robinson, Mary J. Beige, Baby face, Just to name a few!

Show 2 more stops

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (64)

RaineyH6

Sep 2024

I had an AMAZING experience with Lady Altovise touring the historic place of Harlem. This tour will give you history, singing, and entertainment. If you desire an authentic experience of Harlem, then I highly suggest that you register for this tour. I have been to Harlem many times, and there is not a tour out there like touring with Lady Altovise. #incomparable #authentic #unique #Ladyaltovise #Harlem #NewyorkNewyork #Newyork

Response from Host

Nov 2024

Thank you for the incredible review! We're thrilled to hear that your tour with Lady Altovise offered such an authentic and unforgettable Harlem experience—your recommendation means the world to us!

34stefanim

Sep 2024

Lady Altovese is the ultimate concierge for Harlem and NYC. She makes history come alive! I learned so much about the rich history here not only in music and soul, but food, art, dance, businesses...incredible. And she also recommended places to go around the city based on my cousin's college alma mater! Lady is definitely Harlem's Favorite!

Response from Host

Nov 2024

Thank you for the fantastic review! We're so glad Lady Altovise made Harlem's rich history come alive for you and that her recommendations made your experience even more special!

Y4185TYmichaelg

Sep 2024

All I can say is, Lady Altovise is Harlem! Her love for Harlem and its rich history is phenomenal. She was able to procure seating at an live theatrical of the Black Wall Street massacre. Her tours are very personable and memorable.

Response from Host

Nov 2024

Thank you for the amazing review! We're thrilled to hear that Lady Altovise's passion for Harlem and its history made your tour unforgettable, and that you had such a memorable experience!