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

Fri 21 Mar

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $49.00

Make a reservation

Fri 21 Mar

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)

Karendm7

Oct 2024

The guide was enthusiastic, knowledgeable and very friendly. The tour lasted two hours over 10 blocks and the time flew by. Recommend and good value for money, even after the upfront cost and the tip.

Response from Host

Nov 2024

Thank you for the great feedback! We’re so glad you enjoyed the enthusiastic and informative tour, and appreciate you recognizing the value of the experience!

Rachquel_M

Oct 2024

The tour was very informative and the guide mentioned some gems regarding Harlem history. However, I would love to see and hear different evolution in time period of Harlem history from past to future, old to modern. The tour guide Ron is very passionate about what he does and his of community. If I was to move to New York; Harlem will be the first choice! Shout out Mr. Ron.

Passport694950

Oct 2024

The tour guide Lady Altovise was amazing!! She combined her vast historical knowledge and witty personality to make for a memorable experience. Seeing Harlem on foot was a true delight 😊.

Response from Host

Nov 2024

We’re thrilled you had a memorable experience with Lady Altovise! Her blend of history and humor truly brings Harlem to life, and we’re glad you enjoyed exploring it on foot!