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

Sat 22 Mar

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $49.00

Make a reservation

Sat 22 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)

Vacation62153797352

Sep 2024

This is one of the best walking tours I have ever experienced. I learned so much about Harlem and NYC. As a frequent visitor to NYC I was so excited to learn what people of color have contributed. The guide is SUPERB, she is Uber talented and knowledgeable.. …. Imagine being on a walking tour with Beyoncé because the host will have you so captivated that you will think Beyoncé is leading the group. I have talent the tour at least three times and each time I learn something new. It is a refreshing view of Harlem’s past, present and future. I highly recommend that you take the time the next time you are in NYC and go on this tour. You will not be disappointed!! This is a 10 start production!!

Jesse_W

Sep 2024

Despite the rain the tour was very informative. The tour guide kept an upbeat positive attitude and kept everyone involved. Shout out to the Lady of Harlem for the great time.

Response from Host

Nov 2024

Thank you for braving the rain with us and for the wonderful feedback! We're so glad Lady Altovise kept the energy high and made your experience enjoyable despite the weather!

KMichelTravels

Sep 2024

I can not rave enough about Lady Altovise and The Soul Stroll of Harlem. My family came to New York for the first time and wanted to explore Harlem. Not only was Lady Altovise an Amazing guide. She was fantastic with working with my family. 5 Stars! Thank you for an incredible excursion! Book this tour you won't regret it. ✨️

Response from Host

Nov 2024

Thank you for the glowing review! We’re so happy Lady Altovise made your first Harlem experience unforgettable, and we appreciate you recommending the tour to others—5 stars all around!