Discover some of the most beautiful theaters, ballrooms, and churches in Harlem on a 3-hour walking tour of Harlem Renaissance locations. Learn about legendary Harlem residents, such as the poet Langston Hughes, and jazz musicians like Duke Ellington.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible—book your spot and pay nothing today. Learn more
Duration 3 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide: English
Wheelchair accessible

Highlights

Stroll present-day Harlem learning about the Harlem Renaissance
Learn about legendary Harlem Renaissance residents, such as Pig Foot Mary
Enjoy a lunch at a local Harlem restaurant
See the theaters, ballrooms, and churches that cultivated Harlem talent
Discover why this period in American history was so important for African-American culture

Full description

Embark on a journey through present-day Harlem to see the people and places that helped create the Harlem Renaissance, and discover why this period in American history was so magical and important for African-American culture. During the 3-hour walking tour, you will discover where Jungle Alley was, and learn why 135th Street was such a crucial area during the Harlem Renaissance. Along the way, see wonderful theaters, ballrooms, and churches that were jumping during the Renaissance. Your guide will bring the history alive as they tell stories of the most influential individuals, from the writers Langston Hughes and Zora Neal Hurston, to jazz legends such as Duke Ellington. Hear about the cook Lillian Harris Dean and why she took the name “Pig Foot Mary.” Discover how Madame CJ Walker made her millions, and explore Harlem in art form via the artist Jacob Lawrence and photographer James Van Der Zee. Once the walking tour comes to a close, you will be treated to a delicious lunch at a local restaurant to experience life in Harlem today.

Includes

Live tour guide
Lunch
Water
Coffee
Tea
Soft drink
Water
Tea
Coffee
Soft drink

Covid-19 precautions

Safety measures in place

All required protective equipment is provided
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds

Traveler requirements

You are required to bring and wear a mask
You will receive a mandatory temperature check

Meeting point

Meet at 145 West 122nd Street, Apt. 1, between (Adam Clayton Powell Blvd and Lenox Avenue).

Open in Google Maps ⟶

Important information

What to bring

Comfortable shoes

Know before you go

Tour must be booked at least 48 hours in advance

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.6 /5

based on 8 reviews

Review summary

Value for money
4.5/5
Service
5/5
Organization
4.5/5

Sort by:

The guide is a long time resident of Harlem and wonderfully suited to tell the cultural history. She covers historical buildings, people of the area and happenings. If you are an older adult, these are things you have heard about and will find it interesting to know more, If you are younger, you will find it interesting to hear for the first time. The neighborhood lunch restaurant offers a great tasty lunch w good selection.

July 25, 2021

Outstanding

Our group consisted of five people. Our guide took us to many interesting places in Harlem; Thanks to her friendly manner and the personal stories I got, I got an insight into the fascinating history and development of Harlem. From my point of view, this guided walk is absolutely recommendable.

December 11, 2018

More meandering than interesting tour

Disappointing tour. Seemed like we were meandering through the streets with little prepared focus. Did not go by Apollo theatre which was the tour highlight. I was expecting a tour guide with more historical knowledge. For example we walked through Marcus Garvey Park with no mention of his ideas on segregation. The stops at Jazz Museum and library were great. Overall can not recommend. Maybe try another company as there is really so much to see and learn.

July 21, 2018

New York: Harlem Renaissance Walking Tour with Lunch

New York: Harlem Renaissance Walking Tour with Lunch

About this activity

Experience

Select participants and date

Overall rating

Review summary

Sort by:

Traveler type:

Star rating:

Outstanding

More meandering than interesting tour