harlem new york walking tour

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

Harlem Walking Tour

Tour Information

Harlem highlights.

• Abyssinian Baptist Church
• Apollo Theater
• Sites related to Malcolm X
• Headquarters of William J. Clinton Foundation
• Schomberg Center
• Sylvia's Soul-food Restaurant
• Strivers Row
• and much more!

Searching Availability...

For our full tour calendar,  click here .

Although world-famous, Harlem may just be New York's best-kept secret with some of the city's most interesting architecture, food, music, and people..00

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 Free Tours by Foot Uptown on this two-hour Harlem walking tour.

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.

Come hungry, if you want to treat yourself to some great soul food after the tour!  

We'll also show you some places where you could visit to experience a live gospel service .

Sites we cover on our Harlem Walking Tours:

NOTE: We do not enter these buildings on the tour.

We also have a  GPS-led audio tour of Harlem that you can whenever it fits your schedule.

Tour information

Reservations:  Required.  Click here to reserve . Groups of 6 or more traveling together should visit our group's page .

Duration: Approximately 2 hours 15 min. The tour distance is approximately 1.5 miles (2.7 km).

Start point: The tour starts from the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture ( map ). 

Endpoint: The tour ends near the Apollo Theater.

When: @9:45am Sundays, Tuesdays & Thursdays and @2pm Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays.  Tours go out rain or shine. Dress appropriately for the weather.   View Our Full Calendar.

*See the additional planning section below for future potential seasonal scheduling. 

Cost:  This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. A name-your-own-price tour is a tour for anyone's budget.

Language: The public tour is in English or Spanish only (see our Spanish tour page for the calendar) . Private tours for individual groups are also available in both languages upon request.

Additional  planning information:  Tour will not enter buildings. You will need to coordinate a gospel experience and Apollo Theater tour on your own.

Read our Gospel Music in Harlem and the Rest of New York City blog and our Tour the Apollo Theater in Harlem blog to assist you in your planning.

GPS-LED AUDIO TOURS OF HARLEM

We also offer a GPS-enabled audio tour as well as a self-guided tour.

The 1st option is our GPS-led audio tour.

This option is our full tour of Harlem and was researched and recorded by one of our tour guides from the neighborhood. Listen to a sample.

You'll need to download our free audio tour app. Downloads are only $2.99. We also offer 9 other NYC audio tours .

Here is how it works:

• Purchase an audio tour.
• Get a confirmation email with .mp3, .pdf, and embeddable Google Map.
• Enjoy the tour(s).

Even if you don't download any tours, you will still have access to valuable information on sightseeing, eating, and playing in the Big Apple.

Our second option is totally free (hence our name). You can take this tour by viewing or downloading this Google Map .

This version isn't as in-depth as the audio or public tours, but it will give you a good overview nonetheless.

Tip: To learn about the economic, political, and cultural changes in Harlem over time, check out Social Justice Tours . 

Tickets are just $16 and a portion of the proceeds goes to a worthy non-profit organization.

Lady Altoviese's Harlem Renaissance and Gospel Experience

We offer exceptional gospel tour experiences led by Harlem native, Lady Altoviese.

Unlike the church services listed below, there is no dress code for this tour and performance, and there is no waiting in line.

Cost: $25/person. Book this tour .

Note: This tour operates on Wednesdays at noon and pares with our 2-hour walking tour of Harlem .

Click here for more options to experience the gospel in NYC or to take a guided tour of Harlem churches.

We can show you where some of the churches we list below are located on our free  New York tours.

RELATED CONTENT

• Gospel Tours
• Hip-Hop-Tours
• Things to Do in Harlem

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

• Harlem Walking Tours

Harlem Gospel Walking Tours

Harlem Renaissance Multimedia Walking Tour

Harlem Civil Rights Walking Tour

General Harlem History Walking Tour

Harlem Heritage Apollo Theater Walking Tour

Harlem Wednesday Gospel Walking Tour

Hamilton Heights / Sugar Hill Multimeda Walking Tour

Harlem Movie / TV Multimedia Walking Tour

harlem…is HEALING Multi-Media Walking Tour

Malcolm X Multimedia Harlem Walk

Harlem Heritage Holiday Walk

Harlem Heritage Virtual Experience

“The Life and Times of 125th Street Multimedia Walking Tour”

Harlem Experiences

• View Tour Calendar
• Harlem Gospel Tours
• Harlem Day Trips
• Harlem Multimedia Tours
• Harlem Jazz Tours
• Spanish Harlem Tours
• Shopping Tours

Harlem Heritage Tourism & Cultural Center 104 Malcolm X Boulevard New York, N.Y. 10026 Call (212) 280-7888

• Film Festivals, Screenings and Talks
• Historic Sites & Attractions: Landmarks Harlem
• Hotels, Bed & Breakfasts and Lodging
• Houses of Worship
• Museums & Galleries
• Music - Harlem Jazz Clubs, Festivals, Performances & Special Events
• Parks & Outdoors
• Restaurants, Cafés & Bars
• Theater & Performance - Harlem & Beyond

Harlem Cultural Heritage Walking Tours

• Central Harlem
• East Harlem (El Barrio)
• Manhattanville
• Morningside Heights
• Washington Heights / Inwood
• West Harlem / Hamilton Heights / Sugar Hill
• Next 3 Days
• Next 7 Days
• Last Chance!
• Coming Soon
• Hamilton Heights & Sugar Hill Walking Tour

Harlem Swing Stroll and Dance Class

• Sunday Gospel in Harlem
• Opportunities
• Mailing list signup!
• ExploreHarlem.nyc — for the travel trade

At Harlem One Stop, we offer unique tours of Harlem and upper Manhattan: neighborhood walking tours of West, Central, and East Harlem, Gospel tours, music, and jazz themed tours, Harlem Renaissance tours. Our programs feature Harlem’s Culture, Heritage, Architecture, and History and explore uptown neighborhoods in a unique and inspiring way. Harlem One Stop is a community-based organization. We are deeply involved in serving the interest of the community and preserving what makes Harlem great. We work hard to make sure our visitors get a unique and authentic experience of Harlem. All our tours guides live in Harlem and are involved in the life of the community. They know all about Harlem’s History as well as Harlem as it is Today .

Tours are free for guests with a valid New York Pass or Go City Pass, but a credit card is required to secure your space when booking your tour. The card will only be charged in the case of "no show" without advance cancellation.

Tours are currently offered in English only.

NEW! Harlem One Stop™ Selected Cultural Walking Tours are now available with purchase of the NEW YORK PASS. The New York Pass offers you must-see attractions, museums and tours for one low pre-paid price . This saves you up to 40% off compared to regular admission plus gets exclusive extras others miss out on. You can even skip the line at the most popular attractions. Learn more .

Harlem One Stop tours included in the New York Pass:  NEW! HALLELUJAH GOSPEL WEDNESDAY!

• Hallelujah Gospel Wednesdays , Inspirational gospel and spirituals with local church, Wednesday at 5:30 pm - 6:45 pm    BOOK NOW
• Neighborhood Walking Tours on Tuesday, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 10:00 am - 12 pm  BOOK NOW
• Swing Stroll and Dance Class , Mondays at 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm  BOOK NOW
• Sunday Gospel with Locals , 9:00 am - 11:00 am (Central Harlem) NOT INCLUDED IN THE NEW YORK PASS.
• Sunday Walking Tour and Gospel in West Harlem , 9:30 am -12: 30 pm (West Harlem) NOT INCLUDED IN THE NEW YORK PASS.

Advance purchase recommended. Tours can quickly sell out!

Questions: 212-939-9201

Like Us on Facebook

Connect on Twitter

SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THE HOLIDAYS!!

Celebrate your Holiday Season in New York City with a mouth-watering soul-food brunch and a mind-blowing soulful gospel performance. Enjoy a traditional, home-style southern buffet at one of the premier restaurants in the village of Harlem, the historic Londel's Restaurant.

Immerse yourself in the sensational sounds of seasoned gospel singers, Déjà & the Harlem Soul Singers accompanied by the Nate Lucas All-Stars band.

Harlem One Stop Tours

Central Harlem Walking Tour

Hamilton Heights & Sugar Hill Harlem Walking Tour

Washington Heights -Sugar Hill North Harlem Walking Tour

Private Group Tour: Harlem is Home - Romare Bearden's Harlem

Private Group Tour: Harlem is Home Tour - Trinity Cemetery

Private Group Tour: Harlem is Home Tour - Harlem Swing & Lindy Hop

Private Group Tour: Harlem is Home Tour: Alexander Hamilton - His Life, Times, and Harlem

Explore harlem with custom group tours, more events.

refine your search

• Great Central Park Hike: Secrets of Central Park Sunday, April 21 through Saturday, April 27 @ Central Park - NYC Dept. of Parks & Recreation

Organizations

• Alexander Hamilton Grange National Memorial · West Harlem / Hamilton Heights / Sugar Hill
• Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum
• Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine, The · Morningside Heights
• Conservatory Garden - Central Park · East Harlem (El Barrio)
• Destinations Uptown
• Hamilton Heights West Harlem Community Preservation Organization · West Harlem / Hamilton Heights / Sugar Hill
• Hamilton Heights/Sugar Hill/West Harlem Historic District · West Harlem / Hamilton Heights / Sugar Hill
• Harlem One Stop · West Harlem / Hamilton Heights / Sugar Hill
• Harlem One Stop Cultural Heritage Tours · West Harlem / Hamilton Heights / Sugar Hill
• Hush Tours · East Harlem (El Barrio)
• NYC&Co Visitor Center Midtown

Copyright © 2006-2024, Harlem One Stop, Inc. All rights reserved. Website developed and made possible by a gift from Zero Defect Design LLC

find events

• Art in Windows, An Arts & Business Engagement
• Arts & Small Business Resources
• Jazz in West Harlem
• Outdoors Families & Kids Activities
• The Harlem Eye Blog
• Historic Sites & Attractions
• Hotels and Lodging
• Shop Harlem
• Theater & Performance

neighborhoods

Search harlem one stop.

• Everything! Art Exhibitions Community Dance   ·   Ballet   ·   Modern   ·   Tap / Jazz   ·   World Film Free Kids   ·   Programs / Education   ·   Recreation Lectures & Literature   ·   Book Signing   ·   Poetry/Spoken Word LGBTQ+ Museums & Galleries Music   ·   Classical   ·   Gospel   ·   Hip-Hop / R&B   ·   Jazz / Blues   ·   Rock / Pop   ·   World Parks & Outdoors   ·   Parks Shopping Sites & Attractions   ·   Churches   ·   Historic   ·   Public Art Special Events   ·   Fairs   ·   Festivals   ·   Parades Talks & Panel Discussions Theater & Performance   ·   Classic   ·   Comedy   ·   Drama   ·   Experimental   ·   Family   ·   Musical Tours   ·   House   ·   Insider   ·   Walking Workshops
• Anytime Today Next 3 days Next 7 days This date range:
• event through event

Welcome to Harlem Walks.com

Specialized walking tours of various neighborhoods within harlem and beyond .

Led by Leigh Hallingby.

Leigh was a very lovely lady with a passion for architecture and the arts, which was transferred to us through our tour.

Got a question about a tour?

Harlem, New York: A Walking Tour

by Harry He

Last Updated: June 28, 2023

Harlem isn’t just one of the most historic neighborhoods in New York City. It’s also one of the liveliest.

The word “Harlem” alone evokes images of legendary nightspots like the Cotton Club, where great musicians filled the night with hot jazz. For others, it brings thoughts of the notorious ghetto: decrepit, dirty, and crime-ridden.

While both are part of its past, Harlem today has entered a new era. Yes, Harlem is still a bit rough around the edges, with some abandoned buildings, poverty, and litter. But the streets are now safe, and many of Harlem’s architectural treasures have been restored. New restaurants, stores, and hotels are opening—and thriving.

The takeaway? Harlem is managing to maintain its unique culture while evolving into a vibrant, diverse community. And the time to visit Harlem… is now!

Table of Contents

History of Harlem

Founded by Dutch settlers in the 1650s, Harlem was a rural village for an entire two centuries.

When railroads linked Harlem to the city in the 1870s, though, buildings sprang up—including tenements for immigrants in the east, and elegant row houses in the center for affluent whites.

At the turn of the century, the coming of the subway led to a building boom that went bust, leaving blocks of houses and apartments empty. New York City’s African-American residents moved uptown. Soon, Harlem was the “Black Capital of America.”

The Harlem Renaissance flourished in the 1920s, when the “New Negro” produced exceptional art, literature, poetry, theater, and, of course, music. People flocked to nightclubs like the Cotton Club and the Savoy Ballroom to hear jazz by Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Cab Calloway.

But the Great Depression devastated Harlem, and later race riots inflicted great damage on the neighborhood. Decades of poverty and neglect left Harlem a dangerous, decaying ghetto.

In the 1990s, people began buying and restoring Harlem’s brownstones. The city renovated abandoned buildings for affordable housing, and folks moved to the neighborhood for its reasonable rents.

While the recession has slowed development, today, a new renaissance is well under way in Harlem.

A Harlem tour

Want to explore Harlem? Just remember that New York actually has several Harlems,  stretching across the Manhattan river to the river above Central Park. There’s  East Harlem (Spanish Harlem, or “El Barrio”), which occupies Fifth Avenue to the East/Harlem River, and  West Harlem,  which includes the neighborhoods of Morningside Heights and Hamilton Heights.

This tour focuses on Central Harlem, the historic center of African-American culture in New York (and America!).

1. Take the #2 or 3 subway to the 135th St. stop .

The block of 135th Street to the west (between Lenox Ave. and Adam Clayton Powell Blvd.–look for the YMCA) was one of Harlem’s first African-American enclaves . This is where Philip A. Payton broke the color barrier by offering apartments to NYC’s Black citizens—their first decent housing in the city’s 250-year history.

The large brick building is the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture , the nation’s largest research library devoted to cultures of people of African descent. The Center also presents exhibits, performances, forums, and events showcasing Black culture. Look in the library for the four Aaron Douglas murals , which typify the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance. (Plus, there are convenient restrooms near the entrance doors!).

Across Lenox Ave is Harlem Hospital , where Martin Luther King, Jr. was saved after being stabbed by a deranged Harlemite.  Reproduced on its new, glass-encased wing is a montage from the hospital’s historic WPA murals , which will be restored and displayed in the new building. The figure in white is Cab Calloway “beatin’ the band.”

2.  Take a brief detour west on 136th Street to see #107 and #111, brownstones converted into an evangelical church and a funeral home, respectively. The “garden level” and/or basements of many Harlem brownstones were converted into funeral parlors, houses of worship, shops, bistros, intimate clubs—and, during Prohibition, speakeasies!

Return to Lenox and continue to 138th Street, then turn left and walk west.

3.  The Abyssinian Baptist Church is at 132 W. 138th Street.

Founded in 1808 by African Americans and Ethiopian merchants unwilling to accept the segregated seating of other churches, the Abyssinian (which refers to the ancient name for Ethiopia) is one of the nation’s oldest, most influential African-American congregations.

Since erecting this church in 1923, the Abyssinian has been a force for social justice and economic development in Harlem. The church is often closed to the public, so attending a Sunday service may be your only option for entrance. Be sure to read the Abyssinian’s instructions for first-time visitors before attending.

The decaying brick buildings at Adam Clayton Powell and 138th St. were the location of the crack den in Spike Lee’s film “Jungle Fever. ” But they also were once the Renaissance Ballroom and Casino , a Black-owned entertainment complex that included a movie theater, ballroom, billiards parlor, and space for sporting events. During its heyday in the 1920s, “the cream of Harlem” held social events here, revelers danced the Charleston and Black Bottom, and America’s first African-American professional basketball team, the Harlem Renns, played here. It also hosted performances by Duke Ellington, Fletcher Henderson, and Ella Fitzgerald.

It’s now owned by the Abyssinian Development Corp, who plan to incorporate the façade into a modern residential tower.

3. At Adam Clayton Powell and 139th Street, turn left (west) onto Strivers Row , the two-block stretch of row houses with two unique features: their elegant, unified designs, and the private alleys behind each row (rare for New York!). Architect Stanford White designed the row on the north side of 139th Street.

Built in 1891, most of these homes remained empty until affluent African Americans (Strivers) bought them in the 1920s. Eubie Blake, W.C. Handy, Fletcher Henderson, and Alpha Phi Alpha (the nation’s first black fraternity) all resided on the row.

Wander along the block to Frederick Douglass Blvd. The street comes to an abrupt end with a park a block and a half west. This is St. Nicholas Park , which is built on the massive ridge of Manhattan bedrock that separates Harlem Heights from the plain of Harlem. The large Gothic building on the summit is City College .

Walking south down the boulevard, you can look into the private alley between the row houses of 139th and 138th Streets. At the corner, turn left and walk east on 138th St. to see more of “the Row.” Note Victory Tabernacle Church , built into a narrow townhouse plot, the mid-block alley gateway that still reads “walk your horses,” and #237, which is abandoned and boarded-up.

Turn right, and continue south for three blocks on Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd.

4. At 135th Street, you’ll see the large, historic Harlem YMCA (#181), where writers Claude McKay, Langston Hughes, and Ralph Ellison once lived, Jackie Robinson coached local kids, and James Earl Jones, Alvin Ailey, and Sidney Poitier performed in the Little Theater.

Just inside the lobby, look for Aaron Douglas’ 1933 mural, “ The Evolution of Negro Dance”—unprotected in a children’s playroom! Heading back to the corner of Adam Clayton Powell, you’ll find an old wooden newsstand selling publications intended for African-American readers.

Walk south for 10 blocks on Adam Clayton Powell Blvd. At #2283,  Hats by Bunn sells designer hats, which are quite popular with Harlem ladies for church attire.

The block of W. 133rd Street to your left was known as “Swing Street,” because it was lined with clubs, speakeasies, and after-hour hangouts. At #2271 is the  Shine Bar/Restaurant , a popular jazz and world music club. A typical hair-braiding salon is at #2253, and #2251 is an African Caribbean Market, selling imported foods and African movies on DVD.

On the avenue’s island at 131st Street is the brightly colored marker where the Tree of Hope once stood. Performers at the famed Lafayette Theater (formally at 132nd) believed the tree bestowed good luck. Its stump is now in the wings of the Apollo Theater, where performers touch it before taking the stage.

Beginning at the southwest corner are a number of Public Housing towers (or “projects”) covering five city blocks.

At the southwest corner of 126th Street is the Alhambra Ballroom , which opened in 1905 as a lavish vaudeville theater. The ballroom was added in 1926, and featured performances by Bessie Smith, Jelly Roll Morton, and Billie Holiday.

5. 125th Street is the  Harlem’s historic commercial heart .  On the northeast corner is the behemoth Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building , with the statue of its preacher and statesman namesake. The open plaza is often the site of community gatherings, including the celebration of President Obama’s election, a vigil for Michael Jackson, and numerous political/civil demonstrations.

Across 125th Street at #132 is the huge Koch & Co. Building , a 19th-century dry-goods/department store from the street’s first glory days. Beside it is the Studio Museum in Harlem , dedicated to the works of Black artists, from the 19th Century to contemporary. The museum features a permanent collection, exhibitions, and events; it also has a nice café, and free admission on Sundays.

At the southwest corner is the Hotel Theresa , known as the “Waldorf Astoria of Harlem.” It’s hosted celebrities like Joe Louis, Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, and stars of the Apollo Theater. Many civil rights leaders also had offices in the hotel, including A Philip Randolph and Malcolm X.

And Fidel Castro checked in here while attending a U.N. session (he’d been evicted from a midtown hotel for keeping live chickens in his room!).

6. The Apollo Theater ’s slogan, “where legends are made,” is no empty boast. This is where Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, James Brown, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Wonder, and the Jackson Five launched their careers.

It’s also launched some of the greatest stars of jazz, R&B, and hip-hop. Built in 1914 as a burlesque house for a whites-only audience, the theater still hides racy murals behind the red-velvet wall coverings.   In 1934, it became the “125th Street Apollo,” a variety music hall open to everyone.

Today, the raucous Amateur Night at the Apollo (where so many stars have been discovered!) still takes place every Wednesday night. Excellent historic tours of the theater also are available by advance reservation.

After shopping on 125th Street, you can catch the subway one block west at St. Nicholas Ave. (for the A, B, C, D lines), or head back to Lenox Ave for the 2 or 3 lines (not to mention to check out three excellent restaurants: the acclaimed Red Rooster , Chez Lucienne , and Corner Social ).

Want to keep going? Great! You can also…

A. Walk south down Lenox Avenue , lined with incredible brownstones and churches (in various states of repair), all built for a wealthy German-Jewish community in the 1880s. Turn left, or east, on 122nd St. (once called Doctors’ Row) to see beautiful homes leading to Marcus Garvey Park .

Return to Lenox via 121st St. On 116th St. is the site of Malcolm X’s mosque and the Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market , where vendors sell authentic African handicrafts. From here, you can catch the subway, or continue six blocks south to Central Park and Harlem Meer .

B. Continue south down Frederick Douglass Blvd. , where you’ll find the Harriet Tubman monument , and plenty of new, high-end businesses, including W’s chic Aloft Hotel , Harlem Vintage wine store, Patisserie des Ambassades , Levain Bakery (some say with the city’s best cookies), and Harlem Tavern . The subway stop is at 116th St.

Want more of Harlem?

Join the community in celebrating annual events like the African American Day Parade  or Harlem Week , when 135th Street, from Lenox to St. Nicholas Avenue, is taken over by local shops, entertainment, plenty of soul food, and impromptu dance parties.

Please note:   Visitors flock to Harlem Church services seeking an authentic cultural experience (which it certainly is! ). However, it’s important to remember that these are religious services, and not simply a music performance. The congregations are devout, and take their worship seriously.

Therefore, it’s appropriate to dress conservatively, and never behave in a manner that is distracting to others. Visitors must arrive on time and remain for the entire service. Talking and taking photos or video recording are not acceptable. In addition to Abyssinian Baptist , visitor-friendly churches include Greater Refuge Temple , Mount Neboh Baptist , and United House of Prayer for All People .

About the author

Harry is a Seattle native turned New Yorker with 8 years of NYC living under his belt. As a connoisseur of all things delicious, artsy, and adventurous, he loves to share his wisdom for the best foodie spots, coffee shops, bagel joints, art galleries, shopping havens, and scenic bike routes in the city.

More by Harry He

You might also enjoy

The 9 Best Bookshops in New York City For Serious Bookworms

Hidden New York: 10 Secret Places in NYC to Seek Out

Highlights of The Met: Uncovering The Metropolitan Museum of Art 

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Sign up to get curated travel tips, inspiration, and travel deals by joining our community of Walkers.

"Best Place To Take Out Of Town Guests" - The Village Voice, 2014

"Great way to experience the city" - TripAdvisor Review, May 2016

• The Schedule
• How It Works

Gift Certificates Private Tours

Tour Hotline (888) 606-WALK

Historic Harlem Walking Tour

Emphasizing the harlem renaissance, this guided walking tour looks at the history, architecture & people of this remarkable neighborhood..

Harlem is the center of African American history and culture not only in New York City but in the entire United States. Our historic Harlem walking tour explores the history of Harlem, from its origins as a Dutch village in the 17th century through its transformation into the “Capital of Black America” in the early 20th century. We place the evolution of Harlem into the context of American history by learning about how the Great Migration drove the neighborhood’s ethnic transformation through several incarnations before Harlem finally became the black metropolis we think of today. Our Harlem guided tour emphasizes the artistic, literary, and musical flowerings of the 1920s Harlem Renaissance. Learn how this period laid the intellectual foundation for the early Civil Rights Movement. Stops could include the Abyssinian Baptist Church, Striver’s Row, the Apollo Theater, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Hotel Theresa, and sites associated with W.E.B. DuBois, Madame C.J. Walker, Malcolm X, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Carl van Vechten, and many others.

Health & Safety Guidelines For our in-person walking tours, see our FAQs below for information regarding our Stay Well NYC Pledge.

Give a Big Onion Gift Certificate! Give an experience they'll remember! All tours are available as gift certificates. Purchase This Tour As A Gift Certificate

Public Tour

Private tour, tour schedule, tour reservations.

Big Onion requires all walkers to reserve and pay in advance. Prepayment helps us determine group size and appropriate guide numbers.

NOTE: You will select your date in the next step.

Reserve Your Spot Refund Policy

For bigger groups, consider a private walking or virtual tour!

Whether you are looking to integrate a tour into your academic curriculm or entertaining out-of-towners, a Big Onion walking tour is a great way to experience the city.

For more information, or to arrange, please call (718) 499-3001 or email [email protected] .

Meeting Location

Location: Northwest corner of 135th Street & Lenox (Malcolm X) Avenue – in front of the Schomburg Center.

Subway Trains 2/3 to 135th Street.

FAQs for In-Person Street Walks

Social Distancing On in person tours, Big Onion will follow the current recommended outdoor social distancing protocols.

Contact Tracing Big Onion will securely retain client contact information for one month, for contact tracing purposes, if necessary.

Guides The finest group of tour guides anywhere. Most of us are full-time graduate students researching and writing doctoral dissertations in history passionate about the history, architecture and people of New York. More about our guides .

Finding Your Guides All guides carry an 8×11 sign that says “Big Onion Walking Tours”.

Time & Distance All tours last approximately two hours. We start on time and walk between one and two miles at a moderate walking pace, stopping at various sites along the tour.

Rain/Inclement Weather Big Onion generally presents tours rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather please check our home page for notifications or call our hotline [(888) 606-WALK (9255) ext. 1], to confirm our schedule.

Tips Gratuities are always appreciated, but never expected.

Reschedule Policy With 24+ hours prior to a walking tour, Big Onion offers a full credit for the value of the booking. Credits will be given as Gift Cards in dollar amounts. Gift Cards are good for two years and can be used on any Big Onion outing. Cancellations with less than 24 hours prior to the tour or no shows cannot be credited.

Walks are held rain or shine, but may be cancelled for severe weather or if museum is closed. In the event of a Big Onion cancellation or museum closure, full refunds or rescheduled tickets will be offered.

More Questions? Check out How it Works for more details.

Helpful Links Local weather forecast NYC Subway Map Weekly Service Advisories Subway Fares

Sexy desi mms of naughty aunty fuck Used Man Hot Indian Actress Nude Sex Porn Video in HD Vizag topless ammayi sollu video xxx porn mms jared shaw gay porn full free xxx movies como se faz sexo anal

The Soul of Harlem Walking Tour in New York

• When cake is available, I buy a slice of red-velvet cake from the famous "Cake Man Raven" Bake Shop
• 85 E 125th St, New York, NY 10035, USA The Ginjan Cafe
• Apollo Theater, 253 W 125th St, New York, NY 10027, USA 125th Street between Adam Clayton Powell Blvd & Frederick Douglass Blvd.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Apollo Theater
• Langston Hughes House
• The National Jazz Museum in Harlem

Similar experiences

• You'll start at 85 E 125th St 85 E 125th St, New York, NY 10035, USA The Ginjan Cafe See address & details
• 1 Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture Stop: 15 minutes See details
• 2 The National Jazz Museum in Harlem Stop: 15 minutes See details
• 3 Langston Hughes House Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 4 Apollo Theater Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 5 2082 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 6 Harlem Stop: 100 minutes See details
• You'll end at Apollo Theater 253 W 125th St, New York, NY 10027, USA 125th Street between Adam Clayton Powell Blvd & Frederick Douglass Blvd. See address & details

More to explore in New York City

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Buy it with

The Soul of Harlem Walking Tour in New York provided by You Are Here Walking Tours LLC

Welcome to Harlem uses cookies to give you the best possible service. If you continue browsing, you agree to our use of cookies. More details can be found in our terms and conditions .

• [email protected]
• 212-662-7779
• Open Facebook account in a new tab.
• Open Instagram account in a new tab.
• Open Twitter account in a new tab.
• Open Pinterest account in a new tab.
• Open Tripadvisor account in a new tab.
• Open Youtube account in a new tab.
• Open Yelp account in a new tab.

Harlem Civil Rights Walking Tour

Learn about this pivotal time in history

Visit some hidden Harlem treasures

Delightful local lunch included

Why take this Harlem Civil Rights tour?

The Civil Rights Movement was a very pivotal period in the history of the United States. Join us on a remarkable tour as we delve into the powerful significance of Harlem during the Civil Rights Movement. Gain a deep and comprehensive understanding of the pivotal events that unfolded during this monumental period and the extraordinary role that Harlem played in shaping history.

Hear about important events that took place in Harlem pertinent to the Civil Rights Movement

Visit the original Temple No. 7 and the Blumstein Department Store

Learn about the famous March on Washington House and Harlem’s connection

Find out what happened during the two Harlem Riots

Visit the Mother A.M.E. Zion Church, Abyssinian Baptist Church — to name a few!

Expand your knowledge as we visit the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

Click the tabs to find out more

Trip details, the specifics, price (usd).

$75 per person

Meeting point

116th Street and Lenox Avenue (in front of CVS)

Availability

Wednesdays, all year-round

Exceptions: December 24-25, December 31-January 1

A delicious lunch

Not included

Transportation

What to bring

Please wear comfortable walking shoes, bring an open mind and heart, camera, and a smile on your face

Good to know

Tours must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.

What you'll do

The Civil Rights Movement was a very pivotal period in the history of the United States. Harlem had a significant role during the Civil Rights Movement, and on this tour you will walk the streets, visit the sites and learn about individuals who contributed to this cause in Harlem. Some protested, marched, fought for, and even died for this movement — our guides will help you gain a clear understanding of this monumental time in history.

Get ready to walk from 116th Street uptown to the 137th area and learn about our proud contribution to the Civil Rights Movement . You’ll learn about critical events that took place in Harlem pertinent to the Civil Rights Movement and also the important, pivotal people during this time. Malcolm X, A. Philip Randolph, Josephine Baker, Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., Roy Wilkins, W.E.B. DuBois, Walter White, Wyatt Tee Walker, James Weldon Johnson, John Carlos, Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee, Bayard Rustin, Paul Robeson and more.

Check out what our guests are saying

Amy f | 2022.

Excellent tour of Harlem

This was a great tour. Carolyn is a very knowledgeable guide and a lovely person to spend an afternoon with.

Obie S | 2021

Harlem is much more than the Apollo.

Carolyn helps you understand the rich history of Harlem. We were familiar with the Harlem Renaissance, but we learned that it was just one slice of the History. Waiting to start the tour, we learned a lot sitting in Carolyn’s place.

AdrienneDM | 2021

The most enlightening experience of Harlem that is worth more than time or money

OUTSTANDING! For my sister and I, we were thoroughly impressed, and we can truly appreciate the hard work of research that she has done to make this an invaluable experience. She knew the history behind the architecture, the events in the buildings of the community, the back story on both the famous and infamous people in Harlem from to 1900’s, through the Renaissance to present day. Best of all is that she is an excellent storyteller. You could truly envision being right there where history was made. This tour is worth booking a weekend trip to NY for.

Shannon Bryan | 2022

We had a great experience with Carolyn. We planned a private walking tour of Harlem as with a corporate group of 10. Carolyn is not only knowledgeable of the history of Harlem, but she is very engaging. It made for a truly enjoyable experience. I’d recommend this tour for anyone, and I plan to return with my family to experience it again.

Annette B | 2021

Carolyn was AWESOME & SO KNOWLEDGEABLE WE THOROUGHLY ENJOYED EVERY MINUTE OF OUR EXPERIENCE. we personally feel she went above & beyond is showing us all the rich history & beauty of Harlem.

You may also like...

The harlem rhythm and rhyme walking tour, mount morris park historic walking tour with lunch, harlem renaissance walking tour with lunch.

Log in with user name:

Log in with social media:

Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.

Harlem Walking Tour

Contact Us - Manage Preferences - Archive - Advertising - Cookie Policy - Privacy Statement - Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information -

Splash Travels

The Best Things To Do In New York

Posted: January 29, 2024 | Last updated: January 29, 2024

Best Things To Do In New York

The United States is easily one of the best countries in the world. It has so much geographic and cultural diversity inside its borders, you don’t need to travel far to experience something new.

If you’re looking for a touristy experience without leaving the country, New York is worth a trip.

Here are 25 of the best things to do in New York —some being popular tourist attractions, and some being secret hidden gems.

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is arguably one of the most famous buildings in the world, and is a true icon in New York City.

It stands 102 stories tall (1, 250 feet) and can accommodate tens of thousands of people.

Features: observation decks, tours, exhibits, shops, restaurants, theater

Sam valadi, Flickr

Old City Hall Subway Station

Old City Hall Subway Station is one of the prettiest subway stations in New York. It was closed in the early 20th century but the stained class windows and stunning arches are a remnant of historic New York.

Features: Historic architecture

Rhododendrites, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Central Park

Central Park is an urban oasis right in the heart of the city. It is known as one of the most famous parks in the world and it welcomes about 40 million visitors each year.

Features: playgrounds, lakes, ponds, trails/tracks, fountains, monuments, nature sanctuaries, amusement attractions, shopping, theater, and more.

Mathew Knott, Flickr

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is typically the first thing most people notice when visiting New York. It is a colossal monument that stands 305 feet tall on Liberty Island in New York Harbor.

Being another one of America’s Historical Landmarks, it stands as a symbol of hope and spirit.

Features: Statue City cruises, museums, tours, park

I, Laslovarga, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is a hybrid cable-stayed suspension bridge in New York City. It spans across the East River between Manhattan and Brooklyn, and supports 6 lanes of vehicles and a pedestrian/bike path.

It is known as the world’s first suspension bridge , and it was the longest when it opened in 1883.

Visitors report walking across the Brookyn Bridge at night to be a “magical experience”. The city skyline from the bridge is a view like no other.

Features: Walking path

Lerone Pieters, Pexels

New York’s Glass Waterfall Tunnel

New York’s Glass Waterfall is nestled onto one side of the McGraw-Hill building in New York—not far from Times Square.

Stand inside the glass tunnel and watch the waterfall flow over you—while staying dry.

Features: Tourist photo-op

Brecht Bug, Flickr

Times Square

Times Square is one of the city’s most popular gathering spots. It’s a major commercial intersection that offers unique attractions and entertainment.

You’ll find everything you’re looking for here.

Features: Museums, restaurants, shopping, theaters, music halls, upscale hotels, and more.

Terabass, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Fifth Avenue

If you’re looking for a swanky shopping district in NY, this it is.

Fifth Avenue is the top shopping destination for high-end shops and department stores. In fact, it is known as the world’s most expensive retail destination.

It also boasts Millionaire’s Row—a stretch of late 19th century mansions overlooking Central Park.

Features: Shopping, museums, mansions

Ken Lund, Flickr

Wall Street

Another popular street in America is Wall Street, located in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan. It has been called the world’s leading financial and fintech center as it consists of the largest stock exchanges and financial firms.

Aside from finance, Wall Street has a huge historical component as Manhattan’s original neighborhood.

Features: Tours, Historical guides, Trinity Church, The New York Stock Exchange, the Charging Bull sculpture, Federal Hall, and more.

GoginkLobabi, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

The United Nations Building Meditation Room

The UN building has a Meditation Room that is completely free and open to the public. It’s a great way to see a little part of the iconic UN building.

Despite being located in NYC, the UN building is regarded as International Territory—meaning you are not technically in any country while you are in the building.

Features: Meditation room, cultural experience

United Nations Photo, Flickr

New York City’s Theatre District is an area in Midtown Manhattan where most Broadway theaters are located. It is widely known as the heart of the entertainment industry.

Features: Theaters, restaurants, hotels, entertainment

Michael Krigsman, Flickr

Rockefeller Center

The Rockefeller Center is a must-see attraction in NYC. Not only is it a tourist hot-spot for many different activities, it is also home to many American traditional events, such as the annual Christmas Tree Lighting.

Features: Top of the Rock (observation decks), Ice Rink, Rainbow Room, Tours, Food & Drink, Events and CelebrationsRob Young, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Grand Central Terminal

New York Grand Central Station is one the city’s busiest landmarks, with thousands of New Yorkers passing through daily.

Aside from its rich history and stunning architectural design, it stands as a tourist attraction because it also has an enormous variety of shops and restaurants.

Features: Concourse Ceiling, Booth Clock, Whispering Gallery, Park Avenue Viaduct, Vanderbilt Tennis Club, Grand Central Market, shops, restaurants, cafes, and more.

Asim Bharwani, Flickr

Pomander Walk

Pomander Walk is a quaint little tidbit that resembles Olde England right in the heart of NYC. It is a stark contrast from the concrete and glass world of New York.

Take a stroll down Pomander Walk and enjoy the English countryside hidden in the busy city.

Features: English-style homes and neighborhood buildings

Felix Lipov, Shutterstock

The Bronx Zoo is a zoo within Bronx Park in the Bronx, New York. It is one of the largest zoos in the United States, with more than 700 different animal species spread across 265 acres of parkland.

Features: Outdoor and Indoor exhibits, rides, animal feedings, events, and more.

Wally Gobetz, Flickr

Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art—also known as The Met—is a large museum that is part of a museum triad forming one of the largest collections of artworks in the U.S. It presents over 5000 years of art from around the world.

Features: Exhibitions, events, food & drink, and more.

Penn State University ,Flickr

Jazz in Harlem

Harlem is best known for appealing to music lovers. The vibrant neighborhood has an extensive collection of jazz clubs playing sing, Latin, Bebop, and cool jazz all year round.

Features: Jazz clubs, free museum, weekly talks and concerts

Jorbasa Fotografie, Flickr

Yankee Stadium

The Yankee Stadium is the new home of baseball in New York City. It sits in the Bronx neighborhood and can fit more than 46,000 people.

This world-class stadium is a must-see for sports fanatics.

Features: Baseball games, soccer matches, museum, batting practice, food & drinkcdelo9032, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

One World Trade Center

A stunning skyscraper in the heart of New York City, the One World Trade Center is recognized as the tallest building in the U.S . It was built on the site of the former World Trade Center.

Tourists enjoy views of the world-renowned skyline unlike any other in the city.

Features: Observatory, fine dining, shopping, events

Michael Vadon, Flickr

National September 11 Memorial

The National September 11 Memorial was built to commemorate those who lost their lives in the terror attacks of September 11, 2001.

One of the best features is the twin reflecting pools, which were built to symbolize the fallen Twin Towers. Names of the fallen are inscribed around the bronze edges of the pools.

Features: Exhibits, memorial, museum, shopping

Larry Syverson, Flickr

Chinatown is a vibrant neighborhood in Lower Manhattan. It offers a culinary trip to a different continent, with dozens of restaurants representing the cuisine of Southeast Asia, mainland China, and Hong Kong.

Features: Temple Mahayana, Columbus Park, MoCa, Ice Cream Factory, restaurants, street vendors, and more.

Giuseppe Milo, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Coney Island

Coney Island is located in the heart of South Brooklyn’s amusement district. It has a reputation as a circus-worthy tourist hot spot.

It’s a vast amusement park that includes attractions of all kinds for all ages.

Features: Rides, restaurants, shops, roller-coasters, go-karting, live entertainment, boardwalk games, beachfront activities, and so much more.

GPA Photo Archive, Flickr

The Strong National Museum of Play

The Strong National Museum of Play is the ultimate play destination in NYC. It is a highly interactive, collections-based museum devoted to the history and exploration of play.

Features: Exhibits, museum, Play Lab, Butterfly Museum, Skyline Climb, Videogame Hall of Fame, Toy Hall of Fame, Carousel, Train, and so much more.

Ruhrfisch, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

The Berlin Wall

After the fall of the Berlin Wall a generation ago, parts of the wall were distributed all across the globe, with five pieces ending up across the city of New York.

Located at 520 Madison Avenue, you’ll find a section of this wall that makes a great photo backdrop of history buffs. Visitors can walk right up to the wall and touch it.

Features: Physical piece of the Berlin Wall

das_sabrinchen, Flickr

New York Food Favorites

Aside from countless tourist attractions, New York is also known for a number of delicious culinary creations:

New York Transportation

There are countless ways to get around the busy state of New York. These are the most common touristy transportation services for the ultimate tourist experience:

Where to Stay

Considering the sheer size of New York state, and the endless opportunities for tourism, choosing where you stay will have a great impact on your trip. These are the most common places to stay in New York:

Upper East Side: Best for luxury shopping and culture; close to Central Park.

Midtown Manhattan: Best for first-time visitors; easy walking and close to Times Square, Central Park, Broadway, Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center

Lower East Side:  Further from the main tourist area; close to Chinatown and Little Italy

Harlem:  Best for Black history and culture; close to the Apollo Theater

Andreas Komodromos, Flickr

Final Thoughts

New York state is full of countless opportunities for a truly diverse cultural experience. From world-class shopping and fine dining, to outstanding theatrical and historical experiences, there is certainly something for everyone.

Jorge Láscar, Flickr

More for You

Kamilla Cardoso Net Worth: How much the South Carolina player gets from games and endorsements?

50 iconic movie lines that you have probably quoted at least once

7 CDs You Probably Owned, Threw Out and Now Are Worth Bank

5 people explain what it actually feels like to die

‘Romeo & Juliet’ play starring Tom Holland and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers faces ‘barrage of racial abuse’

15 Most Valuable Wheat Pennies, Ranked

Iran’s paper tiger has finally been exposed

Forgotten 1990s Blockbusters Everyone Should Rewatch

A millennial who made $170,000 secretly working two remote jobs says it helped him pay off about $50,000 in student loans

20 facts you may not know about 'The Mummy'

FireHouse Frontman C.J. Snare, Who Had Hits in the '90s Including "Love of a Lifetime," Dies at 64

Belgian breakthrough: Stool transplant shows promise for improving symptoms of Parkinson's disease

Most Valuable Washington Quarters, Ranked by Price

Emilio Estevez: For my family, travel has always been a mission

USA vs. China aircraft carriers

Sir Nicholas Winton may have saved even more Jewish children from Nazis

30 slang words you may not realize came from TV and movies

San Francisco proposal would allow lawsuits over grocery store closures

The Best Movies on Amazon Prime Video to Instantly Cure Your Boredom

Christian Bale Transforms Into Frankenstein's Monster in First Look at The Bride

Walking Tour: Explore Five Points, the Inspiration for Scorsese’s Gangs of New York

April 21, 2024 1:30 pm to April 21, 2024 3:30 pm

217 Park Row, New York, NY

The notorious Five Points neighborhood in Manhattan was memorialized by Martin Scorsese’s 2002 film  Gangs of New York . It told of one of the worst slums that ever existed and the Irish and Nativist gangs that battled for neighborhood dominance in the 1850s and 60s. While highly fictionalized, this story was based on a very real neighborhood centered in what is today Manhattan’s Chinatown.

Did you know that the Five Points neighborhood was one of the first Jewish neighborhoods in New York City? Before the great Eastern European migration to the Lower East Side from 1880 to 1920, Jewish immigrants, predominantly from Eastern Europe, settled, suffered, and built their synagogues within the confines of the squalid and unsanitary conditions of the neighborhood.

Highlights:

• Visit the Museum at Eldridge Street and see a fully restored magnificent 1887 synagogue
• Explore how the neighborhood came about, the communities who lived here, and the different Jewish congregations that sprouted up
• Learn about the first Jewish garment district
• Pass the oldest Jewish cemetery in the US, and dive into its history
• Learn about the Kishinev pogrom of 1903 in Russia, and the response from New York’s Chinatown community

Join a Museum at Eldridge Street expert guide on  Sunday, April 21, 1:30pm as we walk through Five Points, once known as “The Ould Sixth Ward,” and explore how this diverse group of residents dealt with the conditions of their Lower East Side home. We will meet on 217 Park Row, New York, NY 10038, across the street from Chatham Square Cemetery.

Across the street from Chatham Square Cemetery.

More Events

Senior Men’s Group Meetings

December 26, 2023

to December 31, 2024

Let’s Feed Harlem Food Distribution

January 23, 2024

to June 25, 2024

Free Tax Preparation with Upward Upbound

February 2, 2024

to April 12, 2024

Toxic: A Black Woman’s Story Viewing & Panel Discussion 

April 11, 2024

to April 11, 2024

A Celebration of Women in Hip Hop

April 12, 2024

AT THE EDGE OF EACH OTHER’S BATTLES: PUERTO RICAN, PALESTINIAN, BLACK & INDIGENOUS FUTURES

Shearing of the Heathers

April 13, 2024

to April 13, 2024

Cafecito con… Jorell Meléndez-Badillo – Puerto Rico: A National History

April 15, 2024

to April 15, 2024

Narcan Training with HHI 

April 16, 2024

to April 16, 2024

Fifth Avenue—Architecture and Society: History of America’s Street of Dreams Book Talk

Ari Roland Quartet “Now’s the Time for Jazz Diplomacy”

April 17, 2024

to April 17, 2024

Rising Rates of Congenital Syphilis & Access to Care: Part 3 

Last Call at Coogan’s

April 18, 2024

to April 18, 2024

Afternoon Tertulia: ¡Vivas nos queremos! (Summer 2023 Journal on Femicide)

April 20, 2024

to April 20, 2024

St. George’s Choral Society Spring Concert

April 21, 2024

to April 21, 2024

Growing Uptown: Earth Day Edition

April 22, 2024

to April 22, 2024

New York Urban League Employment & Career Services Information Session

April 24, 2024

to April 24, 2024

Crafts with Cathy

April 27, 2024

to April 27, 2024

Global Webinar on Ecological Engineering and Environmental Technology

April 29, 2024

to April 30, 2024

Tackling Anxiety & Depression: The State of Mental Health in Harlem 

May 1, 2024

to May 1, 2024

La Meriendita Story Hour: Churro Stand by Karina González

Growing Uptown: May Workshop

May 14, 2024

to May 14, 2024

Mapping Puerto Rican Communities – GIS in Action

Boricua College 50th Anniversary

May 17, 2024

to May 17, 2024

Colonial Crosswords

May 21, 2024

to May 21, 2024

Cafecito con… Marisel Moreno: Crossing Waters

May 22, 2024

to May 22, 2024

The Sounds of the Archives: Compositions Inspired by the CENTRO Archives

May 30, 2024

to May 30, 2024

Downtown Urban Arts Festival

June 11, 2024

to July 29, 2024

Growing Uptown: June Workshop

June 18, 2024

to June 18, 2024

World Refugee Day Pride Exhibition 2024

June 20, 2024

to June 20, 2024

Growing Uptown: July Workshop

July 23, 2024

to July 23, 2024

Growing Uptown: August Workshop

August 20, 2024

to August 20, 2024