Private Harlem Tour in New York with Local Expert Guide

Brooklyn , United States

Private Harlem Tour in New York with Local Expert Guide

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(17 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the most authentic New York neighborhood in 3 hours with your private guide. Visit the most notable attractions from Harlem must-see list, listen to interesting facts and stories about Harlem with its rich history and specific lifestyle.

You will see the legendary Apollo Theater – the center of African-American music, the famous Strivers Row complex with its incredibly beautiful houses, the Abyssinian Baptist Church - the heart of African-American confession, the Harlem Studio Museum where you can learn more about art history of Harlem, the sophisticated Shepard Hall, and one of the best restaurants to experience soul food in Harlem.

Plunge into unique atmosphere of Harlem and learn more about African-American culture. Finish your tour at a local restaurant in Harlem.

Available options

Private Harlem Tour in New York with Local Expert Guide

Pickup included

What's included

Multiple start times available

Must-see attractions and off the beaten path

Flexible customizable itinerary

Private tour

Meeting in the hotel lobby

Expert advice where to go and what to do after the tour

Iconic places for photo shoot

All taxes

Friendly local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Timing is flexible and you can start the tour any time you prefer.

This tour can be customized to make it a unique experience for you.
*Itinerary and schedule are subject to change.

10.00am Your private local guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and discuss the tour itinerary with you at the beginning of the tour.

10.30am Start your Harlem adventure in the place imbued with the spirit of music. Since early 1900s the iconic Apollo Theatre has heard sounds of jazz, soul and other genres of African-American music and has seen such legendary singers as Ella Fitzgerald and Stevie Wonder. Touch the legend here!

11.00am Feel an aesthetic pleasure looking at elegant houses of Strivers Row. Sophisticated and bright, these houses are one of the highlights of Harlem architecture which will surely make you desire to live here.

11.30am Then you will see Harlem YMCA founded in 1932. It was one of the first YMCA's built for African-Americans which was a big accomplishment for Harlem community. Nowadays it provides a high-class service to make people’s lives better. Shepard Hall is one of the components of very influential and famous New York City College which is known not only for its scientific achievements but also by extremely beautiful Campus built in Gothic style. Shepard Hall is a jewel of Campus: it will surely amaze you by its beauty, elegance, a great combination of dark and light colors and sophisticated ornaments.

12.00pm The best place to explore African-American art is surely Harlem Studio Museum (optional). Over 2000 exhibits, trendy cultural events and a high concentration of different art objects and famous artists make this museum the heart of Harlem art.

12.30pm Feel the sacramental spirit of religious heart of Harlem. Taking its name after the old name of Ethiopia, Abyssinian Baptist Church is a religious center not only for Harlem but also for the whole African-American community. Get excited while visiting the Hamilton Grange - the house where one of the Founding Fathers of USA Alexander Hamilton lived. Listen to interesting historic facts and explore the interior of this house which was declared the National Historic Landmark.

Stop 6

1.00pm Do you agree that having a gastronomic experience is a must-do while exploring new places? Visit one of the most famous restaurants in Harlem – Sylvia’s Soul Food which met such guests as Nelson Mandela and Barack Obama. Authentic atmosphere and tasty food will make your visit unforgettable.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Entrance fees (if any)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.3

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Private walking tour with the use of metro

The tour can be modified to meet your preferences

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

About Brooklyn

Brooklyn, one of New York City's five boroughs, is a vibrant cultural hub known for its diverse neighborhoods, rich history, and thriving arts scene. From the iconic Brooklyn Bridge to the trendy streets of Williamsburg, Brooklyn offers a unique blend of urban energy and local charm.

Top Attractions

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Prospect Park

A large urban park designed by the same architects as Central Park, featuring lakes, wooded areas, and recreational facilities.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Brooklyn Museum

One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, housing a diverse collection of art from around the world.

Museum 2-3 hours $16 (general admission), discounts available

Coney Island

A historic amusement area known for its beach, boardwalk, and iconic attractions like the Cyclone roller coaster.

Entertainment Half day to full day Varies by attraction (some free, some paid)

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

A beautiful 52-acre botanical garden featuring a diverse collection of plants, themed gardens, and seasonal displays.

Nature 1-2 hours $20 (general admission), discounts available

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-Style Pizza

Thin, large slices with a crispy crust and tangy tomato sauce, often topped with pepperoni or other classic toppings.

Dinner Vegetarian options available, but not typically vegan or gluten-free.

Pastrami on Rye

A classic deli sandwich featuring thick slices of pastrami on rye bread, often served with mustard and pickles.

Lunch Not vegetarian or vegan, but can be made gluten-free with specific bread requests.

Bagels and Lox

Freshly baked bagels topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often accompanied by capers, red onion, and tomatoes.

Breakfast Not vegetarian or vegan, but vegetarian lox alternatives are available.

Dessert: Black and White Cookie

A classic New York cookie with half black and half white icing, often found at iconic bakeries like Junior's.

Dessert Vegetarian, but not typically vegan or gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Biking in Prospect Park Kayaking in the East River Hiking in Green-Wood Cemetery Picnicking in Brooklyn Bridge Park Yoga in the park Spa and wellness treatments Visiting museums and galleries Attending theater performances

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather and various outdoor events, making it ideal for exploring the city's parks, beaches, and outdoor activities.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Haitian Creole, Arabic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) (GMT-5:00, GMT-4:00 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Brooklyn is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates in most neighborhoods. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 19 km (12 miles)
LaGuardia Airport • 20 km (12 miles)

By train

Atlantic Terminal, East New York

By bus

Atlantic Bus Terminal, Downtown Brooklyn Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is the most efficient way to get around Brooklyn and connect to other boroughs. It operates 24/7 with various lines serving different neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Williamsburg Park Slope DUMBO Brooklyn Heights Bushwick

Day trips

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

5 km (3 miles) • Half day

Visit two iconic landmarks in New York Harbor, offering a glimpse into the history of immigration and freedom in the United States.

Coney Island

15 km (9 miles) • Full day

A historic amusement area known for its beach, boardwalk, and iconic attractions like the Cyclone roller coaster.

Green-Wood Cemetery

6 km (4 miles) • Half day

A historic cemetery and National Historic Landmark, known for its beautiful landscapes, historic monuments, and scenic views of Manhattan.

Festivals

Brooklyn Folk Festival • April Brooklyn Book Festival • September Brooklyn Pride • June

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like the Brooklyn Bridge and Prospect Park early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Explore lesser-known neighborhoods like DUMBO, Brooklyn Heights, and Park Slope for a more local and authentic experience.
Try local specialties like New York-style pizza, pastrami on rye, and bagels and lox for a true taste of Brooklyn.
Use public transportation like the subway, bus, or Citi Bike to get around the borough efficiently and affordably.
Attend local events and festivals, such as the Brooklyn Folk Festival, Brooklyn Book Festival, and Mermaid Parade, for a unique and memorable experience.