Washington Heights - Sugar Hill North Harlem Walking Tour

New York City , United States of America

Washington Heights - Sugar Hill North Harlem Walking Tour

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(11 reviews)

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About this experience

The storied Washington Heights/Sugar Hill plateau overlooking upper Harlem developed around the historic 18th and 19th-century country estates. Notable figures such as Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, and Madame Eliza Jumel, socialite and second wife of former vice-president, Aaron Burr, and John James Audubon, the American ornithologist, naturalist, lived in the area and made their mark on American history.

Today, the area's topography still bears evidence of centuries past with rolling hills, wooded parks, and waterfront views, but amidst grand historic apartment houses and cultural institutions, a vibrant American-Dominican culture and street life now defines Washington Heights.

Available options

Washington Heights - Sugar Hill North Harlem Walking Tour

What's included

Guided tour by licensed tour guide and Harlem resident

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Morris–Jumel Mansion or Morris House is a Federal style museum home in northern Manhattan with mid-eighteenth century roots.

The Hispanic Society of America is a museum and reference library for the study of the arts and cultures of Spain and Portugal and their former colonies in Latin America, the Philippines and Portuguese India.

On this Washington Heights to Sugar Hill walking tour, your guide will take you on an informative walk through North Harlem. Learn about the development of area from rural countryside and estates, and the site of the revolutionary war, to what is now the center of New York's Dominican community.

We will pass by the Church of the Intercession & Trinity Cemetery – the resting place of some of New York City’s aristocracy and politicos who shaped the development of New York City.

Visit the Morris-Jumel Mansion and The Hispanic Society of America. View from street, the Bailey House, the castle-like residence built for James Bailey, of Barnum and Bailey Circus fame, the Audubon Ballroom - site of the assassination of Malcolm X in 1965, and former homes of some of Harlem’s notable residents associated with the Harlem Renaissance.

Leave with a new understanding of this unique New York neighborhood. This tour is led by a Harlem local and is great for all ages.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

8 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

This is a walking tour. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

This tour focuses on neighborhood history. It does not include visit to church or music.

Tour may be moderately difficult for the physically challenged.

Meeting point

Departure Point: Sugar Hill - North Harlem
Address: In front of the Washington Heights NYC Pubic Library, 1000 St Nicholas Avenue at the NE corner of W 160th Street & St Nicholas Avenue.
Directions: Take the UPTOWN C subway to W. 163th Street station. walk two blocks south almost to 160th Street.

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

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

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information