New York: Harlem Walking Tour and Swing Dance Class

Discover the vibrant musical legacy of Harlem on a captivating walking tour that brings the iconic Lindy Hop to life. Explore the neighborhood’s storied past as the birthplace of this quintessential American dance form, and uncover the pioneering legends who made it an international sensation. After enjoying Harlem’s rich culture, master the basic steps and energetic moves of the Lindy Hop during a hands-on swing dance class. With a fusion of history, music, and movement, this experience promises to transport you back to the golden age of swing.

Key Points

• Explore Harlem’s rich musical heritage, including the birthplace of the iconic Lindy Hop dance, during a 1-hour guided walking tour.
• Learn the basic steps and movements of the Lindy Hop in a swing dance class led by an experienced instructor.
• Discover the significance of Harlem’s jazz clubs and dance halls in shaping the Lindy Hop, a quintessential American dance form.
• Enjoy the vibrant culture and history of Harlem, the epicenter of the city’s musical revolution in the early 20th century.
• Enjoy an affordable and engaging 2-hour experience that combines local history, music, and the opportunity to learn and perform the Lindy Hop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Harlem’s Musical Heritage

Harlem’s rich musical heritage dates back to the early 20th century, when the neighborhood became a hub for groundbreaking jazz, blues, and swing music.

This walking tour offers a chance to explore the sites that witnessed the birth of legendary musical acts and dance styles.

Visitors will learn about Harlem’s role as the birthplace of the Lindy Hop, the iconic swing dance that captivated audiences worldwide.

They’ll also discover the venues where big bands and swing pioneers like Chick Webb, Count Basie, and Benny Goodman honed their craft, shaping the soundscape of the era.

This immersive experience invites participants to connect with Harlem’s vibrant musical legacy and understand its enduring influence on American culture.

Swing Dance Legends

The walking tour also brings to life the legends behind the iconic swing dancers who captivated audiences in Harlem’s golden era. Visitors will explore the venues where icons like Frankie Manning and Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers honed their gravity-defying moves, inspiring generations of dancers worldwide. The tour highlights the impact of these pioneering performers, showcasing their contributions to the evolution of the Lindy Hop and their enduring legacy.

Swing Dance Legends	Contributions
Frankie Manning	Revolutionized the Lindy Hop with his dynamic aerials and improvisation
Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers	Legendary dance troupe that popularized the Lindy Hop through electrifying performances
Norma Miller	Dubbed the "Queen of Swing," a prolific dancer and choreographer
George Snowden	Credited with naming the Lindy Hop after Charles Lindbergh’s "hop" across the Atlantic
Al Minns	Renowned for his fluid, graceful style and innovative partner work

The Lindy Hop Birthplace

Harlem proudly claims the distinction as the birthplace of the iconic Lindy Hop, a vibrant dance form that emerged from the neighborhood’s lively jazz clubs and dance halls during the 1920s and 1930s.

The walking tour invites guests to trace the origins of this electrifying dance, visiting the very locations where it first gained popularity and showcasing the pioneering dancers who propelled the Lindy Hop into the cultural spotlight.

Participants will learn about the dance’s signature moves and infectious rhythms, gaining an appreciation for the Harlem community’s integral role in shaping this quintessential American art form.

Walking Tour Details

On this 1-hour walking tour, guests explore sites across Harlem that were pivotal to the origins and early popularization of the iconic Lindy Hop dance.

The tour takes them to venues like the Savoy Ballroom, where legendary dancers like Frankie Manning and Norma Miller honed their skills and wowed audiences.

Along the way, they’ll learn about Harlem’s rich musical heritage and its significance as the birthplace of the Lindy Hop.

The tour culminates in a swing dance class, where participants can put their newfound knowledge into practice under the guidance of an experienced instructor.

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Swing Dance Instruction

After the walking tour, participants gather for a lively swing dance class led by an experienced instructor. During this portion of the activity, they’ll have the opportunity to learn the basic steps and movements of the iconic Lindy Hop dance, which originated in Harlem during the 1920s and 1930s. The instructor breaks down the steps, demonstrating them slowly before guiding the group through the dance. Participants can practice the moves individually or with a partner, as no prior dance experience is required. The class culminates in a chance to put it all together and do the Lindy Hop, capturing the energy and spirit of this quintessential American dance.

Swing Dance Instruction
Dance Moves Covered	– Basic Lindy Hop
	– Swing-outs
	– Aerial Steps
Participant Experience	– Learn from Instructor
	– Practice Individually
	– Dance with Partner
	– Perform Lindy Hop

Meeting Point Information

The walking tour and swing dance class meet at the Schomburg Center for Research on Malcolm X Boulevard, located at the corner of W. 135th Street.

Participants can take the Uptown No. 2 train or No. 3 subway line to the 135th Street Station to reach the meeting point.

The Schomburg Center is a renowned research library and cultural center dedicated to the study of African American and African diaspora history and culture.

This vibrant location sets the stage for the exploration of Harlem’s rich musical heritage and the opportunity to learn the iconic Lindy Hop dance moves.

Participants can look forward to an engaging and immersive experience starting at this convenient meeting point.

Inclusion Highlights

This walking tour and swing dance class includes a diverse array of engaging experiences.

Participants can look forward to learning about Harlem’s rich musical heritage during the 1-hour walking tour, which highlights sites associated with legendary swing dancers and Big Bands.

The tour is followed by a swing dance class led by an experienced instructor, where attendees will have the opportunity to learn the basic moves of the iconic Lindy Hop. Dance shoes are provided, ensuring a comfortable and authentic swing dancing experience.

The tour and class offer:

• A glimpse into Harlem’s vibrant history as the birthplace of the Lindy Hop
• The chance to do the Lindy Hop yourself during the dance lesson
• An immersive cultural experience blending music, dance, and local history

Cost and Duration

At $30.00 per person, the 2-hour walking tour and swing dance class provides an affordable and immersive cultural experience in Harlem.

The tour kicks off with a 1-hour walking exploration of the neighborhood, highlighting sites associated with legendary swing dancers and Big Bands.

Participants then dive into a swing dance class, learning the basic moves of the iconic Lindy Hop. No dance partner is required, making it an accessible activity for all skill levels.

By the end of the class, attendees will have the opportunity to put their newfound skills to the test, embracing the lively rhythm of this quintessential American dance.

With its reasonable price and engaging itinerary, this tour offers an enriching way to discover Harlem’s vibrant musical heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Take a Private Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour details provided do not mention an option for a private tour. The group activity is a 2-hour walking tour and swing dance class in Harlem, with a set price of $30 per person.

Can I Bring My Own Dance Shoes?

Yes, participants can bring their own dance shoes. The activity provides dance shoes, but attendees are welcome to wear their own comfortable shoes for the swing dance class portion of the Harlem walking tour.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not explicitly stated to be wheelchair accessible. However, it includes a walking component, so individuals using wheelchairs may face some challenges. It’s advisable to confirm accessibility details with the tour provider prior to booking.

Can I Attend the Class Without the Walking Tour?

Yes, participants can attend the swing dance class without joining the walking tour. The class is offered as a standalone option, allowing visitors to focus solely on learning the Lindy Hop and other swing dance moves.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size?

The tour does not have a minimum or maximum group size. It’s an open-enrollment activity, so participants can attend as individuals or in groups of any size. The class size is flexible to accommodate varying demand.

Recap

Enjoy the vibrant culture and enduring legacy of the Lindy Hop on this walking tour through Harlem.

Explore the birthplace of this iconic American dance form, visiting legendary sites and learning from pioneering legends.

Then, participate in a swing dance class to master the basic steps and energetic moves of this quintessential art form.

Dive into Harlem’s rich musical heritage and the timeless appeal of the Lindy Hop.

You can check availability for your dates here: