Harlem Civil Rights Multimedia Walking Tour

The tour guide was very knowledgeable about how African Americans shaped New York, especially Harlem. He was awesome.

Our guide was the clear highlight of this tour — knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely passionate about Harlem’s history. His personal connection to the neighborhood added warmth and authenticity to the experience. That said, the tour fell short of what was advertised in some important ways. The “multimedia” component — specifically the video presentations described in the tour description — was absent entirely. Additionally, several key landmarks listed in the marketing materials were not included in the route. What we got was a pleasant walk through Harlem with engaging storytelling. That has real value. But visitors booking this tour based on the advertised multimedia experience and landmark coverage should know the actual experience may differ significantly from the description. If you’re looking for a casual, conversational neighborhood walk with a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll enjoy it. If you’re expecting a tech-enhanced, landmark-focused civil rights tour as advertised, you may be disappointed.

Had a wonderful time strolling through Harlem. Would give 4.7 stars, took a full point off for timeliness. Leo was late getting to the tour. He made up for how wonderful and accommodating he was once the tour started. As a community activist for Harlem you could feel the love Leo has for his community. Leo gave Harlem history as only a true community leader could, he also gave a little personal history and contemporary knowledge. You will not be disappointed with this tour.

A very very good tour with Neal Schumaker. He grew up and lives in Harlem and knows so many people whom he greeted as we walked along. His mom even waved down to us from her apartment in a project building. 🙂 Neal is very knowledgeable and interesting. His love of Harlem, social justice, and even architecture and music are evident in all that he says about this historical area. Highly recommended. Just do it. 👍

Walking tour was very informative. We even got a piece of whiting from a local shop for free 😋 I would have liked more information on the Appolo theater but it was closed.

Neil was great! He offered a fantastic look at the Civil Rights movement from Harlem’s perspective, and gave us a real sense of not only the history but the character and feel of the area. It was cold, so our tour asked if we could stop for coffee and hot chocolate. Ended up having a great bonus hang and chat right in the middle of the tour. Highly recommend!

Learned so much about Harlem’s history, including how it got its name from the Dutch. Saw places where Duke Ellington’s band played and Billie Holiday sang the blues. Saw the site of the famous ballroom where integrated crowds danced the Lindy Hop.

Mr. Shoemaker kindly and enthusiastically took us through the streets of Harlem on a drizzly winter day. We learned about landmarks, cultural hubs, and anything we asked questions about. Fantastic experience. Lunch at Sylvia's after.

Our guide Mr Harlem was a fountain of knowledge and took us through the history of New York from pre founding fathers to present day, weaving in key civil rights and sports stars along with the personal experiences of everyday residents in Harlem. A real historian and educator, with a thoughtful and reflective manner. Unforgettable. Thanks so much, Tamsin, Rosa & Cassius.

Call to make sure it’s actually going to happen. This tour was supposed to happen and no one notified me that it wasn’t going to happen after taking the subway and walking in heat and humid to get there.