Harlem’s vibrant dance heritage comes alive through the Swing Dance History Stroll and Dance Class. Participants can explore iconic styles like the Lindy Hop, guided by a local expert. Starting at the Schomburg Center, the tour delves into the rhythms and influences that defined Harlem’s dance scene. A beginner-friendly swing dance class follows, ensuring an engaging cultural experience for all skill levels. With comfortable shoes recommended, this activity immerses visitors in Harlem’s rich dance history – but the real surprise comes when the music starts.
Key Points

- Guided tour exploring Harlem’s iconic dance crazes, including the Lindy Hop, and learning about its founder, Frankie Manning.
- Beginner-friendly swing dance class teaching basic moves and Lindy Hop steps, led by a local expert.
- Family-friendly activity engaging participants in the rich history and significance of Harlem’s beloved dance movements.
- Moderate physical fitness level required for walking and dancing activities during the experience.
- Meeting point at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, with departure at the NW corner of West 135th Street & Malcolm X Blvd.
Overview and Experience
This Harlem Swing Dance History Stroll and Dance Class in New York City offers an ideal experience for dance and pop culture enthusiasts.
The guided tour reveals lesser-known aspects of Harlem’s dance culture, perfect for families with kids 8 and up. Participants will explore historic dance crazes like the Lindy Hop and learn about its founder, Frankie Manning.
The guided tour reveals lesser-known aspects of Harlem’s dance culture, perfect for families with kids 8 and up. Participants will explore historic dance crazes like the Lindy Hop and learn about its founder, Frankie Manning.
The beginner-friendly swing dance class, led by a local expert, teaches basic moves and Lindy Hop steps.
With comfortable shoes recommended for the walking and dancing activities, this cultural exploration provides an immersive dive into Harlem’s vibrant dance heritage.
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Cultural Exploration

The guided tour explores Harlem’s historic dance crazes, including the iconic Lindy Hop.
Participants learn about Frankie Manning, the founder of this lively swing dance. The local guide shares behind-the-scenes stories of Harlem’s vibrant dance culture, unveiling lesser-known aspects that shaped this integral part of the community.
From the origins of the Lindy Hop to its evolution over time, the tour provides a unique culture, allowing attendees to gain a deeper appreciation for Harlem’s enduring dance legacy.
This family-friendly activity offers an engaging way to discover the rich history and significance of these beloved dance movements.
Class Details
A beginner-friendly swing dance class is led by a local expert, where participants learn the basic swing dancing moves and Lindy Hop steps.
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the walking and dancing activities involved.
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the walking and dancing activities involved.
The class is designed for all skill levels, providing an opportunity for both novice and experienced dancers to explore Harlem’s rich dance culture.
Participants will have the chance to enjoy the rhythms and moves that defined the Harlem dance scene, gaining a deeper appreciation for this vibrant and historic art form.
Meeting and Logistics
According to the details provided, the meeting point for the Harlem Swing Dance History Stroll and Dance Class is the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, located at 515 Malcolm X Blvd in New York City.
The departure location is the NW corner of West 135th Street & Malcolm X Blvd. The tour starts at 5:30 PM, and participants are advised to arrive 10 minutes early.
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, with a minimum of 2 people required per booking. The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible.
A moderate physical fitness level is required, and participants should have no serious medical conditions.
Additional Information
This Harlem Swing Dance History Stroll and Dance Class isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are permitted.
A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the experience involves walking and dancing activities. Participants shouldn’t have any serious medical conditions that may prevent them from participating safely.
The tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility for guests.
The tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility for guests.
The price for this activity starts at $32.00 per person, with a lowest price guarantee available.
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Explore Harlem’s Historic Dance Crazes
As participants embark on the Harlem Swing Dance History Stroll, they’ll dive into the rich tapestry of the neighborhood’s historic dance crazes.
The tour explores iconic dances like the Lindy Hop, the dance that defined the Swing Era. Attendees learn about its founder, Frankie Manning, and discover the behind-the-scenes stories that shaped Harlem’s vibrant dance culture.
The experience transports guests to the past, where they can:
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Visualize the energetic dance halls of the Roaring Twenties.
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Imagine the electrifying moves that captivated audiences.
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Understand the social and cultural significance of these dance crazes.
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Appreciate the enduring legacy of Harlem’s dance heritage.
Learn From a Local Expert
A local dance expert leads the Harlem Swing Dance History Stroll, imparting their deep knowledge of the neighborhood’s captivating dance culture.
Participants learn about the origins and evolution of swing dancing, particularly the iconic Lindy Hop. The guide shares behind-the-scenes stories and insights, bringing Harlem’s vibrant dance legacy to life.
The class focuses on teaching basic swing dance moves and Lindy Hop steps, ensuring everyone, even beginners, can participate.
With the expert’s guidance, attendees experience the joy and energy of this quintessential American dance form in the very place it was born.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Guide a Professional Dancer?
The tour guide is a professional dancer. They lead the beginner-friendly swing dance class, teaching participants basic swing dancing moves and Lindy Hop steps during the cultural exploration of Harlem’s historic dance crazes.
Can I Take Photos During the Dance Class?
Participants are generally allowed to take photos during the dance class, though the guide may request they avoid using flash to avoid distracting the dancers. It’s best to check with the guide at the start of the class.
Are There Any Special Dress Requirements for the Tour?
There are no special dress requirements for the tour. Participants should wear comfortable, casual clothing and shoes suitable for walking and dancing. The focus is on experiencing Harlem’s dance culture, not specific attire.
What Is the Typical Group Size for This Experience?
The typical group size is small, with a maximum of 15 travelers. The experience requires a minimum of 2 people per booking, ensuring an intimate and personalized exploration of Harlem’s dance culture.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Children?
The experience is family-friendly for ages 8 and up. There’s no strict minimum age requirement, as long as children can actively participate in the walking tour and beginner swing dance class.
The Sum Up
Explore Harlem’s vibrant dance heritage with the Harlem Swing Dance History Stroll and Dance Class. Discover iconic styles like the Lindy Hop, learn from a local expert, and experience the rhythms that defined the dance scene. This engaging activity offers a unique cultural experience for all skill levels, immersing participants in Harlem’s rich dance history.
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