New York: Harlem Swing Dance History Stroll and Dance Class

New York’s Harlem neighborhood is the birthplace of the iconic Lindy Hop, a lively swing dance that captivated audiences worldwide. This guided tour and dance class invites you to uncover the rhythm and energy of this historic dance scene. You’ll explore legendary venues, meet iconic figures, and learn the steps that defined an era. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or new to the scene, this experience promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for Harlem’s vibrant musical legacy.

Key Points

• Explore Harlem’s rich musical legacy and the birthplace of the iconic Lindy Hop swing dance during a 2-hour activity.
• Immerse in Harlem’s vibrant dance scene of the 1920s and 1930s, learning about legendary swing dancers and Big Bands.
• Participate in a 1-hour walking tour highlighting Harlem’s pivotal role in the evolution of American music.
• Experience a swing dance class led by an expert instructor, learning the fundamentals of the Lindy Hop.
• Engage with Harlem’s cultural heritage and connect with its enduring influence on modern swing dance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The activity is titled "New York: Harlem Swing Dance History Stroll and Dance Class".

It’s priced from £23.14 per person and lasts 2 hours in English.

Sadly, it has a non-refundable cancellation policy.

The experience includes a 1-hour walking tour of Harlem’s musical heritage and a swing dance class with a seasoned instructor.

Enjoy Harlem’s musical legacy during a walking tour, then learn swing dance from a seasoned instructor.

No dance partner is required.

The meeting point is the Schomburg Center for Research, accessible by subway.

The activity welcomes individuals, couples, groups, and solo travelers, who’ll receive dance shoes, tips, and gratuities.

Exploring Harlem’s Musical Heritage

Harlem’s musical legacy takes center stage during the walking tour. Participants uncover the birthplace of the iconic Lindy Hop, a swing dance that originated in the 1920s and 30s. They explore sites associated with legendary swing dancers and Big Bands that drew crowds to Harlem’s thriving jazz scene. The tour highlights Harlem’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing its pivotal role in the evolution of American music.

| Highlights | Significance |

| — | — |

| Lindy Hop | Iconic swing dance |

| Legendary Swing Dancers | Shaped the dance scene |

| Big Bands | Drew crowds to Harlem’s jazz clubs |

| Harlem’s Cultural Heritage | Pivotal role in American music |

Birthplace of the Lindy Hop

As the birthplace of the iconic Lindy Hop, Harlem’s vibrant dance scene in the 1920s and 1930s played a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of this beloved swing dance.

The Lindy Hop, with its energetic footwork, acrobatic moves, and infectious rhythm, was born in the neighborhood’s legendary venues like the Savoy Ballroom.

The Lindy Hop, born in Harlem’s vibrant venues, captivates with its energetic footwork, acrobatic moves, and infectious rhythm.

Legendary dancers like Frankie Manning and Norma Miller pioneered the style, captivating audiences with their virtuosic performances.

Today, the Lindy Hop remains a beloved part of Harlem’s cultural legacy, celebrated through this immersive dance experience that allows participants to connect with its rich history.

Legendary Swing Dancers and Big Bands

Legendary swing dancers like Frankie Manning and Norma Miller captivated audiences with their virtuosic performances in Harlem’s iconic venues during the 1920s and 1930s.

They pioneered the Lindy Hop, a high-energy swing dance that became synonymous with the Harlem Renaissance. The dance’s acrobatic moves and playful style were showcased by legendary Big Bands like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Chick Webb, whose music energized the dance floors.

Today, the legacy of these pioneers lives on as visitors explore Harlem’s vibrant history and learn the timeless steps of the Lindy Hop.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Swing Dance Lesson

The swing dance lesson provides participants an opportunity to learn the basics of this iconic dance form from an experienced instructor. After the walking tour, dancers will learn fundamental steps and techniques in a welcoming and supportive environment. No prior experience is necessary, as the instructor will guide participants through the key moves step-by-step.

| Lesson Highlights | | |

|——————-|—————-|—————–|

| Learn the Lindy Hop| Develop Rhythm | Build Confidence|

| Master the Basics | Embrace Musicality| Have Fun! |

The swing dance lesson is the perfect complement to the historical walking tour, allowing visitors to enjoy the vibrant culture of Harlem.

Meeting Point and Transportation

The meeting point for the Harlem Swing Dance History Stroll and Dance Class is located in front of the Schomburg Center for Research on Malcolm X Boulevard.

Easily accessible via public transportation, the class can be reached by taking the Uptown No. 2 train or No. 3 subway line to the 135th Street Station.

• The meeting point is at the corner of W. 135th Street and Malcolm X Boulevard (Lenox Avenue).

• The Schomburg Center for Research is the starting point for the 1-hour walking tour.

• Participants will explore Harlem’s musical heritage and the birthplace of the Lindy Hop.

• The class includes a swing dance lesson with a seasoned instructor.

• No dance partner is required, making it suitable for individuals, couples, and groups.

Inclusions and Participants

Although the Harlem Swing Dance History Stroll and Dance Class is open to individuals, couples, groups of friends, families, and solo travelers, it includes several key features.

The tour and dance lesson package covers the walking tour, swing dance class, dance shoes, and all necessary tips and gratuities. Participants will explore Harlem’s musical heritage and the birthplace of the Lindy Hop, followed by a swing dance lesson from a seasoned instructor.

No dance partner is required, making the experience accessible to all. With an overall 5/5 rating, this activity promises an unforgettable introduction to Harlem’s vibrant swing dance culture.

Customer Feedback

Reviewers have consistently praised the Harlem Swing Dance History Stroll and Dance Class, with the activity boasting an impressive 5/5 overall rating based on customer feedback.

Åsa söder from Sweden, for instance, highlighted the personal guidance and high-quality dance lesson, while Susan from New Zealand described the experience as the "best fun in New York" and appreciated the welcoming atmosphere with locals.

Participants have highlighted the following:

• Exceptional instructors who provide personalized attention

• The opportunity to learn and practice swing dancing in a historic Harlem setting

• The inclusive and fun-filled nature of the group experience

• The convenience of having dance shoes and gratuities included

• The chance to take in Harlem’s rich musical heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Dance Shoes to the Event?

You can bring your own dance shoes, but it’s not required. The event provides dance shoes, so you can easily participate in the swing dance lesson without having to bring your own.

Is There a Dress Code for the Dance Lesson?

No specific dress code is mentioned. Participants should wear comfortable, casual clothing they can move in easily. The provided dance shoes are recommended, but participants can bring their own if preferred.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Activity?

There are no age restrictions for this activity. Participants of all ages can join the swing dance lesson and enjoy the historical walking tour. Families, couples, and solo travelers are welcome to take part in this fun and inclusive experience.

Can I Choose the Type of Swing Dance I Want to Learn?

The swing dance lesson is a group class, so participants can’t choose the specific style. However, the instructor will teach the most popular swing dances like the Lindy Hop, ensuring everyone learns the basics during the session.

Is There an Option to Extend the Length of the Experience?

There’s no option to extend the length of the experience. The package is a fixed 2-hour event, including a 1-hour walking tour and a swing dance class. Participants cannot customize the duration of the experience.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Harlem’s vibrant musical legacy on this engaging tour and swing dance class. Explore iconic sites linked to the Lindy Hop, then learn the rhythm and energy of this historic dance scene from an expert instructor. Whether a beginner or experienced dancer, this activity offers an unforgettable way to experience Harlem’s enduring swing culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: