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Activity #529 |
The Harlem Jazz Walk |
Does the tour take place rain or shine?
Whether it’s wet or dry, we walk. Arrive at the meeting point (in front of what used to be the Audubon Ballroom) and your guide will be waiting. We’d cancel only in the event of a blizzard serious enough to shut down the subway system.
Are children welcome?
Indeed they are. Since New York’s technicolor streets are filled with non-stop action and sound, they won’t be bored. In fact, we’ve never had a kid formally demand a refund. (In fact, those under twelve may come along at no cost.)
Can you suggest a restaurant or coffee shop close to the meeting point?
Arrive a few minutes early and enjoy the pastries and drinks available at Cafe Bon Jour, a friendly place that also offers restroom facilities.
Are there, uh, comfort stops along the way?
Yes, our route is dotted with them at convenient intervals. In fact, on certain days of the week, you’ll even be able to use the facilities at Alexander Hamilton’s former country estate.
Where does the tour end?
This particular walk officially concludes at the corner of Lenox Ave. and W. 125th St., where there's a station for the 2 and 3 subway lines.
However, there are numerous sights worth seeing in the blocks just south of that location.
Accordingly, many of our walkers elect to continue with Paul for a few more blocks, winding up at the corner of Frederick Douglass Blvd. and W. 116th St., convenient to the B/C subway line (and not far from the 2/3 line).
Once we’ve finished, are there good places to eat nearby?
Yep. Sylvia’s – Harlem’s most famous dining room – is convenient to the subway station at the corner of Lenox Ave. and W. 125th St.
Settepanne (on Lenox at W. 120th) is a classy bakery/cafe with outdoor seating available.
What's more, one whole stretch of W. 116th St. is now home to a sizeable West African community. This provides you with the chance to enjoy delicious Senegalese or Ivorian specialties at restaurants like La Marmite (2264 Eighth Ave.) or Florence’s (2099 Frederick Douglass Blvd.).
Amy Ruth’s (113 W. 116th) is a good choice for down-home dishes.
Please note, however, that long lines are common at both Sylvia's and Amy Ruth's, especially on Sundays.
What should I bring along?
Comfortable shoes are a must. You’ll surely want to have a camera, too. And if you want to look like a local instead of a tourist, two other items are absolutely essential: a bottle of water and a cell phone to yap into.
Are tours conducted only in English?
They are. Yet we’ve found that even those of our guests whose first language is not English enjoy this Harlem walk immensely. Besides, they’re meeting other tour participants with similar interests and enthusiasms. That’s a pleasurable bonus.
Does this tour have anything to offer a native New Yorker?
Every New Yorker, of course, has heard lots about Harlem. Very few of them, we’ve discovered, have actually seen it. Most are truly astounded by what they discover there.
Can I book a private tour?
Definitely! This particular walk has proven especially popular with school groups, as well as groups of jazz enthusiasts from overseas. To inquire about setting up such a tour, cling on the "Contact This Seller" link.
Are gift certificates available?
Funny you should ask. Yes, they are. To purchase one, click on the "Contact This Seller" link.
Do you offer discounts for travel agents?
Sure. Query Zerve for details.
