10 Top-Rated Black History and Cultural Tours in the US, According to Viator Travelers
Black history and culture are among the bedrocks of modern-day American life. From the Civil Rights Movement and soul food to hip-hop and gospel music, there's a lot to love and learn about in equal measure. And, via local Black-run initiatives, Black travelers and allies alike are able to get an alternative perspective of this large, diverse country on some of our top-rated tours.
That said, here are 10 of the top-rated Black history and heritage tours across major US cities, from perhaps-surprising destinations such as Portland, Maine to historically Black cities including New York City and Atlanta, Georgia.
1. Learn about the Civil Rights Movement in Harlem, New York City
African American history tours in New York City shouldn't overlook Harlem, and neither should you. Step back in time and learn about a key period in Harlem’s history on this walking tour of the neighborhood, led by a longtime Harlem resident.
You'll follow in the footsteps of former neighborhood residents such as Malcolm X and Adam Clayton Powell Jr., as you learn all about Harlem’s role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and '60s.
What one reviewer said: “Very informative, fun, and eye-opening. The historical knowledge of our guide was top tier. 10/10 would recommend.” Safiya_D, February 2025
2. Get to grips with Atlanta’s Black heritage
What better place to delve into Black heritage than the home of the Civil Rights Movement, aka "the Black Mecca?" In short, Atlanta is a must-visit city in the US if you want to learn more about the country's revolutionary Black history and modern-day Black culture.
Exploring couldn't be easier, either. Showcasing historic sites and historic Black neighborhoods such as Summerhill, The West End, Downtown Atlanta, and the Historic Sweet Auburn Ave District, this 4-hour tour will immerse you in Black culture and arts.
What one reviewer said: “Fantastic tour! Our tour guide, Jeffrey, was wonderful. He was knowledgeable [about] all historical events and he knew his city well. The tour was pleasant and comfortable. Jeffrey's delivery was entertaining.” Teresa_W, October 2025
3. Take a Black history tour of Philadelphia
Philadelphia may, in some circles, be better known for Gritty, the Liberty Bell, and those famed cheesesteaks, but it's also a veritable repository of Black culture and history.
On this Black history tour of Philadelphia, you'll learn about Black history during the colonial period, the role that Black Americans played in the founding of the nation, and visit landmarks including the President’s House, Congo Square, and Bishop White’s house.
What one reviewer said: “It was great! Our tour guide was very knowledgeable. I appreciate his wit with a very sensitive topic [and] it was perfectly timed. I honestly wish the tour could have been longer, [as] the two hours seemed to have flown by! Recommend for anyone who wants to learn the deeper Black history in Philly.” Shaquanda_B, September 2025
4. Opt for a hip-hop tour of Harlem, New York City
Hip-hop music—which incorporates rapping, DJing, and turntablism—began in Black and Latinx communities in the Bronx, New York City back in the '70s. Naturally, there’s no better way to explore this recognizable and world-renowned genre than on an insider’s tour of Harlem led by a hip-hop historian.
This exclusive experience takes you on an interactive musical journey to hot spots including Harlem jazz clubs, the Apollo Theater, and the Graffiti Wall of Fame to uncover the origins and evolution of hip-hop.
What one reviewer said: “Razor was our guide. He was very informative and made the tour fun. He interacted with us all and made us feel like family. If you want to see the hidden gems in Harlem, book this tour.” Ciera_P, August 2025
5. Get to the heart of the Civil Rights Movement in Alabama
Civil Rights Movement tours have a lot of history to work with in Montgomery, Alabama, one of the key destinations in the fight for equality and site of many-a protest, most notably the Montgomery Bus Boycott led by Rosa Parks.
Visit some of the most important sites in the city on this private 6-hour tour. You'll see places related to the Montgomery Civil Rights Trail, including the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church and the Alabama State Capitol, and hear about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Mrs. Rosa Parks, and that aforementioned Montgomery Bus Boycott.
What one reviewer said: “Jake is a great tour guide. He shared so much history and many personal stories, [so I] would highly recommend him to all wishing to learn more about the civil rights movement.” Juliann_M, August 2025
6. Learn about the lost stories of Black Charleston
Charleston is the city that saw an enslaved person known as Robert Smalls capture a boat and hand it over to Union forces in 1862, not to mention the place where a historic Black church was attacked as recently as 2015. So to say it's got its fair share of Black history is an understatement.
On this tour of popular Charleston, you'll learn about the lesser-known Black history of the southern city in the company of a local guide, writer and educator Damon Fordham, as you pass by historic sites such as the Jehu Junes Hotel and Catfish Row.
What one reviewer said: “The tour was beyond excellent. The tour guide, Mr. Fordham, was superb, and the history details provided were impressive. [...] He was able to answer additional questions from the participants [and] I thoroughly enjoyed the fact that the history provided didn’t seem rehearsed, as is the case with some tours.” Tracy_S, October 2025
7. See a different side to New York City history
Uncover a unique part of New York history on this New York City Slavery and Underground Railroad tour. The Underground Railroad was a secret network of safe houses run by abolitionists that helped thousands to escape slavery.
Here, you'll follow the NYC Freedom Trail, and learn how a group of brave men and women forged the network that became the Underground Railroad, plus discover how New Yorkers risked their lives to help people escape slavery.
What one reviewer said: “Great tour guide who shared her wealth of knowledge with us. Even if you think you already know a lot about the topic, you'll learn something new.” Lenore_C, October 2025
8. Discover Portland, Maine’s Black community and culture
Think there's no Black history and heritage in Portland, Maine? Think again. Get an in-depth insight into the city's Black community on this 2-hour tour led by guide Dugan Murphy.
Covering history left untouched by other tours in the area, on this informative excursion you'll learn about Black history, resilience, and joy while passing through the Old Port and East End neighborhoods.
What one reviewer said: “This tour was outstanding and very interesting. Dugan is an exceptional tour guide with a wealth of knowledge and an amazing way of presenting it. Not to be missed!” Patricia_S, September 2025
9. Discover Haitian culture in Miami
Miami is a hugely diverse city that has a historic Afro-Caribbean community—and with that comes culture. Explore just one (very delicious) aspect of this heritage on this food and culture tour of Little Haiti.
As you explore, you'll learn about and experience this neighborhood's history and culture with a local guide, stopping at top eateries, neighborhood landmarks, and markets.
What one reviewer said: "I thoroughly enjoyed this tour of Little Haiti! Cidelca is a fantastic guide (educator!). I’ve studied a bit about Haitian culture and learned so much during the tour. Cidelca is well connected in the neighborhood and I was happy to meet the shop owners and try some Haitian treats!" Katherine_R, March 2026
10. Hear some of Harlem’s best gospel music and history
Harlem is a rich and multifaceted New York City neighborhood, but one of the top draws is its gospel music, a staple style at places of worship frequented by local Black communities and one that's broadly influenced by African rhythms.
On this multimedia walking tour, enjoy a gospel-accompanied church service, breakfast, and exploration led by a true Harlem local that'll help you get a real insight into the historic neighborhood.
What one reviewer said: "Neil, our guide, was very entertaining and connected well with our whole group. He had an excellent knowledge base and, as he was local, seemed to know everyone when we were out and about on the streets of Harlem. The Gospel Service with the gospel singing was very uplifting [and] we were also privileged to witness someone being baptised." IAN_C, September 2024
Book more things to do in the US
Keep planning your US trip
