The Harlem Renaissance in DC

Explore the rich jazz and literary history of Washington DC on this engaging two hour walking tour through the U Street neighborhood. Known as Black Broadway, this vibrant area was home to legendary jazz performers and a hub for black intellectuals shaping art, literature, and culture. Learn about writers such as Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Alain Locke while discovering the thriving jazz scene that brought musicians and thinkers together. The tour offers a unique look into how the neighborhood contributed to music, culture, and civil rights in the United States.

The tour begins at the historic Howard Theater at 620 T Street NW and concludes at the corner of S and 15th Street NW. Along the way, the knowledgeable guide will share stories at key stops including the African American Civil War Memorial, the former Bohemian Caverns, homes of Duke Ellington and other cultural icons, the famous Ben’s Chili Bowl for a bathroom break, and the U Street Corridor itself. Participants will gain fascinating insights into the neighborhood’s history, including black businesses, prominent writers, and influential academics who helped establish a lasting cultural legacy. Refreshments are optional at the halfway stop, and the tour is suitable for all ages from two to ninety nine.