Apollo Theater

    Enter your dates to find available activities
    All categories
    Tours
    Activities

    Top pick


    Apollo Theater: Tours & Tickets

    See all tours & things to do in Apollo Theater

    Top sights in New York City

    Manhattan
    Manhattan
    367 tours & activities
    New York Harbor
    New York Harbor
    57 tours & activities
    One World Trade Center
    One World Trade Center
    36 tours & activities
    Brooklyn Bridge
    Brooklyn Bridge
    51 tours & activities
    Brooklyn
    Brooklyn
    63 tours & activities
    Governors Island
    Governors Island
    17 tours & activities
    Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine
    Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine
    7 tours & activities
    Queens, New York City
    Queens, New York City
    22 tours & activities

    New York City

    An Insider's Guide to Harlem's Apollo Theater

    Having launched the careers of countless African-American musicians, the Apollo Theater in New York City's Harlem neighborhood ranks amongst the most important venues in the United States. Here are some of the events that shaped The Apollo's rich history.

    • A historic venue is born

      1. A historic venue is born

      Though built in 1913, The Apollo didn't receive its name until it was opened to black patrons in 1934. It became one of the most important institutions for African-American music.

    • Rubbing the stump

      2. Rubbing the stump

      After a popular Elm tree in front of the theater was chopped down, the stump was relocated inside and performers started the tradition of rubbing the stump for good luck.

    • 3. Amateur Night

      The Apollo's legendary Amateur Nights were the start of many an illustrious career. In 1934, the 15-year-old Ella Fitzgerald became one of the first Amateur Night success stories.

    • Live at the Apollo

      4. Live at the Apollo

      James Brown's 1962 recording "Live at the Apollo" was a huge success, spending 66 weeks on the Billboard charts and motivating many others to also record their shows at The Apollo.

    • Michael Jackson's breakthrough

      5. Michael Jackson's breakthrough

      Michael Jackson's 1967 Apollo debut with the Jackson 5 propelled him to fame. He performed at the venue throughout his career and a tribute was held there upon his death in 2009.

    Planning Your Visit

    • Attend Amateur Night

      The Apollo still hosts their famed Amateur Nights. They're one of the venue's most popular events so check their schedule and book your ticket in advance to snag a seat to this musical highlight.

    • Grab a bite to eat

      If you hope to cap your night of soulful music with some authentic soul food, the area around The Apollo is brimming with excellent restaurants. The landmark restaurant Sylvia's is located two blocks away!

    Good to know

    • When should I visit?
      Box Office open Monday - Saturday 10:00AM - 6:00PM, Sunday 12:00PM - 5:00PM
    • Is it expensive?
      Tickets vary based on the event.
    • Will I need a guide?
      Guides are not necessary for events.
    • How to get there
      On NYC Subway take the A, B, C, or D train to 125th Street and walk east to reach the theater.
    • Additional information

      • Purchase at least 2 tickets and receive a 30% discount.

      • Sign up for the Apollo A-list and receive emails providing advance notice on shows.

    What people are saying about Apollo Theater

    Overall rating

    4.4 / 5

    based on 927 reviews

    The best word to describe this trip is: OMG I LOVED IT! We got more then our expectations would ever dream of! And our guide, Deborah - WE LOVED HER! A truly amazing woman who knows her history and keeps the “life” up in the tour group. We loved the church and the community and they were so welcoming to us. A true gospel service with “hallelujah” and singing and music. Worth every dollar!

    4-hour Harlem Gospel Tour in New York City Reviewed by Monica, 9/16/2019

    The tour guide, Alvin, was so informative and engaging. He really enhanced the tour through the various areas in NY and and into Harlem. Attending the gospel church service was an amazing experience and something I would definitely do again. Highly recommend this tour!

    New York City: Sunday Harlem Gospel Tour Reviewed by Vanessa, 9/5/2019

    This tour is a hidden treasure. George was knowledgeable and incorporated the right balance of history, perspective, and humor into his presentation. I now have a much more nuanced view of this part of the city and look forward to returning to explore more.

    Central Harlem: Mecca of African-American Culture Reviewed by Anonymous, 8/11/2019

    An excellent insight into the area with a very knowledgable guide. The stops were informative and not too long or taxing. The Gospel service we attended was enjoyable and enlightening. A good time was had by all in our party

    4-hour Harlem Gospel Tour in New York City Reviewed by Anonymous, 1/19/2020

    Serge est le guide parfait Il m’a réconcilié avec New York and le faisant découvrir Harlem Sa connaissance de New York et des USA en général et son professionnalisme sont exemplaires Philippe

    New York City: Sunday Harlem Gospel Tour Reviewed by Philippe, 10/14/2019

    Top destinations

    Popular on GetYourGuide

    Popular Attractions