Explore one of NYC's most culturally significant areas—the Hamilton Heights and Sugar Hills historic district—on this tour of the former outpost-turned-swanky residential neighborhood. Set off to uncover turn-of-the-century architecture and historic landmarks while learning about the Harlem Renaissance.

Meet your guide in the heart of Hamilton Heights, named after one of America's founding fathers, Alexander Hamilton. Stroll to Hamilton Grange, the former 1700s summer home of the statesman, which is now a national memorial. As you follow your guide, you jump forward in time as you pass by the City College of New York, first founded in 1847. Marvel at the impressive neo-Gothic façades and lush courtyards that dot its 35-acre (14-ha) campus.

Continue on into Sugar Hills, first built for middle and upper-class white residents between the 1880s and World War 1. As you walk along its charming tree-lined streets and 19th-century row houses, hear how the neighborhood changed as black professionals began moving into the area in the 1930s and 40s. Learn how it came to be known as Sugar Hill, where life was “sweet” and the residents were prosperous. The district achieved fame thanks to notable African Americans that called the area home. Stroll by the former houses of influential figures such as civil rights activist W.E.B. Du Bois, author Ralph Ellison, boxer Joe Louis, and jazz legend Duke Ellington.