things to do in harlem

Harlem, a vibrant and historic neighborhood in Upper Manhattan, New York City, is known for its rich African American culture, stunning architecture, and lively entertainment scene. Here are some things to do in Harlem:

Historic Landmarks:

1. The Apollo Theater: A legendary music venue that has hosted some of the greatest performers in history, including Aretha Franklin, James Brown, and Stevie Wonder.
2. The Studio Museum: A premier institution dedicated to showcasing the work of artists of African descent.
3. The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture: A research library and cultural center that is part of the New York Public Library system.
4. The Abyssinian Baptist Church: A historic church that has been a hub of African American culture and activism since 1808.

Food and Drink:

1. Sylvia’s Restaurant: A Harlem institution serving classic soul food since 1962.
2. Red Rooster Harlem: A popular restaurant from celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, serving Ethiopian-inspired cuisine.
3. Harlem Shake: A trendy burger joint with a fun atmosphere.
4. The Harlem Public: A craft beer bar with a rotating selection of local brews.

Arts and Culture:

1. The Harlem Renaissance Walking Tour: A guided tour that explores the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage.
2. The National Black Theatre: A theater company dedicated to producing works by African American playwrights.
3. The Harlem Arts Festival: An annual festival celebrating music, dance, and visual arts.
4. The Studio Museum’s Artist-in-Residence Program: A program that showcases the work of emerging artists.

Shopping:

1. 125th Street: A bustling shopping corridor lined with street vendors, boutiques, and specialty stores.
2. The Harlem Market: An outdoor market featuring local vendors selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and more.
3. The Studio Museum’s Gift Shop: A great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.

Parks and Recreation:

1. Morningside Park: A scenic park with walking trails, a lake, and plenty of green space.
2. St. Nicholas Park: A park with a playground, basketball courts, and a dog run.
3. The Harlem River Greenway: A waterfront park with stunning views of the Harlem River.

Events:

1. The Harlem Jazz Festival: An annual festival celebrating jazz music.
2. The Harlem Book Fair: A festival celebrating African American literature and culture.
3. The Harlem Pride Parade: A celebration of LGBTQ+ pride and diversity.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Harlem. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or entertainment, Harlem has something for everyone.