Discover experiences in Harlem
What to do in Harlem
Harlem overview
Harlem is one of the northernmost neighborhoods in Manhattan. The home to African American heritage and culture in New York, the birthplace of Jazz, home to soul food. Its main artery is 125th Street, where you will find the legendary Apollo Theater. Beautiful brownstones and stunning apartment buildings make this area as architecturally vibrant as it is culturally.
How to spend a day in Harlem
If jazz is the heart of Harlem, then The National Jazz Museum in Harlem is the heart of jazz. Not only a museum, it also offers education, workshops and other programs. This is a must for any lover of the most original American art forms. This museum is at the heart of Harlem and is currently under the watchful eye of Artistic Director Jon Batiste (The Late Show).
How to spend a night in Harlem
In a word, Jazz, in more words quite possibly the best jazz in not only NYC but in the United States. There are so many great clubs but three standouts are: Showman's Jazz Club, since 1942 a Harlem staple. Then there is Minton's Playhouse, home to bebop and founded in 1938, this club has seen the likes of Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonius Monk and Charlie Parker grace its stage. And then there is the Cotton Club, a reimagining of the original prohibition club. This new reiteration is exciting, electric, and the jazz is world class.
Popular experiences
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Harlem known for?
As well as Jazz and Soul food, the other great export from Harlem is theater. The Harlem theater scene is vibrant and alive and has been for decades. There are some places you will definitely not want to miss. The Classical Theater of Harlem is a local theater, focused on telling the stories of local playwrights with local actors. The Harlem Stage has given artists of color a home for over forty years and a space to share their talents - this place is a must! And finally, The Studio Museum in Harlem takes you behind the scenes of all of the great art and artists to come out of Harlem with photography displays, events, and programs.
How do you get around Harlem?
Serviced by multiple subway lines, the A,C,E, the 1 train, and the B,D. You will have no trouble getting to Harlem. One of the larger neighborhoods in NYC, walking is possible but it will take some time. Using the subway to get around will help you cover more ground. For my bike riders, the big wide streets of Harlem make for great biking.
What do you HAVE to do in Harlem?
Rome has the Colosseum, Colorado has Red Rocks and Harlem has The Apollo Theater. Since 1913, the Apollo has been the epicenter, the Soul of American culture. Amatuer Night at The Apollo has been running every wednesday night since 1934. This event has launched the careers of everyone from Ella Fitzgerald to Lauren Hill. No visit is complete to Harlem without a visit to this mecca of American arts and culture.
What are the best restaurants in Harlem?
You cannot, and I repeat cannot go to Harlem and not try Soul Food. You might not know it but Fried Chicken and Waffles were invented right here in Harlem. This Soul Food classic has to be tasted to be believed and here are three of the best soul food places in the city. Amy Ruth's is an institution in Harlem; this long-running Soul Food eatery is at the top of the list. Also check out Manna’s delicious food, and a great location right next to the Apollo. Spaha Soul and Bone Broth are great for no frills delicious soul food.