Harlem
A longstanding culture epicenter for black Americans, Harlem is no longer the crime-ridden neighborhood of past New York. Often associated with drugs, crime and gangs, many forget Harlem has a rich cultural history that dabbles in art, music, literature and architecture. Just a short subway ride uptown, you will find an area that is exciting and vibrant.
While the area is deeply rooted in African-American culture, the area is also home to Hispanics, West Indians and young professionals escaping the high rents in the Midtown and Downtown areas. The neighborhood is bordered by Central Park and the Upper East Side to the south, the East River to the east, Morningside Heights to the west, and the Bronx and Washington Heights to the north.
If walking around the neighborhood, make sure to check out landmark locations like the Apollo Theater and Lenox Lounge, places where Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington once played. Museums like El Museo Del Barrio and the Museum of the City of New York are located here near the Upper East Side. And historical brownstones can be found in the Mount Morris Park Historic District and Astor Row.
If you go to Harlem, you have to try to the soul food. Bayou (212-426-3800), 308 Lenox Ave., is where New Orleans Creole cuisine meets traditional Harlem fare. At Miss Mamie's Spoonbread Too (212-865-6744), 366 W 110th St., you can feast of comfort food like Southern-style barbeque and good soul food.
There aren't many hotel options directly in Harlem, but nearby neighborhoods of Morningside Heights, the Upper West Side and the Upper East Side provide many lodging options. The West Side Inn is a youth hostel that provides affordable accommodations near Central Park. Or check-in at the Courtyard NY Manhattan Upper located steps away from Museum Mile.