Put a day on Harlem: a time off-limits area for tourists, today the northernmost district of Manhattan is a cool destination, with a lively cultural scene, rich in history and charm, which has witnessed a real rebirth in recent years with the opening of new hotels, clubs and numerous restaurants offering "soul food".
A tour of the neighborhood can only begin with the legendary Apollo Theater, famous for the Amateur Night, during which careers of artists such as Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday were launched. The theatre hosts concerts, theatre performances and cultural events all year round.
Opened in 1964, Harlem School of the Arts offers dance, music, theatre and visual arts classes and has over 3,000 students performing in shows open to the public during the year.
Music lovers cannot miss The National Jazz Museum in Harlem which celebrates the jazz community of the neighborhood and offers programs and shows open to the public including Jazz in the Parks, Harlem Swings and Jazz for Curious Listeners.
Entirely dedicated to African American art, The Studio Museum in Harlem hosts the works of artists of the district with African origins.
Billie’s Black, the restaurant opened by Adriane Ferguson in 2006, is known for its soul food specialties, the typical cuisine of the African American community, including fishgatto, bue tail and mac and cheese to be enjoyed by watching live performances of local musicians.
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is considered to be the best locals in the city where you can enjoy grilled meat and vegetarian specialities. The venue is among the favorites from residents in the neighborhood also for live blues music proposed all evenings.
The hotel Aloft Harlem It is the perfect solution for those who want to stay in Harlem a short distance from the main cultural and artistic attractions of the neighborhood. The 120 rooms have a TV and free WiFi. At the W XYZ Bar, open to those who do not stay at the hotel, you can watch live music shows, play billiards or have a drink.
