Located in Upper Manhattan, Harlem is a vibrant, historic New York neighborhood bounded by Central Park, East Harlem, Washington Heights, and Morningside Heights. Renowned for its rich array of shopping, dining, cultural, and entertainment offerings, the neighborhood is one of Manhattan's most well-known. Here, you can find everything from trendy eateries and nightclubs to theaters and jazz clubs that have had an indelible impact on New York City's history and culture.
Morningside Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Upper East Side
Subways: A, C, E, 1, 2, 3 Buses: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
From Dutch-influenced Victorian homes with French mansard roofs to colonial revival and Italian Renaissance revival-style row houses, much of Harlem’s housing stock is steeped in history. Prewar apartment buildings are also found in Harlem, with many homes featuring original details like hardwood floors, fireplaces, and ornate molding. If you prefer contemporary architecture and state-of-the-art amenities, you can find those in Harlem, too. There has been a surge in new developments here in recent years, with many buildings offering concierge service and luxury amenities like rooftop lounges, fitness centers, spas, terraces, and more.
“Harlem still has a mix of old and new architecture. There are Victorian-type buildings on some of the avenues like Lenox. Harlems homes are often larger than those in neighborhoods farther south. There is more space between buildings, so there are more opportunities for light.”
- Vivian Ducat, Real Estate Agent
“The brownstone stock is fabulous—particularly in the 140s around Convent Avenue, where each brownstone is unique.”
- Leanne Stella, Real Estate Agent
“The most appealing things about Harlem homes are the details and space. Many owners preserve the original details in their homes from the 1900s. Its quite beautiful.
- Traci Byers, Real Estate Agent
As lively and vibrant as it is, Harlem is largely residential. You can expect to get to know your neighbors and discover a community that is proud of its roots and invested in the future of the neighborhood. You’ll find pockets of quiet and serene tree-lined streets, notably in Strivers Row, Hamilton Heights, and Sugar Hill, while parts of Central Harlem serve as bustling commercial and cultural centers. Wherever you go, the community's resilient and festive spirit is palpable.
“The community embodies a resiliency of spirit and openness. Harlem is down-to-earth and has a casual feel. You can relax here and be yourself.”
- DeAnna D. Rieber, Real Estate Agent
“Harlem is a hamlet in NYC that is not only packed full of history but also unlike any other neighborhood when it comes to the meaning of community. Homeowners, business owners, and residents make it a point to preserve and build upon the spirit and soul of Harlem.”
- Ivonne Velasquez, Real Estate Agent
Given its location, many Harlem residents embrace Central Park's North Woods as their backyard. The gorgeous wooded landscape, which is less busy than the park's southern end, provides a scenic respite from the city. Harlem is also home to several smaller parks, including Morningside Park, which is popular for its walking paths, impressive rock formations, waterfall, and arboretum. Meanwhile, Riverside Park has bike or walking paths along the Hudson River. Also worth exploring is Marcus Garvey Park, home to various cultural events and concerts.
We have so many parks in Harlem. Almost anywhere you live in Central and West Harlem, you will be close to a park. This makes it a great place for walking or running.
- Leanne Stella, Real Estate Agent
You won't ever find yourself without something to do in Harlem. One of New York's primary cultural centers, the neighborhood was notably home of the Harlem Renaissance, one of the most influential movements of Black art, literature, music, and culture. This legacy is still apparent in Harlem today, with plenty of cultural institutions, community programs, and attractions to explore. For instance, countless music legends have performed at the iconic Apollo Theater over the last century, while the Studio Museum of Harlem has showcased works by Black American artists for over 50 years.
You think it, Harlem has it. Harlem is a mecca of culture and history.
- Ivonne Velasquez, Real Estate Agent
“There are so many activities to partake in Harlem including the annual Harlem Day Parade, festivals, block party events, and First Saturdays at the Schomburg Center.”
- Scottie Cabrera, Real Estate Agent
Few neighborhoods in Manhattan are as diverse and internationally influenced as Harlem, and its restaurant scene is a reflection of that. From the best soul food in the region to globally inspired fusion cuisine, there is something for everybody to enjoy. Local favorites include Red Rooster, popular for its southern comfort food and festive atmosphere, and Vinateria, a Black-owned, Italian-Spanish fusion restaurant. Other highly recommended spots include Lido for homestyle Italian fare and the Caribbean-influenced Lolo's Seafood Shack.
You have not had rugelach til youve had them at Lee Lees! No wonder they are legendary. -
- RoseAnn Hermann Manhattan, Real Estate Agent
Big flavors are made in small kitchens! The pastel-colored outdoor seating area at Lolos Seafood Shack and a rum punch or beer make you feel like you really are on vacation.
- RoseAnn Hermann Manhattan, Real Estate Agent
The Harlem nightlife scene is as vibrant as ever, with many venues for dancing, live music, craft beers, and more. Paris Blues, a local mainstay for cocktails and jazz shows, is a great place to start. It has been a favorite among locals for over 50 years. Shrine, an eclectic art and performance space, regularly features musicians from around the world. For extensive beer selections, visit the Harlem Tavern or Corner Social.
“For nightlife, Red Rooster and Shrine are good options. There’s also great live music at Yatenga next door.”
- Ivonne Velasquez, Real Estate Agent
“On the waterfront, the Baylander Steel Beach is a docked Vietnam-era warship that has been turned into a floating bar.”
- Leanne Stella, Real Estate Agent
The neighborhood's main shopping district is situated along 125th Street, which is lined with countless stores, restaurants, salons, markets, movie theaters, and more. Harlem is also home to one-of-a-kind specialty stores. These include Grandma's Place, a beloved children's toy and bookstore owned by 'Grandma Dawn' Harris-Martine, as well as NiLu, which has quickly built a reputation as one of the best gift stores in the city with its locally made products. Located at 52 West 22nd Street, the Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market features vendors offering African crafts and textiles.
“You can find anything you’re looking for in terms of shopping on legendary 125th Street, from 5th Avenue all the way to 8th Avenue.”
- Scottie Cabrera, Real Estate Agent
“Try the African market on 116th and Lenox as well as NiLu, a gift shop packed with local vendors’ products. I buy most of my closing gifts from this husband-and-wife, Black-owned business.”
- Ivonne Velasquez, Real Estate Agent
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