Ahhh – The Big Apple, The City of Dreams, The City That Never Sleeps. Let’s face it – New York City is the most vivacious, incredible city in the world. Once you’ve experienced the Empire State of Mind, it’s difficult to ever go back to the suburbs!
New York City is HUGE! With 5 boroughs and 8.6 million people, New York has something to offer on every street corner. If you’re considering moving to The Big Apple, you have to consider all of the unique neighborhoods before committing to a living space. After all, living expenses in NYC are, well, expensive–so, you want to make sure you choose the right place to call home.
AYA has been in the New York marketplace for a while now, and we have fallen IN LOVE with Harlem! It seems to be underrated compared to other popular neighborhoods, which is why we have outlined 5 incredible things about Harlem.
So. Much. History.
If you want incredible USA history, Harlem is the place to go. Home of the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s, Harlem is rich in African-American history and culture. Some of the most famous African-American leaders have made residence in this neighborhood and every street corner is bound to tell a story. Visit Morris Jumel Mansion and Trinity Cemetery for an incredible snapshot into the lives of African-American people in the early 1900s.
Streets Are Named After Thought Leaders
Whether you lived through Martin Luther King’s era or you were just lucky enough to hear about his cultural movement of awakening Americans, you’ll appreciate Harlem for its tribute to America’s favorite leaders! Many street corners are named after thought-leaders and American dreamers such as Malcolm X Blvd., and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Take a stroll through the streets of Harlem to pay tribute to incredible Americans throughout the decades.
Music EVERYWHERE!
Harlem is RICH in musical talent. Because Harlem is culturally diverse, you can enjoy the beautiful hymns of African-American gospel on Sundays.
Consider visiting the Apollo Theater. Built in 1913, musicians such as Aretha Franklin, Jackson 5 and Paul McCartney sang here. The Apollo Theater still hosts Amateur Night if you’re in the mood to listen to beautiful melodies from Harlem residents or if you’d like to sing for the crowd yourself.
From Wednesday to Sunday every week, Minton’s plays live jazz! If you’re a blues lover, make sure to check out the joint that was first popular back in the 1940s.
Convenient Commutes
It’s no secret that a lot of NYC’s action takes place in Manhattan. Millennials like to work and play in Manhattan, but living expenses in that borough are steep.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy commute to Manhattan, then Harlem is the ideal place to be. Midtown is accessible by only a brief subway ride.
Great Food
If you appreciate a delicious meal, Harlem will take your breath away! Harlem is defined by incredible, cultural flavors that will keep you coming back. Some of our favorite restaurants are Sylvia’s Restaurant, which opened its doors in the heart of the Harlem Renaissance. After your meal at Sylvia’s, visit Make My Cake Bakery for a cake that will satisfy your sweet tooth and blow your mind.
Do we have you convinced yet? Harlem is one of our favorite neighborhoods in NYC and we want everyone to experience its unique cultural history.
If you’re still looking for the perfect neighborhood or if you’re interested in more recommendations from AYA, make sure to come back next month!