Harlem

This long walk takes you along the scenic Hudson River and through the Upper West Side to the heart of Harlem. Start at the southern part of the Upper West Side, where the route heads west past the iconic brownstones and rowhouses so typical of this neighborhood. Next, you will continue along the banks of the Hudson river, through parks, past boathouses and the impressive Columbia University, until you reach the outer limit of the Upper West Side. 

 

While Central Park may be the most famous, it’s certainly not the only park on the Upper West Side. Along the banks of the Hudson River stretches Riverside Park. According to local residents this is Manhattan’s most beautiful park, and they come here for sports, leisure, and the cool breeze off the Hudson during the

hot city summers. 



North of the Upper West Side lies an important center of African-American culture: Harlem. Here you’ll find art galleries, churches (often named after notable African-American figures), the legendary Apollo Theater, and much more. In recent years Harlem has experienced a wave of gentrification, and the neighborhood’s historic brownstones and wide streets have been attracting people from around the city.

 

Upper North Harlem is a bit grittier, so be sure to keep that in mind. The neighborhood is never quiet; people converse loudly in the streets, music can be heard all around, and locals regularly sit on the stoops in front of their homes. Here you can get a sense of Harlem's true soul, and its warm and welcoming vibe.