Despite the gritty reputation that Harlem has garnered through books, movies and television shows, the streets of this New York City suburb are relatively safe and packed with fascinating historical sites, delicious restaurants and cosy bed and breakfast establishments. From the Cotton Club to Apollo Theatre, the citizens of Harlem take pride in their contributions to the world and love to share their cultural heritage with visitors who flock in on double-decker buses every day.
Restaurants
Finger-licking and lip-smacking are terms that come to mind when indulging in the Southern Food restaurants that have made Harlem famous. Sylvia's at 126th Street is perhaps the best known and busiest, maybe it's not just the delicious soul food, it could be because the prices are so low and the waitresses are so sassy. Miss Maude's Spoonbread Too on Lenox Avenue is another favourite with its homey atmosphere and delicious entrees like smothered pork chops and homemade banana pudding.
Shopping
Even though the big name box stores are trying to muscle their way in, Harlem has maintained its unique flavour of shopping with street vendors still plying their trade along 125th selling everything from ethnic clothing to tribal sculptures. Naturally, the music stores are packed with some the best gospel, Caribbean, Africa and island music on the planet in every form from old vinyl albums to MP3 downloads. Still standing amid the competition is African Paradise, a treasure trove of creative art, jewellery and fabrics from the Dark Continent.
Spirituals and Clubs
Although they never started out to be entertainment venues, the churches in Harlem had begun to attract such big crowds to listen to the gospel choirs that regular tours are now available. Any Sunday or Wednesday you can hop aboard a Harlem Spirituals bus and be whisked away to enjoy the soul stirring sounds of gospel singers who can whip the crowd into a frenzy of Hallelujahs, and don't be surprised if you find yourself joining in. For an evening's entertainment, the Lenox Lounge features great jazz artists and if you're lucky you'll catch the Dance Theatre of Harlem's troupe in town.
Historical Sites
Scattered throughout Harlem are museums and statues that celebrate the famous folks who have made Harlem their home or at least a significant stop on their journey. Tributes to musical greats like Louis Armstrong, revered statesman like Adam Clayton Powell Jr. and poets like Langston Hughes are scattered around the neighbourhoods where they once lived. Although the famous Abyssinian Baptist Church stresses at their worship services are sacred, not entertainment, they do allow properly attired guest to visit if they promise to refrain from taking photos or making recordings and stay for the entire two hour service.
