Harlem

Welcome to Harlem

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.

Nearby Neighborhoods

Morningside Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Upper East Side

Nearby Transportation

Subways: A, C, E, 1, 2, 3 Buses: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Explore Harlem

Homes of Harlem Manhattan (1)

Homes

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.

Listings in the Area

2171 Frederick Douglass, Upper Manhattan, NYC - 1 Bathrooms  
2 Rooms -
2171 Frederick Douglass
$10,831 MO.
Harlem
1 BA  |  2 RM
Phillip Gaynor  (212) 317-7876
Lease Pending
307 West 126th Street, Upper Manhattan, NYC - 1 Bedrooms  
1.5 Bathrooms  
3 Rooms - Previous PhotoNext Photo1 of 11
307 West 126th Street
$3,000 MO.
Harlem
1 BR  |  1.5 BA  |  3 RM
Dina Foster-Osbourne  (212) 381-2520
OPEN HOUSE BY APPT:  Oct 6
2351 Adam Clayton Powell 513, Upper Manhattan, NYC - 2 Bedrooms  
2 Bathrooms  
4 Rooms - Previous PhotoNext Photo1 of 11
2351 Adam Clayton Powell, 513
$945,000
Harlem
2 BR  |  2 BA  |  4 RM
The Rennie Sales Office  (212) 486-3978
Traci Guberman  (212) 381-4215
New Listing
279 West 117th Street, Upper Manhattan, NYC - 2 Bedrooms  
1 Bathrooms  
4 Rooms - Previous PhotoNext Photo1 of 11
279 West 117th Street
$3,800 MO.
Harlem
2 BR  |  1 BA  |  4 RM
Eyitayo Adegoke  (212) 381-2576
Leanne Stella  (212) 381-2592
View All

“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

The Lifestyle

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.

Lifestyle of Harlem Manhattan (1)

“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

Central Park's North Woods
Central Park's North Woods
A gorgeous woodland landscape. In the northeastern part of the park, you can also find Harlem Meer, a beautiful lake
Riverside Park
Riverside Park
Waterfront park with walking and bike paths, sports facilities, and playgrounds
West Harlem Piers
West Harlem Piers
Great for boating and enjoying the view
Riverbank State Park
Riverbank State Park
Athletic complex, pool, skating rink, cultural theater
Morningside Park
Morningside Park
Wandering paths, pond, waterfall, rock formations, and arboretum
St. Nicholas Park
St. Nicholas Park
This 23-acre park in the heart of Harlem offers lush greenery, barbecue areas, a dog park, playgrounds, and sports facilities. The historic home of Alexander Hamilton is also found here.

Outdoors

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

Cultural Attractions / Landmarks

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.

Apollo Theater
Apollo Theater
Countless music legends have performed here in the last 100+ years, and it continues to host concerts and community-based events
Richard Rodgers Amphitheater
Richard Rodgers Amphitheater
This performance venue inside Marcus Garvey Park hosts cultural performances throughout the year
Schomburg Center
Schomburg Center
The New York Public Library’s Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture presents exhibitions, events, and more
Hamilton Grange National Memorial
Hamilton Grange National Memorial
A preserved restoration of founding father Alexander Hamilton’s country home in Harlem
National Jazz Museum in Harlem
National Jazz Museum in Harlem
Dedicated to the preservation and celebration of Harlem's celebrated history of jazz

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

Lolo's Seafood Shack
Lolo's Seafood Shack
'Big flavors are made in small kitchens! The pastel-colored outdoor seating area and a rum punch or beer make you feel like you really are on vacation.' - RoseAnn Hermann
Vinateria
Vinateria
A chic restaurant offering upscale, Italian- and Spanish-influenced dishes
Ponty Bistro
Ponty Bistro
Serving French and West African cuisine alongside house cocktails
Lido
Lido
Home-style Italian cooking with unique ingredients
Lee Lee's Bake Shop
Lee Lee's Bake Shop
'You have not had rugelach 'til you've had theirs! No wonder they are legendary.' - RoseAnn Hermann
Melba's
Melba's
Classic southern comfort food served in a nostalgic setting
Red Rooster
Red Rooster
Stylishly prepared comfort food that draws inspiration from Harlem's diverse culture

Dining

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

Nightlife

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.

Harlem Tavern
Harlem Tavern
A corner tavern and beer garden
Corner Social
Corner Social
Popular bar and restaurant known for its upscale pub menu, craft beers, and DJ sets
Paris Blues
Paris Blues
Founded by the late Samuel Hargress Jr., this 'old-school' jazz and blues establishment opened its doors in 1968.
Shrine
Shrine
An eclectic art and performance space, Shrine regularly features musicians from around the world.

“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

Grandma's Place
Grandma's Place
A children's toy and book store
NiLU Gift Shop
NiLU Gift Shop
Perfect for supporting local vendors and finding unique, high-quality gifts for friends
Franz James Floral Boutique
Franz James Floral Boutique
Offering elegant bouquets, sculptural displays, and an array of plants
The African Market on 116th & Lenox Ave
The African Market on 116th & Lenox Ave
Handmade African clothing, unique textiles and crafts, and much more

Shopping

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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