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Harlem is unquestionably happening. Buoyed by an influx of former downtowners and emboldened by a tradition of culture and creativity, the neighborhood is chockablock with new high-end shops, restaurants, music halls, lounges and even a bold, new, loft-style hotel, the Aloft Harlem. It's all part of the quarter's ongoing effort to establish itself as a must-visit Manhattan destination, even while it retains its distinctive character. Harlem may still be beloved for its hundreds of churches, elegant row houses, unexpected parks and tiny home-cooking joints, but there's another side of the neighborhood in the making these days—where history, culture, arts, entertainment and cuisine come together. Take advantage of amazing activities that reflect the vibrancy, energy and diversity of the neighborhood at the museums and theaters listed below, then stay to enjoy nearby restaurants and clubs. It's all happening—uptown!

NEIGHBORHOOD HIGHLIGHTS

destination: harlem – museum of the city of new york

Visit the Museum of the City of New York to experience past eras, then dine out at Spanish Harlem's best restaurants.

NEIGHBORHOOD HIGHLIGHTS

destination: harlem – apollo theater

See up-and-comers take the stage, and stay for the neighborhood's renowned eateries and music clubs, like Red Rooster and Lenox Lounge.

NEIGHBORHOOD HIGHLIGHTS

destination: harlem – el museo del barrio

Head to cultural-art haven El Museo del Barrio and surrounding restaurants, such as La Fonda Boricua, for Latin eats.

NEIGHBORHOOD HIGHLIGHTS

destination: harlem – harlem stage

Celebrate Black History Month by catching a Harlem Stage show, followed by dinner and drinks at local hotspots.

NEIGHBORHOOD HIGHLIGHTS

destination: harlem – dwyer cultural center

Check out this state-of-the-art exhibition and performance space and grab a bite at restaurants like The 5 and Diamond afterward.

NEIGHBORHOOD HIGHLIGHTS

destination: harlem – schomburg center for research in black culture

View scholar and activist Arturo Alfonso Schomburg's personal collection of relics and art, then go for dinner at nearby spots like Miss Maude's Spoonbread Too.