“Staycation: A vacation that is spent at one’s home enjoying all that home and one’s home environs have to offer. “
For those in the NYC area who don’t have the time/energy/money (or inclination!) to go away for a long trip, why not head uptown? This week I will be highlighting some special Harlem locations. These top ten “must-see” places reveal that family life in Harlem is truly a rich, cultural experience.
Culture
-Harlem Stage/Aaron Davis Hall, Inc.: They focus on creating and developing new works of art by performing artists of color. They offer a variety of education programs including a Family Series where families get the chance to experience the arts together. (Many of the Family Series programs are free.) (212) 281-9240
-Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture: This New York Public Research Library focuses on documenting the experiences of peoples of African descent throughout the world. They also host a variety of public programs for people of all ages. Of special note is their “Junior Scholars Program” a Saturday school-type program for young people (ages 11 to 17) which ends with an annual Youth Summit. (212) 491-2200
–Studio Museum in Harlem: This museum features African, African-American and Caribbean art and artifacts. They offer a variety of programs and activities including those that focus on youth and families. (Through its “Free 1st Saturdays” program, the museum offers free admission on the first Saturday of each month.) (212) 864-4500
–The Apollo Theater: Known as the place “Where Stars are Born and Legends are Made”™ , the theater does a lot of community outreach including Harlem SummerStage, a free summer concert series. They also offer fun family programs including Movies for Kids – free screenings of kid-friendly movies and much more. (212) 531-5300
Entertainment
-AMC Magic Johnson Harlem 9: Named for partial owner/ basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, this is a great movie theatre. The mural and pictures inside the theatre feature African-Americans – their community and their theatrical legends. That (along with the neighborhood feel) is what makes this theatre stand out from others. They also offer heavily discounted matinee tickets! (212) 665-6923
-Hue-Man Book Store: One of the largest independent African-American bookstores in the country, they specialize in African-American authors. They hold a variety of book signings and special events, including “Saturday Morning Storytime” for young children. (212) 665-7400
-Harlem Lanes: This is a duplex, 24-lane bowling and entertainment center. It features a modern cafe, fully equipped sports bar and arcade, deluxe lounge, and private party room. They also offer a special “Family Four Pack” package. (212) 678-2695
Food:
–Sylvia’s Soul Food Restaurant: This “world famous” soul food restaurant serves generous portions by friendly servers. It is a great, bustling place to take the kids. Sylvia’s also offers on and off site catering for parties. (212) 996-0660
–Amy Ruth’s: This popular restaurant is known for their home-styled Southern food and welcoming servers. Popular with politicians and locals, this restaurant will serve your family a great meal. (212) 280-8779
Recreation:
-Riverbank State Park: This 28-acre park is a gem. It offers a variety of recreational, athletic and arts classes for kids and adults (at very reasonable prices). It has an Olympic-sized pool, a covered skating rink, two playgrounds, and much more. (212) 694-3600