Harlem is currently the only neighborhood in Manhattan that is vibing on a higher frequency than any other neighborhood in the city. While the neighborhood is evolving, it has not been gentrified to the point that its connection to the past is completely erased like some other neighborhoods [read: Meatpacking District]. The improvement in services and the addition of new housing stock is unique for a changing neighborhood, in the sense that the core housing stock (the illustrious Harlem brownstones) are a key and identifiable differentiator from most other neighborhoods in the city. Today, the face of Harlem consists of brownstones, condos, coops and HDFC-mixed properties. This lends itself to a diverse group of people from all walks of life that give meaning to this city being a true melting point.

What most New Yorkers don’t know is that Harlem is the largest neighborhood in Manhattan. It stretches from 110th St. to 155th St., and is bordered by 5th Ave. and the Hudson River. Within that boundary there are several enclaves such as: Astor Row -130th St. between Lenox Ave. to 5th Ave.; Striver’s Row – 137th St. to 141st St. between Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Blvd. to Frederick Douglass Blvd.; Mount Morris Park – 120th St. to 124th St. between Lenox Ave. to Mount Morris Park West. Currently, there are discussions to expand its borders even further. The northern enclaves consist of Hamilton Heights and Sugar Hill. Currently both are going through their own renaissance, with an influx of new residents migrating up from other parts of the city. Filled with bespoke shops, restaurants, music halls and lounges, the cultural and creative spirit are alive and well in Harlem.

When you come to Harlem today, the best of its history anchors itself in the historic churches and elegant row houses – several tours allow visitors to experience these beautiful homes (Mt. Morris and Striver’s Row). The neighborhood has six unexpected parks, more than any other neighborhood in the city as well as new and historic jazz places, in addition to a flourishing dining scene that allows you to experience, phenomenal food (it’s not your typical soul food joints). And in recent years, the Aloft Harlem opened up adding deeper tourist appeal with a refreshed neighborhood hotel. There are also more hotels in the works for the area. All of your five senses will be your guide as you see, hear, touch, feel and taste your way into the heart of all this neighborhood has to offer. There is not better way “love the way you live.”