Manhattan and its surrounding area, is one of the most racially diverse places in the country. People of every race live side-by-side with one another while maintaining their own cultures. The city that never sleeps has something for everyone.
Manhattan still maintains many of the ethnic neighborhoods from 100 years ago. Astoria, Queens has its Greeks and Egyptians, Belmont, Bronx has Italians and Albanians, Williamsburg, Brooklyn has Puerto Ricans and Jews, and that is just scratching the surface.
In Manhattan and its boroughs, there is such a wide variety of markets and restaurants that no matter what you are in the mood for, it’s probably a short subway ride away.
While in New York, take a trip to Ellis Island to see firsthand the real diversity of America. Throughout its 62-year history as a federal immigration station (until the 1890s states regulated their own immigration), more than 12 million people of all ages, races, ethnicities, and backgrounds came through seeking a better life.
Another must during a visit to New York is taking the time to taste New York style pizza, and Manhattan’s Little Italy is home to the oldest pizzeria in the country. Lombardi’s originally opened its doors in 1897 as a small family run market, and in 1905 it became the first pizzeria in America. It closed in 1984, but re-opened10-years later just one block from its original location. And the tradition of serving pizza with fresh ingredients from the original coal fired ovens continues.
Those looking for Chinese food can find some of the best in Chinatown. With over 200 restaurants to choose from, they cater to every taste, from mild to wild. Tea enthusiasts will find themselves in heaven in Chinatown as people come from miles around to find the best teas here.
New York City is home to the Friends Meeting House in Flushing, and what some say is the oldest church in the country. Founded in 1694, it was a Quaker meeting place. Since Quakers believe that everyone has a direct line to God, they have no pastors or ministers. Their meeting place served as a place to quietly worship, fellowship, and meet with community leaders. During the Civil War, the Friends Meeting House served as a stop on the Underground Railroad.
New York is also home to the Abyssinian Baptist Church. Founded in 1808, it is the oldest African-American Baptist church in the country. The goal of the church was to allow members to worship without segregation from the rest of the congregation. It still operates today under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Calvin Butts, III.
The largest church in the country also resides in New York. The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine is a work in progress. Construction began in 1892 and continued through 2008, with still more work left to do. The church consists of seven chapels and each is dedicated to a different immigrant group. The church was a major gathering place in the hours and days after the terror attacks of 9/11.
The Eldridge Synagogue holds the distinction of being the first synagogue built in New York by eastern European Jews. The synagogue underwent major restoration in 2007, and guided tours are available to the public, but they no longer hold religious services.
If there is one thing New York is famous for, it’s entertainment. New York is the land of milk and honey for musicians, dancers, and actors of every genre.
Visitors and locals alike find some of the best jazz music in Harlem, a historically African-American community since the 1930’s. Once thought of as an area not to visit after dark, Harlem’s current revitalization includes the renewal of old jazz clubs and new jazz clubs joining the ranks. And for those who want to know more about the roots of jazz, the National Jazz History Museum in Harlem is a great place to visit as well.
Without a doubt, jazz lovers cannot and should not miss the Apollo Theater. Part jazz club, part museum, the Apollo has hosted legends and amateurs alike for nearly 100 years. Entertainers like Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, Michael Jackson, and Smokey Robinson all made names for themselves at the Apollo.
Although Broadway shows have a reputation for spectacular productions with big name stars, off Broadway is actually home to some of the best dance and theatrical performances, as these performers are the up and comers trying to catch their big break on Broadway.
No matter what it is that interests the savvy traveler, New York offers it all from food to culture to entertainment, nothing, not even the American Dream, is out of reach in the Big Apple.
Sources:
http://www.ellisisland.org/default.asp
http://www.welcometoharlem.com/page/harlem_history/;jsessionid=d8e128o00cg
http://www.stjohndivine.org/
http://www.eldridgestreet.org/
http://www.nyym.org/flushing/
http://www.chinatown-online.com/nychinatown/eating.shtml
http://www.walkingaround.com/