This post is brought to you by I Love NY.
From historic theaters to museums, outdoor parks, and culinary gems, here are some of the best places in New York to explore on your next weekend gateway.
Though it is easy to get trapped in the New York City bubble- The Alvin Ailey Theater, Apollo Theater, and Louis Armstrong House is here! not to mention the home of the Harlem Renaissance-there is so much more in New York state to experience.
For instance, Harriet Tubman's house, located in Auburn, N.Y., in Cayuga County, and John Brown's house in Lake Placid, N.Y., are all reminders how New York has and does play a pivotal part in Black America.
Here's a map highlighting some of the state's most important destinations when it comes to Black culture:
❤️ For more information and other places to visit, do check out I Love NY.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (New York, NY)
Founded in 1958 by the legendary choreographer Alvin Ailey, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is not only the largest modern dance company in the U.S., but has been at the forefront of modern dance and African American culture for decades.
Known for its powerful performances, Ailey's company combines classical and modern techniques with a tribute to cultural expression. Attending a performance is a must for those seeking an artistic celebration of Black history.
Louis Armstrong House (Queens, NY)
I've spent time in and out of Corona, Queens, but had never known the Louis Armstrong house was just around the corner.
Indeed, Louis Armstrong, the "King of Jazz," spent the last years of his life in a modest house in the neighborhood of Corona. Today, that home is a museum dedicated to his life and legacy. Visitors can explore Armstrong's personal artifacts, listen to his recordings, and gain insight into his contributions to music and culture.
It's a great destination for music lovers and anyone interested in one of jazz's greatest icons.
Allie B's Cozy Kitchen (Albany, NY)
Located in Albany, the state capital of New York, this restaurant is known for its warm hospitality and delicious comfort food, making it a local favorite.
The restaurant is named for the late Allie Bee Bethea, who came to New York from South Carolina in the 1960s. Her cooking is now passed on through her daughter, Kizzy, who continues to own and operate the establishment.
Allie B's offers an inviting atmosphere with dishes that reflect the rich history of Southern and African American culinary traditions, offering up fried fish, BBQ chicken, and sweet potato pie.
John Brown Farm (Lake Placid, NY)
Though Lake Placid is often synonymous with being the home of 2 Winter Olympics, there's more to the region than skiing, skating and outdoor adventures.
Lake Placid also happens to be the place where abolitionist John Brown resided in the early 1800s, and fought for the end of slavery leading up to the Civil War before his execution.
His farm is currently preserved as a memorial and New York State Historic Site, where visitors can explore his life and legacy as part of the ongoing fight for freedom and equality at this national landmark.
Apogee Wine Bar (Rochester, NY)
Launched in 2014, Apogee Wine Bar was opened by Simone Boone and her husband after going on a wine tasting in South America.
This Rochester wine bar combines upscale dining with its refined atmosphere with a curated wine selection and cuisine.
It is an ideal spot for those looking to explore the intersection of culture and cuisine, reminding us how intricate culture really is, with all of its interconnectedness and nuances.
Harriet Tubman Home (Auburn, NY)
Last, but, never least, it is nearly impossible mentioning Black history without mentioning Martin Luther King Jr., and Harriet Tubman
In her later years, Harriet Tubman settled in Auburn, N.Y., in Cayuga County, about an hour outside Rochester, N.Y. Harriet Tubman purchased the farm at 182 South Street for $1,200, with $25 down in 1858.
Most known for her work with the Underground Railroad, the Harriet Tubman Home is designated as a National Historic Landmark and is a must-visit for those interested in the abolitionist movement and the fight for freedom.
