Murals and Mosaics of Spanish Harlem: Amazing Street Art

New York City , United States of America

Murals and Mosaics of Spanish Harlem: Amazing Street Art

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About this experience

The street art of Spanish Harlem (AKA East Harlem or El Barrio) tells us so much about the history, culture, & politics of this under-appreciated NYC neighborhood & its residents. Some of the colorful murals & mosaics are dedicated to accomplished citizens of Spanish Harlem, such as the writers Julia de Burgos & Nicholasa Mohr. Others honor world-famous people including Celia Cruz & Che Guevara. Many of the artworks celebrate the Latin culture of the neighborhood. They also bring into the streets the gorgeous scenery of the tropical islands which so many members of this community left behind. Visitors to Spanish Harlem are always dazzled by the street art there. Here is what one of them said: "The Spanish Harlem tour with Leigh was a great investment of 2 hours. The tour was rich in information & cultural & neighborhood significance. Leigh is a terrific guide to it all. I have done many walking tours, and this is one of the best. Not to be missed if you are visiting New York".

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Murals and Mosaics of Spanish Harlem: Amazing Street Art

What's included

Admission fee

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

There are 4 outdoor murals at our meeting place, and we spend time looking at and commenting on all of them.
We also discuss the church, which is nicknamed “The People's Church” for its association with the Young Lords. They were a social justice and community empowerment group in Spanish Harlem from 1969-76, and they left a great legacy in the neighborhood. We do not go inside the church.

Stop 2

We see one mural on the outside of this restaurant and one on the inside. This stop is one block East of our starting place.

Stop 3

We walk 8 blocks from North to South, zigzagging between Lexington and Third Avenues, which are only a block apart. So, not much walking, but that is because this area is chock-a-block with public art! We stop to look at about 2 dozen murals and mosaics. And, all the while, we are just North of the Upper East Side and only 3 blocks from Central Park. The mosaics are all by the brilliant artist Manny Vega, who was recently celebrated in a year-long exhibit at the Museum of the City of New York.

Stop 4

We talk briefly about why there is a large Greek Orthodox Church in a neighborhood which has never been associated with residents of Greek heritage. But mainly we stop here to see the final mural on our route and say farewell. And because next to the church is the East 103rd St. stop on the #6 subway train. So that is an easy way to get to your next destination.

Available languages

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Nearest subway: 110th Street stop on the #6 train on the East Side of Manhattan

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information