NYC & Company wants you to take an “NYC-cation” and explore all the best Hispanic and Latino neighborhoods across the five boroughs to mark the end of National Hispanic Heritage Month.
“In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, NYC & Company invites locals and regional visitors to join in celebrating New York City’s Hispanic and Latino communities, this month and beyond,” Fred Dixon, president of NYC & Company, said in a statement. “With vibrant neighborhoods, world-class museums, authentic dining offerings, exciting hotel options and more to safely explore across the five boroughs, in addition to special celebrations taking place virtually this year, we encourage New Yorkers to mask up, support local businesses and consider a staycation in their own back yard.”
To help people make the most of their visit, NYC & Company put together a quick guide to a few featured neighborhoods, including where to eat, stay, and what to do.
East Harlem, or “El Barrio” (Manhattan)
East Harlem, the company explained, “was once home to the borough’s first Little Italy. After the First World War, a new wave of émigrés from Puerto Rico settled in the neighborhood and during the century that followed, Italian Harlem became East Harlem—also known as ‘El Barrio.’”
In East Harlem, it is recommended to visit El Museo del Barrio, which specializes in Puerto Rican, Caribbean, and Latin American art. As for dining options, indulge in authentic flavors at Zona de Cuba, a Cuban restaurant offering delights like vaca frita and ropa vieja.
Washington Heights & Inwood (Manhattan)
For another stop, head over to Washington Heights, known as the “Little Dominican Republic.” In this vibrant neighborhood, it is suggested to visit The Met Cloisters, an extraordinary museum located in Fort Tryon Park. The museum features relocated Romanesque abbeys, showcasing treasures from the Middle Ages. Afterward, savor the fusion of traditional Cuban and Dominican flavors at El Floridita.
Jackson Heights (Queens)
Finally, the neighborhood of Jackson Heights is highlighted for its rich “cuisine and culture from Latin America and beyond. The neighborhood also proudly hosts one of New York City’s largest LGBTQ+ communities.”
Exploring Jackson Heights, one should check out its architectural masterpieces. Notable sites include the renowned garden apartment buildings featuring European Renaissance-inspired designs, such as The Chateau and The Towers.
For an authentic dining experience, Los Arrieros Restaurant offers deep beefy flavors with a rich broth made from potatoes, green plantains, yuca, beef, chicken, or pork.
To discover more about Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, visit NYC & Company’s full guide for an enriching experience in the city.
