Harlem Holiday Lights

Don't sit and wait.  We have lots of things for you to do to bring in the holiday season. Join the 125th Street BID for the 27th Annual Harlem Holiday Lights! Read more about the interactive activities that we have planned with you in mind.

LET'S GET INTERACTIVE

125th Street Business Improvement District
Minutes of February 2, 2021 Meeting
Via zoom

Attendance:
Leah Abraham, Ross Jacobs, Jonelle Procope, Mukaram Taheraly, Adam Doyno, C. Virginia Fields, Lewis Rice, Gwen Stacy, LeMel Lindsey, Nina Saxon, Ester Fuchs, Cicely Harris, Shaun Smith, Ken Miles, Gwen Stacey, Hamil Douglas, 
Guest:  Curtis Archer, President Harlem Community Development Corporation, Evan Richardson, Studio Museum, Michael Lythcoth, National Black Theater
Staff:  Barbara Askins, Anthony Baker, Doslyn Moody

After establishing a quorum, the meeting opened at approximately 11:05am.  The Chairman welcomed new members and asked everyone to introduce themselves and then introduced our guest:  Curtis Archer, President of the Harlem Community Development Corporation.  

Curtis Archer gave a presentation on two development projects in the district.

(1)  Victoria Theater Development Project: 

 The Project began construction in the fall of 2015 with the goal of transforming the long-vacant Victoria Theatre into an approximately 385,000 SF, 27-story mixed-use development that would restore the façade and lobby of the landmark theater in accordance with SHPO guidelines and include:

	a full-service hotel with approximately 200 keys and entertainment space – operated by Marriot Renaissance; 
	approximately 200 residential units – half of which are designated for low- and moderate- income families;
	approximately 25,000 SF of retail space; and
	approximately 25,000 SF of theater and arts space, which is our cultural unit, consisting of a 99- and a 199-seat theater – to be operated and managed by the Apollo Theater Foundation, which was designated by Harlem CDC’ board in 2015. 
Current Project Status:  In August Harlem CDC’s directors authorized the extension of the developers ground lease to April 30, 2021.



The National Urban League and its partners, BRP Companies, Taconic Investment Partners, and L+M Development Partners, have secured and closed on the necessary financing to establish its permanent home on 125th Street between Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Boulevard and Lenox Avenue/Malcolm X Boulevard.

The $242 million project will include:
	A new national headquarters for the National Urban league, 
	The National Urban League Institute for Race, Equity and Justice,
	The Urban Civil Rights Experience Museum, New York’s first civil rights museum to share and illustrate the story of civil rights advocacy in the north.  
	170 residential units, all of which will be affordable to households earning between 30% and 80% of the Area Median Income. (Of the total units, 30% will be supportive housing units to assist vulnerable populations including youth aging out of foster care), 
	Below-market rate office space for nonprofit groups including the 100 Black Men, the United Negro College Fund, and the Jazzmobile,
	Additional Class A retail and office space that will attract future tenants that will provide jobs and amenities for the neighborhood. 
The $242 million project is receiving funding from Empire State Development (“ESD”), New York State Housing Finance Agency (“HFA”), New York State Housing and Community Renewal (“HCR”), Goldman Sachs Urban Investment Group (“UIG”), the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone (“UMEZ”), and Harlem Community Development Corporation (“HCDC”). 
Demolition of the existing garage is underway and construction is expected to begin early 2021. We expect the building to be completed in 2024.


While the presentation was well received by members, it was also discussed that the addition of supportive housing in that location needs further discussions as this is an area that is already over saturated with services for underserved communities and there are many problems that need to be addressed.  Curtis agreed to work with the BID on this issue.


The Chairman presented meeting dates for the rest of the fiscal year and called for approval of the July 23, 2020 minutes.  It was motioned by Jonelle Procope and seconded by Ross Jacobs to accepted the minutes.  The motion carried unanimously.

The audit committee voted yes for the BID to submit its financial audit report to SBS and the Comptroller of New York.  Members were provided 12.28.20 audit committee minutes, audit report for fiscal year ending June 30, 2020 and letters from BID auditor on the financials.  The Chairman asked for a motion to ratify the actions of the Audit Committee.  It was motioned by Ross Jacobs and seconded by Jonelle Procope.  The motion carried unanimously.

The Chairman gave an update on First and Second Quarter Financials FY 2020-2021. Copies of financials provided.

The Chairman praised the efforts of the staff to hold the holiday lighting program virtually with limited physical activities during the height of the pandemic.    


Vote to file 990’s 
Barbara presented 990’s for fiscal year ending June 30, 2020 along with instructions to review them to the members and asked for a vote to file them with the IRS.  It was  motioned by Mukaram Taheraly and seconded by Ross Jacobs.  The motion carried unanimously.

Public Safety in the District 
Ross Jacobs, Lewis Rice and C. Virginia Fields updated members on the work they have been engaged with regarding public safety on 125th Street.  The issues discussed related to homelessness, Lenox Avenue and 125th Street, crime inside the businesses, need for police presence, and working with the service providers for underserved populations.  Ross gave a special praise to Anthony Baker and his team for the work they do regarding public safety.


President’s Report
•	PROPOSAL:  OPEN STREET VENDOR AN SMALL BUSINESS MARKET :  A proposal requesting the City of New York to expand it’s open street program to allow vending activities to take place in the parking lane and remove them from the sidewalks has been submitted to the Department of Transportation.  The proposal has the support of elected officials and community boards.
•	Covid19 Educational Awareness Campaign:  A banner program is being developed to bring more awareness of the need to not let your guard down and stay safe.
•	Streetscape Maintenance – DOT will be doing sidewalk and Roadway Repairs within the BID Boundaries.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

BID Board of Directors Meeting April 22, 2021

Present- BID BOARD and Staff:  Athena Moore, Ross Jacobs, Mark Irgang, Maria Nieves, Victoria Mason-Ailey, Nina Saxon, David Gmach, Jim Simmons, LeMel Lindsey, Dr. Joseph Tait, Leah Abraham, Jonelle Procope, Vedelyn Davis, Jacqueline Bell, Cicely Harris, Nilsa Orama, Chante Jordan, Deborah Gillard, Ester Fuchs, Ken Miles

Barbara Askins, Anttony Baker, Isabel Gomez, Patricia Crooks, 

Present Elected Officials: State Senator Bryan Benjamin, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, Assemblyman Al Taylor,  

Present Members and General Public:  Owen Rogers, Jaime Chavez, Suzane Hurley, Richard kaplan, Branda Hicks, Yvone Stafford, Kim Smith, Daniel Murphy, Kurtis Crutchfield, Aissatou Bey-Grecia, Carey King, Caroline Bragdon, Christian Damiba, Deputy Inspector Christopher McIntosh, Curtis Archer, Daryl T. Downing, David Gmach, Deborah Yates, Eugenia Foxworth, Gina Rmcharan, Jennifer Prince, Jheri Hardaway, Lisa Downing, Madelyn Stokely, Malcolm Barksdale, Joel Cobrera, Miguel Adamas, Noreen Dean Dresser, Pat Stevenson, Regina Smith, Renee Billy, Ryan Dubois, Shatic Mitchell, Syderia Asberry, Thelma Russell, Wilma Brown, Jim Tumin, Steven Sterneck, Katrina Parris, Paulie Ferrante, Barbara Barber, Alice La-Brie, Pam Burns, Iqwe Harvey, Jason Pennington, Jessica Hedrington, Kate Kang, Sharron Crevelle, Lloyd Doama, Syderia Chresfield, Shawn Hill, Valerie Price, Noreen Dean Dresso, Angela Ridenour, Pablo Figueroa, E. Martin, Henry Ehrhardt, Evelyn Grant, Franklin Goodride, Hazel Dukes, Jason Heather, Janette Beach, Ila Gupta, Mamadou Niang, Winston Maynard, Ronald Novita, Samantha Greene, Jachele Walker, Charles Johnson, Carolyn Brown, Dina Foster Osbourne, Florence Middleton, Karen Gastiaburo, Leah Daly, Leanne Stella, Patricia Ealey, Patricia Culligan, Robyn Massey, Rose Seabrook, Shiela from Cogswell Realty, Valerie Price

Business Session:  Approval of 2018 Minutes
Mukaram called for motioned for the 2018 Minutes to be accepted.  Ross Jacobs 1st and Nina Saxon 2nd.  The minutes were approved unanimously approved.

Business Session:  Approval of Budget.  Mark Irgang, Treasurer presented the budget.  The BID is not seeking an increase in assessment. 
BID was awarded a contract to provide Street Cleaning Services for the Manhattanville Streetscape Project.  Total Revenue - $1,486,552.  total Program Expenses - $819,635.  Total General and Administrative Expenses:  $1,4763,635.  Net Operating Surplus - $22,,917  

Business Session: Election of New Board Members
Jonelle Procope gave voting instructions and advised that all property owners, commercial tenants, or residents located within the BID boundaries should complete their ballots and put it in one of the voting boxes.  Slate presented:

Nomination for re-election  for 3 year term -- Class A:  Jonelle Procope, Apollo Theater, Dr. Joseph L. Tait, Harlem Commonwealth Council, Alan and Joseph Jemal, Jemal Realty
Nomination for 3 year term -- Class A:  Jason Pizer, Enterprise Assets, Dr. Steven Mendelsohn and Chante Jordan, Zwanger Pesiri, Ms. Collette Commodore, United House of Prayer

Nomination for 3 years -- Class B -- Courtney James, Olive Garden, Dr. Ayman El-Mohandes and Adam Doyno -- CUNY School of Public Health

Nomination for 3 Years -- Class E -- Patricia Culligan and Ester Fuchs -- Columbia University 

Keynote Speaker:  Comptroller Scott M. Stringer
 Rose Pierre Louis introduced Comptroller Stringer.  

Key points from the keynote speech includes:

•	125th Street is one of the most vital BIDs in the city. 
•	All of the development coming to 125th Street is impressive.
•	Stringer acknowledged the resurgence of business activity on 125th Streeting citing the home of the Apollo Theater, Studio Museum, Magic Johnson Theater, and Redevelopment of the Victoria Theater that will house the Mariott Hotel, art spaces, classical art offices with performance space and offices for Apollo Theater.  He continued and recognized the coming of the Urban League Center with a Civil Rights Museum.  
•	All that  is happening in this district embodies the resiliency of the Harlem  neighborhood.   A whole lot of folks thought we would never make it.  The reason Harlem came back is because the people of Harlem hunkered down to say we are not going to leave, we are going to build through the lens of historic 125th Street.  We are going to create the economic opportunities for everyone that comes here …… and that is why we must support this BID.
•	There is a need for city government to be more strategic and do what we can to keep affordable housing.  There should be a strategy for what we want on our corridors.  We must convince this city that we need to help our small businesses and seek ways to build an economy that does not use businesses as the guinea pig.
•	Vacancy rates:  We are getting blocks and blocks of vacant storefronts.  We need to double down and look at our vacancies.  People are now engaging in  online ordering everyday.  So less people are in retail stores.  We need to take a closer look at the changes that comes with online shopping.  But there is new growth -- Whats coming our way is more restaurants and  different types of service products. 

In closing, he said, we need tangible results from this city to make sure business are open.  We have an opportunity to take advantage of the structure of the BIDS and work together to come up with a pipeline that moves small businesses and create wealth for all of our businesses.



Quality of Life Panel Discussion
Modertor:  Rose Pierre Louis, Former Manhattan Borough President

Quality of Life Champions
State Senator Brian Benjamin
Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer
Deputy Inspector Christopher McIntosh, NYPD - 28th Precinct
Henry Ehrhardt, Director, Bureau of Community Affairs, NYCDOS
Shawn Hill, Co-Founder, Greater Harlem Coalition
Cicely Harris, Nilsa Orama, Barry Weinberg -- Chairs -- Manhattan Community Board 9, 10, 11

Quality of Life

Harlem's businesses, community residents, and elected officials have been crying out for many years that the the community has become over saturated with a large concentration of social and health services. But the numbers continue to grow and the negative impact of the operations are becoming unbearable.

The amount of garbage on the streets, the removal of corner baskets, and the reduced number of garbage pick-ups are leading many to call for more support from NYC Department of Sanitation.  

The BID is providing its annual meeting as a place to have discussion on these most important issues.  

Election of New Members and Quality of Life Discussion

BID ANNUAL MEETING 2019

Manhattan's Community Board 9's Arts and Culture Committee Children's Village offers fun for the kids

Community Board 9 Presents The Children's Village
Harlem Holiday Lights 2020

Hosted by Manhattan's Community Board 9, the Children's Village offers fun activities for Harlem's littlest residents. This year, the Children's Village will be offered entirely online!

Community Board 9 bring to you a number of activities for children and families. The itineray below includes a slide presentation, a dance by the Spiritual Ballerina, Christmas Music lessons for young children, live demonstrations making arts and crafts, and the Christmas Queen.

December 9, 2020
Photo slide presentation:  a compilation of previous Harlem Holiday Lights Children Village activities during the Holiday Lights Parade
Created by Community Board #9

December 10, 2020
Spiritual Ballerina at Create 19
Chantal Hill

December 13, 2020
Children Village Program:  Christmas Music Lesson for young children (video)
Sabrina Francis 

Sabrina Francis - Singer, Storyteller, Actress

December 16, 2020
Its time to prepare for the coming of Jolly Old Saint Nick
Community Board 9 invites the Christmas Queen to share the classic, the Night Before Christmas with the children of Harlem 

Children's Village

Manhattan CBD #9 collection of Artistic Spiritual Expressions through dance and song

December 10, 2020
Amazing Grace by Spiritual Ballerina Chantal Hill

Chantal’ Ashantè Hill began as a gymnast at 6 years old but began her formal ballet training at the “late” age of 17. A path that God purposefully called her to hone. With the grit & grace of God, she persevered towards her purpose which she now calls “Spiritual Ballerina.”

December 15, 2020
Dialogue on Holiday Lights by Reverend Georgiette Morgan-Thomas

Spiritual Village

Let's Get Interactive.  Manhattan VP Gale Brewer VIP Lounge.  Host Athena Moore.

invites you to Harlem Holiday Lights 2020 VIP Lounge


The VIP Reception for Harlem Holiday Lights has become a tradition and a look forward to activity to attend and kick off the holiday season in Harlem.  COVID19 has forced everyone to move into the digital space.  

Join Elected Officials, BID Board Members, Community Leaders and Special Guest as they kick off the holiday season in Harlem bringing cheer and unity.  

Bring your cocktail and your jingle bells for a zoom toast!

MBP Gale Brewer VIP LOUNGE

Harlem's favorite event returns for the 2020 Harlem Holiday Lights!

Virtual Karaoke with NightStar DJ & Video Entertainment

Harlem Holiday Lights Karaoke is a listening and virtual watch adventure.  

It's no secret that Karaoke is one of the most popular activities each year during Harlem Holiday Lights. Karaoke is returning virtually for 2020 and will be co-hosted by NightStar DJ & Video Entertainment.

Participants must sign up for this activity in advance using the link below. Once registered, you will be emailed a Zoom link and all of the information you need about how to access the activity. To make the event as enjoyable as possible, pre-registration is required and participants will sing in the order of submission. Participants will be asked to select their song(s) of choice in advance. During the event, the host will have a list of participants and their selected song(s) in order of submission.

Virtual Karaoke will be hosted on Zoom by NightStar DJ's founders, Justine Faith and Brooklyn Bill. NightStar DJ has over 300,000 songs available from which participants can select. This adventure story is available for those who want to show their skills and those who love to watch karaoke performances.    

Please remember that Harlem Holiday Lights is a family-friendly event and therefore, we ask you to select family-friend songs! All participants will be required to acknowledge this when they sign up for the event. Any participant who engages in any behavior that is perceived to be offensive in any capacity will be removed from the Zoom call.

Read more about NightStar DJ & Video Entertainment

Karaoke with Nightstar DJ

Listen to perfectly curated soundtracks that play a big role in the retail experience on 125th Street.

We open this story with a tribute to Bobby Robinson and Bobby's Happy House to archive and preserve his incredible legacy and presence in the BID'S boundary.  Bobby was an independent record producer and songwriter based in Harlem who produced hits by  The Shirelles, Gladys Knight & The Pips, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five, Doug E. Fresh, and more.  Bobby Happy's House, his tiny record shop on 125th St. spawned many No. 1 hits and made him an uptown patriarch for six decades. 

Thanks to Bobby and other Harlem legends, music has become a staple for  the Harlem community and the businesses along 125th Street.  Whenever you walk into a retail establishment, you experience custom, creative and engaging in-store music.  The 125th Street Retailers captures the sounds that resonate with the Harlem neighborhoods contributing to area's urban culture.   

Harlemites and tourists alike enjoy a great experience when they hear and feel the rhythms and beats as they shop for appliances, beauty and cosmetics, accessories, kicks, and more.  Through this site, you can hear playlists from some of your favorite businesses and shop online with them through our digital brochure.  The 125th Street in-store music experiences are of course fascinating as the musical influence from Harlem is oh so rich!. 

Whether you are a visitor, worker, resident, or investor, you have come to the right place to listen to the sounds of the marriage between business and music.  

Naturally our first listening experience takes you to the world famous Apollo Theater where some of the biggest icons in music have performed for decades. Follow and tune in when the Apollo releases a new playlist curated by the Apollo staff, and listen to their full list of archived playlists below.  A treat during the holidays.

Bath and Body Works:
Carefully Extracted songs from the official "after hours" playlist in the Bath and Body Works US Stores.  

Take Yo' PraiseCamille Yarbrough • The Iron Pot Cooker. ...
I Love Your Lovin' WaysNina Simone • Wild Is The Wind. ...
Ain't No Mountain High EnoughMarvin Gaye, Tammi Terrell. ...
Wouldn't It Be Nice - RemasteredThe Beach Boys • Pet Sounds (Original Mono & Stereo Mix Versions) ...
My GirlThe Temptations • The Temptations Sing Smokey
more.....


HHL 2020 Listening Experience

Perfect for families and kids, Blitz Champz reinforces math skills in students (grades 3-8)

Created by two-time women’s tackle football gold medalist and national champion Adrienne Smith, BLITZ CHAMPZ is a fun and competitive card game for children ages 7 and up! BLITZ CHAMPZ is easy to learn and can be played by 2-6 people at a time.

BLITZ CHAMPZ, based on the sport of football, teaches strategy and reinforces MATH skills for students in grades three to eight!

Join Adrienne's adventure webinar and learn how to play BLITZ CHAMPZ.

BLITZ CHAMPZ was selected as a National Parenting Product Award winner and is excellent for all children, and football fans and non-football fans alike.

Blitz Champz

Bring Cheers. Download the Snapchat app & take a selfie with the HHL geofilter & share with your friends.

Harlem Holiday Lights 2020
Holiday Selfies Returns
through the 
125th Street BID Snapchat Filter

Available Wednesday, November 18 from 4 - 10 PM along the Caravan of Lights route

The map of the Caravan of Lights route is available below.

Harlemites and visitors loved taking pictures in front of the giant balloon selfie frames provided by Joshua's Balloons during Harlem Holiday Lights 2019. 

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we could not bring the giant balloon frames so we are making this favorite activity happen again virtually with Snapchat!  The Harlem Holiday Lights Snapchat Filter will be available along with the Caravan of Lights route on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 from 4 - 10 PM EST.

Bringing Cheers to Harlem: The Caravan of Lights 2020

Below is the route for the Caravan of Lights. The Caravan of Lights will consist of three lighted floats lead by NYPD along the route in the map below. 
You can use the Harlem Holiday Lights Snapchat filter if you are located along the route to help us BRING IN CHEERS.

HOW TO ACCESS THE HARLEM HOLIDAY LIGHTS SNAPCHAT FILTER

*Please note that the Snapchat filter is only available along the Caravan of Lights route on November 18, 2020 from 4 - 10 PM EST. It is not available throughout all of Harlem.*

1. Download Snapchat on the App Store or Google Play Store

2. Create a Snapchat account or log in if you already have an account

3. Make sure your location services are turned on so Snapchat can see that you're in Harlem

4. Swipe right or left until you see the 125th Street BID filter

5. Snap a picture and share it with the community!

Harlem Holiday Lights Snapchat Filter

Harlem is a very special community! What does Harlem mean to you?

The HARLEM TO ME IS project  was launched by the 125th Street BID and sponsored by the Columbia University Data Science Institute during Harlem Holiday Lights 2019.  

Harlem has always had a special meaning to those who live, work, visit, and invest in the tight-knit community.  As Harlem continues to evolve, the deep feelings and attractiveness to the neighborhood never waivers.  The HARLEM TO ME IS project is designed to allow you to express your inner love for Harlem.      

We welcome back the Columbia University Data Science Institute as the Harlem Holiday Lights 2020  "HARLEM TO ME IS" sponsor.

Saxophonist Coleman Hawkins, one of the first and most prominent jazz saxophonist's of his time, produced WHAT HARLEM IS TO ME.  Nicknamed "Hawk" and sometimes "Bean",  Hawkins was an American jazz tenor saxophonist...one of the first prominent jazz musicians on his instrument. While he is strongly associated with swing music and the big band era, he had a role in the development of bebop in the 1940s. Click the video to go back in time and listen to the passion that was felt about Harlem 85 years ago.  

BECOME A PART OF the HARLEM TO ME IS campaign

This holiday season, the 125th Street BID once again offers those who live, work, visit and invest in Harlem an opportunity to express what Harlem means to you.  Submit your Harlem To Me Is video to the BID and you may find yourself as part of the 2020 Harlem Holiday Lights social media campaign.   

Check back here in the coming weeks for details.

Check out a few Harlem residents who shared what Harlem means to them!

Harlem To Me Is...

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HHL2020 Activities

Get Involved

Exciting Announcement
Harlem Holiday Lights 2020 is still on!!!

Videos

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azbeoJ2dVCg&t=808s

MANHATTAN BOROUGH PRESIDENT GALE BREWER VIP VIRTUAL LOUNGE

https://harlemlightitup.vamonde.com/posts/hhl-2020-listening-experience/10656/

HARLEM HOLIDAY LIGHTS 2020 LISTENING EXPERIENCE

LIVESTREAM OF CARAVAN OF LIGHTS

https://harlemlightitup.vamonde.com/posts/karaoke-with-nightstar-dj/10464/

VIRTUAL KARAOKE WITH NIGHTSTAR DJ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMN45UPOgx0&feature=youtu.be

MESSAGE FROM 2020 GRAND MARSHAL DR.JOSEPH L. TAIT

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHCdJRjUAjs&feature=youtu.be

MESSAGE FROM 2020 GRAND MARSHAL BEVY SMITH

HARLEM HOLIDAY LIGHTS IS STILL ON! From November 16, 2020 through December 31, 2020, the 125th Street Business Improvement District looks forward to (virtually) celebrating the start of the holiday season in Harlem.

Harlem Lights 2020: Spreading Cheer in Harlem

Put your sleuthing skills to the ultimate test in New York's SPYSCAPE, a cutting-edge museum experience dedicated to all things espionage. Whether you fancy yourself a James Bond or a Mata Hari, you'll get to explore all types of undercover infiltration, and learn how to apply these skills in everyday life.

SPYSCAPE

We all know New York for its speeding cabs and towering skyscrapers, but did you know there's also a theme park where thrilling rollercoasters hurtle over the beach? Get a whole day of fun and up to 28 different rides at Coney Island's Luna Park! On summer weekends, this pass is not available onsite - it's ONLY available through Tiqets!

Luna Park in Coney Island

Soak up the magic of Manhattan from the saddle of your bicycle with a Brooklyn Bridge Bike Rental. Plan your own itinerary, pick up your wheels at South Bridge Seaport and set off for a day of Big Apple sightseeing! Choose from one hour up to a full 24.

Brooklyn Bridge Sightseeing Bike Rentals

Looking up at New York's skyscrapers is quite an experience. But it's nothing compared to looking _down_ on New York from atop its most famous skyscraper. With ongoing exhibitions and two observation decks, the Empire State Building is the best way to see the Empire State.

Empire State Building: General Admission

Take a trip around the world and back in time, through thousands of pieces of priceless art. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (or The Met) is the largest art museum in the United States. Our mobile ticket gets you three-day, fast-track access to all exhibits at all three Met locations!

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met): Fast Track

The _Top of the Rock_ is an observation deck smack in the middle of Manhattan. It's perched atop 30 Rock, the famous Art Deco building that's the centerpiece of Rockefeller Center. Skip the ticketing line and go straight entry line to the 70th-floor observation deck for panoramic views of the Big Apple.

Top of the Rock

You want to be a part of it, New York, New York! But after a while all those honking taxi horns and crowded sidewalks can make your brain hurt. Enter Central Park, an emerald green oasis in the middle of the madness. Rent a bike for a day and cruise this urban wilderness. Escape to Strawberry Fields, roll past lakes and lochs, sniff out the hotdog sellers, and become part of Manhattan. The city is yours.

Central Park Bike Rentals

New York City is America’s real land of opportunity, and here’s an opportunity you can’t pass up. With a New York City Explorer Pass you can choose to check out 3, 5 or 7 amazing attractions - from a list of over 60. This convenience will save you time (and more than a good few dollars for your hot dog fund). See the big art museums, take a BEAST speedboat ride, get a tour of Rockefeller and Radio City Music Hall, bike over the Brooklyn Bridge, and more.

New York City Explorer Pass

Events

VIDEOS

Plan your spring break family fun in Chicago! Check it out on the Choose Chicago channel on Vamonde.

Choose Chicago

Plan a family getaway the kids won't soon forget!

Spring Break Family Fun

Explore some of the locations of the Chicago blues scene of the 1960s with this VAMONDE adventure, based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "AMPLIFIED: Chicago Blues."

Chicago History Museum

Explore some of the locations of the Chicago blues scene of the 1960s with this VAMONDE adventure, based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "AMPLIFIED: Chicago Blues." Southern black migrants brought the blues to Chicago, where the music helped them forge connections and transform an unfamiliar, often inhospitable city into a new home. The music was also transformed—electrified and amplified to compete with urban noise. The photography of Raeburn Flerlage captures the streets, clubs, homes, and studios where a community of musicians defined the Chicago blues sound.

AMPLIFIED: Chicago Blues

From a 20th century resurgence that rivaled the Harlem Renaissance, to spectacular displays of Victorian Era architecture, this South Side neighborhood is responsible for tremendous cultural and social advances that are not to be missed.

The heart and soul of Chicago lies in its 77 vibrant neighborhoods, and going beyond the loop (Chicago’s downtown business district) will give you a much needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the skyscraper district. As part of the Beyond the Loop video series, The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to explore the local hotspots in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood. Discover why Bronzeville is more than just an artsy pocket on the South Side.

Bronzeville and Beyond

"How can I possibly be expected to handle school on a day like this?" We've all been there, even if we're not Ferris Bueller. After your mornings stretch, you look outside at the shining sun, soft breeze, and then wonder, "How can anyone expect me to handle work on a day like this?" So take the day off! While you're at it, follow in Ferris Bueller's footsteps too as Choose Chicago takes you through the film locations that made Ferris Bueller's Day Off such a wonderful adventure (but make sure Ed Rooney isn't on your tail).

It’s Ferris Bueller's Day Off! Take a day to explore the city, but don't get caught by the incredulous Principal Rooney! Kick it like a couple of wise-cracking high school kids at The Art Institute of Chicago and peer down from over 100 stories in the air with the Skydeck at Willis Tower. (Cover photo from @thiswashollywood via Instagram)

Ferris Bueller's Day Off

Chicago’s legendary Second City comedy troupe and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to create the quintessential Old Town experience. Join us as we explore the historic neighborhood and discover its many claims to fame.

As part of the Beyond the Loop video series, The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to create the quintessential Old Town experience. Discover why this neighborhood has been home to immigrant families, gays, hippies and young professionals alike over the years.

Quintessential Old Town

The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company team up with Choose Chicago to how you why even 120 years after the Columbian Exposition, Hyde Park is still a profound point of historical and social importance in Chicago.

The heart and soul of Chicago lies in its 77 vibrant neighborhoods, and going beyond the loop (Chicago’s downtown business district) will give you a much needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the skyscraper district. As part of the Beyond the Loop video series, The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to explore the local hotspots in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood. Join us as we show you why even 120 years after the Columbian Exposition, Hyde Park is still a profound point of historical and social importance in Chicago.

Hyde Park: Obama's Neighborhood

The Budget Savvy Travelers

Temperatures are rising and the days are getting longer. This is a sure sign that schools will soon be out for summer vacation. Families looking for fun, affordable ways to keep kids busy during hot days will appreciate this guide that shares some great ways to cool off around Chicago—most are even free.

Best Places to Cool Off in Chicago

Craving a getaway, but short on vacation time or extra travel funds? Why not consider embarking on a culinary adventure? Chicago is a great city to experience the world through food! There are over 100 different neighborhoods in the city, each with its own unique flavors and traditions to share. Chicago has always celebrated a diverse array of people, cultures, and cuisines. Therefore, it's not surprising that Chicago consistently ranks high in top foodie destinations in the United States. For those of us that can’t book a plane ticket to satisfy our travel “craving,” taking a culinary adventure is truly the next best thing. Chicago offers a great opportunity to be carried away to a dreamy, distant place–if only through our palates alone.

Traveling the World Through Food | Chicago

Haley Guidry

Only have a short time to visit Chicago? No problem! With this guide, you can fit it all in - in just a weekend!

Spending a Weekend in Chicago

Looking for some free activities to explore in Chicago? You'll be surprised to learn that there are many things to do around the city that are absolutely free of charge!

6 Chicago Hidden Gems to Explore For Free

Wrigley Field holds the very identity of the Chicago Cubs. But Wrigley isn’t the only spot that embodies the spirit of the Cubbies. Lakeview is home to so many rich businesses that are full of North side pride!

Lakeview Roscoe Village Chamber of Commerce

Wrigleyville isn’t the only haven for fans of the Chicago Cubs. Take an adventure “Beyond Wrigley” into West Lakeview to explore some of the neighborhood icons and local businesses that are full of Cubbies pride!

Beyond Wrigley

Glessner House

Glessner House -

An architectural treasure in Chicago

Glessner House - An architectural treasure in Chicago

Welcome to the Chicago Cultural Center, a landmark home of the arts.

The People's Palace

CAC Open House

Chicago has long been a laboratory for architectural innovation and experimentation. Let the Chicago Architecture Center lead you through the stories behind some of the city’s most significant skyscrapers. Come on an adventure to unlock the secrets of 10 iconic Chicago Buildings.

Cover photo courtesy of Jessica Cabe

10 Iconic Chicago Buildings

Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce

An Adventure through all the Best Spots in the City

Must Visit Attractions in Chicago

Chicago has one of the most iconic skylines in the world. This insider guide shows you the best vantage points to capture a memorable photo of the skyline of Chicago. Best of all? These are all places that you can visit that are all free of charge.

Where to Find Chicago's Best Skyline Views for Free

Start on Chicago's South Side and travel back in time as you explore visit the homes of some of the most influential LGBTQ+ people in the city's vibrant history. Make your way through Washington Park and Woodlawn moving north towards Rogers Park.

Learn about Chicago's vibrant LGBTQ+ history on this cultural excursion through various parts of the City. This tour covers the historic markers and residences of some of Chicago's top LGBTQ+ luminaries. Find out how they left their marks from Washington Park and Woodlawn all the way up north to Rogers Park.

Explore Gay Chicago History: LGBTQ+ Landmarks Tour

Around every corner of The Magnificent Mile lie surprising pieces that make up the rich history of downtown Chicago.

The Magnificent Mile

Around every corner of The Magnificent Mile lie surprising pieces that make up the rich history of downtown Chicago. Unexpected turn-of-the-century ballrooms, lavish chandeliers, stained glass fit for royalty, atlases of the Renaissance, former mansions of America's elite, eclectic bars, iconic burger joints, classic cocktails, and unbeatable views make up our guide to the top hidden gems around the district.

The Magnificent Mile's Hidden Gems

Chicago is a city built of neighborhoods and cultures and Chinatown is the prime example. Just south of Chicago's Loop, Chinatown is bustling with people, traditional cuisine, and of course culture.

Chicago is a city built of neighborhoods and cultures and Chinatown is the prime example. Just south of Chicago's Loop, Chinatown is bustling with people, traditional cuisine, and of course culture. Hop on the Red Line, a bus, or even a water taxi and discover one of Chicago's most unique neighborhoods.

Chicago's Chinatown

This adventure, based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "Remembering Dr. King: 1929–1968," invites you to explore some of the locations Dr. King frequented in Chicago.

A Baptist minister and champion of nonviolent activism, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most influential figures of the civil rights movement. He spent considerable time in Chicago protesting racial discrimination, particularly in housing and education.
This VAMONDE adventure is based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "Remembering Dr. King: 1929-1968," and invites you to explore in person some of the locations King frequented in the city and to consider how Dr. King’s work remains relevant today, 50 years after his assassination.

Martin Luther King Jr. in Chicago

Join Julia Bachrach, former Chicago Park District historian, on a journey through Humboldt Park to learn more about the role the 150-year-old park served as key experimental grounds for Jens Jensen's Prairie style of landscape architecture.

Julia Bachrach

Established 150 years ago, Humboldt Park can be thought of as a living landmark with layers of history that reflect contributions by important landscape designers, architects, and artists. The most noteworthy, Danish immigrant Jens Jensen (1860 – 1951), revered the indigenous scenery of the Midwest and created the Prairie style of landscape architecture. Humboldt Park provided important grounds for his process of experimentation. Jensen went on to design estates for prominent businessmen such as Julius Rosenwald, Harold Florsheim, and Henry Ford. Join Julia Bachrach, former Chicago Park District historian and author of "The City in a Garden: A History of Chicago’s Parks," on a journey to learn more about how Humboldt Park served as Jens Jensen’s Experimental Grounds.

Humboldt Park: Jens Jensen’s Experimental Grounds

The Art Institute of Chicago is no stranger to "best museums” list, but beyond Michigan Avenue there are many amazing galleries displaying works from heavy hitters like Keith Haring and Hebru Brantley. Get inspired by these galleries and their collections

Chicago Scene

Chicago is home to countless world renowned cultural institutions. The Art Institute of Chicago is no stranger to "best museums” list, but beyond Michigan Avenue there are many amazing galleries displaying works from heavy hitters like Keith Haring and Hebru Brantley. There’s something for everyone at these galleries, whether you’re simply an appreciator of art or a seasoned collector.

Art Galleries: Beyond The Museum Campus

Not your everyday Chicago adventure, these unique outings go inside, behind-the-scenes, and even underground to show off a different side of the city.

VAMONDE

From the lair of a notorious Chicago gangster to the infectious groove of a legendary blues club, this adventure will have you socializing, singing, and exploring the city all day (and night!) long. Personally curated by the Vamonde team (a group of foodies, architecture buffs, music fanatics and bar-hopping explorers) this adventure will provide you with the incredible stories and secrets behind some of Chicago’s notorious and renowned spots. Did we mention gingerbread cookies at the Waldorf Astoria?

A Chicago Insider’s Adventure

Choose Chicago® is the official destination marketing organization for Chicago, Illinois. When you’re in Chicago, you’re home. With the countless experiences there are to have here, you're absolutely welcome to do any and all of them.

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Festivals

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LET'S GET INTERACTIVE

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Related Experiences

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