Each of New York’s five boroughs is characterized by its own unique rhythms, flavors, and cultures. For an area that has a wonderful mix of eateries and bars, consider Harlem, or cross the river and stay in Downtown Brooklyn. Alternatively, for an area that’s teeming with nightlife, art galleries, shopping, and an array of fun things to do, base yourself in Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, or the Meatpacking District, where you’ll find everything from foodie experiences to filming location tours.

For folks looking for a quieter, more intimate getaway, Franklin Forbes—the owner of the BIPOC Business directory Blistey—recommends venturing out to Stuyvesant Heights, Brooklyn and staying at one of his favorite spots: the Akwaaba Mansion. A Black-owned luxury bed-and-breakfast, this 1860s Italianate villa boasts four guest rooms with private baths and various amenities, including afternoon tea and a filling Southern breakfast—a pleasant start to a day of NYC sightseeing.

Finding food and drink in NYC is never a problem: On days where you’re in need of a self-care meal, stop by Melba’s Restaurant in Harlem for some comforting soul food. The oxtail, rice and peas, and collard greens with a side of yams, served in the restaurant’s warm and homey atmosphere, instantly transports me to childhood dinners at my grandmother’s house. Afterwards, take the subway downtown to satisfy your sweet tooth at Kinky’s Dessert Bar, an adult-only, sex-positive dessert bar.

Alternatively, follow the advice of Marcos Martinez, the founder of the Black, gay lifestyle blog Men Who Brunch. He recommends stopping by Brunch Harlem (on West 119th Street) for their shrimp and grits. “What I love about the restaurant is that it's a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community. There are drag brunches and other types of LGBTQIA+ events hosted at the restaurant,” he explains.

A favorite Brooklyn spot to check out is the Natural Blend, a café that cofounder and CEO of Frisky Whiskey and TV lifestyle expert Nicole Young says “really embodies the true nature of Caribbean cuisine: fruit and vegetable-forward food and natural juice blends.” She recommends the ackee and saltfish. “It’s almost as good as my mom's; it's got all the flavor and spice you'd expect without being too salty, which, if you're familiar with this dish, you know is not an easy balance to strike."

For me, part of the New York experience is doing things that are geared towards local tastes. Seeing Off-Broadway plays and immersing yourself in cultural events is a great way to understand the city. For those seeking more education around Black culture in NYC, visit the various Black history and culture sites around the city such as the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center, the Louis Armstrong House Museum, and the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Art.

Or, time your visit around important cultural events, such as the International African Arts Festival, an annual Brooklyn-based event that highlights and celebrates the traditions and modernized expressions of several African cultures. Dates vary, but the festival always takes place in the summer. Another option is the Bronx Night Market, a monthly event that takes place April–October and features a myriad of food and drink options representing of NYC’s cultural richness and diversity.

For shopping, head to Brooklyn and visit the Black, queer-owned shop BLK MKT Vintage. This antique and vintage shop in Stuyvesant Heights (on the corner of Marcus Garvey Boulevard and Decatur Street) hosts a unique collection of collectibles and curios that highlight the essence of everyday Blackness and our history.

If you’re looking to move your body, take social media manager Mariah Morrison’s advice and head to Sevaa Brooklyn, a nearby yoga and movement studio. “It’s a Black woman–owned wellness boutique that is an intimate setting with a relaxing ambiance,” she says. “The instructors challenge you while encouraging you to feel in a way that feels comfortable for your body.” (Make sure to book ahead; all classes require pre-registration.)

New York City is heavily influenced by the innovations and revolutionary work of Black people, from the fight for liberation during the Slave Revolt of 1712 to the monumental activism of trans women and queer folk who have paved the way for Pride and queer and trans rights. The community’s contribution to the city’s (and world’s) culture includes everything from the groundbreaking creativity of Black artists during the Harlem Renaissance to the birth of hip-hop at Cedar Playground in the Bronx.