Marcus Garvey Park's amphitheatre is one of the most storied outdoor stages in New York - the Richard Rodgers Amphitheater has hosted Harlem's summer programming for decades, sitting in a bowl below the rocky outcrop that holds the last cast-iron fire watchtower in the United States. Programming there is free, outdoors and unmistakably Harlem. If you have never seen a show in that bowl, take any excuse.
What to expect
Expect the amphitheatre's fixed tiered seating filling from the front, sound bouncing off the rock face behind the stage, and the park's playgrounds and pool busy around it. The Harlem Fire Watchtower stands on the outcrop above, restored and visible from the seating. Arrive early for a seat; the bowl is not large.
Good to know
- Marcus Garvey Park sits between 120th and 124th Streets around Madison Avenue; the 2/3 to 125th Street and the 6 to 116th Street are both walkable.
- Free and open to the public — it is a permitted public event, so no ticket or RSVP is involved.
- The amphitheatre has fixed seating that fills early — come ahead of the programme.
- The restored Harlem Fire Watchtower, the last of its kind in the country, stands on the rock above.
- The park has a pool, playgrounds and restrooms.
- Bring sun protection for daytime sessions; the bowl is largely unshaded.
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Common questions
What is the amphitheatre called?
The Richard Rodgers Amphitheater, in Marcus Garvey Park in Harlem.
Is admission free?
Yes — programming there is free and open to the public.
Is there seating?
Yes, the amphitheatre has fixed tiered seating, first-come.
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