Apollo Theater guide: Everything you need to know about the iconic Harlem venue

Since 1934, this historic venue has launched the careers of Black music and cultural icons and hosted everything from concerts to meetings to debates.

Austin FimmanoSeptember 8, 2024, 04:00

The Apollo Theater on 125th Street in Harlem is not just a New York City gem, but also a national one. Its iconic red marquee can be seen from up and down the block, beckoning theatre aficionados and casual observers alike for the better part of a century.

The Apollo is mainly known for its musical performances, but in its long history, the theatre has hosted all kinds of imaginable events, from sold-out concerts by music legends to NAACP meetings to a presidential debate. The Apollo has also worked with local theater groups like National Black Theatre and the Classical Theatre of Harlem to put on theatrical productions in Harlem.

Former owner Robert Schiffman once claimed that the Apollo was so famous that “for years, you could write ‘Apollo Theater’ on a postcard, drop it in a mailbox anywhere and it would be delivered.”

A trip to New York would not be complete without a visit to this legendary venue — learn more about its history and other things to do before and after seeing a show there.

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Why you should visit the Apollo Theater

The Apollo Theater is one of the most respected theatres in New York and possibly the most widely known by name. It’s a crucial part of New York City and Harlem culture alike, having historically been a place where Black performers could shine when they weren't accepted in theatres further downtown.

Apollo events like its weekly Amateur Night gave a spotlight to then-rising Black stars like Billie Holiday, Sammy Davis Jr., Sarah Vaughan, and the Jackson 5, all of whom would go on to take the nation by storm.

History of the Apollo Theater

The Apollo opened in January 1934 on the heels of the Jazz Age and the Harlem Renaissance. Opening with a lineup of jazz and blue performances in the 1930s, the Apollo adapted to the culture throughout the decades, welcoming mambo and rock and roll in the 1950s and DJ-led shows in the 1960s.

The most famous names of the day performed at the Apollo, with the seemingly endless list including Josephine Baker, Count Basie, Nat King Cole, Miles Davis, and Duke Ellington. (This tradition continues - recent Apollo concerts include Drake, Jon Batiste, and Lil Wayne.) James Brown recorded a series of live albums at the theater, earning not just critical praise but commercial success from the albums.

The Apollo was also used for meetings and speeches by prominent civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Bayard Rustin in the 1950s and 1960s.

Famous events at the Apollo Theater

The Apollo has hosted famous concerts over the years, including Aretha Franklin in 1971, Bob Marley and the Wailers in 1979, and a 2002 Michael Jackson concert that served as a fundraiser for the Democratic Party — and was his final public performance on stage. Here are more famous events the Apollo is known for.

Amateur Night at the Apollo

Nearly as old as the Apollo itself, this 90-year-old (and counting) talent competition has birthed the careers of greats like Ella Fitzgerald, Luther Vandross, Lauryn Hill, and H.E.R. People who went on to become stars have won the night, and people who went on to be even bigger stars were booed off the stage on their first song. Attendees get a chance to see the next big thing before they make it big, or else just join in on the notorious tradition of booing.

Apollo Legends Hall of Fame

When the Apollo Theater reopened in 1985 after years of changing ownership and turbulent renovations, the Hall of Fame was established to celebrate the great names that had contributed to past success. Every year since, Apollo performers have been inducted into the Hall of Fame with pomp and circumstance.

Since 2010, bronze plaques honoring the inductees have been installed on the sidewalk on 125th Street. A posthumous Hall of Fame induction was held for Prince in June 2016, drawing crowds dressed in purple.

What to do before seeing at show at the Apollo Theater

The culture and history of Harlem is just around the corner at every step, so take the opportunity to explore before or after showtime. Besides attractions, the beautiful architecture and lush parks of the area are worth a visit.

Studio Museum

Not too far from the Apollo, Studio Museum 127 champions artists of African descent and has rotating exhibitions of modern art, photographs, and works from visiting or resident artists.

National Jazz Museum

This museum is dedicated to Harlem’s rich history of jazz and preserving and celebrating modern-day jazz for the future. The robust events calendar includes live music, rotating exhibits, talks, and more.

Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

This New York Public Library research library offers in-person exhibits dedicated to African-American and African Diaspora culture. A recent exhibit, “JIMMY!”, showcases legendary Harlemite James Baldwin’s personal papers on public display for the first time.

Morningside Park

This park is beautiful for a stroll in all seasons. The winding stone stairways are picture-perfect, and the Morningside Waterfall is a nice place to relax on a bench and maybe admire some turtles.

Live music in Harlem

There’s live music to be found all over Harlem, from dinnertime performances at restaurants to dedicated music venues. Some near to the Apollo include Silvana, a Middle Eastern cafe with a venue for live music in the basement, or Room 623, a jazz speakeasy.

Where to eat and drink before a show at the Apollo Theater

Harlem is a well-known food hotspot for a reason, and whether you choose to go with a classic soul food place or mix it up a little, it would be hard to not walk away satisfied.

Sylvia's

Sylvia’s is a classic for a reason. In business since 1962, the “Queen of Soul Food” is not to be missed. If possible, check out the gospel brunch Sundays or the live music on Wednesdays - the perfect accompaniment to a plate of chicken and waffles or short ribs. Sylvia's is so popular that it does book up fast, so be sure to make a reservation.

Red Rooster

Right next to Sylvia’s, celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson’s restaurant also serves up Southern comfort food. Red Rooster has a robust schedule of live music and a cornbread appetizer to die for. And if you’re lucky enough to attend a private event at Ginny’s Supper Club, the speakeasy lounge in the basement, you’re in for a treat.

Charles Pan-Fried Chicken

For a more casual, to-go soul food experience, Charles Pan-Fried Chicken is delicious and conveniently located near three parks (Morningside, St. Nicholas, and Riverside). You can choose your plate and your sides and take it all for a walk in the park.

Sottocasa

This authentic Italian pizza joint offers a wide range of wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas. The menu includes vegan and vegetarian options, and you can even switch out the standard crust for a fantastic gluten-free alternative that tastes nearly identical.

Harlem Shake

For more casual fare with a vintage flair, check out retro diner Harlem Shake. A neighborhood staple since 2013, Harlem Shake serves up smash burgers, fries, and milkshakes (and be sure to get the side of jerk mayo). While you dine in the 1950s-style booths, admire the Wall of Fame with over 200 signed headshots of celebrity customers, from Janelle Monáe to Maya Angelou.

Sugar Monk

For a pre- or post-show drink, head just around the corner from the Apollo to Sugar Monk. The cocktail bar has an unbelievably dynamic (and aesthetic) menu and a candlelit, velvety ambience that feels like you're stepping back in time to the Harlem Renaissance. There’s live jazz music every Monday evening to add to the sultry vibes.

Sugar Hill Creamery

Named for an old Harlem nickname that signaled opulence and wealth, Sugar Hill Creamery is a delectable ice cream spot with several locations in Harlem and beyond. The closest one to the Apollo is the Central Harlem location, where you can get Harlem-inspired flavors and seasonal specials.

Get tickets to a show at the Apollo Theater

Whatever’s on stage, the Apollo is sure to be an unforgettable experience. No matter what you end up seeing there, you get to be a small piece of a storied past that continues to influence culture today.