Explore MLK Weekend in NYC: History & Views

January 8, 2026 | Jyosana Raut

New York City stays lively even after the holidays, and MLK Weekend is the perfect example. There are always plenty of activities and deals throughout the City during the long weekend, all while taking time to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This itinerary will help you make the most of your time in the city during MLK Weekend.

Start your day uptown in Harlem, soaking in its rich history and culture, then head downtown toward Chelsea to score deals on some of New York’s most iconic attractions.

9:00 AM – Riverside Church & MLK Memorial (Harlem) 

  • Begin your day at Riverside Church, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his historic “Beyond Vietnam” speech in 1967.
    • Located on 490 Riverside Dr
  • Then visit the nearby MLK Memorial bust and take a peaceful walk through Riverside Park.
    • Located on West 66th Street and Amsterdam Avenue

10:30 AM – Harlem Cultural Walk 

  • Walk through West Harlem toward 125th Street. 

12:00 PM – Lunch in Harlem 

  • Sylvia’s Restaurant – An iconic soul food institution in the heart of Harlem
  • A beloved Harlem landmark since 1962, known for its legendary fried chicken, collard greens, and classic Southern soul food.
    • Located on 328 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027

Click Here for the Menu!

1:30 PM – Travel Downtown to Midtown / Chelsea 

  • Take the subway or a car south to Hudson Yards, giving yourself time to enjoy the city streets along the way. 

2:30 PM – Walk the High Line 

  • Enter from Chelsea and walk north toward Hudson Yards.
  • The outdoor elevated park features art, gardens, and sweeping city views, letting you experience the transition from historic Harlem to modern NYC.

5:30 PM – Dinner at Peak with Priceless

  • Dine on Level 101, where contemporary American cuisine is paired with sweeping views of the World Trade Center and the New York City skyline.

See Menu Here !

6:00 PM – Sunset at Edge / Night Views at Edge  

  • Take in sweeping city views from Edge, soaring 100 stories above the streets on the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere.
  • Use code MLK20 to get 20% off your purchase.

Get Tickets Here

This itinerary is the perfect blend of honoring Dr. King while also making room for sightseeing during your trip to the City.