Marcus Garvey Memorial Park

Marcus Garvey Park is a 20.16-acre public park located on the border between Harlem and East Harlem in Manhattan, New York City. The park is centered around a large, steep outcropping of Manhattan schist bedrock that interrupts the flow of Fifth Avenue.

Originally named Mount Morris Park when it opened to the public in 1840, the park was renamed in 1973 to honor Marcus Garvey, the Black nationalist leader and activist. The park has long served as an important community gathering place and recreational area for local residents.

The park's most prominent feature is the rocky hill at its center, which offers views of the surrounding area from its summit. At the top of the hill stands the Harlem Fire Watchtower, a 47-foot cast-iron structure built in 1856 that is the only surviving example of the fire watchtowers that once dotted New York City. The tower was designated as a New York City landmark in 1967.

Marcus Garvey Park contains a mix of natural areas and recreational facilities. The rocky outcropping is surrounded by lawns, walking paths, and mature trees. The park includes two playgrounds designed to be accessible for children with disabilities. Other amenities include a swimming pool, amphitheater, recreation center, and various sports facilities.

The park hosts community events throughout the year, including concerts, theatrical performances, and festivals. Its Richard Rodgers Amphitheater, named for the famous composer who grew up nearby, is a popular venue for outdoor performances during the summer months.

As one of Manhattan's oldest public squares, Marcus Garvey Park remains an integral part of Harlem's landscape and community life, offering both recreational opportunities and a connection to the neighborhood's history.