The Africa Center

The Africa Center New York City Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

At the crossroads of Harlem and East Harlem, The Africa Center stands as a vibrant cultural landmark on Manhattan’s Museum Mile. Dedicated to celebrating Africa’s rich history, diverse cultures, and contemporary influence, the Center serves as a bridge connecting Africa, its global diaspora, and New York City’s dynamic communities. This comprehensive guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, exhibitions, and practical tips to help you make the most of your experience at The Africa Center (The Africa Center).

Introduction
Visitor Information
History and Significance
Exhibitions and Programming
- Current and Upcoming Exhibitions
- Special Events and Guided Tours
Visitor Experience Highlights
Safety and Visitor Conduct
Planning Your Visit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Recommendations
References

Visitor Information

Location and Accessibility

The Africa Center is located at 1280 Fifth Avenue, at the northeast corner of Fifth Avenue and 110th Street (Duke Ellington Circle), placing it at the gateway to Harlem and East Harlem. The Center is adjacent to Central Park and surrounded by neighborhoods with deep African American and Latinx heritage (Harlem One Stop).

Getting There:

By Subway:
- 2/3 trains to Central Park North–110th Street (one block away)
- 6 train to 110th Street–Lexington Avenue (three blocks east)
By Bus:
- M1, M2, M3, and M4 lines along Fifth and Madison Avenues
By Car:
- Limited street parking and nearby public garages

The building is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Staff can assist visitors with special needs.

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Regular Hours (as of June 2025):

Wednesday–Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Closed: Mondays, Tuesdays, and major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day)

Admission:

General admission to exhibitions and public spaces is free.
Tickets may be required for special events, performances, or workshops. These can be reserved online or purchased onsite.

For the latest updates on hours and ticketing, check the official website.

Travel Tips and Directions

The area is pedestrian-friendly and encourages exploration of nearby cultural and historic sites.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Museum Mile and Harlem.
Use public transit for convenience; parking is limited.

Nearby Attractions

Within walking distance are several renowned museums and sites:

Museum of the City of New York
El Museo del Barrio
The Jewish Museum
Central Park’s Harlem Meer and Conservatory Garden
Harlem’s Apollo Theater and Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture (Welcome to Harlem)

History and Significance

Founded in 1984 as the Museum for African Art, The Africa Center was created to promote understanding and appreciation of African and African diaspora arts and cultures. Its relocation to Fifth Avenue and rebranding as The Africa Center signaled an expanded mission: fostering dialogue about Africa’s role in global culture, business, and policy (WhichMuseum, NYC-Arts).

Key milestones:

1984: Founded in Queens as the Museum for African Art
2010s: Relocated to Fifth Avenue, broadening focus to include policy, business, and education
2020s: Enhanced global engagement and local community programming

The Center is now a multidisciplinary hub, supporting cross-cultural exchange, policy research, and community empowerment. Its leadership includes Ambassador Martin Kimani, PhD, and a diverse team of educators, curators, and policy experts (The Africa Center – Our Team).

Exhibitions and Programming

Current and Upcoming Exhibitions

The Africa Center curates a robust schedule of exhibitions highlighting contemporary and historical African art, photography, and social themes. Recent and upcoming exhibits include:

“Except this time nothing returns from the ashes” by Asmaa Jama and Gouled Ahmed (Somali artists)
Contemporary photography series and retrospectives on African identity, memory, and resilience
Multimedia installations exploring migration, urban life, and diasporic narratives

Details on current and future exhibitions are available on the exhibitions page.

Special Events and Guided Tours

The Center hosts a variety of public programs:

Lectures, panels, and policy forums: Explore African innovation, economic development, arts, and global affairs.
Performances and film screenings: Featuring African and diaspora artists, musicians, and filmmakers.
Cultural celebrations: Annual Africa Day, Juneteenth, and the Museum Mile Festival each June (Secret NYC).
Guided tours: Available for individuals and groups; book online or through the education department.

Most programs are free or low-cost, supporting accessibility for all audiences.

Visitor Experience Highlights

Dining and Amenities

Teranga Restaurant:
Located on the ground floor, Teranga offers West African-inspired fast-casual dining. Menu highlights include jollof rice, yassa chicken, plantain bowls, and vegan/gluten-free options. Typical entrée prices range from $12–$18. Dine-in and takeout are available during Center hours.

Gift Shop:
The shop features curated books, jewelry, textiles, and crafts by African and diaspora artists.

Facilities:

Spacious, light-filled lobby and gathering spaces
Free Wi-Fi and seating areas for reflection
Restrooms (including accessible and family-friendly)
Stroller and nursing accommodations available

Family and Group Visits

The Africa Center is family-friendly, offering interactive exhibits and educational activities for children and youth. Family guides and activity booklets are available at the information desk. Group tours for schools and organizations can be tailored to specific interests.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Wheelchair-accessible entrances, ramps, and elevators
Accessible restrooms on each public floor
Service animals welcome
Assistive listening devices and materials in large print or audio upon request
Multilingual signage and programming reflecting Africa’s linguistic diversity

Feedback on accessibility and inclusivity is welcomed to enhance the visitor experience.

Safety and Visitor Conduct

Security personnel and bag checks at entry
Large bags/luggage must be checked or left at home
Photography is permitted in most areas (no flash/tripods); some exhibitions may restrict photography—please check signage
Visitors are encouraged to maintain a respectful and quiet atmosphere, especially during programs

Planning Your Visit

Check the events calendar for current exhibitions and programs
Book in advance for popular events, guided tours, or group visits
Arrive early to enjoy exhibitions and avoid crowds during special events
Dress comfortably for indoor and outdoor exploration

COVID-19 Guidelines (as of June 2025):
Masks are optional but recommended in crowded areas. Hand sanitizer stations and enhanced cleaning are in place. If you are unwell, please postpone your visit. Check the official website for the latest health updates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are The Africa Center’s visiting hours?
A: Wednesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed Mondays, Tuesdays, and major holidays.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, general admission is free; some special events may require tickets or donations.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, book online or contact the education department for group and individual tours.

Q: Is The Africa Center wheelchair accessible?
A: Absolutely. All public spaces are accessible.

Q: How can I get to The Africa Center?
A: By subway (2/3 or 6 lines), bus (M1, M2, M3, M4), or on foot from Central Park North.

Q: Are there dining options?
A: Yes, Teranga restaurant is located on the ground floor.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The Africa Center is a cornerstone of New York City’s cultural scene, offering visitors a multifaceted experience that celebrates Africa’s art, history, and contemporary influence. With its free exhibitions, diverse programming, family-friendly amenities, and commitment to inclusivity, the Center invites all to explore Africa’s dynamic stories and contributions to the world.