The true gateway to Harlem begins in Manhattan Valley, at the Frederick Douglass Circle by Central Park. The circular walkway welcomes visitors into the hallowed part of the city. The neighborhood is literally a valley as it resides in a natural depression. In fact, the area declines rapidly from the natural rocky bluffs that make up Central Park with a minor stream draining through it (Harlem Meer) into the Hudson River. Many historic buildings, and Gothic style residential buildings, as well original brownstones and townhouses remain. Recently, the area has also seen a distinct spike in residential high-rises. Manhattan Valley ends at the northwest corner of Central Park to the east. It begins at Amsterdam Avenue to the west and goes straight across to Central Park West. From north to south, the area is bound by 96th and 110th streets.
