If your trip to East Harlem is all sorted out but your itinerary is looking a little empty, we can give you a helping hand.You can’t make it this far and not check out Apollo Theater — particularly when it’s within an easy commute of your hotel!There are plenty of sights within easy reach of the center of this neighborhood, such as Randall’s Island Park. More adventure is waiting for you at Museum of the City of New York and Black Gay & Lesbian Archive, which are also close by.

If you’re chasing some fascinating places nearby, head 2 miles from East Harlem to Upper Manhattan. Whether you go for the whole day or just a few hours, there’s plenty to keep you busy.

No matter whether it’s sunny or rainy, you’ll be able to see some of the incredible beaches near East Harlem from the comfort of your own rental car. As you cruise along, keep your eyes open for seagulls soaring over these beautiful stretches of coastline:

• Orchard Beach (9 miles away).
• Plum Beach (15 miles away).
• Coney Island Beach (16 miles away).

If you’re traveling to East Harlem for work-related purposes, there’s a good chance you’ll be visiting some convention and business centers. With your own rental car, you’re sure to arrive on time. Here are some of the biggest and the best:

• The Foundry (3 miles away).
• PlayStation Theater (4 miles away).
• Penn Plaza Pavilion (4 miles away).

Pick up the keys to an intermediate car and discover the best of New York with the family. These vehicles offer ample leg space and a sizeable trunk to hold all your essentials. They have fantastic gas mileage, so you can easily drive the 4 miles between East Harlem and downtown New York (and beyond!) without burning a hole in your wallet. But if you want to indulge yourself on your vacation, why not book a premium vehicle? Impressive extra features, such as sunroofs and the latest infotainment systems, will ensure you have an incredible driving experience.

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to rental cars in East Harlem. From swish SUVs with loads of space for luggage to agile compacts, you’ll find it all here. Deciding on your perfect match depends on how much you’d like to spend and what activities you’ve got planned. There are some road trips that are just begging you to splurge on your dream ride, whereas other adventures don’t need more than enough space for your luggage and buddies. Which will it be this time?

You’ll be driving on the right-hand side of the road in East Harlem. Even though you may be comfortable with the traffic rules, it’s wise to drive more cautiously in places you’ve never been.

Since East Harlem is a neighborhood within the lively city of New York, expect a lot of traffic during the normal peak times. Before and after work hours is when roads are at their busiest, so it’s a good idea to plan your drive accordingly.

Getting a parking spot in East Harlem is a cinch. You won’t need to repeatedly go around the block in dense traffic here — and that’s what the locals love about it. There’s loads of off and on-street parking to take your pick of.

The speed limits in the neighborhood of East Harlem are similar to the rest of New York, ranging from 25mph to 55mph. To ensure the safety of both drivers and pedestrians, a maximum speed limit of 40km/h applies to most residential areas.

Generally, one of two things will happen. Your chosen rental car company may charge the fined amount to your credit card. This is the usual practice. Alternatively, it may give your contact details to the relevant local authority so the fine is sent to you directly.

Seat belts should always be worn in New York. That being said, the rule may vary for some vehicles, such as those operated by public transportation systems.

Provided you have hands-free or Bluetooth functions enabled, you are allowed to use your cell phone while cruising around East Harlem. But make sure you stay focused on the road.

In East Harlem, it’s a punishable offence to operate a vehicle with a BAC (blood alcohol content) greater than 0.08%. If you’re planning to have a couple of glasses of wine with dinner, you’d be wise to leave the rental car behind.

It’s illegal to turn at a red light in East Harlem. When you come across one, enjoy a couple of mindful moments until the light turns green.