A guided walk through Harlem reveals how paying attention to the stories and heritage embedded in urban environments can deepen our sense of community and open a window to new possibilities.
- Awe walks highlight overlooked cultural landmarks.
- Feeling awe can strengthen social bonds.
- Historical awareness enhances personal and collective perspective.
What happened
In Harlem, New York City, students from the City University of New York took an awe walk led by Bob McKinnon, a teacher and social mobility researcher. The walk included visits to significant local sites such as the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture and the historical home of Alexander Hamilton, sparking surprise and reflection among participants.
This experience was part of the Science of Happiness podcast’s Cities of Awe series, which seeks to reveal how mindful exploration of urban spaces can awaken a sense of wonder and connection. The walk showed how ordinary city streets hold hidden stories with the potential to inspire and engage communities in meaningful ways.
Why it feels good
Feeling awe when encountering history and beauty can shift how people see themselves and their environments. It fosters a sense of belonging by reminding individuals that they are part of a larger story that stretches across time and place.
Research suggests that awe supports wellbeing by strengthening feelings of social connection and nurturing curiosity. Challenging assumptions about social mobility, the experience encourages hope by helping people reimagine their futures through understanding collective heritage.
What to enjoy or watch next
Listeners interested in expanding their own experience of awe can explore other episodes in the Cities of Awe series, which share practices for discovering wonder in urban life. These include tips on grounding oneself in nature and appreciating everyday moments that bring perspective.
For anyone looking to bring more moments of awe into their day, simple activities like pausing to look at the sky or noticing stories behind local landmarks can deepen appreciation and spark joy. Sharing such experiences may also cultivate stronger community bonds and wellbeing.