Upper West Side
The Upper West Side is much more than a residential neighborhood on the west side of Manhattan: it’s an enclave of culture, tranquility, and family life, bordered by two of New York City’s most iconic parks. Known for its elegant pre-war architecture, world-renowned cultural institutions, and a more relaxed atmosphere than the bustling downtown, this neighborhood offers an authentic glimpse into New York life. 🌳🏛️
Located between Central Park to the east and Riverside Park to the west, and generally considered to run from 59th Street to 110th Street, the Upper West Side is a must-visit for those looking to experience the unique combination of sophisticated urban living and green spaces. Its charm lies in its tree-lined streets, gourmet markets, and its deep connection to the arts and history. ✨
Why Visit the Upper West Side?
Visiting the Upper West Side means immersing yourself in a different New York, more serene yet equally vibrant. It’s a neighborhood with a strong community identity, perfectly blending culture, leisure, and nature. Here you’ll find legendary institutions like the American Museum of Natural History and Lincoln Center, alongside iconic markets like Zabar’s and Fairway. 🎻🛍️
Its cultural significance is immense: it has been home to countless artists, writers, and intellectuals, and the setting for numerous films and series that capture its unique essence (hello, Seinfeld and You’ve Got Mail!). Furthermore, its proximity to Central Park and Riverside Park makes it an ideal starting point for enjoying nature right in the city. 🏞️🎬
The Upper West Side is also a symbol of New York residential charm. Its streets, lined with impressive apartment buildings and brownstones, invite you to stroll and discover charming cafes, independent bookstores, and a quality of life appreciated by its residents. If you want to feel the pulse of an authentic and cultured New York neighborhood, this is your place.
How to Get to the Upper West Side by Subway?
Main Stations
The main stations serving the Upper West Side are located along Broadway (lines 1, 2, 3) and Central Park West (lines B, C). Some of the most important include 59 St–Columbus Circle (at the southern end), 72 St, 79 St, 86 St, and 96 St. These stations easily connect you to the rest of Manhattan. 🚇
Subway Lines Serving the Upper West Side
The Upper West Side is very well connected by the New York City subway. The lines that take you directly to this neighborhood are:
- 1 (local), 2, 3 (express) – stop along Broadway
- A, B, C, D – stop along Central Park West (A and D are express and stop at fewer stations like 59th and 125th; B and C are local)
How to Get to the Upper West Side from:
Times Square
If you are in Times Square, simply take the 1, 2, or 3 train northbound (Uptown) from the Times Sq–42 St station. In just a few stops, you’ll be in the heart of the Upper West Side (e.g., at 72 St).
Lower Manhattan (Wall Street / World Trade Center)
From Wall Street or the World Trade Center, you can take the 1, 2, or 3 trains northbound directly to the Upper West Side. You can also take the A or C trains northbound.
Brooklyn (DUMBO / Williamsburg)
From DUMBO, you can take the A or C train northbound. From Williamsburg, you can take the L train to 14th St–Union Sq and transfer to the northbound 1, 2, or 3 trains, or take the G train and transfer to the A or C at Hoyt-Schermerhorn.
Queens (Long Island City / Flushing)
From Long Island City, you can take the 7 train to Times Sq–42 St and transfer to the northbound 1, 2, or 3 trains. From Flushing, the 7 train is also the main option to connect with other lines towards the UWS. Another option is to take the E, F, M, or R trains and transfer.
Harlem
From Harlem, simply take the 1, 2, 3, A, B, C, or D trains southbound (Downtown). You’ll arrive in the Upper West Side in just a few minutes.
Airports (JFK / LaGuardia / Newark)
From JFK Airport, take the AirTrain to the Howard Beach station and transfer to the northbound A train. From LaGuardia (LGA), take the M60 SBS bus to Cathedral Pkwy (110 St) and walk or transfer to the 1 train, or take other buses like the Q70 LaGuardia Link to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave to connect with the E, F, M, R lines and then transfer. From Newark (EWR), take NJ Transit to Penn Station and then the northbound 1, 2, or 3 trains.
What to Do in the Upper West Side?
The Upper West Side offers a charming mix of culture, nature, and neighborhood life. It’s ideal for strolling, exploring world-class museums, enjoying shows, and simply observing New York life away from the downtown frenzy. Every street has its own character. 🚶♀️☕
Explore Central Park and Riverside Park
The neighborhood is flanked by two magnificent parks. On the Central Park side, you can visit Strawberry Fields (the John Lennon memorial), stroll around The Lake, or enjoy Sheep Meadow. In Riverside Park, enjoy views of the Hudson River, monuments like the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, and its paths for walking or biking. 🌳🌊
Visit Iconic Museums
The Upper West Side is home to some of the city’s most important museums. Don’t miss the American Museum of Natural History 🦖, with its impressive dinosaur halls and the Hayden Planetarium. Also worth a visit are the New-York Historical Society and the Children’s Museum of Manhattan if you’re traveling with children.
Enjoy the Arts at Lincoln Center
The Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts is the cultural epicenter of the neighborhood. Here you can attend an opera at the Metropolitan Opera House, a concert by the New York Philharmonic, a ballet by the New York City Ballet, or a play. Its plaza with the fountain is iconic. 🎭🎶
Stroll Through its Streets and Admire the Architecture
Get lost in residential streets like West End Avenue or Riverside Drive to admire the majestic pre-war apartment buildings and charming brownstones. Discover small squares, local cafes, and charming shops. The architecture here is an attraction in itself. 🏘️🚶♂️
Go Shopping and Enjoy Local Cuisine
The Upper West Side is famous for its gourmet markets like Zabar’s and Fairway Market, perfect for buying deli items or a classic bagel. Additionally, you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants, from cozy local spots to more sophisticated options, as well as independent boutiques along Columbus Avenue and Amsterdam Avenue. 🥯🧀
Attractions Near the Upper West Side
Although many key attractions are within the Upper West Side itself, its prime location allows easy access to other nearby points of interest, expanding exploration possibilities.
American Museum of Natural History
Located right in the heart of the Upper West Side (between Central Park West and Columbus Ave, and 77th and 81st Streets), it’s one of the neighborhood’s gems and a must-visit in New York City. Perfect for all ages. 🦕🌏
Lincoln Center
Located in the southern part of the neighborhood, near Columbus Circle, this complex is home to some of the world’s most prestigious artistic institutions. Attending a performance here is an unforgettable experience. 🎼🩰
Central Park
The eastern edge of the Upper West Side is the gateway to the northern and western halves of Central Park. You can easily access places like the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, the Great Lawn, or Belvedere Castle from the neighborhood. 🌲🏞️
Riverside Park
This park stretches along the western edge of the neighborhood, offering miles of paths with views of the Hudson River, sports areas, playgrounds, and monuments. It’s ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle. 🚴♀️🌅
Columbia University
Just north of the traditional boundary of the Upper West Side (around 116th Street), lies the impressive campus of Columbia University in Morningside Heights. You can stroll through its historic grounds. 🎓
Cathedral of St. John the Divine
Also in Morningside Heights, near Columbia, stands this majestic Gothic cathedral, one of the largest in the world. Its architecture and gardens are spectacular. 🙏⛪
Tips for Visiting the Upper West Side
The Upper West Side is a welcoming and relatively easy neighborhood to explore. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to this charming area of Manhattan.
Best Time of Day to Go
Any time is a good time to visit the Upper West Side. Mornings are ideal for enjoying the parks or having a quiet coffee. Afternoons are perfect for visiting museums or shopping. Evenings come alive around Lincoln Center and in the neighborhood’s numerous restaurants and bars. Weekends, especially Sundays, can see busier markets and parks. ☀️🌙
Avoiding Crowds
Although it’s less touristy than Times Square, places like the American Museum of Natural History can have lines, especially on weekends or free/pay-what-you-wish admission days. Zabar’s can also get very crowded. For a quieter experience, explore the less commercial side streets and visit the parks on weekdays if possible. 🚶♀️➡️🚶♂️
Safety
The Upper West Side is considered one of Manhattan’s safest residential neighborhoods. However, as in any big city, it’s important to take basic precautions: watch your belongings, especially on the subway or in crowded areas, and be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. Overall, it’s a very pleasant neighborhood to walk around at any time. 👍
What to Bring and What Not To
Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking exploring the neighborhood and parks. Dress in layers, as New York weather can change. A reusable water bottle is useful, especially if you plan to spend time in the parks. You don’t need formal attire unless you’re attending an opera or going to a very fancy restaurant. Bring a tote bag if you plan to shop at Zabar’s or a local market. 👟👜
