79th Street: A Key Station in Manhattan’s Upper West Side

The 79th Street station is a subway station located in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, New York. It serves as a vital access point on the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line of the subway, connecting residents and visitors to this vibrant residential and cultural neighborhood. Its location at the intersection of 79th Street and Broadway makes it an essential stop for exploring the west side of Central Park and nearby attractions.

Connections and Services

The 79th Street station is part of a single line, but offers essential services:

79th Street (Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line)

• This station belongs to the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line of the New York City Subway system (IRT).
• It is served by trains from the following services:
  • 1 (red) – Local service at all times.
  • 2 (red) – Express service only during late nights.
• Main entrance address: Broadway & West 79th Street, New York, NY 10024

Platform Details

• This station is a local stop on a four-track line.
• It has two side platforms serving the local tracks:
  • Northbound platform (Uptown & The Bronx).
  • Southbound platform (Downtown & Brooklyn).
• Entrances and exits are primarily located at the intersection of 79th Street and Broadway.

The station facilitates local access to the Upper West Side, primarily serving as a stop for local trains, with additional express service during late night hours.

Importance and Location

• The station is located at the intersection of West 79th Street and Broadway, in the heart of Manhattan’s Upper West Side.
• Its strategic location makes it a key access point to important destinations such as:

  • Museums and Culture

    • American Museum of Natural History: One of the largest and most celebrated museums in the world, a few blocks away.
    • Beacon Theatre: A historic theater that hosts concerts and events, located nearby.
    • New-York Historical Society: Located a bit further south, easily accessible.

  • Shopping and Dining

    • Zabar’s: Iconic neighborhood gourmet and delicatessen store.
    • Fairway Market: Another popular supermarket known for its wide selection.
    • Various restaurants, cafes, and shops along Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue.

  • Parks and Leisure

    • Riverside Park: An extensive park along the Hudson River, with nearby access to the west.
    • Central Park: The famous park is located a few blocks to the east.

History and Evolution

• The 79th Street station was inaugurated on October 27, 1904, as part of the first subway line operated by the Interborough Rapid Transit Company (IRT).
• It is part of the original stretch of the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line.
• The station has preserved much of its original design, including characteristic tile work from the IRT era, although it has undergone maintenance and updates over the years.

Interesting Facts

• The station is known for its original mosaics and tile work, typical of early 20th-century IRT stations.
• It serves one of the most densely populated and culturally active residential areas in Manhattan.
• It is a fundamental local stop for residents and workers of the Upper West Side.