Welcome to Upper West Side
Prestigious, culturally rich neighborhood in the heart of an iconic city
The Upper West Side is a true gem of New York City. From its stunning views of the Hudson River and Central Park to its wealth of cultural offerings, there are countless things to love about this neighborhood. One of the best things about the Upper West Side is its location just minutes away from some of the city's top attractions. It’s also known as a creative cultural hub while also maintaining a sense of intimacy and peace usually reserved for small-town suburbs. Those who call the Upper West Side home are incredibly lucky to have the best of the city at their fingertips.
What to Love
- Numerous cultural attractions at your doorstep
- Relaxed, unstuffy atmosphere
- One of the city’s greenest neighborhoods
- Beautiful brownstone apartments and historic architecture
Local Lifestyle
Though the Upper West Side sits in the heart of one of the most bustling cities in the world, it somehow has a relaxed atmosphere, peaceful side streets, and a low-key lifestyle. The area is widely considered a creative oasis that embodies a small-town feel in the center of an ultra-urban city. Other neighborhoods can be dense with cars and crowds of tourists, but the Upper West Side feels a bit more like home, with many green spaces for wandering and cozy brownstone townhomes that give streets a personality reminiscent of the suburbs, all while being situated in the hustle and bustle of New York City.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
New York is widely regarded as a foodie paradise, and the Upper West Side lives up to that reputation. With mouthwatering dishes crafted with Italian traditions at the forefront, The Leopard at des Artistes is an iconic restaurant where you can listen to live jazz while indulging in delicious brunch food on the weekend or taste the rotating risotto special during dinner. The Ribbon is a New York landmark known for its American cuisine, extensive wine list, and lively atmosphere. Their spit-roasted Amish chicken is delectable, and the sleek yet industrial décor makes this restaurant easy to revisit again and again.
Tavern On the Green is a historic restaurant in Central Park, known for its elegant dining rooms, stunning views of the park, and rich history. It has served as a gathering place for New Yorkers since 1934. Recently restored, it serves elegant American fare in a gorgeous interior that fits the park’s natural setting.
The Upper West Side is a shopper’s paradise, with pedestrian-friendly streets featuring endless unique shops and boutiques. Darryl’s Boutique is a fashion mainstay here, providing women with chic, on-trend garments perfect for everything from a night out on the town to a business meeting. Locals also love to visit The Strand. Widely considered an iconic cultural landmark of the city, it is an independent bookstore frequented by lovers of poetry and literature. It was founded in 1927 and is known for its large selection of new, used, and rare books, as well as its spacious, eclectic atmosphere.
Things to Do
The city has endless things to do, and the Upper West Side is particularly busy during the holiday season. Tavern On the Green hosts an annual tree lighting that brings the community together for joyful holiday festivities. The massive tree twinkles with tens of thousands of lights and ornaments, and the restaurant often serves treats like festive desserts, mulled cider, and hot chocolate to the crowds that come to celebrate. There’s also the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade balloon inflation event, allowing attendees to watch the massive balloons fill with helium before their widely televised journey down New York’s streets.
Outside of the holiday season, the neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets and spacious parks, which provide a peaceful escape from the buzz of the city. Central Park is one of the largest attractions in the Upper West Side and is a must-see for anyone visiting New York City. It is an 843-acre oasis in the city's heart, with plenty of tranquil walking paths, scenic bridges, and lush greenery. It is also home to several museums, ballfields, gardens, and theaters.
Riverside Park provides another green refuge for locals. People love its tranquility, scenic views, and diverse recreational opportunities. It's a place to connect with nature and admire historical landmarks and monuments. You can watch the sunset over the Hudson River or simply take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beauty of the park and the city skyline.
Schools
The Upper West Side is served by New York City School District 3, which boasts some of the finest schools in the city. It also is home to many private schools, charter schools, and universities.
