The Upper West Side
The Upper West side was the first neighborhood I moved to in 2000, so it will always have a special place in my heart. I consider it an older more mature neighborhood in the sense that you aren’t going to find dance clubs and wild parties here, aside from a few college bars on Amsterdam. It’s a fun destination for some museums followed by dinner at one of its great restaurants or bars. It’s a quieter neighborhood so you’re definitely going to find more families here and a slower pace then many of the other hoods.
Where.
The Upper West side is pretty easy to identify as Central Park is its northern, southern and eastern border with the river as its western end. So, in numerical terms… 59th Street to the south and 110th Street to the north with Central Park West (to the east) and the Hudson River on the west. Some would argue that it ends at 96th Street in the north, but generally speaking the Upper West side is broad term.
American Museum of Natural History
Attractions.
There are a lot of reasons to visit the Upper West. There are a number of museums as well as a lot of green space and of course the food & drink.
My favorite places on the Upper West are The American Museum of Natural History (think big dinosaurs) and the New-York Historical Society next door (think NYC history and culture). Pop up for a visit and then hit up one of the many amazing restaurants for lunch or dinner before heading home.
Transit.
Until the Upper East side got the Q Train it could be argued that the Upper West was more accessible via public transportation. I still think that holds true as the 1/2/3 Trains may be the fastest in the city. From 42nd Street they will rocket you into the Upper West in no time at all. You also have the option to take the A/C or B Trains up the west side of the Park as an option.
The Central Park… NYC’s Green Oasis
The Central Park.
Just like the Upper East, The Central Park is a key personality on the Upper West side. If you’ve chosen to live there then moist likely you are drawn to the close proximity of Central Park. Boasting 844 acres, its New York City’s largest green space and a much needed oasis in our concrete jungle. Maybe you’re a runner, a cyclist, have a dog or simply enjoy picnics with friends. If you’re active in any way then Central Park is going to be your playground.
Riverside Park.
The Upper West Side tends to draw an outdoor crowd as it is flanked by not only Central Park to the east, but Riverside Park along the west as well. It has numerous running and cycling paths that connect it to the larger route circumnavigating the island, perfect for exploring the city. It also has loads of playgrounds, picnic areas, gardens and a few restaurants (like Ellington in the Park, one of my favs) for those perfect Spring lunches.
Food & Drink
The Upper West has a fun mix of long established restaurants (like Cafe Luxembourg) along with newer places (like Playa Bettys) making it a great neighborhood to visit for food. Personally, I would make it a day trip and spend a nice afternoon in Central or Riverside Park, then go out for some food and drink. Or, if classical music or jazz is your thing skip the parks and see a show at Lincoln Center first! If you’re looking for more of a ‘Mom & Pop’ local spot go further north in the hood.
History & Architecture
Old Meets New.
Since the island was populated from south-to-north places like the Upper West Side were mostly untouched until the late 19th century and even then were still farmland. Places like The Dakotah (1884) and The American Museum of Natural History (1877) were some of its first established landmarks. Soon after you have two of my favorites, The Ansonia and The Apthorp, which to this day have a formidable and impressive presence.
Today, the older architecture is mixed in with new high rises and condos forming an interesting juxtaposition and giving the neighborhood beautiful texture. Also known for its brownstones, which you can find on practically every crosstown block.