I currently live in the Upper West Side (UWS) and thought it might be fun to roundup the best things to do on the Upper West Side for anyone planning to visit my stomping grounds.
Sandwiched between Central Park to the east and the Hudson River to the west, the Upper West Side provides a very welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city. This largely thanks to the residential feel of the neighborhood.
The tree-lined streets of the Upper West Side are home to great restaurants, grocery stores and charming shops. It’s not hard to see why so many folks choose to settle down in this popular NYC neighborhood, especially families with young children. Let’s cover everything you need to know!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The 10 Best Neighborhoods & 3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
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Where is the Upper West Side?
Just as the name suggests, the Upper West Side is located on the west side of Central Park, in the upper portion of Manhattan. As mentioned earlier, the neighborhood is sandwiched by Riverside Park on the west side and Central Park on the east side.
The starting point of the Upper West Side is Columbus Circle in the south and the ending point is 110th street in the north. Here, the neighborhood is massive, which is why there’s never a shortage of great things to do on the UWS. You’ll find the neighborhood is well-connected by transit, with two subway lines to choose from. the 1,2,3 and the A/C/B/D. Which means you’ll have an easy time getting anywhere you need to go.
Best Things to Do on the Upper West Side
(Table of Contents)
Visiting the Upper West Side (Table of Contents)
- Best Things to Do on the Upper West Side
- 1. See an Original Banksy Piece
- 2. Visit the American Museum of Natural History
- 3. Explore Central Park
- 4. Check Out Columbus Circle
- 5. Get World-Famous Cookie at Levain
- 6. Enjoy a Performance at the Lincoln Center
- 7. Gawk at John Lennon’s Home
- 8. Tour the 5th Largest Church in the World
- 9. Visit General Grant’s Tomb
- 10. Explore Columbia University
- 11. Catch a Show at the Beacon Theatre
- 12. Relax at the West Side Community Garden
- 13. Brunch at Jacob’s Pickles
- 14. Visit the New-York Historical Society
- 15. Order a Lox and Bagel at Barney Greengrass
- 16. Check Out the Local Farmers Markets
- 17. Pop Into Zabar’s
- 18. Stroll Riverside Park
- 19. Catch Happy Hour at Vin sur Vingt
- 20. Catch a Show at the West Side Comedy Club
- Visiting the Upper West Side in NYC (FAQ)
- Upper West Side Things to Do (Post Summary)
- Map of Fun Things to Do on the UWS
- Video of the Upper West Side
1. See an Original Banksy Piece
Banksy is a famous (and anonymous) street artist known the world over for his thought-provoking street art. Many of his pieces have sold at auction for more than $1 million. Getting to see one of his pieces “in the wild” is a rare opportunity!
So, swing by 79th St. and Broadway to see Hammer Boy in person, it’s one of the most unique things to do in the Upper West Side. The piece was created during Banksy’s 2013 visit to NYC and is protected by plexiglass to prevent vandalism.
2. Visit the American Museum of Natural History
Welcoming 5 million visitors per year and spanning all aspect of the natural world, the American Museum of Natural History in New York City is considered one of the greatest natural history museums in the world.
Don’t miss the Hall of Ocean Life where you’ll have an opportunity to see a life-size model of a 94-foot blue whale! It’s an experience you won’t soon forget. Also, the taxidermy mammals are remarkable and have captivated both children and adults for years.
Website— American Museum of Natural History
Address— 200 Central Park West, New York
Featured Guide— 15 Best Things to See at the American Museum of Natural History
3. Explore Central Park
We can’t talk about the best things to do in the Upper West Side without mentioning the masterpiece that is Central Park. It’s world-famous for good reason and there’s a reason it’s on everyone’s must-see list when visiting New York City.
Central park is the most beautiful park in New York City. How do I know? It’s the most filmed location in the world (and has #2 beat by a mile). Spanning more than 840 healthy acres, Central Park is an architectural feat that few can resist falling in love with.
In terms of the top attractions on the Upper West Side portion of the park, here’s my personal recommendations.
- The Shakespeare Garden (especially in the spring, during tulip season)
- Belvedere Castle
- Strawberry Fields
- Bethesda Fountain & the Mall
- Sheep Meadow (for a picnic, an iconic NYC experience!)
If you’d like some guidance during your first visit to Central Park, I suggest reading 15 ICONIC Things to Do in Central Park, a helpful post that highlights the top spots in the park.
4. Check Out Columbus Circle
Named after Christopher Columbus, this famous traffic circle acts as a gateway for the Upper West Side. Columbus Circle serves as the official starting point from which all official distances to and from NYC are recorded. In fact, United Nations officials visiting NYC on business are required to stay within a 25-mile radius of Columbus Circle.
Home to 50+ retail shops, The Shops at Columbus Circle is a popular shopping mall that comes equipped with a Whole Foods market at the ground level. Pro tip. Clean public restrooms are hard to come by in NYC, so take advantage of the restrooms located in this mall.
5. Get World-Famous Cookie at Levain
The bewitching aroma of Levain Bakery is irresistible. Originally started in the Upper West Side, the bakery spread like wildfire throughout NYC because of its famous chocolate chip walnut cookie.
Rarely, in a city offering so many options, does a place stand so far above the rest, and yet, I can confidently tell you that Levain makes some of the the best cookies in NYC. So swing by the original location West 74th street (and Amsterdam) if you get a hankering for something sweet.
The secret ingredient here is that nobody’s trying too hard.
6. Enjoy a Performance at the Lincoln Center
The Lincoln Center is home to the Metropolitan Opera House, New York Philharmonic, New York City Opera, New York City Ballet, the School of American Ballet, Julliard School of Music, the Chamber Music Society and the Film Society.
In other words, the Lincoln Center is the cultural hub of the Upper West Side. The venue sits on 16-acres and consists of five concert/theater buildings, a library, band shell and two outdoor plazas. This the place to go to see world-class opera, theater, ballet and jazz. There’s never a shortage of exciting events to attend.
Website— Lincoln Center
Address— Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY
7. Gawk at John Lennon’s Home
Head to the corner of 72nd St. and Central Park West to see where John Lennon used to live. The building is a stone’s throw from one of the top attractions in Central Park, Strawberry Fields, which is a memorial to John Lennon.
The most prominent feature of Strawberry Fields is the Imagine Mosaic, which is often adorned with flowers and serenaded by live musicians playing famous Beatles songs. It was designed by Yoko Ono (Lennon’s widow), and gifted to New York City by the city of Naples.
Although Strawberry Fields was intended to be peaceful place of remembrance, it’s actually very popular. Expect crowds regardless of when you visit. This one of the top attractions in Central Park and most folks make an effort to see it.
Location. Near entrance at West 72nd Street
8. Tour the 5th Largest Church in the World
Construction may have started in 1892 but the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine is still technically an unfinished building. (Hence the popular nickname – Saint John the Unfinished). That doesn’t stop it from being the largest church in New York City and the fifth largest church in the world, though!
Most famous for its commandeering size and stunning Gothic architecture, it’s one of the only churches in NYC that charges an admission ($10 per person for a self-guided tour or $15 for a tour guide. It’s a fair price). The church is grand inside, with ceilings reaching soaring heights of 232 feet. Make sure tour the garden as well because it’s very peaceful.
Interesting fact.James Baldwin’s and Nikola Tesla’s funerals were held at this church. As was Eleanor Roosevelt’s memorial service.
Website— Cathedral of Saint John the Divine
Location— 1047 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY
9. Visit General Grant’s Tomb
Ulysses S. Grant was a decorated Civil War General and the 18th President of the United States. Grant’s wish was to be buried next to his wife when he passed. The request seems simple enough, but it wasn’t possible because women were not allowed to be buried in military cemeteries at the time.
When Grant died from throat cancer in 1885, the mayor of New York offered to have him buried in NYC. His wife, Julia Grant, supported the offer and a large fundraising initiative took place to build what would become the largest tomb in North America.
Today, visitors can pay their respects to President Ulysses S. Grant (and his wife Julia) by visiting his tomb in the Upper West Side. Seeing Grant’s Tomb in person is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in the Upper West Side, especially for history buffs.
Website— General Grant’s Tomb
Address— W 122nd Street & Riverside Drive
Further Reading. 20 Famous New York City Buildings Everyone Should Know
10. Explore Columbia University
Founded in 1754, Columbia University is the fifth oldest institution in the country and one of the most prestigious universities in the world. The list of important people that have attended Columbia is a mile long, including President Barack Obama, Warren Buffett and Amelia Earhart.
Touring the impressive Ivy League university is one of the best things to do on the Upper West Side. Visitors are welcome to explore the grounds on their own, but to get access inside the buildings you’ll need to book a guided tour in advance.
P.S. Make sure to swing by Absolute Bagels (cash-only establishment) while you’re in the area, these are my favorite bagels in New York City!
11. Catch a Show at the Beacon Theatre
Opened in 1929, theater takes up an entire city block and seats 2,600. The strangest part is that experiencing a performance at the Beacon Theater feels like an intimate experience, and the interior is downright stunning.
She still talks about it.
The acoustics are top-notch and the roster of famous performers is mind boggling. Bob Dylan, David Bowie, the Rolling Stones, Mariah Carey, Duran Duran, Ringo Starr, Coldplay, Tom Petty and Eddie Vedder, are just a few names that come to mind.
In addition to musicians, theater has hosted President Bill Clinton, His Holiness the Dalai Lama and residency by Jerry Seinfeld. With such a high concentration of impressive names, it’s no wonder why catching a show at the Beacon Theatre is one of the best things to do on the Upper West Side.
Website— Beacon Theatre
Address— 2124 Broadway, New York, NY
12. Relax at the West Side Community Garden
Located on 89th Street between Amsterdam and Columbus Avenues, the West Side Community Garden (WSCG) is a true gem. Locals often consider lounging here one of the most relaxing things to do in the Upper West Side.
Originally founded in 1976 to address an eyesore (a neglected trash-strewn vacant lot), the garden is privately owned and run by volunteers that rely on donations and grants. More than 15,000 tulips adorn the garden in the spring, it’s one of the best places in NYC to see tulips!
Website— West Side Community Garden
Address— 123 W 89th St, New York, NY
13. Brunch at Jacob’s Pickles
The Upper West Side has no shortage of great brunch spots, but one that clearly stands out is Jacob’s Pickles. From the mastermind that started Maison Pickle, comes a more casual eatery that specialized in brunch fare. Swing by for traditional southern food (like fried chicken and waffles) and craft cocktails.
I love taking out of town guests here. Just make sure you make reservations in advance, getting a table during the weekend can feel like an impossible task. If you love brunch, you might enjoy reading— 10 Toothsome Upper West Side Brunch Spots.
Website. Jacob’s Pickles
Address. 509 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024
14. Visit the New-York Historical Society
The New-York Historical Society was founded in 1804, making it the oldest museum in NYC. This yet another great activity for history buffs in search of the best museums in New York City. Located right next to Central Park, the museum focuses on keeping NYC’s history alive.
Home to fascinating artifacts (like the calf brace worn by Franklin Roosevelt), make sure to check the current exhibits to see if anything sparks your interest. Also worth mention, The New-York Historical Society hosts interesting talks and events weekly, check the schedule here. This yet another great activity for history buffs in search of fun things to do on the UWS.
Website— New-York Historical Society
Address.170 Central Park West, New York, NY
15. Order a Lox and Bagel at Barney Greengrass
Dating back to 1908, Barney Greengrass is an Upper West Side institution famous for their knock-out smoked fish. No, seriously, U.S. Presidents have requested it for special occasions at the White House. They churn out some of the best bagels and lox in NYC and the UWS is lucky to have them.
Website— Barney Greengrass
Address. 541 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY
Further Reading.You Asked, We Delivered. Here’s the 15 Best Bagels in NYC
16. Check Out the Local Farmers Markets
The Upper West Side is home to two great farmers markets. Head over for fresh seasonal veggies and other delights, like cider donuts, fresh goat cheese, wild-caught fish, pickles and delicious honey.
- The Tucker Square Greenmarket takes place in Tucker Square on Thursdays and Saturdays.
- The 77th/79th Street Greenmarket takes place on Sundays near the American Museum of Natural History.
17. Pop Into Zabar’s
Founded in 1934 and serving New Yorkers for 80+ years, Zabar’s is quite possibly the most beloved grocery store in New York City. It’s hard to imagine a more old-fashioned grocery store in the Big Apple, so swing by and elbow your way through amidst locals to see why folks love living on the Upper West Side.
Found on the corner of Broadway and West 80th, this family run grocery store is a true New York experience. They have a vast selection of items to choose from. everything from smoked fish, a surprising assortment of cheeses and a incredible bakery I simply can’t get enough of.
Website— Zabar’s
Address— 2245 Broadway, New York, NY
18. Stroll Riverside Park
Situated along the Hudson River in the Upper West Side, Riverside Park is often considered Manhattan’s most scenic waterfront park and I can’t say I disagree. As a current resident of the Upper West Side, I tend to split my time between Central Park and Riverside Park.
I usually opt for Riverside Park when tourist season is in full swing and Central Park feels crowded. Stretching from west 59th Street to 181st Street, the park spans 400 acres. It’s full of healthy trees that offer ample shade, plenty of park benches, and even has some charming gardens to explore. (Like the famous garden shot at the end of You’ve Got Mail).
Further Reading. 15 Famous New York City Parks
19. Catch Happy Hour at Vin sur Vingt
Vin sur Vingt translates to “wine over twenty.” It’s a play on words referencing vingt/vingt (meaning 20/20), a perfect to a perfect score on French tests. Everything about this authentic Parisian wine bar oozes charm. Offering an impressive rotating menu of 50 wines by the glass, you’re sure to find something that suits your Francophile fancy.
Pair your wine with French-inspired appetizers and you’ll be reminiscing about Paris in no time. Make sure to have a good friend in tow because the hours slip by when the cold rosé hits the table. But bear in mind, the Upper West Side location has no reservations. it’s first come, first served.
Website— Vin sur Vingt
Address— 66 W 84th St, New York, NY
20. Catch a Show at the West Side Comedy Club
Having hosted comedic powerhouses such as Jerry Seinfeld, Jessica Kirson and Bill Burr, this popular NYC comedy club doesn’t shy away from taking risks on talented newcomers. Check out the new talent showcases offered on Saturdays or the “Not Ripe Bananas” shows hosted every Tuesday to watch comics try new material.
I never get tired of this view.
Website— West Side Comedy Club
Address— 201 W 75th St, New York, NY
Visiting the Upper West Side in NYC (FAQ)
Is there anything to do in Upper West Side?
Absolutely! The Upper West Side of Manhattan is a bustling neighborhood with plenty to do. For culture enthusiasts, there’s the Lincoln Center, home to the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Ballet, and the New York Philharmonic. Nature lovers can explore the picturesque Central Park or Riverside Park. The American Museum of Natural History offers an educational experience for all ages.
What is the Upper West Side of NY known for?
The Upper West Side of New York is renowned for its cultural and intellectual hub, lined with famous buildings like the Lincoln Center, which houses the Metropolitan Opera and New York Philharmonic. It’s adjacent to Central Park, offering a blend of urban charm and natural beauty. This area is known for its affluent, family-friendly atmosphere, historic architecture, and a lively food scene ranging from trendy cafes to upscale restaurants. Here, the neighborhood embodies a sophisticated, yet relaxed New York lifestyle, appealing to families with young children.
Is Upper West Side a rich neighborhood?
The Upper West Side is considered a wealthy area, characterized by its upscale residences and affluent demographic. It’s known for its elegant brownstones, well-maintained apartment buildings, and prestigious private schools, which contribute to its reputation as a prosperous neighborhood, which further cements its status as a desirable and high-end area of Manhattan.
Upper West Side Things to Do (Post Summary)
- See an original Banksy piece
- Visit the American Museum of Natural History
- Explore Central Park
- Order a lox bagel at Barney Greengrass
- Get a world-famous cookie from Levain
- Enjoy a performance at the Lincoln Center
- Gawk at the place John Lennon called home
- See the 5th largest church in the world
- See General Grant’s Tomb
- Explore Columbia University
- Catch a show at the Beacon Theater
- Visit the West Side Community Garden
- Get Brunch at Jacob’s Pickles
- Visit the New-York Historical Society
- Check out the views at Columbus Circle
- Peruse the local farmers markets
- Go grocery shopping at Zabar’s
- Stroll through Riverside Park
- Enjoy an easy evening at Vin sur Vingt
- Have a romantic date at the Arthouse Bar
- Wander your way around the American Folk Museum
- Revel at the West Side Comedy Club
Map of Fun Things to Do on the UWS
Video of the Upper West Side
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- 10 Charming Upper West Side Cafes (Local’s Guide)
- 12 Delicious Upper West Side Bakeries
- 12+ Wonderful Upper West Side Bars (Perfect for a Tipsy Night Out)
Cheers!
Final Thoughts
That wraps up our guide to Fun Things to Do on the Upper West Side (Local’s Guide). Have a favorite spot we missed? Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these things to do Upper West Side options won’t disappoint.
What would you add to this list?
If you liked this guide, you might also enjoy exploring my other local recommendations.
Just something minor, but most people say Lincoln Center, not the Lincoln Center.
Great list though!
Hi Gay, myself included! Thanks for your comment, I changed it to read Lincoln Center instead. 🙂
Please don’t forget to visit That Guitarman From Central Park most Saturdays in June Thru October by the lake off CPW between 72-76 street.
Great suggestion, Vicki! I bet readers will find your tip helpful!
Thanks for the tip on the Community Gardens. The tulips are blooming this week and I was able to stop and relax with the locals and enjoy my picnic lunch . A nice respite between St John the Devine and heading toward the Natural History museum and back to my daughter’s apt on W 72nd. I’m enjoying getting to know the area!
Thanks for the tip on the Community Gardens. The tulips are blooming this week and I was able to stop and relax with the locals and enjoy my picnic lunch . A nice respite on the way back to my daughter’s apt on W 72nd. I’m enjoying getting to know the area!
So glad to hear the info about the West Side Community Garden was helpful for you, it’s one of my favorite spots on the Upper West Side in the spring. The area is such a joy to explore, love the neighborhood! 🙂
Jacobs pickle opened years before maison pickle so a bit odd to phrase it as “from the people who” but I guess technically correct.
In any case great list!!
Thank you, Ben!
I would love for you to do an article on why the streets on the UWS are dirty filled with garbage. I moved back a couple of months ago. After being away for three years. I’m saddened to see the overflow of garbage cans on the streets, and sidewalks. I don’t understand why businesses and storefronts don’t sweep in front of their establishment.
Is it because of the state of the world? Is it apathy?
I’m interested in volunteering to clean it up. I reach out to one, they said I had to do a fund raiser. I thought that was ludicrous. I thought I just had to sign up, show up and clean. I would bring my own broom and garbage bags. I was do disappointed.
I met a woman on my walk to Riverside Park. The woman on her stroll said she picks up garbage, she stated “I do what I can.” I was motivated to do the same. I want to be part if the solution. I cannot settle for feeling powerless over the state of my beloved UWS. I am going to do my to part. I wish others would too.
Thanks Zulma for taking the time to comment, the Upper West Side is our home and we adore it. The comment section is used as a way to connect, and other New Yorkers might feel the same way as you. Hopefully we can all do our part to make our home a little cleaner.
I need to to thank you for this great read!! I certainly loved every little bit of it. I have got you book marked to check out new stuff you post…
Hi Crystal, thank you for letting us know you enjoyed the article! We love sharing everything we know about NYC and are excited to have you along for the ride!
I had already been looking at the Upper West Side of New York for my trip in the Fall. Frankly, I have stayed away for several years now as the crowds, traffic and frenetic pace do not suit me any more. Your article has reinforced my choice, and I look forward to visiting many of the sites mentioned. Thank you. Donna
one of the most gay-friendly cities in the world.