With its picturesque brownstones, tree-lined streets, and a distinctive artsy vibe, the Upper West Side (UWS) is one of New York City’s most beloved neighborhoods. Sandwiched between Central Park and the Hudson River, this residential yet dynamic area offers an array of attractions, making it the perfect place to base yourself when traveling to NYC. Remember our review of Sapphire on the Upper West Side? Well, below we’ll take a look at some of the best things to do in the UWS area right now:
1. Start your day at Central Park
The UWS offers easy access to Central Park, the city’s green lung and playground for many people in the USA. Spend a leisurely morning exploring the park’s highlights like the Bethesda Fountain, Strawberry Fields, and the Central Park Zoo. Don’t forget to stop by the iconic Belvedere Castle for panoramic views of the park and the city’s skyline.
After exploring the park’s highlights like the Bethesda Fountain, Strawberry Fields, and the Central Park Zoo, why not have a picnic in one of the meadows? Bring along a frisbee or a ball to play some fun outdoor games with your family and friends. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and create lasting memories while basking in the sunshine.
2. Immerse yourself in amazing museums
The Upper West Side is home to some of NYC’s best cultural institutions. At the American Museum of Natural History, you can gaze up at the giant blue whale model and explore the universe in the Hayden Planetarium. A short walk away, the New York Historical Society offers a deep dive into the city’s past. Art enthusiasts should visit the nearby Lincoln Center, home to the Metropolitan Opera and the New York City Ballet.
Make your museum visit even more interactive by participating in the hands-on activities and workshops offered by the American Museum of Natural History. Join a fossil excavation workshop or try your hand at creating your own scientific experiments. At the New York Historical Society, embark on a scavenger hunt through their exhibits to discover fascinating stories about the city’s history. Unleash your inner artist by taking a guided drawing or painting class at the nearby Lincoln Center.
3. Enjoy a riverside stroll
Riverside Park, stretching along the Hudson, is an often overlooked gem. With its waterfront paths, sports fields, and stunning river views, it’s a wonderful spot for walking, cycling, and simply soaking up the sun. Look out for the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument and the beautiful Riverside Church.
Take advantage of the stunning river views in Riverside Park by organizing a family photo scavenger hunt. Create a list of specific sights or nature elements to capture, such as a unique tree, a colorful flower, or a scenic spot along the Hudson. Split into teams and see who can find and photograph all the items first. Don’t forget to share and compare your photos afterward for a fun and memorable experience.
4. Indulge in some fine food
The UWS is a food lover’s paradise. Find everything from trendy brunch spots to historic eateries, ethnic food, and gourmet markets. Zabar’s, a classic deli and gourmet food store, is a must-visit. For a fine dining experience, make your way to The Lucerne Upper West Side Hotel and its in-house restaurant, Nice Matin. Known for its French and Mediterranean fare, Nice Matin offers a stylish setting beneath The Lucerne’s stunning Beaux-Arts facade.
Expand your culinary adventure by organizing a family food tour on the Upper West Side. Start with a visit to Zabar’s and pick up delicious bites from various food sections to create a diverse picnic. Take your picnic to Riverside Park and enjoy the flavors while soaking up the picturesque views. For a twist, have each family member choose a different cuisine for dinner and explore local ethnic restaurants, sharing and tasting each other’s dishes for a multicultural dining experience.
5. Dive into a good bookstore
Explore the UWS’s thriving literary scene by visiting its independent bookstores. Book Culture and Westsider Rare and Used Books are local favorites, offering a wide range of titles and a cozy, community-oriented atmosphere.
Turn your visit to the independent bookstores into a literary-themed scavenger hunt. Create a list of book-related items or clues that can be found within the stores, such as a book written by a Nobel Prize-winning author or a book with a blue cover. Challenge each family member to find as many items as possible within a set time limit. Celebrate the winner by purchasing a book of their choice as a prize.
6. Let your hair down with the local nightlife
The UWS offers a more laid-back nightlife scene than downtown Manhattan. Jazz enthusiasts should check out Smoke Jazz & Supper Club for some live music. For a casual night out, head to one of the neighborhood’s many cozy pubs and wine bars and you are guaranteed a good time with friendly locals.
Engage in a friendly game night at one of the neighborhood’s cozy pubs or wine bars. Bring along a deck of cards or popular board games and challenge other patrons to a friendly competition. Enjoy the lively atmosphere while bonding with both locals and fellow travelers. You never know, you might discover some new game enthusiasts and make lasting connections over a shared love of games.
The Upper West Side, with its artistic heritage, architectural beauty, and relaxed pace, as you can see, offers a unique slice of New York City. Whether you’re dining at The Lucerne Hotel or taking in the local museums, you’ll understand why this neighborhood has been the muse of many filmmakers and writers and a favorite haunt of tourists and locals alike! Enjoy your trip.
