The Essential Upper West Side Guide – Love It!

The Upper West Side feels like stepping into a Hollywood set—thanks to its iconic brownstones and tree-lined streets that often star in sitcoms and films.

While it may not have the flashy attractions of other New York City hotspots, this neighborhood charms with its laid-back vibe and classic NYC energy. Having lived here for two years, I’ve explored its best spots, from strolling through Central Park to catching a show at the Lincoln Center.

For a true local experience, don’t miss the American Museum of Natural History, browsing the Grand Bazaar Fleamarket, or digging into cookies at Levain and fresh bagels from Zabar’s. History buffs will love visiting the New York Historical Society, and honestly, just seeing daily life unfold here feels like living inside a movie set.

Free Printable: 5 Day New York City Itinerary

After living in NYC for two years, I created this free, downloadable PDF 5-Day New York City Itinerary specifically for First Time Visitors. Each day is condensed to a single printer-friendly page with timed schedules, subway directions, and insider tips – perfect for on-the-go reference.

The itinerary balances must-see attractions with hidden local favorites, complete with meal recommendations and photo-op locations. I’ve included alternate options for rainy days and money-saving tricks I wish I’d known earlier.

Where is the Upper West Side?

The Upper West Side is one of Manhattan’s most desirable residential neighborhoods, stretching from W 59th Street (where it meets Columbus Circle) up to W 110th Street (bordering Harlem). Bordered by the Hudson River to the west and Central Park to the east, this area offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and neighborhood charm.

The main thoroughfares – Broadway, Amsterdam Avenue, and Columbus Avenue – are lined with pre-war buildings, local shops, and some of the city’s best eateries. Unlike the more tourist-heavy areas downtown, the UWS maintains an authentic New York feel while offering easy access to major attractions.

The Best Things to Do on the Upper West Side

Central Park

No visit to the Upper West Side is complete without exploring Central Park. Enter at W 90th Street to access the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, a serene 1.58-mile loop offering stunning skyline views.

Walk south to discover the Lake, where you can rent rowboats in summer or skate in winter. The iconic Bethesda Terrace features the Angel of the Waters fountain and incredible acoustics in its arcade. Nearby, the cast-iron Bow Bridge (one of the park’s most photographed spots) leads to the literary-inspired the Mall, a graceful promenade lined with American elms.

The park serves as the natural divider between the Upper West Side and Upper East Side, with each side offering distinct character.

American Museum of Natural History

Located at W 77th Street, this famous institution houses world-class anthropological, pre-historic, and zoological exhibits. The dinosaur halls (featuring a towering T-Rex skeleton) and the Rose Center for Earth and Space are highlights. Perfect for families, the museum offers interactive displays and a butterfly conservatory (seasonal).

Pro tip: The “pay-what-you-wish” admission for New York residents isn’t advertised – just ask at the ticket counter.

Lincoln Center

As one of the world’s premier performing arts venues, Lincoln Center hosts the Metropolitan Opera, New York Philharmonic at David H Koch Theater, and the New York City Ballet. Catching a show here is a quintessential NYC experience.

For pre-theatre dining, The Smith offers reliable American fare just blocks away, while John Fraser’s Aegean restaurant Iris (a 15-minute walk or 5-minute Uber away) provides a more upscale Mediterranean option with an excellent prix-fixe menu.

Tom’s Diner (Seinfeld Restaurant)

Made famous by the 90s sitcom Seinfeld, this classic diner at Broadway and 112th Street remains unchanged since its TV days. The exterior served as Monk’s Cafe in the show. While the food is standard diner fare, it’s worth visiting for the nostalgia. Nearby, you can visit Columbia University and the massive Cathedral of St John the Divine, which hosts incredible vertical tours of its stone vaults.

Columbia University

This Ivy League campus on 114th Street offers beautiful Beaux-Arts architecture and a vibrant academic atmosphere. Don’t miss the Low Memorial Library (the administrative center) or the peaceful College Walk. The university’s free events calendar often includes interesting lectures and performances.

New York Historical Society

Though small compared to other NYC museums, this compact institution packs a punch with rotating exhibitions about the city’s past. The Al Hirschfeld exhibition (featuring his iconic theater caricatures) was particularly memorable during my first NYC winter. Their library contains fascinating archives, and the museum offers excellent programs for kids.

Grand Bazaar Flea Market

Operating every Sunday since the 1970s, this oldest and largest NYC flea market at 100 W 77th Street features 100+ vendors selling antiques, vintage clothing, jewelry, and unique souvenirs. The selection ranges from mid-century modern furniture to rare vinyl records. Arrive early for best picks, and don’t forget to bargain.

Riverside Park

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (of Central Park fame), this four-mile park along the Hudson River features scenic walking paths, tennis courts, and the beautiful views of New Jersey across the water. The park is particularly popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclists, featuring a dedicated bike path. Don’t miss the 79th Street Boat Basin or the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument at 89th Street.

79th Street Greenmarket

Held every Sunday (9am-4pm) along Columbus Avenue between 77th-81st Street, this farmers market offers fresh, local produce from upstate New York farms. In spring and summer, the selection expands to include artisanal cheeses, fresh flowers, and baked goods. It’s my go-to spot for seasonal fruits and organic vegetables.

Theodore Roosevelt Park

Adjacent to the Natural History Museum, this small park offers shade and seats – a godsend on hot summer days. While not worth a special trip, it’s perfect for a picnic if you’re museum-hopping. The park features a quiet, locals-only vibe and some interesting sculptures.

Best Bagels on the Upper West Side

The neighborhood’s large Jewish community has perfected the art of bagels – chewy, flavorful, and always fresh. Here are the can’t-miss spots:

Zabar’s

This family-owned institution (operating for 90 years across four generations) is more than just a Jewish Deli – it’s a culinary landmark. Since 1934, they’ve sold gourmet smoked fish, artisanal cheese, and what many consider NYC’s best bagels.

Zabar’s made history by introducing brie to New Yorkers in the 1960s, sundried tomatoes in the 70s, and accidentally starting the “caviar wars” in the 1980s when they popularized luxury fish eggs. Their bagels are boiled then baked to perfection, with everything and sesame being customer favorites.

Best Places to Eat on the Upper West Side

While the UWS isn’t known for its restaurant scene like downtown neighborhoods, it excels at cozy bars, neighborhood restaurants, classic cafes, artisanal bakeries, and satisfying fast casual options. Here are the essential local institutions:

Daily Provisions

Part of Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group, this cafe chain at Amsterdam Ave & W 78th serves what might be NYC’s best BEC (Bacon, Egg & Cheese) sandwich on a house-made roll.

Their coffee program is excellent, and the pastry case features incredible croissants and crullers (their signature spiral donut). Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, the space has a warm, neighborhood vibe despite its corporate backing.

Levain

This tiny bakery (since 1995) achieved cult status for its choc chip walnut cookies – originally created by owners Pam Weekes and Connie McDonald as energy food for their triathlon training. Each half-pound cookie has a crispy exterior and gooey center, with the walnut version being their signature. Lines form daily as locals and international visitors alike queue for these legendary treats.

Shake Shack

While the original Madison Square Park location gets more attention, this outpost at Columbus & 78th (opposite the Natural History Museum) serves the same excellent burgers, crinkle-cut fries, and concretes (frozen custard). It’s particularly popular with families and museum visitors.

Pro tip: Order via their app to skip the line, then enjoy your meal in nearby Theodore Roosevelt Park.

Gray’s Papaya

This institution (since the 1970s) at Broadway and 72nd offers NYC’s best bargain meal: two hot dogs and a tropical drink for under $7. The tropical juices (papaya, banana, etc.) are surprisingly delicious. While the debate between Gray’s and Papaya King (the original) rages on, I prefer Gray’s for its unchanged retro vibe and better onions.

Parm

From Major Food Group (creators of impossible-to-book Carbone), this fast casual spot specializes in Italian American comfort food. Their chicken parm sandwich is legendary, but the mozz sticks (made with fresh mozzarella) might be even better.

Featured in the New York Times and named one of America’s 101 Best Spots to eat, Parm delivers big flavors in a casual setting. The decor pays homage to old-school Italian delis with a modern twist.