Introduction

What is the Upper West Side?

The Upper West Side is an iconic Manhattan neighborhood stretching from 59th Street to 110th Street, bordered by Central Park to the east and the Hudson River to the west. This residential and culturally vibrant area is renowned for its unique charm, pre-war architecture (pre-World War II), and the blend of classic and modern elements along its streets. Personally, it’s one of my favorite neighborhoods in New York. With its cafes, theaters, and the two parks framing it on the east and west, it would undoubtedly be one of my top picks for living in the city.

History and Notable Residents

Historically, the Upper West Side began its development in the late 19th century, quickly becoming home to grand and elegant buildings. This neighborhood has housed prominent figures such as Leonard Bernstein, the famed composer and conductor; Isaac Bashevis Singer, the Nobel Prize-winning novelist; and contemporary celebrities like Meryl Streep and Jerry Seinfeld. The area has always been a hub for artists, intellectuals, and individuals seeking a peaceful atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Our Tour

Get ready for an approximately 4 mile walk that will take you through both well-known landmarks and lesser-explored corners of this neighborhood. Put on comfortable shoes and join us for a journey that blends culture, history, and a touch of urban adventure. From iconic monuments to architectural gems and a stroll past mansions and churches, our tour will show you why the Upper West Side is a unique place in New York. Here's the map with a link to Google Maps.

Columbus Circle

We begin our tour on the southern edge of the Upper West Side, right at the start of the neighborhood on 59th Street. Columbus Circle is one of Manhattan’s most iconic landmarks and serves as the starting point for this full-day journey.

Subway Access

To get to Columbus Circle, you can take the A, B, C, D, or 1 subway lines and get off at the 59th Street – Columbus Circle station. This stop places you right in the plaza, ready to kick off the tour.

The Columbus Statue

The circle owes its name to the statue of Christopher Columbus, a centerpiece built in 1892 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Columbus's first voyage to the Americas. The monument was primarily funded by New York’s Italian community as a symbol of cultural pride and the contributions of Italian immigrants to the city. The statue, perched atop a marble column over 20 meters tall, depicts Columbus standing and gazing toward the horizon.

The Shops at Columbus Circle

If you’d like to explore further, step into The Shops at Columbus Circle, a luxury shopping center located in the Time Warner Center. Inside, you’ll find the famous sculptures by Fernando Botero, whose plump and striking figures make for excellent photo opportunities (note the worn surface on part of the sculpture from frequent touching!). Additionally, head to the first floor for a spectacular view of Columbus Circle with Central Park as the backdrop—perfect for a panoramic shot marking the beginning of your adventure.

Lincoln Center

Leaving Columbus Circle behind, we head north along Broadway to Lincoln Center, one of the world’s most important cultural complexes. Built in the 1960s as part of an urban renewal project, Lincoln Center was designed to transform the area into a hub of art and culture.

The Theaters of Lincoln Center

Lincoln Center is home to several world-renowned artistic institutions:

Metropolitan Opera House:
This opera house is considered one of the most prestigious in the world. Since its opening, it has hosted legendary voices like Luciano Pavarotti and Maria Callas, who have brought some of opera’s most iconic performances to life on its stage. For opera enthusiasts, the Met features an excellent gift shop where you can find everything from programs and recordings to unique items inspired by famous productions—perfect for taking home a special memento of this iconic institution.

David Geffen Hall:
Home to the New York Philharmonic, this venue is ideal for fans of symphonic music.

David H. Koch Theater:
The permanent home of the New York City Ballet, this theater also hosts the American Ballet Theatre during select seasons. It’s a must-visit for lovers of both classical and contemporary dance.

The Lincoln Center Fountain

At the heart of the plaza is the Revson Fountain, one of the most photographed features of the complex. With its dancing water jets and stunning nighttime illumination, the fountain is the perfect spot to capture an unforgettable photo of Lincoln Center, with the grandeur of its theaters as the backdrop.

Verdi Square

We continue our walk along Broadway and soon arrive at Verdi Square, a small but charming park located at the intersection of Broadway and 72nd Street. This green space is dedicated to the renowned Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi, celebrated for iconic operas such as La Traviata, Aida, and Rigoletto. The square features a statue of Verdi, erected in 1906 as a tribute to his enduring legacy in the world of music.

The Verdi Statue

The life-sized bronze statue of Giuseppe Verdi depicts the composer in a majestic pose, surrounded by statues of four of his most famous opera characters: Falstaff, Leonora, Aida, and Otello. These figures symbolize the profound impact of Verdi’s works on culture and their connection to universal emotions.

Across from the square, you can admire the Ansonia building, a classic example of Beaux-Arts architecture that underscores the elegance of the area.

The Dakota

Heading east along 72nd Street, we arrive at the iconic Dakota Building, one of New York's most famous and exclusive residential buildings. Built in 1884, the Dakota is distinguished by its Renaissance-inspired architecture and Gothic details, making it a landmark both for its design and its history.

The building is world-renowned as the home of John Lennon and Yoko Ono, who lived in a seventh-floor apartment (not the penthouse, as is often mistakenly claimed). Tragically, it was at the entrance of this building that John Lennon was assassinated in 1980. His legacy lives on, particularly in the nearby Strawberry Fields memorial, located just across the street in Central Park.

Strawberry Fields

This area of Central Park is a tribute to John Lennon, designed as a garden of peace and marked by the famous "Imagine" mosaic, referencing one of his most iconic songs. Visitors from around the world come here to pay their respects and reflect on his message of peace.

Strawberry Fields is a meaningful and special stop, and it also features in our Central Park tour, which I encourage you to consider as part of your New York adventure.

The San Remo

Continuing our walk along Central Park West, we arrive at the striking San Remo, an iconic twin-towered building located on Central Park West between 74th and 75th Streets. Built in 1930 and designed by architect Emery Roth, this Art Deco masterpiece has long been a symbol of elegance and exclusivity in the Upper West Side.

The twin towers that crown the San Remo are one of its most distinctive features, giving the building a unique presence on the city's skyline.

Over the years, the San Remo has been home to numerous famous residents, further cementing its reputation as one of New York’s most prestigious addresses. Notable past and present residents include Bono, frontman of U2; legendary comedian Steve Martin; and actress Demi Moore, who once owned a penthouse apartment with breathtaking views of Central Park. These prominent figures, along with others from the entertainment and business worlds, have been drawn to the building's luxurious amenities and historic charm.

Lunch Options in the Upper West Side

Orwashers Bakery
Located at 440 Amsterdam Avenue, between 81st and 82nd Streets, Orwashers Bakery is a historic spot offering a casual and delicious experience. You can enjoy their fresh sandwiches, artisanal breads, and a selection of pastries, perfect for a quick lunch or snack. Prices typically range between $10 and $15 for a sandwich or a drink and a sweet treat. There are a few outdoor tables and some stools at an indoor counter. On weekends, it gets very busy, and you may have to wait quite a while for a seat around midday.

Wafels & Dinges
This popular Belgian food cart is often stationed near the American Museum of Natural History, at 81st Street and Central Park West. It offers authentic Belgian waffles with a variety of toppings, from speculoos cream to fresh strawberries. It's a quick and affordable option, with prices ranging from $8 to $12 per waffle.

Zabar’s
A New York gourmet market institution located at 2245 Broadway, Zabar’s is famous for its bagel with lox—a quintessential city delight. The lox is smoked salmon, thinly sliced in front of you, and served on a fresh bagel with cream cheese. While seating at Zabar’s is limited, an excellent option is to grab a bagel with lox to go (around $17) and head to nearby Riverside Park. There, you can enjoy an impromptu picnic with views of the Hudson River—an authentically New York experience (and my personal favorite).

American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History, located on Central Park West and 79th Street, is one of the most fascinating and extensive museums in the world. Its main façade, designed in the Beaux-Arts style, stands out for its monumental scale and classical details, while the original building, founded in 1869, incorporates various historic architectural styles through its numerous expansions.

With its spectacular exhibits, such as the dinosaur hall and the Rose Center for Earth and Space, this museum offers an unforgettable experience. To fully explore its collections and exhibits, dedicating at least a full day is recommended.

However, on this tour, we don’t have that much time, but you can visit the lobby for free. There, you can admire the replica dinosaur skeletons and marvel at the grandeur of its interior design—a perfect prelude to capturing the museum’s magnificence. If you have more time during your trip to New York, it’s worth considering a separate visit.

The Apthorp

Built between 1906 and 1908, The Apthorp is an iconic building in New York’s Upper West Side, designed by the architectural firm Clinton & Russell in the Italian Renaissance style. This grand structure occupies an entire city block, bordered by Broadway, West End Avenue, and 78th and 79th Streets.

Key Features

Interior Courtyard:
One of The Apthorp's most remarkable features is its expansive interior courtyard, accessible through monumental arches on Broadway and West End Avenue. This private space is exclusively for residents and is a central aspect of the building’s coveted appeal.

Architectural Details:
The building boasts a limestone façade adorned with ornamental details, including Corinthian columns and intricate moldings, showcasing the opulence of the era in which it was built.

Over the years, The Apthorp has been home to several famous residents, including Al Pacino, Nora Ephron, and Cyndi Lauper, further cementing its status as a distinguished address in New York City.

Children’s Museum of Manhattan

If you’re doing this tour with kids and they’ve walked this entire route with you, a great option is to reward them by ending the day at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, located at 212 West 83rd Street, between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue. The museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM and is closed on Mondays.

Activities

The museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities designed for children of all ages:

• PlayWorks: Perfect for children under 5, this space allows them to explore and learn through play.

• Inside Art: An exhibit that lets kids interact with artistic installations and develop their creativity.

• Dynamic H2O: An outdoor experience teaching kids about the water cycle and the importance of water in daily life.

Admission

• Adults and children (over 1 year): $18 at the door; $17 online.

• Infants (under 1 year): Free.

• Seniors (65+) and visitors with disabilities: $15 at the door; $14 online.

Given the museum’s wide range of educational and recreational activities, it’s recommended to spend several hours so the kids can fully enjoy the experience. Ending the tour here and saving the rest of the itinerary for another time might be the perfect way to make the most of the visit.

Riverside Park

Continuing west along 83rd Street, we reach Riverside Park, one of New York’s most scenic parks. Designed in the 1870s by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, the same creator of Central Park, the park was originally conceived to complement the landscape along the Hudson River and provide recreational space for residents on Manhattan's west side.

Riverside Park is a popular spot for runners, with trails stretching for several miles, as well as tennis courts, sports fields, and outdoor activity areas. The views of the Hudson River provide a serene and beautiful atmosphere, and at sunset, the park becomes one of the best places in the city to watch the sun go down.

Soldiers and Sailors Monument

The Soldiers and Sailors Monument, located in Riverside Park at 89th Street, is an imposing tribute to the soldiers and sailors who served in the American Civil War. Built in 1902 and designed in the Neoclassical style, this white marble monument features a towering Corinthian column and intricate ornamentation that evokes the architecture of ancient Rome.

Although it’s not part of this itinerary, another Civil War-related point of interest is the General Grant National Memorial, commonly known as Grant's Tomb. Located at Riverside Drive and 122nd Street in Morningside Heights, this mausoleum is dedicated to President Ulysses S. Grant, the Union Army commander during the Civil War. As the largest mausoleum in North America, it offers a space for reflection with its monumental architecture and scenic location overlooking the Hudson River. A fascinating film about Ulysses Grant is available there, and I highly recommend it. Unfortunately, today we don’t have the time to include it.

Joan of Arc Statue

The Joan of Arc statue in Riverside Park, at 93rd Street, is an impressive monument dedicated to the French heroine Joan of Arc. Erected in 1915, it was the first statue in New York City created by a woman, sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington. The statue depicts Joan of Arc on horseback, clad in armor and holding her sword aloft in a pose that embodies her bravery and determination. This monument honors both her historical legacy and the ideals of courage and sacrifice.

Saint Michael’s Church

Saint Michael’s Church, located at 225 West 99th Street, is one of the most beautiful neo-Gothic churches in the Upper West Side. Founded in 1807 and reconstructed at its current location in the 19th century, the church is renowned for its soaring stained glass windows and intricate architectural details. Beyond its history and architecture, Saint Michael’s is also recognized for its dedication to the community, offering services and social programs to residents of the area.

Straus Park

Straus Park, situated at the intersection of Broadway and 106th Street, is a small memorial park dedicated to Isidor and Ida Straus, who perished in the sinking of the Titanic. The Strauses were Upper West Side residents and owners of Macy’s. The park features the statue Memory, sculpted by Augustus Lukeman, depicting a seated woman as a symbol of mourning and loss. Surrounded by gardens, the park provides a tranquil and reflective atmosphere, serving as a serene urban retreat and a tribute to two beloved figures in the community.

Nicholas Roerich Museum

As always, we strive to bring you lesser-known spots in our blog, and the Nicholas Roerich Museum is one of them. Located at 319 West 107th Street, the museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the interior of a historic Upper West Side mansion, showcasing the opulence and grandeur of these residences. With sweeping staircases, high ceilings, and generous spaces, this museum provides visitors with a glimpse of the architectural splendor that defines the mansions of the era.

Nicholas Roerich: A Multifaceted Man

Nicholas Roerich (1874–1947) was a man of many talents: artist, diplomat, mystic, and peace advocate. Born in St. Petersburg, Russia, Roerich created over 7,000 works, many of which depict landscapes and spiritual themes inspired by his studies of the Himalayas and Buddhism. Beyond his artistic achievements, Roerich championed the Roerich Pact in 1935, an international treaty aimed at protecting cultural monuments during wartime. His life, marked by a quest for wisdom, interest in Eastern philosophies, travels, and diplomacy, makes him a profoundly fascinating figure.

Access and Hours

The museum offers free admission, making its valuable collection accessible to all visitors. Opening hours are:

• Tuesday to Friday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

• Saturday and Sunday: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Let me know if you'd like to continue!

The museum is closed on Mondays and certain holidays. Visiting the Nicholas Roerich Museum not only allows you to learn about the legacy of a man whose life continues to inspire but also lets you enjoy the architectural richness that characterizes the opulent mansions of the Upper West Side.

The Schinasi Mansion

The Schinasi Mansion, located at 351 Riverside Drive near 107th Street, is one of the few standalone mansions remaining in Manhattan (not attached to any other building). Built in 1907 for tobacco magnate Morris Schinasi, this Beaux-Arts-style mansion is notable for its elegant architecture and limestone ornamental details. With its unique design and rich history, the Schinasi Mansion stands as a testament to the opulence and distinctive architecture of early 20th-century New York. The mansion was also owned by Mark Schwartz, a Goldman Sachs executive, who acquired it in 2013.

Cathedral of Saint John the Divine

Before stepping inside, take a moment to explore the adjacent park, home to the stunning Peace Fountain, created in 1985 by Greg Wyatt. This sculptural work blends religious and secular symbolism, depicting Archangel Michael triumphing over evil in a scene surrounded by figures of children and animals.

Located in Morningside Heights, the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine competes with Liverpool Cathedral in England for the title of the largest Anglican church in the world. Construction began in 1892, and while it remains unfinished, it is still an architectural icon of the Upper West Side. This majestic building serves not only as a place of worship but also as a cultural center, hosting concerts, events, and exhibitions. It used to be the annual venue for the Paul Winter Consort’s spectacular solstice concert, which I was fortunate to attend multiple times—a truly unique and memorable experience.

The cathedral’s main façade is an example of Gothic architecture enriched with Romanesque and neo-Gothic details. Its imposing design features a single completed tower on the southern corner, while the rest of the project remains a testament to the ambition and scale of this unfinished masterpiece. The blend of styles highlights its monumental character and gives it a unique presence in the city.

Stepping through its grand doors, you’ll be greeted by towering columns and a ceiling so high it seems to touch the sky. The vast interior space is bathed in light from stunning stained glass windows that depict biblical scenes, historical figures, and universal themes.

Tom’s Restaurant

For fans of Seinfeld, Tom’s Restaurant is a must-visit. Located at the corner of Broadway and 112th Street, this diner served as the inspiration for “Monk’s Café,” where the show’s characters regularly gathered. While the interior of the diner is not the same as the one featured in the series, the façade is instantly recognizable. It’s a great spot for a snack, where you can enjoy a coffee, a classic burger, or a slice of apple pie while soaking in the authentic atmosphere of a New York diner.

Columbia University Campus Quad

The Columbia University campus, one of the most prestigious universities in the United States, is located near Tom’s Restaurant and offers a historical academic atmosphere. At the Campus Quad, also known as the "Low Memorial Plaza," you’ll find the iconic Low Library building with its impressive dome, surrounded by expansive gardens and pathways. This area serves as the heart of the campus and is a perfect place to stroll and experience the collegiate vibe. The combination of classical architecture and green spaces makes this campus a special place in New York.

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing this walking tour! Across from Columbia University, you’ll find the 116th Street – Columbia University subway station on the 1 line, a convenient spot for your return and some well-deserved rest at your accommodations.

We hope this guide has been enjoyable and helps you experience an unforgettable day in the Upper West Side. As always, happy travels!