Refined and reputable, a sophisticated slice of Manhattan
On the western edge of the Manhattan borough, the Upper West Side stretches from Central Park West to the Hudson River and from 59th Street to 110th Street. This affluent, historic community is world-renowned for its outstanding arts and cultural facilities, lively atmosphere, and upbeat ambiance. The Upper West Side boasts primarily residential streets as many of the community members work in Lower Manhattan or Midtown, so the neighborhoods are comparatively quiet. This area is home to prestigious universities Columbia University and Barnard College, as well as a plethora of museums, music venues, and historic institutions. This enclave is well-connected with ample public transportation options, which makes it simple to navigate throughout the city when living here. Architecture on the Upper West Side is largely defined by chic brownstones, but this area also caters to buyers from all walks of life with a variety of luxurious high-rise apartments and cozy townhouses to choose from.
The Upper West Side is revered for its lavish yet laid-back lifestyle. Both historic and hip, this cultural hub is famous for its nightlife, revolutionary eateries, and can’t-miss shopping. For decades, this community has been loved by writers, artists, musicians, and filmmakers. Today, the Upper West Side boasts an established aura—being here often feels like being inside of a movie set.
The Upper West Side boasts a dazzling culinary catalog with tastes from around the globe that attract visitors from all over. For traditional Italian cuisine, grab a seat at Carmine’s Italian Restaurant, where everything is served family-style, and good food and good memories await.
The Jewish deli Barney Greengrass has been a staple in this community since opening in 1908, and it continues to be a local favorite. Zabar’s, a gourmet deli with a high-end selection of upscale pantry items, is your go-to grocery destination before inviting your friends over for a dinner party. Their shelves are stocked with a refined collection of smoked fish and caviar, fine cheeses, and freshly baked goods alongside more traditional deli fares. On the Upper West Side’s southern edge, The Shops at Columbus Circle are perfect for a shopping spree.
While the Upper West Side touts a quiet demeanor that lacks an abundance of up-all-night entertainment, residents here still find plenty to do. The Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts is a local favorite entertainment complex that is always hosting something exciting across their 16.3-acre campus, whether it’s an outdoor music festival or a series of indoor concerts. Located within the Lincoln Center is the Metropolitan Opera, which often boasts a program of breathtaking operatic performances. To take a walk through the past, The American Museum of Natural History chronicles the development of human cultures as well as our place in the world’s ecosystem and natural processes. Bordering the Upper West Side is Central Park. This famous urban green space sweeps through the city, consisting of 843 acres of parkland, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy all year long, whether you’re taking a carriage ride through the snow, a stroll among the spring blooms, or an afternoon summertime picnic. Relax on the riverfront at Riverside Park, a winding expanse along the banks of the Hudson River, where you’ll find baseball fields, basketball courts, and plenty of green space to rest in the sun.
Students on the Upper West Side have a myriad of private and public school opportunities. Here are a few of the community’s most established and revered academic facilities: