What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when someone mentions New York? Iconic series filmed here such as “Friends,” “Sex and the City” or “How I Met Your Mother”? Maybe it’s the music! There is a chance that some catchy lyrics like “Concrete jungle where dreams are made of…” or Sinatra’s “I want to be part of it/ New York, New York” are in your head right now. World-class art, colorful culture, rich history, breathtaking architecture, fun nightlife, incredible food – there are so many things to see and try here! However, NYC is like a puzzle of unique neighborhoods. Many pieces fit together to create the Big Apple! If you’re still deciding where to go and what to visit, we can suggest a few fun things to do on the Upper West Side of NYC.
Where is the Upper West Side?
NYC’s Upper West Side is located between Central Park to the east and Riverside Park and the Hudson River to the west. It extends from West 110th Street (north) to the Columbus Circle at West 59th Street (south). It is a neighborhood with a residential feel, without the hustle and bustle typical of big cities. It is one of the best neighborhoods to move in with kids. It is a safe and family-friendly place. However, there is still so much you can see and do here!
Fun Things to Do on the Upper West Side NYC
NYC’s Upper West Side has something for everyone! If you’re looking for museums and theaters, bars and restaurants, or simply want to experience the local vibe of this neighborhood, you won’t be disappointed.
However, whether you’re visiting from abroad or a neighboring state, be sure to do your research before traveling. Well-planned trips are always less stressful. To help you with your planning, here are some exciting places to consider for your visit.
If you’re interested in history…
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American Museum of Natural History
The museum is one of the symbols of NYC! It’s large, with around 50 exhibition halls. You can learn about humans and animals, see fossils and artifacts or check out the Planetarium.
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New York Historical Society
If you want to discover NYC and US history, this is the place! Works of art, documents, artifacts, newspapers, books, maps, photos – the whole collection aims to present the US history and the history of New York in detail.
If you’re interested in art…
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Original Banksy
He’s a famous street artist known for his murals. There are many worldwide; one is located at West 79th Street and Broadway on the Upper West Side. The piece is called Hammer Boy, and it’s among hidden gems worth visiting.
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American Folk Art Museum
What is unique about folk artists is that they are self-taught. In contrast to others, they never had any formal training. The museum collection has pieces from all over the world spanning more than 400 years.
If you want to catch a show…
Catching a show is definitely among the most fun things to do on the Upper West Side of NYC! These shows are so fun and popular that people can’t wait for their reliable New York movers, such as Ben Hur Moving & Storage NYC, to drop them off along with their belongings so that they can go and explore.
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Lincoln Center
It is a cultural center of the Upper West Side! It encompasses the Metropolitan Opera House, the New York Philharmonic, the New York City Opera, the New York City Ballet, the School of American Ballet, the Julliard School of Music, the Chamber Music Society, and the Film Society. Whether you choose opera, theater, or ballet, you’ll have a fantastic experience!
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Beacon Theater
If you want to catch a show during your visit, the Beacon Theater is also a good choice. What makes this theatre unique is its size. It has only 2.600 seats! The theater is intimate and has excellent acoustics.
If you’re looking for a piece of nature…
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Riverside Park
Riverside Park runs along the Hudson River. It is very popular among locals for bike riding, jogging, or a simple stroll. Thus, this area is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a peaceful place for a walk or a picnic. And if you meet some cute locals during your stay, it is an exciting place for a first date!
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Central Park
Another symbol of NYC! There are so many activities to do here (with a drink in your hand or without it) that it’s hard to recommend only a few, but we’ll try.
- Rowing boats on the lake in summer
- Ice skating in the winter
- Strolling and enjoying the cherry blossoms in spring or colorful leaves in fall
- Sightseeing: Some famous spots are Belvedere Castle, Bethesda Fountain and Terrace, The Mall and Literary Walk, Loeb Boathouse on the Lake, Bow Bridge, Strawberry Fields, Central Park Carousel, Wollman Rink, Conservatory Gardens, etc.
And if you’re looking for tasty food…
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Levain Bakery
One of the fun things to do on the Upper West Side NYC, or any other place, is try new food. According to locals, this bakery has the best cookies in NYC. Since you’ll need proper fuel, don’t miss this place!
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Zabar’s
If you’re looking for an authentic local shop, it’s this one. Zabar has remained in the same family for 80 years! It is an old-fashioned shop but with a wide assortment! Smoked fish, baked goods (bagels, of course), and artisanal cheese are all delicious foods for a long day of different activities.
There is an excellent chance that you’ll fall in love with this neighborhood after one visit and maybe wish to relocate. It truly is a fantastic place to live, especially if you have a family. It’s peaceful enough but with a ton of fun activities. If you do decide to make this neighborhood your new home and move to a new house, be sure to do so with the help of local movers on the Upper West Side. There are many reasons why you should reach out to skilled specialists – not having to pack and carry your heavy items being one of them.
Keep in mind that there are many more fun things to do on the Upper West Side NYC! But you need to start somewhere. Hopefully, we inspired you to explore this unique part of New York City!
