A beloved blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences, the Upper West Side is a neighborhood that invites you to slow down, look around, and appreciate the details. Between two great parks and filled with cultural landmarks, it’s a place where daily life feels both grounded and elevated.
Steeped in architectural beauty and cultural milestones, the Upper West Side’s story is one of transformation and community resilience. Over more than a century, it has evolved from a newly developed residential district into a sophisticated cultural hub.
Whether you’re here for the arts, the outdoors, or the food, the Upper West Side offers attractions that appeal to every interest. Its streets are lined with iconic institutions, parks, and local favorites worth exploring.
An international symbol of culture and the performing arts, Lincoln Center is home to institutions like the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera, and the New York City Ballet. Whether you attend a grand opera, an intimate chamber music performance, or an outdoor summer film screening, Lincoln Center is a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for the arts.
A treasure trove of science, history, and exploration, this world-renowned museum offers everything from towering dinosaur skeletons to immersive space shows in the Hayden Planetarium. It’s as fascinating for adults as it is for children, making it a perfect family outing.
The Upper West Side borders some of the most scenic sections of Central Park, including Strawberry Fields, The Great Lawn, and the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. It’s ideal for morning runs, weekend picnics, or quiet afternoons on a park bench with a good book.
On the other side of the neighborhood, Riverside Park stretches for four miles along the Hudson River, offering bike paths, playgrounds, sports fields, and serene waterfront views. In summer, it’s a haven for outdoor concerts, yoga classes, and sunset strolls.
This legendary gourmet market is an institution for Upper West Siders. Known for its smoked fish, bagels, specialty cheeses, and freshly roasted coffee, Zabar’s is as much an experience as it is a grocery stop.
A beautifully restored 1920s movie palace turned live performance venue, the Beacon Theatre hosts concerts, comedy shows, and special events in a stunning, intimate setting.
Life on the Upper West Side strikes a rare balance—peaceful yet energetic, cultured yet casual. It’s a neighborhood where the pace of the city slows just enough for you to enjoy the view.
The Upper West Side attracts a mix of people who value culture, convenience, and community. From students to retirees, the neighborhood thrives on diversity and shared appreciation for its unique lifestyle.
Food and drink are an art form here. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick coffee, a decadent dessert, or a gourmet dinner, the Upper West Side delivers with style and flavor.
Jacob’s Pickles – A comfort food haven famous for fried chicken, biscuits, and pickles, served in a warm, rustic space.
Cafe Lalo – Known for its European-style pastries and as a filming location for You’ve Got Mail, this cafe is as charming as it is delicious.
RedFarm – A modern, playful take on Chinese cuisine, with creative dim sum and inventive cocktails.
Nice Matin – A French-Mediterranean bistro offering an elegant brunch and excellent wines.
Zabar’s – The ultimate Upper West Side food destination for smoked fish, bagels, and specialty groceries.
Levain Bakery – Famous for its giant, gooey cookies that draw lines around the block.
Mille-Feuille Bakery Cafe – A French bakery known for croissants, macarons, and artisanal bread.
Central Park (West Side) – Home to iconic spots like Sheep Meadow, Bethesda Terrace, and the Great Lawn.
Riverside Park – Ideal for jogging, biking, or unwinding by the river.
The Upper West Side offers a rare combination of historic elegance and modern living. From brownstones to luxury high-rises, there’s something for every lifestyle if you can snag a spot.
The Upper West Side’s housing stock is a mix of grand prewar co-ops, elegant brownstones, modern high-rises, and art deco gems. Many buildings retain original details like ornate lobbies, wood-burning fireplaces, and wrought-iron balconies. Tree-lined side streets hide rows of brownstones with charming stoops, while the avenues offer larger apartment buildings with doormen and elevators.
Buyers and renters are typically professionals, families, and long-time New Yorkers seeking stability and community. While the neighborhood is expensive, it’s seen as a worthwhile investment for those wanting a balance of culture, nature, and convenience.
The Upper West Side’s calendar is dotted with seasonal events that showcase its cultural spirit and love of the outdoors.
A festive kickoff to the holiday season with music, food tastings, and tree lighting.
Outdoor concerts, dance performances, and movie nights along the waterfront.
Free summer performances in Central Park’s Great Lawn.
These gatherings bring together residents and visitors to enjoy the neighborhood’s creative and communal spirit. They’re less about spectacle and more about shared experiences, often set against the backdrop of the city’s most beautiful green spaces.
From the grandeur of Lincoln Center to the warmth of a corner cafe, the Upper West Side offers a timeless New York experience. Whether you come for the parks, the culture, or the food, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the city’s most graceful neighborhood.
158,363 people live in Upper West Side, where the median age is 46 and the average individual income is $122,222. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
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There's plenty to do around Upper West Side, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Barb Coffee Co. and Market, The Fur Source of NY, and Aughton Training Systems.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 1.97 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Shopping | 1.92 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.93 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.47 miles | 11 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.78 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.76 miles | 16 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.16 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.94 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.49 miles | 19 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.19 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.69 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.88 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.89 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Upper West Side has 75,648 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Upper West Side do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 158,363 people call Upper West Side home. The population density is 133,011.948 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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