![\"Explore](\"https:\/\/growtthrapidly.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Explore-the-Charm-of-NYCs-Upper-West-Side-A-Neig.jpg\")
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The Upper West Side, NYC: A Hidden Gem<\/p>\n
Welcome to the Upper West Side, possibly my favorite neighborhood in New York City. And it\u2019s not just because I live here. This area is brimming with things to do and places to visit, yet it maintains a charming, residential feel that sets it apart from busier tourist spots. Don’t be fooled by the cozy, tree-lined streets\u2014there’s plenty to discover and enjoy.<\/p>\n
Sights & Museums<\/p>\n
American Museum of Natural History
\nA must-visit, this premier museum covers all things nature and science. With its incredible exhibits and special programs (especially in the planetarium), it’s a fantastic experience for NY residents who can enjoy the “pay as you wish” admission option.
\nLocation: Central Park West & 79th St
\nHours: 10am \u2013 5:45pm<\/p>\n
Central Park
\nStretching for over 50 blocks, Central Park is a city treasure, and the Upper West Side has some of its best spots. Don\u2019t miss the Delacorte Theater and Shakespeare Garden, home to the seasonal Shakespeare in the Park. Other highlights include Strawberry Fields, the Great Lawn, The Reservoir, and Belvedere Theater.
\nFavorites: Delacorte Theater, Shakespeare Garden<\/p>\n
Children\u2019s Museum of Manhattan
\nOne of the city’s top destinations for families, this museum offers engaging activities and exhibits for kids, promoting fun and learning in areas like dance, art, and healthy living.
\nLocation: 212 West 83rd Street
\nHours: Tue \u2013 Fri & Sun 10am \u2013 5pm; Sat: 10am \u2013 7pm
\nWebsite: CMOM<\/p>\n
Hayden Planetarium
\nPart of the Museum of Natural History, this planetarium offers fascinating talks and presentations on astronomy. Be sure to book tickets in advance, especially for the popular live astronomy events.
\nLocation: AMNH (Central Park West & 79th St)<\/p>\n
New York Historical Society
\nEstablished in 1804, this is one of NYC’s oldest museums, showcasing manuscripts, artifacts, and special exhibits that narrate the city’s rich history.
\nLocation: 170 Central Park West
\nHours: Tue \u2013 Thur, Sat 10am \u2013 6pm; Fri 10am \u2013 9pm; Sun 10am \u2013 5pm
\nWebsite: NY Historical Society<\/p>\n
Theaters & Venues<\/p>\n
Lincoln Center
\nA cultural hub, Lincoln Center hosts stunning performances in opera, concerts, ballet, and more. Enjoy free events and music in the plaza too!
\nLocation: 10 Lincoln Center Plaza
\nWebsite: Lincoln Center<\/p>\n
Beacon Theatre
\nThis iconic venue features an array of events including top music acts, comedy, and more. Always something interesting on the calendar\u2014check it regularly!
\nLocation: 2124 Broadway
\nWebsite: Beacon Theatre<\/p>\n
TKTS Booth
\nGet discounted Broadway tickets at the Lincoln Center TKTS booth, which is less crowded than the Times Square location.
\nLocation: David Rubenstein Atrium (61 W 62nd Street)
\nHours: Mon \u2013 Sat 12 \u2013 7pm; Sun 12 \u2013 5pm<\/p>\n
West Side Comedy Club
\nA cozy spot featuring local and well-known comedians. They also offer open mic nights.
\nLocation: 201 West 75th Street
\nWebsite: West Side Comedy Club<\/p>\n
Restaurants<\/p>\n
It\u2019s hard to list every great restaurant, but here are a few of my favorite places:<\/p>\n
Alice\u2019s Tea Cup
\nThe original location is perfect for high tea and more.
\nLocation: 102 West 73rd Street<\/p>\n
Han Dynasty
\nA fantastic spot for Chinese cuisine from a beloved Philly chain.
\nLocation: 215 W 85th St<\/p>\n
Gray\u2019s Papaya
\nSimple yet iconic, open 24\/7 for hot dogs and fruity drinks.
\nLocation: 2090 Broadway<\/p>\n
Jacob\u2019s Pickles
\nSouthern cuisine with large portions, perfect for late nights or brunch.
\nLocation: 509 Amsterdam Ave<\/p>\n
Parm
\nDelicious parm sandwiches and other tasty dishes, though a bit pricy.
\nLocation: 235 Columbus Ave<\/p>\n
The Smith
\nA lively American-Italian restaurant\u2014ask for the backroom if you prefer a quieter setting.
\nLocation: 1900 Broadway<\/p>\n
Zabar\u2019s
\nA staple for groceries and a well-known caf\u00e9. Great for bagels and other treats.
\nLocation: 2245 Broadway<\/p>\n
Coffee Shops & Cafes<\/p>\n
Upper West Side boasts numerous coffee spots, here are some go-to places:<\/p>\n
Irving Farm
\nGreat local coffee with delicious food, though no WiFi.
\nLocation: 224 W 79th St<\/p>\n
Box Kite
\nPossibly the best flat white in the area, though seating is limited.
\nLocation: 128 W 72nd St<\/p>\n
Macaron Parlour
\nOffers good coffee, tasty pastries, and a quiet spot for work.
\nLocation: 560 Columbus Ave<\/p>\n
Mille-feuille Bakery Caf\u00e9
\nMore than just good coffee, the French-style food is the main draw.
\nLocation: 2175 Broadway<\/p>\n
Filicori Zecchini
\nGood coffee in a relaxed, often uncrowded setting.
\nLocation: 2541 Broadway<\/p>\n
Desserts<\/p>\n
Treat yourself to some lovely desserts at these spots:<\/p>\n
Beard Papa\u2019s
\nFamous Japanese cream puffs.
\nLocation: 2167 Broadway<\/p>\n
Caf\u00e9 Lalo
\nKnown for its feature in \u201cYou\u2019ve Got Mail\u201d\u2014a bit pricey but great desserts, open late.
\nLocation: 201 W 83rd St<\/p>\n
Levain Bakery
\nRenowned for its addictive cookies, a must-try.
\nLocation: 351 Amsterdam Ave<\/p>\n
Milk Bar
\nAward-winning bakery with unique, sometimes polarizing flavors.
\nLocation: 561 Columbus Ave<\/p>\n
Van Leeuwen
\nBeloved Brooklyn ice cream shop with a new UWS location, open until midnight.
\nLocation: 448 Amsterdam Ave<\/p>\n
Bookstores<\/p>\n
Bank Street Bookstore
\nCharming indie shop for children\u2019s books and education materials.
\nLocation: 2780 Broadway<\/p>\n
Barnes & Noble
\nA large, multi-level national chain store with a variety of special events.
\nLocation: 2289 Broadway<\/p>\n
Book Culture
\nA beautiful independent bookstore hosting special events.
\nLocation: 450 Columbus Ave<\/p>\n
Westsider Rare & Used
\nQuaint shop offering a great collection of rare and used books.
\nLocation: 2246 Broadway<\/p>\n
Whether you’re a local, a worker, or a visitor, the Upper West Side has something to offer. Have any recommendations or changes? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments or send an email!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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