Choosing which New York City neighborhood to call home can be confusing. Every area has its pros and cons, and deciding where you want to make a base is an intimidating task! As a former Upper West Side resident, I can say that this Manhattan neighborhood should be a top contender.
First, the nitty gritty. The Upper West Side is a Manhattan neighborhood sandwiched between Central Park and Riverside Park. It stretches from 59th street to 110th street, and is a culturally rich and residential neighborhood.
It’s laid back, a bit funky, diverse, and super family friendly. This is the neighborhood where the cast of Seinfeld chit-chatted over coffee; the place John Lennon called home; and where Sally made her famous plea to Harry.
The Upper West Side has everything you could want in a Manhattan neighborhood: culture, history, fantastic food, open spaces, and beautiful buildings.
1.The Green Space
The UWS is bordered in its entirety by Central Park in the east and Riverside Park in the west. Having such close access to these amazing green spaces means tons of opportunities for outdoor activities, peace and quiet, and connecting with nature. There are also lots of little green spaces, like NYC’s tiniest park, Septuagesimo Uno, where you can find a cozy spot outside.
2. The Interesting History
Development in the UWS didn’t begin until after the 19th century. It was once considered “the wilderness” in Manhattan since it was so far from the concentrated downtown area. Here, you will live amongst historic and prominent apartment buildings, like the Dakota. You will walk past beautiful architecture, like the Beacon Theater, and gaze at famous churches, like the Cathedral of St. John the Divine.
3. The Rich Culture
Lincoln Center, the Museum of Natural History, Juilliard, and Columbia University — these are the most notable cultural features of the UWS. These prominent places in the neighborhood are beacons of light for many artists, writers, and professors who have made their home here. This array makes the UWS a culturally diverse neighborhood. Intellectually stimulating events are the norm here!
4. The Relaxed Bar and Restaurant Scene
Loud nightclubs pulsing music into four in the morning is not what you will find in the UWS. Bars and restaurants here center on fine dining and relaxed atmospheres. You will never be out of options for Sunday brunch (try Sarabeth’s) or a special treat (a chocolate chip cookie from Levain Bakery). If you do want a night out, the bars along Amsterdam offer a lively place to throw back a few.
5. The Hidden Spots
Finding secret spots in the brownstone-lined streets of the Upper West Side is not too difficult. Meander your way down back alleys and you’ll discover different worlds within the neighborhood. Check out Pomander Walk, a secret neighborhood of 27 Tudor style houses in immaculate shape. Or head to the Lotus Garden, a hidden garden on the roof of a parking garage.
6. Easy Transportation Options
No matter where you are in the UWS, it is easy to get around. The 1, 2, and 3 trains run under Broadway, while the A, B, D, and E trains run under Central Park West. There are tons of bus routes and Citi Bike sharing stations. Plus, the location of the neighborhood makes walking to other parts of the city easy.
7. The Concentration of Great Stores
There is no need to ever leave the comfort of the UWS if you don’t want to. Spend days shopping at the boutique shops along Columbus Avenue or browsing the thrift stores.
The grocery stores and markets here will knock your socks off — Fairway, Zabars, Citarella, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s – and are better than those in any other neighborhood in the city.
8. The Quiet and Intimate Atmosphere
The best thing about the UWS? It’s an actual neighborhood! The beautiful brownstones, warm brick apartment buildings, and tree-lined streets transport you out of the busy city and into a friendly and intimate place. You will know your neighbors and local shopkeepers, and probably even stop to chat with them!
[tweetthis]Here are 8 undeniable reasons to make the Upper West Side your next home! #NYC[/tweetthis]
The Upper West Side may not have the excitement of downtown or the cool vibe of Brooklyn, but these 8 reasons (plus so many more!) make it a pretty sweet place to call your home (or home away from home).
For more tips on what to do before moving into your new apartment, be sure to check out things to do before signing your next lease.