Best Things to Do in the Upper West Side NYC: 40+ Places to Eat, Explore & Enjoy
After years in the Upper West, living on 80th between Broadway and Amsterdam, one of my favorite ways to spend a weekend is through a neighborhood stroll. So, I’ve compiled a list of what I think are the best things to do in the Upper West Side, NYC.
What I love most about this neighborhood is that you still have the hustle and bustle that is quintessential NYC, but at a residential pace. I’m not above being a single lady living with the stroller-walking peeps, among the brownstones.
From the parks to all the restaurants, and the museums to the boutique shops, the UWS is the Upper Best Side.
Best Bakeries in the Upper West Side
Some of the best things to do in the Upper West Side, NYC? Grab many sweet treats, of course. From pastries to ice cream, and lots in between, these are some of my favorite places to get my sweet fix.
- Délice Macarons – Named for macarons, but I love their pain au chocolat. Best one in the UWS in my opinion.
- Mille-Fueille Bakery – Another great, small French bakery. Go in early on a weekend, grab a treat and a café (if that’s your thing), and snag one of the tables outside. They fill up quickly!
- Daily Provisions – Belongs more in the “restaurant” section, but I went for the crullers. They have a signature flavor every month, so let me tell you… Mark your calendars for January (and sometimes February) because the lemon poppyseed cruller does. not. play!
- Magnolia Bakery – This one is an NYC classic. I highly recommend a chocolate cake slice with vanilla buttercream, the key lime pie cheesecake, or the peanut butter ice box bar.
- Orwashers Bakery – Only two blocks from my apartment, I’d regularly hit them up for a donut or bagel. Nothing crazy exceptional, to be perfectly honest, but a trusted spot.
- Janie’s Life-Changing Baked Goods – Literally downstairs from my apartment building, my mom loved their pie crust cookies so much that anytime I visited home, she’d request I grab a few to bring back.
- Maman – Cozy spot, loved grabbing a chai latte or hot chocolate and catching up with people here.
- Big Gay Ice Cream – I love soft serve. Stop the car, we’re going. Great spot with a variety of options.
- Milk Bar – I LOVE their cereal milk ice cream. It’s a soft-serve version (ohemgeee) and just divine.
Want to bring a taste of the Upper West Side to your kitchen?
This is my copycat version of the Milk Bar cereal milk ice cream. Have all the creamy nostalgia in every bite, right at home.
Best Restaurants & Bars in the Upper West Side NYC
Everything from cozy vibes to quick slices, these are a few of my most loved spots for a bite or drink in the UWS. While I’m a big fan of a mocktail now, there are so many good bars (with some good eats) right in the neighborhood!
For a breakfast to start your day right…
- Café Luxembourg – Great restaurant for a solid breakfast, also has a lovely ambiance, and is overall a good time.
- Jacob’s Pickles – Southern spot in the city to get your biscuit fix, but like a sexy biscuit, ya know?
- PopUp Bagels – Some of the best bagels I’ve ever eaten. Incredibly soft and no fuss – you get a bag of bagels and a tub of cream cheese, and you’re out the door in minutes!
- Bluestone Lane – I went (and returned) for one thing only, the brekkie board. A thick, nutty slice of avocado toast topped with cherry tomatoes and feta, paired with a delicious yogurt parfait, layered with lemon curd and fresh berries. It’s the simple things that blow my mind.
For lunch, dinner, and anything in-between…
- Elea – Best Greek spot on the UWS. Get some of the spreads, the horiatiki salad, and a small plate or two, and be ready for an exceptional dinner.
- La Sirene – Cozy little French restaurant with a variety of classic dishes.
- Alice’s Tea Cup – Absolutely love this place. Themed inside like Alice in Wonderland, it’s a colorfully quirky little shop with an easy afternoon tea, great scones, and some delicious cake.
- Mido – I’m a simple gal who loves a good avocado roll. They don’t skimp on the avocado, and I love them for it.
- Old John’s Luncheonette – This might be my favorite spot in the UWS. It has all of the cute old-school vibes with class diner fare and the best housemade ice cream.
- Flame – I mean, who doesn’t love an onion volcano? Great spot for hibachi.
- Jin Ramen – Hits just right on a cold NYC day, plus the ramen portions are huge!
- Lilly’s Cocktail and Wine – Perfect place for apps and lunch, if you’re feeling boozy, you can also scratch that itch here.
- The Consulate – I still dream of their short rib cavatelli. Honestly perfection.
- Hudson & Charles – This is actually a butcher shop, but everything is so fresh (literally, they were a butchering while we waited) and well-sourced. I wasn’t hungry, but they had some great-looking sandwiches on the blackboard.
For some good Italian eats…
- Osteria Cotta – Good, proper Italian pizza, along with other items. I personally love the verdure pizza.
- Motorino – Another great Italian pizza place, right across the street from Osteria Cotta. The strachiatella pizza is amazing.
- La Pecora Bianca – Their rigatoni with vodka sauce and stracciatella is seriously so good.
- Made in New York Pizza – Everyone needs a trusty NY pizza slice. This is it.
- Santa Fe – Solid Mexican restaurant for this list. Love their burrito.
For when you want to grab a drink…
- Tiki Chick – Fun drinks (in fun glasses) and tbh, a really good fried chicken sandwich.
- Thyme & Tonic – Another great stop for drinks on a night out
- Caledonia – Loved to grab a glass of champagne here with friends. They also served it properly (in my, now sober, esteemed opinion) in The Great Gatsby-style glasses.
- The Hoptomist – Sister and next-door neighbor to Caledonia, grab a beer here, but don’t miss out on the food. I love a drink spot that has legitimately awesome bites!
Planning a move to Manhattan?
I’ve met so many who’ve been influenced to live on the Upper East Side, thanks to what’s depicted on shows like Gossip Girl and Sex in the City… and then after a few months, realize the UWS is actually where it’s at.
My Favorite Parks & Outdoor Spots in the Upper West Side, NYC
Riverside Park – Honestly my favorite place to walk. You’re right next to the water, which is exactly where I want to be, especially for a cool breeze on a warm day. Nice paths, parks, and spots to sit and people-watch.
Central Park West – You can’t go to the UWS and not appreciate the convenience of this NYC staple.
West 111th St People’s Garden – Yes, you’d be correct in assuming this is not in the Upper West Side. But, if you want to stroll a few blocks, head towards the neighborhood of Morningside Heights to this charming little park next to The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine. It’s a somewhat hidden gem with some beautiful sculptures.
Where you live is where you hang out
Whether you’re planning a few months’ stay over the summer or packing for a move to NYC, pick your location wisely. While the literal distance between the UWS and the East Village isn’t techincally far… say that to your 45 minute+ subway commute.
Best Shops, Bookstores, and Boutiques in the Upper West Side
One thing about me, I love a cute shop. Add some knick-knacks, some plants, a few books, and I am in HEAVEN. On my weekend strolls, these are some of my favorite boutiques, bookstores, and more to pop into in the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
- Magpie – I love an uncluttered knick-knack shop. Need a card? Got it. Candle? You’ll find it here. Purse? Look no further.
- Runaway Poppy – This is a knick-knack shop with a quirky, artsy twist. I love to just pop in here and see what’s new.
- Westsider Rare & Used Books Inc – A skinny little bookshop filled to the brim with all the used and rare books to fill your curiosity on a rainy day.
- Strand Book Store – Another NYC staple. Grab a book, a puzzle, and maybe a tote, and get to reading!
- 83rd St Grocery – Sounds random, but one of my favorite things about NYC is the plethora of flower stalls. This corner grocer is a favorite stop for some affordable bright blooms.
- The Sill – If you love plants, give this shop a visit. Really knowledgeable staff with great products.
FAQs About the Upper West Side
Absolutely! There are loads of things to do in the Upper West Side, NYC. From shops to eats, as well as easy access to noteworthy parks, museums, and a range of public transit.
Manhattan’s Upper West Side is known for it’s residentual vibe, sandwiched between the iconic Central Park and Riverside Park. It hosts an array of shopping and restaurants, as well as major highlights such as the American Museum of Natural History and Lincoln Center.
You’ll find a range of options from food, shopping, and housing in the Upper West Side neighborhood of Manhattan. While some aspects, like taking your clothes to the laundry mat, can be more expensive than other neighborhoods, it’s a fairly affordable place for a visit or a long-term stay.
That being said, if you’re looking to move, note that you might get a little more bang for your buck in a different neighborhood when it comes to space and amenities.
You’ll find the Natural History Museum, as well as easy access to Shakespeare Garden, the baseball fields, and Belvedere Castle in Central Park, near the 79th street entrance. Walk around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir before heading across towards the Upper East Side, where you’ll be let out right next to The Met.
Near the 72nd street entrance, you’ll hit the iconic Strawberry Fields before grabbing a picnic at Sheep’s Meadow (if you can find a spot!). From there, it’s an easy walk to Columbus Circle.
Ready for more travel?
All these travel plans have you craving something sweet?
Pies, cakes, cookies, or make them single-serve. Find your next favorite bake here
This guide to the Upper West Side is fantastic, with so many great spots to explore! However, it would be helpful to include some tips on the best times to visit these places to avoid crowds, especially for tourists.
Thanks Rajan, glad you found it helpful! The Upper West Side is much more residential compared to other neighborhoods in the city, so outside of your usual dinner hours you’re not necessarily hitting big crowds. Always good to plan to make reservations at restaurants where possible, but that’s true for most places in NYC!
Thank you so much!!! I found you on TikTok and I’m glad I did!! I will be using some of these places ;))))
Love this! You’ll have to let me know where you visit!