Discover Hidden Gems: Upper West Side Exploration
newyorkcity.explore
i’m a woman in my mid 20s. i live in a city of 700k in the south. when i go out at night i always have at least one weapon on me to protect myself (usually a keychain knife and sometimes a stun gun). i have been a victim of stalking in the past so having these things on me makes me feel more comfortable. how can i do the same in nyc? ill be flying. i know there’s different rules there especially regarding things like pepper spray. i can ship items to my friend’s house but i know there’s rules on that too. thanks!
Time Out New York
Grand Central Terminal gains a massive French brasserie! However, this historic landmark has given us plenty of reasons to bide our time there... This month, the terminal gained another tenant, sure to ease the trials of traveling with its Parisian charms. Grand Brasserie took over the former City Winery space on October 8. Designed by the Rockwell Group, it seamlessly blends into the historic architecture of Vanderbilt Hall and mimics the various sidewalk cafes found in Paris—the front of the restaurant welcomes with towering greenery and black and white bistro chairs. Passing through the wrought iron bar entryway, the main dining room houses red leather banquettes and enough chairs to seat a staggering 300 souls. As if that wasn’t enough, the 100-seat Green Room is decorated with black and white photos of New York’s past and features a grand marble bar with bottles that climb up to the ceiling.
Infatuation
Do you like to go out with your pup?) Habana Outpost has a huge fenced-in patio. This Fort Greene spot also serves perfectly serviceable sandwiches, tacos, and quesadillas, and nothing on the menu costs more than $16. If you're looking for reasonably-priced food and outdoor seating, and you don't want people to get mad at you when your kids or dogs start acting up, you're going to appreciate this place.
megan li
Last of my NYC pics from a while ago! This meal will forever live in my heart… Japanese and Peruvian? What an interesting combo that works so well together. Their ceviches are a must order and the katsu was the most well fried and moist I’ve ever had. A very enjoyable meal with Jibae!
New York Locals
Hidden gem in Midtown: Greenacre Park! A place for the general public to gain special repose from the increasing city experience of noise, concrete and humdrum. ~ Park designer Hideo Sasaki It's a picture-perfect day. Come on over and enjoy the park.🌞🌸
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
The Cantor Roof Garden Bar is located on top of one of the world's most famous museums: The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The museum itself is, of course, a thing of beauty, located smack in the middle of Central Park and giving visitors access to beautiful works of art. The Cantor doesn't fall far behind, as it offers stunning views of the park and the surrounding skyscrapers, as well as a large and lush rooftop garden with park benches and comfortable tables to sit at. You can also sit down on the lawn if you're so inclined. Wine by the glass, house-made lemonade and specialty cocktails make up the drink menu, but you can also find sandwiches and salads in case you get hungry. Open during the warmer months, access to the rooftop is available to all museum visitors. And filled with a very relaxing and friendly atmosphere, it is a great spot to bring children and enjoy the lush views.
Anastasiia in New York🗽
If you’re in NYC, be sure to check out the Vessel sculpture - it’s an iconic piece of modern architecture and a must-see destination! 🫶🏼🤍 Vessel is a structure and visitor attraction built as part of the Hudson Yards Redevelopment Project in Manhattan, New York City, New York. Built to plans by the British designer Thomas Heatherwick, the elaborate honeycomb-like structure rises 16 stories and consists of 154 flights of stairs, 2,500 steps, and 80 landings for visitors to climb. Vessel is the main feature of the 5-acre (2.0 ha) Hudson Yards Public Square. Funded by Hudson Yards developer Related Companies, its final cost is estimated to have been $200 million.
See also
Discover the Best Dining in St. George Near NYC: Local Dining Experiences & Foodie Favorites
Unlimited NewYork
Discover the famous Saint Patrick's Cathedral, a must-see during your stay in New York. Located in the heart of the city, it is one of the symbols of the neo-gothic architecture. This Roman Catholic cathedral was built from 1858 to 1878 and was consecrated in 1879. Today it is the largest Catholic cathedral in the United States. The central nave is more than 100 meters long and 25 meters wide, while the cathedral's spires rise more than 100 meters high. When visiting St. Patrick's Cathedral, be sure to check out the many artistic details that adorn the interior of the building, such as statues of saints, mosaics and colorful stained glass windows. The Cathedral also boasts an impressive organ, consisting of over 9,000 pipes, as well as bells that ring daily. St. Patrick's Cathedral is open every day of the week and offers several daily masses.
Little Kid Big City NEW YORK
Planet Playskool is officially open, and it is a must-visit! Planet Playskool is a game changer for family entertainment. It’s the perfect mix - a nostalgic (beloved!) memory for parents, and an innovative new way to play for kids. The design is brilliant and beautifully created, with over 20,000 square feet of fun! The larger-than-life attractions are inspired by your favorite Hasbro toys: Play-Doh, PJ Masks, Mouse Trap, Spirograph, Tinkertoy, Transformers, and more. (I still can’t get over the giant Mouse Trap!). Here’s a few favorites: •Build your own Tinkertoy car and race it down a track •Climb, crawl and slide through a life-size version of Mouse Trap •Hop on a bike for a wild ride with Transformers •Mold your own figure and watch it come alive at the Play-Doh Theater •And SO MUCH MORE Hungry? There’s even an Easy Bake Cafe on site for a yummy bite! It’s a fun way to keep you and your kids entertained for hours (trust me, they will not want to leave!).
Little Kid Big City NEW YORK
Have you ever walked through the Midtown Manhattan Waterfall? Tucked into a small pocket park between buildings, you’ll find this gorgeous waterfall pathway. The water feature is 20 feet tall and 40 feet wide, and is partially housed in plexiglass. The 17 foot-long glass tunnel runs beneath the waterfall, creating a water covered tubular path. The sound from the water is soothing, and walking through the tube is exciting, especially for kids. (Bonus: the tube makes it easy to walk between 48th and 49th streets quickly!). Only a block from Times Square’s bustling traffic, it’s a calming escape in the middle of Midtown Manhattan. PRICE: 🎟Free & Open to the Public
Little Kid Big City NEW YORK
Hidden Waterfall in NYC 💦 Looking for a shady and cool place to relax in this heat? Head to this secret waterfall retreat. Greenacre Park is a hidden gem located in Midtown Manhattan. The privately owned/open to the public park has a 25-foot waterfall, ample multi-level seating, and thanks to trees and the neighboring buildings - its almost always shady (and cool!). With a cafe onsite, its the perfect place to grab a bite. As the waterfall is tucked away and not easily visible from the street, its a fun surprise for little ones to learn of this “secret” waterfall in the city. WHEN: ⏰Open daily 8am - 8pm
Secret NYC
The Queens Zoo is an 18-acre zoo located in the heart of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens. At this zoo, you’ll find exhibits on over 75 species of animals from all over the Americas, including Andean bears on the “Wild Side” and scarlet macaws in the “Aviary.” They also host interactive exhibits like the sea lion feedings, and even summer camp programs for kids. After visiting the zoo, you can also check out all the other fun attractions in the area. Swing by the New York Hall of Science for over 450 interactive exhibits on science and technology, or checkout a Mets game at nearby Citi Field.
Secret NYC
Located in Brooklyn, The Prospect Park Zoo and its 12-acre facility features more than 125 species of animals and family-friendly exhibits that are perfect for kids of all ages. Check out fun exhibits like the Sea Lion Court, where you can observe these majestic mammals in their true element or the The Hall of Animals, which showcases some of the smallest, yet most exciting animals in the zoo, such as the poison dart frog or fennec fox. Or maybe even end your trip with The Discovery Trail, a walkthrough of everything from red pandas to dingos. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out other attractions too like the Brooklyn Botanical Garden and the Brooklyn Museum!
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
A large rooftop located right next to McCarren Park in Brooklyn, Berry Park is a fantastic sports bar with even better city views. From up here, you can enjoy the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn's rooftops while watching the big game, as Berry Park is best described as a soccer bar and beer garden. As that description implies, beers are the most popular drink in Berry Park, and you can find a vast variety of them, with German and Belgian beers at the forefront. If beer isn't your thing, you can always enjoy wines, spirits, and a handful of signature cocktails. Food-wise, expect to find bratwurst, fries, and other dishes with German influences, as well as a choice of American pub classics. There's also a brunch menu, which you can enjoy every weekend. While the weekend nights at Berry Park might be a bit to vibrant to bring kids, other times it is a great option for a family looking to mix pub-grub and views. Especially the soccer interested family, as the rooftop opens early for Champions League and Premier League games.
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THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Located just above the Italian megastore Eataly, SERRA operates both as a bar and a restaurant, offering a relaxing and charming environment and a fantastic culinary experience. While the views aren't amazing, as SERRA is an enclosed terrace, the garden-like atmosphere more than makes up for it, as you can enjoy a delicious meal in a veritable urban oasis. SERRA's greenhouse-like atmosphere is complemented by the restaurant's rustic furnishings, as well as its signature botanic-infused cocktails and cozy ambiance. Up here, you can enjoy down to earth Italian dishes, delicious wines, craft beers, classic cocktails, and even handmade lemonades, with the menus changing by the season. Open for lunch and dinner, SERRA does not offer a special kids menu, but as long as the younger part of the family are into Italian food, a visit here is bound to be a success. Especially during the day, when the atmosphere is more casual.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Set on top of the The William Vale in Williamsburg, Westlight is a dynamic and beautiful rooftop from Chef Andrew Carmellini’s NoHo Hospitality Group. Blending indoor and outdoor seating, the 22nd floor rooftop comes surrounded with sweeping views over the Manhattan skyline, East River and the surrounding buildings in Brooklyn. The rooftop menu features both classic and original cocktails, alongside a long list of wines, craft beer, rare spirits and some small plates with inspration of global street food. Perfect for sunny sessions with an amazing view, but Westlight also turns into a cosy Winter Village during the colder months. A trendy, chic and often vibrant spot during evenings, Westlight do welcome guests under the age of 21 until 6pm daily. So for visits with younger ones, try to make it on a weekend, when the rooftop opens already at noon.
Gluten Free Girls LA
SOGNO TOSCANO SPECIALTY FOODS - one of the best places I have spent a Sunday afternoon in a long time. Live music on the cozy patio, attentive helpful staff and incredible food. Spent an hour and a half enjoying our food and conversation and we’re not rushed out.. a luxury to have these days. They also have soups and multiple salads that are gluten free (just be sure to ask the wonderful wait staff). Among their House beaked pastries they have one clearly marked gluten free banana bread (I did not ask about others). They also had multiple desserts that were naturally gluten free (gelato, crème brûlée etc.).
Secret NYC
The Portal is New York City’s hottest talking point right now, and the installation in Flatiron virtually connects NYC to Dublin in real time! The Portal connects two vibrant cities in real time, making for an engaging experience for both New Yorkers and visitors and fostering a sense of connection across the Atlantic. Founded by Lithuanian artist and entrepreneur Benediktas Gylys, portals are an invitation to meet fellow humans around the world and, in turn, feel united and one. The sculpture’s livestream provides a window between far away locations, allowing people to meet others outside of their usual social circle and culture. The visual live stream connects the two cities, allowing you to meet fellow humans around the world! It’s free to visit and it’s located on the Flatiron South Public Plaza at Broadway, Fifth Avenue, and 23rd Street, next to the Flatiron Building.
Time Out New York
Randall's Island Waterfront Festival in NYC Escape the concrete jungle and head to Randall's Island for a waterfront festival packed with family fun. Events include water-themed face painting, glitter tattoos, interactive environmental activities, lawn games, and cooking demonstrations, all along the park's verdant waterfront. Also expect educational activities with Science in the City, storytime with Boogie Down Books, water-based programming, musical performances and free treats for all to enjoy. The events run from 12-3pm on Saturday, July 20. It's hosted by the Randall's Island Park Alliance.
Eater
Clara: Fun Place to Try in NYC Summer is a great time to catch up on your museum-going. While the next-door American Museum of Natural History will be mobbed, the New-York Historical Society is very often less crowded. The exhibit of New York paintings and the Tiffany lamp collection are unrivaled. And there’s a wonderful restaurant on the ground floor named Clara where you can linger over your burger or meal-size salad, and where the bloody marys are strong. There is even a seating area outside with a view of Central Park, and you don’t have to pay museum admissions if you go directly to the restaurant. 170 Central Park West, at 77th Street, Upper West Side
GetYourGuide
New York City: Manhattan Helicopter Tour Enjoy a bird's eye perspective of NYC on a narrated helicopter tour as you cruise over Manhattan's iconic skyscrapers, come face to face with the Statue of Liberty, and head uptown past Central Park. Manhattan brings to mind grand skyscrapers, taxi cabs, and a world-class attitude all of its own. See all this and more as an expert pilot flies you over NYC on a 15 or 20-minute helicopter tour. Soar over the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, Madison Square Garden, among other landmarks
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Secret NYC
Balloons in NYC! Everywhere!! 🎈🎈 Balloon Story just opened at Park Avenue Armory. This whimsical exhibit is full of larger-than-life balloon sculptures and is perfect for kids and families. Step into a world of wonder at Balloon Story! For a limited time, explore NYC's iconic Armory building, transformed into a playful dreamland of epic inflatable and eco-friendly balloon art. Dive into larger-than-life sculptures, interactive exhibits, and unforgettable moments of joy for the whole family. Discover the magic today!
newyorkcity.explore
Be on top of the world at the Top of the Rock 🌆✨ 💡The Beam experience is an interactive feature at the Top of the Rock observatory that allows visitors to virtually explore New York City's landmarks. It uses advanced technology to provide an immersive and informative journey through the city's history, culture, and iconic sites. If you could bring one person, living or historical, to join you in the Beam experience, who would it be and why? ❤️
newyorkcity.explore
💆🏻♀️ Ready for a slice of Italian luxury in NYC? 🇮🇹🗽 Say hello to QC spa – the ultimate wellness experience you’ve been dreaming of! From stunning skyline views 🌆 while soaking in the only spot in the city with 2 outdoor pools open year-round 🏊♀️💦 to luxurious massages and saunas 🧖🏻♀️, QC NY is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. 🏙️ But that’s not all – imagine sipping on a perfect aperitivo with a breathtaking view of the Manhattan skyline. 🍸
Daytrip NYC
Just a short ferry ride from Manhattan, QC New York Spa on Governors Island offers a tranquil escape with stunning views of the city skyline and a wide array of luxurious wellness experiences. Nestled in meticulously restored historic army barrack buildings, QC New York Spa combines the charm of 18th-century architecture with modern amenities. Visitors can explore labyrinth-like interiors adorned with elegant Italian furniture, art fixtures, and cozy relaxation areas, making it a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary luxury. The spa features over 20 wellness experiences, including themed saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation rooms. Highlights include the “Spa and the City” sauna with its New York skyline décor, the lavender-scented “Park Sauna,” and various foot baths and Vichy showers. The outdoor infinity pools, complete with hydro massage seats and loungers, offer breathtaking views of lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge, providing a serene contrast to the city’s hustle and bustle.
Secret NYC
Hop Aboard NYC’s first-ever floating Mexican restaurant! NYC’s First & Only Floating Mexican Restaurant Is Open On The Hudson. All aboard for some tequila and Mexican-inspired street food! La Barca Cantina has returned on the Hudson for another season. La Barca Cantina offers Mexican fare and delicious cocktails afloat! Hop onboard the three-story boat at Pier 81 on the Hudson River and sail around the city for incredible skyline and sunset views with New York Cruise Lines. And it has officially set sail! The boat offers custom artwork by Tlisza Jaurique, the first Mexican-American woman to exhibit at the Met, an incredible top deck for guests to take in the scenery, and most notably, an expansive agave-based spirits menu.
Secret NYC
Camp under the stars on Governors Island! Treat yourself to this lovely glamping experience on NYC’s perfect island getaway: Governors Island! Over the years, Collective Governors Island Luxury Camping Retreat introduced plenty of new and exciting amenities that included “live music nights, tarot readings, crafting, morning yoga, bike rentals, chair massages, plenty of lawn games, campfires and cocktails” throughout the season—but this year, the experience is offering even more incredible amenities than years prior. All visitors are invited to join their happy hour on the Sunset Terrace and reserve a spot for their grill menu highlighting local purveyors and farms. There’s even an option to get late night takeaway drinks at a discounted price to enjoy in your tent.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Nothing says 'summer' like roof pools NYC. The perfect way to make the most out of a weekend in the big city, is to combine street-level fun with swimming and views at a chic NYC rooftop pool. What used to be Gansevoort Park is now Royalton Park Avenue. The rooftop pool is however the same, and this 2oth floor terrace can boast with one of the best rooftop pools NYC has available. One floor above the Rooftop at Royalton Park Avenue you’ll find this gem. Located in the middle of Manhattan (on Park Avenue, as the name suggests) with mighty views over the skyline with Empire State Building as a cool backdrop.
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THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Bar 54 is the tallest rooftop bar in Times Square! And also among the highest in the city. Located at the Hyatt Centric Times Square, Bar 54 offers a really superb river-to-river view, including the Chrysler Building and all of lower Manhattan. The bar serves an impressive drink menu, including a large set of well crafted cocktails, beers, wines in both glass and by bottle, a wide section of whiskey and also some tasty bar bites. The rooftop is open year-round, thanks to a chic and intimate indoor space.
katya ann
GRAND BANKS in Tribeca to your NYC summer bucket list 😍 The PERFECT happy hour spot for oysters & cocktails on a boat with the most gorg waterfront sunset views ✨ Tke the scallops & spritz which is the perfect combo + fries & cocktail shrimp for the table 🫶
Explore the Hidden Gems of the Upper West Side
Embark on an exciting journey through the Upper West Side, an enchanting neighborhood in the heart of NYC. This area is often teeming with not just the well-known landmarks but also some of the city's best-kept secrets. From cute cafes to historic streets, discover these hidden gems and local secrets that make the Upper West Side an unparalleled spot for local exploration.
Find Tranquility in Riverside Park
Stretching alongside the Hudson River, Riverside Park offers a serene retreat from the city's bustling streets. Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to explore its many paths and scenic views. Hidden amidst the park's greenery, you'll find well-kept statues, hidden gardens, and even an old 19th-century Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument. Ideal for both relaxation and family-friendly activities, Riverside Park is a hidden gem that's perfect for a day of adventure.
Indulge in Gourmet Delights at Zabar's
Zabar's is an iconic gourmet market that has been serving the Upper West Side for decades. Beyond the array of exotic cheeses and freshly baked bread, this market offers a culinary adventure for those looking to uncover local food secrets. Don't miss their extensive bakery section where you can relish in a rich, gooey chocolate babka, or sample their fresh olive bar. This is a trending spot for foodies and offers an authentic taste of NYC.
Explore Historical Streets Off the Beaten Path
Step away from the main avenues and lose yourself in the quiet, historic streets of the Upper West Side. Brownstones line the streets of West 70s and 80s, where time seems to have stood still. Look out for the architectural beauty of buildings such as The Dakota, a notable historical building, which has been home to countless celebrities. Wandering through these streets can feel like a journey back in time, providing an intimate look at the neighborhood's rich history.
Outdoor Adventures and Secret Spots
The Hidden Tunnels of Central Park
While Central Park is hardly a secret, few are aware of the hidden tunnels that lie beneath its verdant landscapes. Take a special walking tour focusing on these lesser-known pathways to uncover the hidden gems like the Bethesda Terrace Arcade, a stunning substructure embellished with vibrant Minton tiles. Adventurous souls will find this exploration both exhilarating and enlightening.
Cozy Up in Local Cafés and Bookstores
Unwind in the cozy corners of some of the Upper West Side's charming cafes and bookstores. The literary haven of Book Culture is not far from Columbia University and offers a quaint spot for book lovers. Combine this with a visit to a local cafe like Irving Farm Coffee Roasters, which serves up delightful brews and a cozy atmosphere perfect for a quiet afternoon. These spots offer a relaxing break during your local exploration adventures.
Native Insights for Ultimate NYC Adventure
Engage with Local Culture at Symphony Space
Symphony Space is a cultural hub offering an array of performances from concerts to plays. Frequented by locals, this venue is a great way to immerse yourself in the local arts scene. Aim to catch one of their "Selected Shorts" shows where actors read classic and contemporary short stories, a unique form of local entertainment that captivates audiences. This is one of those trending spots where you can experience the pulse of the Upper West Side's cultural life.
Revel in the Delights of the Farmer’s Market
Located at 97th Street and Columbus Avenue, the Upper West Side Farmer’s Market is a vibrant local spot worth exploring. Brimming with fresh produce, artisan goods, and local delights, it offers a genuine taste of the neighborhood's culinary secrets. Stroll among the stalls and chat with local vendors to get real opinions and insights into the local food culture. This adventure promises to tantalize your taste buds and provide a deeper connection to the local community.
Explore Local Relaxation
Unwind at the New York Historical Society
For those who prefer a quieter form of exploration, the New York Historical Society is an ideal spot. This revered institution not only captures the rich history of the city but also hosts charming immersive exhibits. Enjoy a quiet afternoon delving through historic artifacts or attend one of their many enlightening lectures. It's a perfect balance of relaxation and educational exploration.
Savor International Flavors at Bustling Eateries
The Upper West Side presents an eclectic array of eateries offering international cuisine. Dive into the flavors of the world with a visit to local favorites like Jacob's Pickles for Southern comfort food or the tapas haven, Buceo 95. Both are trending spots that encapsulate the neighborhood’s diverse palate. These dining adventures will enrich your culinary journey and serve up authentic local insights.
Interactive Secrets with Kikihub
Gain Local Insights Through Anonymous Chats
Sometimes the best way to uncover hidden gems and local secrets is to tap into the collective knowledge of the community. Kikihub's platform of local anonymous chats offers real opinions and local insights straight from residents who know the neighborhood best. From trending spots to off-the-beaten-path adventures, connect with locals to discover the Upper West Side like never before. This interactive experience can provide unique recommendations that you won't find in any travel guide.