A locals guide to the architecture of the Upper West Side

New York City , United States of America

A locals guide to the architecture of the Upper West Side

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About this experience

Most tours focus on the big names and obvious landmarks, but this one is different — I’m 18, a local, and I know the Upper West Side from the ground up. I’ll show you hidden gems, tell the stories behind the buildings, and give you insider insights you won’t find in guidebooks. From historic architecture to secret spots with fascinating pasts, this tour combines history, culture, and local flavor — all through the eyes of someone who actually walks these streets every day.

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A locals guide to the architecture of the Upper West Side

What's included

Admission fee

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, Central Park is the “green heart” of Manhattan and one of the most visited urban parks in the world. Stretching over 840 acres, it was the first landscaped public park in the U.S. and remains an oasis of lakes, gardens, and winding paths. From Strawberry Fields to the Great Lawn, every corner has a story — making it as much a work of art as it is a park.

Once dubbed the “Palace for the People,” The Ansonia is a Beaux-Arts masterpiece with a colorful past. Originally built as a luxury residential hotel, it has seen everything from grand ballroom dances to secret speakeasies and even the infamous Continental Baths in the 1970s. With its turreted towers and elaborate details, the Ansonia remains one of the Upper West Side’s most dramatic landmarks.

Stop 3

One of New York’s most legendary apartment buildings, The Dakota is a masterpiece of Gilded Age architecture. Known for its ornate German Renaissance style, it has housed countless cultural icons, most famously John Lennon, who lived here with Yoko Ono. With its striking façade and fascinating history, The Dakota remains one of the city’s most exclusive addresses.

The twin-towered San Remo is one of the Upper West Side’s most recognizable landmarks, designed by famed architect Emery Roth. Its elegant blend of Art Deco and Renaissance Revival design has made it a home to celebrities from Rita Hayworth to Bono. The building’s iconic silhouette overlooking Central Park is a defining feature of the Manhattan skyline.

Stop 5

A striking example of Beaux-Arts architecture, The Athorp is a luxury apartment building that has long symbolized Upper West Side elegance. Its grand façade, ornate detailing, and stately presence make it a standout on Broadway, reflecting the neighborhood’s early 20th-century charm. Over the decades, it has housed prominent figures, adding to its aura of prestige and history.

Famed for its three majestic towers, The Beresford is one of the Upper West Side’s most iconic apartment buildings. Designed by Emery Roth, its elegant Beaux-Arts façade and luxurious apartments have attracted celebrities like Steve Martin and Glenn Close. Overlooking Central Park, the Beresford combines architectural grandeur with a rich cultural history, making it a standout landmark of Manhattan.

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet around the giant globe

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information