Row of historic brownstone and blue townhouses with steps leading to entrances, leafless trees in front, and large windows.

Upper West Side

What to Expect

A Tale of Two Neighborhoods

Stretching from West 59th to West 96th Street, the Upper West Side (UWS) is nestled between the lush expanse of Central Park and the Hudson River. Famous for its iconic pre-war architecture and relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, the area offers a welcome respite from the city's hustle. While Central Park is a major draw, locals know that to the west, Riverside Park offers a tranquil, less crowded alternative.

The UWS is best understood as two distinct sections: Lincoln Square and the Classic Upper West Side.

Lincoln Square (W 59th – W 72nd St) Serving as the cultural anchor of the area, Lincoln Square balances the feel of a quiet residential enclave with the cosmopolitan rhythm of Lincoln Center. The focus on the performing arts is woven into the lifestyle here; many luxury buildings even offer soundproof music practice rooms as a standard amenity.

The Classic UWS (W 72nd – W 96th St) If Lincoln Square is the artistic showstopper, this stretch is the neighborhood's warm, intellectual heart. This is the New York of Seinfeld and Woody Allen movies: leafy streets, historic pre-war buildings, and a strong sense of community that feels miles away from the rush of Midtown.

While the Upper West Side is famous for its historic charm, sleek modern buildings are sprinkled throughout the neighborhood. Finding them just takes the right guide—and that is where we come in.