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New York City's Upper West SideExploring Central Park, American Museum of Natural History and more
New York City can be an expensive place to visit, but with the right information visitors can see the city for less. Here are some tips for the Upper West Side.
Quick factsThis neighborhood runs from 110th street to 59th street and is bordered by Central Park on the east and Riverside Park on the west. Broadway slices diagonally through this neighborhood and major shopping can be found all the way up. Central ParkThe most serene and beautiful parks is the biggest draw to the UWS and best of all it's free. The spring and autumn are the best times to visit because of the lovely blossoms and colorful leaves. The southern end from 72nd street down to 59th street is usually the most crowded with tourists. There are many attractions like the Dakota, Strawberry Fields, Wollman Rink, and the carousel. Avoid the horse-drawn carriage because they charge $60 or $70 for a slow, smelly and short ride that is just as fast (and much nicer) to walk. The horse carriages cause major ruts and damage to the road, not to mention all the horse manure that is dropped and smells terrible. Around 86th street is easy access to the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir where visitors can walk around the 1.5 mile path and see the skyline. In the northern end of the park near 110th street is the less-known Lasker pool that has free access in the summer for swimming and ice-skating in the winter. American Museum of Natural HistoryThis place is always popular and usually expensive. Single admission prices don't include the Hayden Planetarium, IMAX shows, and special exhibits. There are different ticket package prices for different things. So depending on what exhibits and shows you want to see buying the right package can save money. Check out their website for specific prices. Exploring the neighborhoodA great way to get to know the area for free is to take a walk down the blocks. Liberal-minded and usually well-to-do families make up the largest chunk of the population. Large five-story brownstones tower over tree-lined blocks making the neighborhood feel homey and prestigious. Nice blocks of brownstones are between 86th street to 67th street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. Cheaper eatsInstead of buying a bland over-priced sandwich at either the Boathouse in Central Park or the Museum cafeteria, go to one of the corner delis. These neighborhood small-business staples have fresh ingredients, good bread and are much cheaper and tastier. For a great lunch place just take it over to one of the shady benches in Central Park and enjoy. Because you have saved so much money during the day, for dinner you can treat yourself at one of the delicious restaurants lining the streets. Getting thereSubway is the most convenient. Take the A or C to 59th or stay on the C to 72nd (Strawberry Fields, Dakota), 81st (Museum stop), 86th (reservoir). Or take the 1 train up Broadway to 59th. More Upper West Side info: Historic Upper Manhattan More neighborhood info-NoLIta: Elizabeth Street -West Village: Bedford Street More NYC: Free sights Transportation info: How to buy and use a MetroCard
The copyright of the article New York City's Upper West Side in New York Travel is owned by Lisa Schroeder. Permission to republish New York City's Upper West Side in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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