Uptown Manhattan: Life Above 59th Street

Explore all that Central Park has to offer—start with visits to the Central Park Zoo, Wollman Rink, the Reservoir, and Bethesda Fountain. When hunger strikes, stop for a bite (and a cocktail) at the iconic Tavern on the Green or Central Park Boathouse. Feeling ambitious? Walk or run the full 6.1-mile loop—just be ready for Harlem Hill. It’s a tough one.

Museums, museums, museums—Uptown is home to some of the world’s finest. Be sure to visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, the American Museum of Natural History, and MoMA. My personal favorite is the Met!

Catch a concert at the Beacon Theatre, a legendary venue that has hosted iconic performers including Bob Dylan, Michael Jackson, and the Rolling Stones.

Take a walk down the East River Greenway, starting in the quaint Carl Schurz Park (home to Gracie Mansion) and take in the stunning views of Queens, Long Island City, and Roosevelt Island. If you want to continue your adventure, take the tram at 60th and 2nd to Roosevelt Island for even more incredible views.

Stroll through Riverside Park—especially in the summer, when it comes alive with festivals, live music, and outdoor movie nights.

Immerse yourself in world-renowned ballet at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, a cultural landmark where breathtaking choreography, live orchestras, and unforgettable performances take center stage.

Jacob’s Pickles (Upper West)
You’re not a true New Yorker until you’ve fully embraced the brunch scene—and this spot checks every box. Be sure not to skip the lobster mac or the spicy brine margarita.

The Penrose (Upper East)
My favorite UES cocktail spot. Think Carrie Bradshaw–style girls’ night out. Perfect for drinks with locals—you won’t be disappointed.

The Smith (Upper West)
With locations throughout the city, the UWS outpost is ideally situated between Lincoln Center, Central Park, and Columbus Circle. You have to order the chips and dip—sounds basic, but trust me, it’s anything but.

Mission Ceviche (Upper East)
Go for dinner to soak in the ambiance. I recommend ordering a variety of dishes and sharing—this menu is too good to miss a single bite.

Bemelmans Bar (Upper East)
Vintage New York at its finest. Settle in at the bar, soak in the hand-painted murals, and sip a perfectly made martini. It’s the kind of place where the atmosphere is just as memorable as the drink—and you never know who might wander in.

Elea (Upper West)
Elevated Greek cuisine served in a warm, cozy setting. A hidden gem for a relaxed yet refined meal.

The Jeffrey Craft Beer & Bites (Upper East)
If you indulged a little too much the night before, head here for a great beer and some breakfast tacos—perfect for a casual reset or the start of a Sunday Funday!

Pil Pil (Upper East)
One of my go-to wine bars, offering a variety of Spanish tapas. My personal favorites are the croquettes and flatbreads. I always stopped in during summertime happy hours to take advantage of that after-work sangria.

Levain Bakery (Upper West)
Home to NYC’s most famous cookie. The original location is on the Upper West Side at 74th Street, but UES guests can visit the 84th and 3rd location to grab a box for home—or polish them off on the way.

Brandy’s Piano Bar (Upper East): This place takes me back! The perfect final stop when you’re not quite ready to call it a night and just want great live music and a nightcap. This cozy, intimate piano bar features live singers every night and is one of my favorite hidden gems in the city—sing-alongs are strongly encouraged and part of the fun.