Why go?

Stately prewar buildings and classic brownstones make the Upper West Side and Morningside Heights two of Manhattan's most archetypal enclaves. Though home to Columbia University and key cultural institutions such as the Natural History Museum and Lincoln Center, the area is primarily residential. (TV characters like Jerry Seinfeld, as well as Will and Grace, claim Upper West Side addresses.) The neighborhood is at its best on the weekends when residents flock to brunches on Columbus Avenue, stock up on gourmet food at Zabar's, pick up bagels and lox at Barney Greengrass, and make their way into Central Park at the 72nd Street entrance across the street from the famed Dakota (pictured above)—the building where John Lennon was shot and Rosemary's Baby was born.

Tips

One of the best neighborhoods for children: plenty of playgrounds, a children's museum, the Natural History Museum, the Rose Center planetarium, and many kid-friendly restaurants.

How to Get There

1 to 59th, 66th, 72nd, 79th, 86th, 96th, 103rd, 110th, and 116th Sts.

2, 3 to 72nd and 96th Sts.

A, D to 59th St. - Columbus Circle

B, C to 59th, 72nd, 79th, 86th, 96th, 103rd, 110th, and 116th Sts.

Boundaries

59th St. north to 110th St.

Central Park W. west to the Hudson River

Useful Links

• NYGo.com
• NY.com
• GoNYC
• Wikitravel.org