Welcome to Upper East Side
The Upper East Side offers peace and quiet to its residents in the middle of New York City.
One of the most discussed neighborhoods in Manhattan, the Upper East Side has housed the rich, the famous, and the elite. The bulk of the buildings were built after the Civil War, and in the early 1900s, people began to flood into the area. In the 1920s, mansions popped up, housing names like Andrew Carnegie. The estates and pre-war apartments that fill the streets mean inhabitants often have more space than a similar building in a different district, and the buildings are full of interesting architectural details that hearken back to the Art Deco time period.
Today, the Upper East Side is popular among families who seek a quieter experience in the city, easy access to green space, plenty of options for cultural and educational activities, and some of the best schools in the country.
What to Love
- Excellent schools
- Plenty of cultural attractions
- Spectacular shopping options
- Close to Central Park
Local Lifestyle
The Upper East Side has long been home to the elite rich, and as a result, the area has attracted businesses and attractions that support the traditional activities and interests of upper-crust society — arts and museums abound. While the area is heavily populated, residents generally find the streets to be fairly quiet, offering a more suburban feel despite its urban location. Most people have lived there for extended periods of time and know each other, creating a tight community vibe that newcomers love.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
It’s well-known that the Upper East Side has plenty of designer shopping within its borders. From department stores such as Bloomingdale’s to the hottest designers, you can find the newest fashions, one-of-a-kind furniture, and more. Popular designers who have stores in the area include Marc Jacobs, lululemon, Giorgio Armani, and Chanel.
After a day of shopping, you’ll want to sit down to dinner, and there are plenty of options wherever you turn. Harry Cipriani, in the Sherry Netherland Hotel, serves up delicious Italian classics, while Seamore’s specializes in delicious, fresh seafood with dishes like shrimp nachos and seared scallop pasta. Mainstay Daniel’s offers gourmet tasting menus that will tantalize your palette, featuring options such as foie gras with marmalade and snapper in a blood orange sauce.
For after-dinner drinks, there are several stellar options. Bemelman’s Bar in the Carlyle is a favorite among locals, known for its Art Deco decor and dry martinis. The Auction House, decked out in dark wood, marble, and velvet, is the epitome of upscale coziness and offers artisan cocktails with unique flavor combinations, such as their Smoke and Honey, which balances sweet notes with a smoky, darker undertone.
Things to Do
The Upper East Side, often known as the echelon of wealth, is home to any number of activities for residents of all ages. Its best-known attraction is Central Park, running alongside the left side border of the neighborhood, and full of things to do. The Central Park Zoo has been a longtime fixture, featuring both big animals like lions and smaller, friendlier animals in the petting zoo. The expansive grounds also include numerous and varied sports fields, two ice skating rinks, and several stages or community areas where special events are hosted, such as Shakespeare in the Park and Summerstage.
Art is a popular interest in the Upper East Side, as evidenced by the sheer number of art museums and galleries that dot the streets. Some of the most famous art museums in the world are located in the district, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, and the Frick. If performing arts are more your speed, take advantage of 59E59 Theatre or take the kids to see a family-friendly show at Broadway Kids.
Bid on one-of-a-kind antiques at Sotheby’s Auction House, whether you’re after a piece of fine art or a certain vintage of wine. The challenge of outbidding other attendees will get your blood moving, and the joy of winning your coveted object is hard to beat.
Schools
Served by the exceptional District 2, the Upper East Side is home to some of the best schools, both public and private, in the country.
