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Have you ever found yourself in a neighborhood in New York City where the streets are as elegant as the people who stroll them? If so, you might be in the Upper East Side—NYC’s prestigious and sparkling district.
This area is home to the affluent and the famous, from the Rockefeller family to Mariah Carey, and is celebrated for its abundance of museums, luxury shopping, and stunning Victorian and Revival architecture.
No need to have a large budget to enjoy the Upper East Side; there are numerous activities suitable for travelers of all financial backgrounds. My daughter and I spent an exciting day exploring the area as we hunted for Gossip Girl filming locations.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect café to sip lattes while discussing contemporary art or taking a leisurely stroll past the residences of the elite, here are some of the top activities to enjoy in Upper East Side NYC!
Things to Do in Upper East Side NYC
Get Cultured at The Met (Metropolitan Museum of Art)
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, commonly known as The Met, is one of the most renowned museums in NYC.
As one of the largest and most esteemed art museums globally, The Met boasts over two million pieces of art that represent more than 5,000 years of history.
The Met has three locations: The Met Fifth Avenue, The Met Cloisters, and The Met Breuer (which specializes in modern and contemporary art).
The Met Fifth Avenue, located in the Upper East Side, serves as the museum’s primary building, showcasing an extensive collection of art from ancient Egypt, European paintings, and American decorative arts.
Some notable pieces in this section include the original The Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh, The Water Lily Pond by Claude Monet, and Kajikazawa in Kai Province by Hokusai.
The Met is a remarkable attraction that even our teenagers enjoy. Kalyra has been eager to see the Met Gala gowns on display, but we’ve always managed to miss it!
We used our NYC CityPASS to visit the Met Museum.
Stroll Through Central Park to the Upper East Side
Central Park is the most iconic green space in NYC, extending over 3.4 kilometers in length. However, the northern part of the park can be a bit shady, so it’s wise to stick to the safer areas during your visit.
Fortunately, the Upper East Side provides easy access to top attractions in the park, such as Belvedere Castle, the Great Lawn, and The Lake. The view from the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir is especially stunning.
Cross the Bow Bridge for picturesque photos, visit the iconic fountain at Bethesda Terrace like the characters did in Gossip Girl, bike through The Ramble, and admire the renowned Alice in Wonderland sculpture—these attractions can all be found in the Upper East Side of the park.
Grab Breakfast at Blue Stone Lane on 5th Avenue
Blue Stone Lane is a popular chain of Australian coffee shops with several locations across NYC, but hear me out: this particular spot is unique because it’s located inside a former church. Enjoy your coffee among the sandstone arches or at a street-side table, immersing yourself in a peaceful spiritual ambiance while sipping on what many consider the best flat white in NYC.
If you’re hungry, their health-conscious menu allows you to indulge guilt-free. My favorites include the Gluten Free Banana Bread, and of course, as Aussies, we always suggest vegemite on toast, followed by a delicious lamington! Their breakfast menu is impressive, featuring a variety of options for every taste.
Read more: 19 Best Coffee Shops in NYC the Locals Love
Take a Gossip Girl Film Locations Tour
One show that truly put the Upper East Side on the map is Gossip Girl, which portrays the lives and dramas of elite prep school students in NYC.
If you’re a fan, you’ll find numerous iconic filming locations in this neighborhood, including Serena van der Woodsen’s apartment, popular dining spots, and famous wedding venues.
You can embark on a self-guided walking tour or join a private tour to learn fascinating behind-the-scenes stories about the show and its production.
Ride the Roosevelt Island Tram
Roosevelt Island, named after former U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, is located adjacent to the Upper East Side, nestled in the East River. This charming island is known for its green spaces and mesmerizing views of the Manhattan skyline.
There are several ways to reach Roosevelt Island, but the Roosevelt Island Tramway is undoubtedly the most exhilarating! This aerial tram connects Roosevelt Island to the Upper East Side in Manhattan, providing passengers with breathtaking views of the city skyline and the East River during the short 4-5 minute journey.
As you ride across the river in this unique cable car, you can spot landmarks like the United Nations Headquarters and the Queensboro Bridge.
The tram departs from 59th Street and Second Avenue and arrives at the Roosevelt Island station. Once on the island, explore its iconic parks and historical landmarks, including the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park and the ruins of the Smallpox Hospital.
Explore Madison Ave
Madison Avenue is one of NYC’s most iconic streets, extending from the West Village to Harlem. Named after James Madison, the fourth President of the United States, this avenue is recognized as a commercial center, particularly known for its ties to the advertising industry.
At the Upper East Side end, Madison Avenue is lined with upscale shopping boutiques. From East 57th to East 86th Street, you’ll find designer fashion stores, galleries showcasing contemporary art, and an array of fine dining options.
In addition to shopping, Madison Avenue features various architectural styles that represent New York City’s rich heritage, displaying everything from neoclassical to modern styles.
Savor Delicious Burgers at JG Melon
Finding a good place to eat in NYC can be challenging, especially if you’re budget-conscious! JG Melon was one of our favorite dining spots because it offers delicious and satisfying burgers at reasonable prices (for NYC, at least!).
The restaurant features a lovely outdoor seating area, attentive service, and a relaxed atmosphere. Don’t miss out on their amazing cottage fries!
Keep in mind that they only accept cash, so be sure to bring some bills along. If you forget, there’s an ATM conveniently across the street.
Admire German and Austrian Art at Neue Galerie New York
The Neue Galerie is a small but significant art museum located in the Upper East Side, dedicated to early 20th-century German and Austrian art and design.
Founded in 2001 by art dealers Ronald S. Lauder and Serge Sabarsky, this museum occupies a beautifully restored historic townhouse that is as stunning as the artwork it displays.
The museum showcases notable works by artists such as Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, Max Beckmann, John Heartfield, and Rudolf Schlichter. One of its most famous pieces is Klimt’s “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I,” a captivating gold-leaf painting demonstrating the artist’s innovative approach.
Relax in Carl Schurz Park
Carl Schurz Park is a beautiful public space stretching along the East River from 84th to 90th Streets.
Named after German-American politician and journalist Carl Schurz, the park commemorates the significant German community in Yorkville, where Schurz played a crucial role in Abraham Lincoln’s 1860 election campaign.
The park offers scenic waterfront views of Roosevelt Island, along with landscaped gardens, walking paths, and grassy areas perfect for unwinding with a good book.
Seasonal events, such as outdoor movie screenings and summer concerts, make this park especially enjoyable.
Tour Gracie Mansion
While visiting Carl Schurz Park, be sure to stop by Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the Mayor of New York City since 1942.
Originally constructed in 1799 by affluent merchant Archibald Gracie, this mansion exemplifies fine Federal-style architecture.
You can take a guided tour to learn more about New York City’s leadership and explore its beautifully restored interiors. Key highlights include the grand entrance hall, dining room, and library, each brimming with artifacts that narrate the city’s story.
Visit the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum
The Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum showcases design in all its forms.
Established in 1897 as the Cooper Union Museum for the Arts of Decoration, it became part of the Smithsonian Institution in 1967 and was renamed Cooper Hewitt.
Housed in the historic Andrew Carnegie Mansion, which showcases stunning Beaux-Arts architecture, the museum offers a collection of over 215,000 objects, spanning 30 centuries of design history.
Learn at The Jewish Museum
The Jewish Museum stands as one of the oldest and most comprehensive institutions dedicated to Jewish culture, history, and art in the United States.
Founded in 1904 as an extension of the Jewish Theological Seminary, it has since transformed into an engaging museum featuring over 30,000 objects that reflect 4,000 years of Jewish history.
Notable artists in the collection include Marc Chagall, Amedeo Modigliani, and Andy Warhol, showcasing the significant contributions of Jewish artists in the global art scene.
Indulge in a Nutella Churro at Boqueria
Boqueria is a vibrant Catalonian tapas bar known for its fabulous boozy brunch (the sangria is a must-try) and, most notably, its churros.
The Nutella churros are absolutely divine—soft on the inside with a satisfying crunch on the outside, and made fresh to order.
Is it acceptable to visit a fancy restaurant solely for dessert? That’s for you to decide!
Admire the Architecture of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is renowned for its striking architecture, characterized by white, organic curves that stand out against New York’s busy urban landscape.
Designed by the acclaimed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, it opened as a museum in 1959, showcasing influential pieces of modern art.
The permanent collection features works by world-famous artists such as Wassily Kandinsky, Pablo Picasso, and Jackson Pollock, focusing on modern art movements from the late 19th century to the present.
Although I didn’t find the Guggenheim very impressive, my daughter and I both thought it felt more about spinning in circles than truly appreciating the art. We used our NYC CityPASS for entry, which is a wise way to save money in NYC.
Explore Albertine
While heading towards Central Park, we stumbled upon Albertine, an enchanting French bookstore, possibly the most beautiful in the city!
Upon entering, your eyes are drawn to the stunning celestial mural on the ceiling, featuring constellations. There’s a cozy seating area along with an impressive selection of children’s books and graphic novels.
Even though it’s a French bookstore, many of the titles are available in English translations, making it a welcoming spot for all visitors.
Coffee at Hutch and Waldo
Located near Central Park, Hutch and Waldo is a charming Australian coffee shop perfectly situated for a quick stop while exploring the Upper East Side.
They serve generous cups of coffee with a delightful outdoor seating area, ideal for enjoying a warm summer day in the city while people-watching. Alternatively, grab a coffee to go and enjoy it as you stroll through Central Park.
If you’re in the mood for a bite, their breakfast burrito and breakfast sarnie are both delicious, and if you prefer something lighter, there’s a nice selection of fresh pastries available.
Enjoy Comfort Food at Serendipity 3
Serendipity 3 is a historic eatery that opened its doors in 1954, created by three friends passionate about serving comfort food amid whimsical and quirky decor.
The restaurant is renowned for its desserts, particularly the Frrrozen Hot Chocolate!
It’s common to spot celebrities here, as everyone wants to experience this iconic NYC eatery’s extravagant menu!
Sample NYC’s Best Cookies at Levain Bakery
During our weekend getaway to NYC with our teenager, we made sure to stop by Levain Bakery for a taste of the city’s best cookies.
This bakery gained fame on TikTok, and even as someone who isn’t a huge cookie fan, I found their famous gooey, oversized creations impossible to resist!
They also offer gluten-free and vegan options.
Final Thoughts
Having visited New York numerous times and experienced all the major attractions, it was refreshing to have a more neighborhood-oriented experience in the Upper East Side. With its proximity to Central Park and Museum Mile, it offers countless activities and opportunities to explore the streets, soak in the ambiance, and savor delightful food.
While I personally enjoy the vibe of neighborhoods like Greenwich and the West Village more, the Upper East Side is certainly worth a visit for art enthusiasts, shoppers, and those seeking a sprinkle of XOXO!
