It’s summertime in New York City and there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures that await. Whether you’re visiting the Upper West Side for the first time or it’s your favorite NYC neighborhood for memorable weekends, bring your friends! Here’s where you can make magical memories, experiencing iconic landmarks, breathtaking parks, and incredible dining. Prepare to immerse yourselves in the ultimate UWS with friends' experience. Luxury, upscale adventures are around every corner, including these must-see gems to add to your itinerary.

Explore Iconic Landmarks

Visit the American Museum of Natural History, where exhibits captivate and inspire. Renowned for its impressive and vast collection of artifacts and exhibits, AMNH is an adventure full of wow and wonder, with its famous dinosaur skeleton exhibits and the Rose Center for Earth and Space.

Walk through Central Park, discovering hidden gems and scenic spots perfect for photo opportunities and group selfies. Make memories with a visit to Strawberry Fields, the Central Park Zoo, and Bethesda Terrace and Fountain.

Savor Gourmet Dining Experiences

Dine at upscale restaurants offering exquisite menus and world-class service. Nothing is more fun and memorable with friends than a delightful delectable French Mediterranean fare at Nice Matin and decadent desserts. 

Enjoy rooftop bars with stunning views, perfect for evening cocktails and conversations. Enjoy your summer with friends with the Manhattan skyline as your backdrop, saluting the wonder of the city with every clink of your cocktail glasses. The Cantor Roof Garden Bar, located within Central Park atop the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a garden, pergola, and breathtaking views.

Attend Exclusive Cultural Events

Experience live performances at Lincoln Center, home to the best in opera, ballet, and symphony. Experience Summer for the City June through August, where you and your friends can dance your hearts out under a 10-foot disco ball!

Explore art galleries showcasing contemporary and classic works, experiencing a taste of NYC’s vibrant art scene. Take in incredible art at the American Folk Art Museum, the Banksy Museum, or the Nicholas Roerich Museum.

Shop at Luxury Boutiques

Discover high-end boutiques along Columbus Avenue, with unique and trending fashions and accessories. Hit up Consignment on 72nd, the UWS’s newest hotspot for fashion-savvy shoppers who appreciate luxury. Or peruse one of many retail favorites, including Veronica Beard, Really Great Things NYC Boutique, and Shishi on Broadway.

Visit The Shops at Columbus Circle with friends for an exclusive shopping experience, where 50+ designer stores meet fine dining. Discover elegant finds at Montmartre, luxury lingerie at Wolford, and sample stationery and gifts at the Paper Source.

Sip and socialize while you soak up some vitamin D at one of the many quiet and quaint cafes throughout the Upper West Side. Take a break from your retail therapy and sip espressos at Cafe Du Soleil, Pier i Cafe, or Afternoon.

Relax and Enjoy a Spa Day

Book a day at a luxury spa with friends and spoil yourselves with personalized treatments, rejuvenate and refresh. Indulge in massage therapies and skincare treatments, perfect for unwinding with friends. Here are just a few of the local favorites where pampering reigns supreme!

Sign up for Unique Classes and Workshops

Join cooking classes led by renowned chefs, creating unforgettable culinary experiences. For example, experience the “Delicious Sweet Treats” class and learn to make small desserts that will be perfect to share among friends. An expert baker will guide you and your besties through making puff pastry and floral cream!

Attend wine tastings and mixology classes, discovering new flavors and techniques. Or for a truly unique experience, consider a wine tasting and sightseeing tour in a vintage car. This private tour picks up guests at the Central Park Cafe and provides a licensed guide, chauffeur, three glasses of wine per person, and dedicated sommelier.

Explore Hidden Gems

Visit charming bookstores, perfect for a leisurely afternoon with friends. Find rare editions of your favorite titles at Westsider Rare & Used Books, Inc., or lose yourselves among the shelves at Shakespeare & Co. 

Discover secret spots in Riverside Park, where serene views and quiet corners await. Set your own leisurely pace as you explore this scenic waterfront park along the Hudson River, which offers beautiful views, walking paths, and recreational facilities.

Conclude Your Memorable Weekend with Friends at The Lucerne

One of the most important decisions you and your friends will make is choosing the best hotel. On the UWS, find yourselves at the heart of it all when you book your stay at The Lucerne, situated within walking distance of all the area's best experiences. Our luxury hotel offers boutique accommodations, modern amenities, and historic charm, with upscale experiences at every turn. Make your Upper West Side trip even more memorable with us, and make reservations today!