As spring breathes new life into New York City, few neighborhoods embrace the season more beautifully than the Upper West Side. This classic Manhattan enclave transforms into a blooming paradise with its tree-lined avenues, riverside vistas, and easy access to iconic green spaces. 

Whether you're a local looking to get out for a stroll or a visitor hoping to experience NYC’s softer side, the Upper West Side has no shortage of gorgeous places to walk and unwind. From the colorful cherry blossoms of Central Park to the hidden nooks of Riverside Park and the peaceful charm of Verdi Square on the Upper West Side, here’s your guide to the best spring walks and parks in this scenic neighborhood.

Central Park’s Cherry Blossoms: A Must-See Spring Spectacle

No spring walk on the Upper West Side would be complete without a stroll through Central Park, especially when its cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The park bursts into shades of pink and white from early April through mid-May. 

Some of the best blooms are found around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir and the Cherry Hill area near 72nd Street. You’ll also find a magnificent collection of Yoshino cherry trees near the west side entrance at 72nd Street and Central Park West—just a 10-minute walk from The Lucerne Hotel.

Riverside Park: Hidden Trails and Hudson River Views

For those craving a walk that feels more like an escape, Riverside Park is the place to go. Running along the Hudson River from 59th Street to 158th Street, this narrow park offers a less crowded but equally scenic alternative to Central Park.

Just a 5-minute walk from The Lucerne Hotel, the entrance to Riverside Park at 79th Street and Riverside Drive leads you directly into a network of meandering paths shaded by tall trees and lined with spring flowers. You’ll encounter locals walking dogs, kids playing in community gardens, and joggers soaking in the crisp river breeze.

Head south from the 79th Street entrance to discover the Riverside Park Promenade, a paved path along the Hudson with stunning water views and benches perfect for a springtime break. For something more secluded, explore the winding paths just above the promenade, where birds chirp and spring foliage creates a lush green canopy.

Verdi Square: A Compact Oasis with Classic New York Charm

Tucked between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue at 72nd Street, Verdi Square is a small triangular park with a lot of character. Named for the Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi, the square offers a peaceful spot to sit beneath budding trees and admire spring plantings in its manicured garden beds.

Despite its modest size, Verdi Square plays a meaningful role in the rhythm of daily life on the Upper West Side. In spring, the square comes alive with blooming tulips, daffodils, and other stunning flowers that bring color to the stone-lined paths and benches. Locals gather here to read, sip coffee, and enjoy a moment of calm amid the bustle of Broadway, while musicians occasionally perform, adding a soundtrack to the neighborhood’s laid-back energy.

It’s a great place to pause during a morning coffee run or while exploring the nearby shops and restaurants. Just a 5-minute walk from The Lucerne Hotel, Verdi Square captures the Upper West Side’s charm in a compact and accessible setting—ideal for people-watching, reflection, or a quiet spring afternoon.

Straus Park: Literature, Sculpture, and Blossoms in Bloom

Located at the intersection of Broadway and West End Avenue at 106th Street, Straus Park is a tranquil retreat named after Ida and Isidor Straus, who perished on the Titanic. Anchored by a bronze statue and memorial fountain, the park features seating areas surrounded by spring flowers and leafy trees.

In the warmer months, it becomes a hub for quiet reflection, book reading, and neighborhood conversation. Locals often bring a cup of coffee or lunch from nearby cafés to enjoy on the shaded benches, while others stop by to admire the seasonal blooms or spend a peaceful moment by the fountain. The park’s rich history and serene atmosphere make it a unique destination for both visitors and longtime residents.

From The Lucerne Hotel, it’s about a 20 minute stroll up Broadway—perfect for those who want to see more of the neighborhood on foot while enjoying a relaxing stop along the way.

Make the Most of Spring on the Upper West Side

Whether you’re hunting for cherry blossoms in Central Park, wandering Riverside Park’s quiet trails, soaking in manicured garden beds at Verdi Park, or enjoying the spring flowers of Straus Park on the Upper West Side, spring is the perfect time to explore this part of Manhattan on foot. And when it comes to staying close to all these lush, walkable wonders, The Lucerne Hotel is ideally located in the heart of the Upper West Side. 

Book your stay today for the perfect home base for your springtime adventure in the city.