Things to Do in Uptown Manhattan

By Shashia Mitchell

Things to Do in Uptown Manhattan

Looking for things to do in Uptown Manhattan?

Manhattan’s northernmost territory known as “Uptown” is made up mostly of residential areas, world-famous museums, and iconic landmarks with lots of attractions and tours. There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Uptown Manhattan.

One of Uptown Manhattan’s most popular features is Central Park, the first public landscaped park in the US now a hive of activity for locals and tourists alike. Whether you opt to take a guided tour of the 770 square acres or plan to have a picnic and just relax in the park, be sure to explore Central Park and see some its highlight features during your trip!

Guided Tours in Uptown Manhattan

South of the park, you can access guided walking or biking tours such as Central Park Bicycle Rentals & Tours or Central Park Sightseeing Walking Tour that allow you to explore the park with an expert or journey along at your own pace with a rental bike.

Central Park isn't the only area of Uptown worth exploring; the creative and historic borough of Harlem is also located in Uptown. Get to know the neighborhood by taking one of the many tours offered in the area, like the Hallelujah! Gospel Wednesday Tour , Harlem One Stop Cultural & Heritage Walking Tour,or Step-On Group Tour Packages. These are great introductions to the area that explore the history of cultures within the borough.

Museums in Uptown Manhattan

Museum Mile is located in Uptown, consisting of a section of Fifth Avenue from 105th street to 82nd street on the East side of Central Park. This portion of Fifth Avenue's nickname is due to the many great cultural art museums located there.

Some of the museums along the Museum Mile include the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, the Museum of the City of New York, and El Museo Del Barrio.

On the West side of Central Park, you’ll find gems like the New York Historical Society, a great resource to brush up on New York specific history, and the American Museum of Natural History, which features changing exhibits that focus on the history and development of multiple species on Earth through lively artifacts and interactive displays.

Further uptown, in Manhattan’s Inwood neighborhood, a few of New York City’s most unique historical museums reside: The Dyckman Farmhouse Museum and the Cloisters Museum and Gardens.

The Dyckman Farmhouse Museum is the last farmhouse located inside of New York City and visitors can view the old colonial farmhouse and get to know the rural history that existed in New York prior to the large skyscrapers.

The Cloisters Museum and Gardens in Fort Tryon Park is a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art where you can expect to see breathtaking art pieces with a bit of a twist. Its collection of over 5,000 objects exclusively features art and architecture stemming from the medieval ages, including sculptures and written text from the 12th to 15th centuries.

Get a taste for the rich culture and history instilled in Harlem, a neighborhood that was at the forefront of artistic creations with Jazz musicians and poets by visiting The Studio Museum in Harlem. Many of the art exhibits featured in the museum were created by artists of African descent and some native to the Harlem region.

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A Guide to Places to See in New York

New York; a place of dreams and ambitions, as well as some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. These are just some of our favorite things to do in the city that never sleeps. Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour To really familiarise yourself with the city and discover all the best places to see in New York, a Hop on Hop off Bus Tour is the way to go. The Big Bus Tour company has over 25 stops across the city as well as at the most famous museums and landmarks and the great thing, you can create your own sightseeing itinerary and jump on and off when you want. Take advantage of a free one-day ticket with The New York Pass. Empire State Building Probably one of the most iconic buildings in New York, and a definite must-see in New York, the Empire State Building towers over Midtown Manhattan at 102-stories. This famous art deco skyscraper commands some of the best views in the city and visitors can rise to the Top Deck (102 floors up!) to watch the sunset or enjoy the equally stunning 360 views from the 86th floor Main Deck. Tip: go for sunset when you can watch the city light up in all its glory. 9/11 Memorial & Museum Pay tribute to the victims of the 2001 attacks at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in Downtown Manhattan. Located on the site of the original World Trade Centre, visitors can step back into the past and learn of the ill-fated day nearly two decades ago with over 10,000 artifacts on display. 2,000 harrowing interviews and first-hand accounts, photographs, and testimonies also make up this harrowing but humbling experience. Entry included in The New York Pass. American Museum of Natural History A great one for the kids, the American Museum of Natural History is not only one of the largest museums in the world but is home to fascinating pre-historic skeletons, ancient fossils, and giant meteorites. For anyone – old or young – with a curious mind, this museum will have you hooked from the minute you step through the door. Top exhibits: its 94-foot blue whale and a 122-foot long dinosaur skeleton. Those alone make it one of the top places to see in New York. Food on Foot Tours New York and food: two of the best things paired together. Head off the beaten path and venture into some of East Village’s most iconic eateries, or into Midtown for true New York staples. New York is famous for its diverse culinary culture so what better way to taste your way around the city than a Food on Foot Tour. Inside Broadway Walking Tour You can’t go to New York and not experience Broadway. An institution in its own right, this time you can go behind the scenes to experience what life is like on stage and learn from the stars about how to become a Broadway actor and make it big. This two-hour guided tour will take you around the Theatre District and let you in on some insider secrets, so for any budding actor or theatre enthusiast, this one is a must-see in New York. Brooklyn Bridge Connecting Brooklyn and Manhattan, Brooklyn Bridge is perhaps one of the most photographed landmarks in the city. Jump on a bike, or if you’re on foot you can join a tour or go at your own pace. Tip: it’s one of the best spots to see the iconic skyline of skyscrapers in Downtown Manhattan. Central Park Sightseeing Walking Tour A leafy sanctuary just off Fifth Avenue, set between the Upper West and Upper East Sides, Central Park is the most popular green space in Manhattan. If you’re looking to tick off what to see in New York, put Central Park on your list. If you’re visiting in summer bring a picnic and if it’s too cold get lost amid the paths through enchanting woodlands and lakes. Tip: there’s a section of the park, Strawberry Fields, dedicated to John Lennon. Grand Central Station The true hub of New York, Grand Central Station isn’t just a bustling commuter causeway – it’s an architectural delight in its own right and has been accredited status as a US National Historic Landmark. Thousands of people pass through Grand Central Station daily so the people watching is second to none, but don’t forget to look up at the ceiling mural or admire the original Tiffany clock – the largest of its kind in the world measuring in at 48-feet! Explore this Manhattan landmark at your own pace with an audio-tour. Ellis Island Operating as the immigrant check-in for Europeans coming to America, Ellis Island is one of the most historically important sites in the country. The Immigration Museum is a must-see in New York and showcases the history of over 12 million immigrants who entered the United States. Almost half of all American people descended from those who crossed through the golden door of Ellis Island so perhaps you’ll be able to trace some family roots there yourself.
Kirsten McCroskrie
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Tips to make the most of Christmas in New York

Tips for preparing for your Christmas trip to New York It'll be around 40 degrees or lower, so make sure you pack warm clothes and a jacket. If you plan to make the most of the Christmas markets or take a walking tour, wear a pair of shoes that will be kind to your feet – stilettos need not apply. If you're planning on loading up on artisanal gifts, make sure you take a bag to ensure you're an eco-conscious traveler. There are a number of camera-catching moments during the holiday season in New York, so don't forget to bring your camera! If you choose to be dazzled by the high kicks and the glamor of New York's Christmas shows, polish your dress shoes and iron your shirt. Ice-skating at the Rockefeller Center is perhaps the city's most famous seasonal spot. The lines can drag on for hours, so reserve your ice time at Bryant Parks winter village. Bring your Christmas wish list – you never know when you might bump into Santa. If you're scared of not bumping into Santa, visit Macy's Santaland to see the big guy himself. If you only have a few days in New York it can be overwhelming when thinking about what to see and do. Plan your trip and experience the top attractions – The New York Pass can help you decide which attractions to explore. Our favorite Christmas attractions in New York Holiday shopping in Bryant Park The holiday shops at Bryant Park are on pretty much everyone's list of must-do holiday experiences in the city. Inspired by open-air European Crafts fairs, the market features vendors from literally all around the world. The little kiosks offer the same kind of choice as full-sized shops and feature goods ranging from African baskets to one-of-a-kind jewelry handcrafted in Brooklyn. Columbus Circle Holiday Market With its festive, candy-striped booths, the Columbus Circle Market is visually one of the most appealing holiday markets. Located right across from the Time Warner Center and nestled into the entrance to Central Park, it's also in an ideal location, easily accessed by public transportation. Browse jewelry, home goods, crafts, and food to find something for just about everyone on your list. Take a tour There's no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by taking a guided tour of New York's best traditional markets. Learn about the city's Christmas traditions. Take in the holiday lights. Wander around movie locations of your favorite festive movies. You'll also have the opportunity to browse artisanal goods, local art and winter attire stalls while enjoying traditional foods and indulgent desserts. With your New York Pass, you'll be able to enjoy this tour without paying more than the pass price. Journey down Fifth Avenue to see the department stores lit up before hitting up markets from Bryant Park's Winter Village where you can also use your pass to get in a spot of ice skating. For more things to do in New York, check out what attractions you can get with The New York Pass: you'll pay nothing but the pass price.
Kirsten McCroskrie

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