4.1-Rated Hotels Near Upper West Side

The Plaza Hotel stands out as a premier choice in the Upper West Side, offering spacious family rooms and exceptional service. Located steps from Central Park and Lincoln Center, it provides convenient access to cultural attractions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The hotel features child-friendly amenities including a dedicated playroom and family dining packages. With easy subway access (1, 2, 3 trains nearby), reaching Midtown takes just 15 minutes. Nearby boutiques and upscale restaurants enhance the experience for all ages.

The Central Park entrance is just a 10-minute walk from most hotels, offering lush green spaces and scenic paths. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, located just 500 meters east, houses over two million works across global cultures and eras. Lincoln Center, home to opera, ballet, and symphony performances, is reachable in 15 minutes on foot. For local charm, stroll through Astor Place or explore the nearby Brooklyn Bridge Promenade, ideal for photography and quiet reflection.

Take the 1, 2, or 3 train at Columbus Circle Station—just a 10-minute ride to Midtown. For convenience, Uber or Lyft takes about 15 minutes and costs $25–$35, with door-to-door service. Alternatively, Bike Share NYC stations are scattered nearby, offering a scenic and eco-friendly route across Central Park into Midtown. Consider purchasing an MTA CityTicket for unlimited rides, saving time and money during your stay.

Visit Le Bernardin, a Michelin-starred French seafood restaurant renowned for its exquisite dishes like lobster risotto and oyster platter. For a budget-friendly alternative, try Xi'an Famous Foods, serving authentic Xian-style noodles such as spicy chicken stir-fry and lamb bao. To embrace local culture, head to the Greenmarket every Saturday morning—a farmers’ market offering organic produce, handmade pastries, and artisanal goods. It’s a perfect spot to savor fresh, seasonal flavors while connecting with the neighborhood vibe.

The Beresford and The Apthorp offer apartment-style accommodations with fully equipped kitchens, laundry services, and 24/7 concierge—ideal for extended stays. Many units feature private balconies and spacious layouts, perfect for students, researchers, or remote workers. Their proximity to Columbia University and the Metropolitan Museum of Art adds academic and cultural value. With nearby supermarkets, pharmacies, and cafés, daily life is convenient and comfortable throughout the stay.

Though not a bustling entertainment district, the Upper West Side boasts a distinctive artsy ambiance. Jazz at Lincoln Center hosts nightly live jazz performances in elegant venues, drawing music lovers from across the city. The Blue Note, a legendary jazz club, offers intimate shows featuring world-class artists in a sophisticated setting. For avant-garde theatre, visit The New York Theatre Workshop, which stages innovative, original productions at affordable prices. Strolling along Broadway and West 86th Street at night reveals street performers and late-night readers in cozy independent bookstores—offering a quieter, more reflective side of New York’s nightlife.