The Upper East Side has long been one of New York City’s most polished and refined neighborhoods—but there’s plenty of fun here, too. Whether you’re visiting for the world-class museums, leafy parks, designer boutiques, or just a perfect macaron, this stretch of Manhattan is full of things to see, do, and eat. You can spend the morning surrounded by impressionist paintings, take a peaceful riverside stroll by afternoon, and finish with rooftop drinks overlooking the skyline. From cultural heavyweights to hidden gems, here are 20 things worth doing in the Upper East Side.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
If you visit just one museum in the Upper East Side, make it The Met. One of the most famous art museums in the world, The Met has something for everyone—ancient Egyptian artifacts, European masterpieces, American decorative arts, arms and armor, and even a tranquil rooftop garden with skyline views in the warmer months. The building itself is just as stunning as the art inside, with grand staircases, marble columns, and a majestic façade that faces Fifth Avenue.
We love that you can lose hours wandering its halls without ever feeling rushed. Highlights include the Temple of Dendur, an actual Egyptian temple relocated piece by piece, and the Costume Institute, which features rotating fashion exhibitions that are always visually striking. The museum sits right on the edge of Central Park, so you can easily pair your visit with a stroll through the Ramble or a lakeside picnic.
The atmosphere? Serene but buzzing with creativity. Whether you’re an art lover or a casual browser, The Met is both inspiring and approachable. It's part of the Go City New York Explorer Pass, so you can explore its galleries without spending extra on admission.
Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
Even if you don’t go inside, the Guggenheim is worth a visit for its architecture alone. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this modernist spiral building is a work of art in itself—and it houses an equally compelling collection of 20th-century and contemporary works. Inside, the open rotunda lets you slowly ascend a spiraling ramp, discovering new works as you circle upward beneath a massive skylight.
The collection leans heavily into modern masters—Kandinsky, Picasso, Pollock, and more—alongside exhibitions that focus on bold, conceptual pieces and emerging artists. The vibe is a little edgier than The Met but still totally welcoming. It’s quieter than other museums on the block, making it ideal if you’re looking for a more contemplative experience.
The Guggenheim is included with the Go City New York Explorer Pass, and it’s an essential stop for anyone interested in art, architecture, or both.
The Jewish Museum
The Jewish Museum
This lesser-known gem on Museum Mile explores Jewish culture, identity, and history through a creative lens. Housed in a former mansion with beautiful Gothic and Romanesque flourishes, the museum offers a mix of permanent collections and rotating exhibitions that span everything from religious artifacts to contemporary art. It’s intimate but thoughtfully curated, often highlighting underrepresented voices and stories.
One of the standouts? The museum’s dynamic use of multimedia, from film and photography to immersive installations that make history come alive. You’ll see everything from ancient scrolls to modern commentary on social issues. It’s also a great museum for kids, thanks to interactive exhibits and regular family programming.
The gift shop here is also a favorite—curated with quirky, high-design Judaica and excellent art books. Included in the Go City New York Explorer Pass, the Jewish Museum makes for a quieter but deeply enriching stop in the Upper East Side.
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
Housed in the former Andrew Carnegie mansion, the Cooper Hewitt is all about design—past, present, and future. Its exhibits cover everything from digital innovation to decorative arts, graphic design, textiles, and sustainable architecture. The museum manages to feel both classic and cutting-edge, which makes for a super engaging visit even if you're not a “design person.”
One of the coolest features? The interactive Pen experience. Visitors can use a digital stylus to “collect” favorite pieces as they explore, then view or even manipulate them later at touch tables. It adds a playful, high-tech layer to your museum wander. The museum’s garden is also worth a stroll—especially in spring and summer—offering a peaceful retreat just steps from Fifth Avenue.
Included in the Go City New York Explorer Pass, this spot is a must for anyone with an eye for aesthetics—or anyone who wants a unique museum experience that goes way beyond paintings on a wall.
Carl Schurz Park and the East River Esplanade
Looking to escape the crowds for a bit? Carl Schurz Park is one of the Upper East Side’s most underrated green spaces—and it’s a true local favorite. Nestled between East End Avenue and the East River, the park offers winding paths, beautifully manicured gardens, and postcard-worthy views of Roosevelt Island and the Queensboro Bridge. It’s also home to Gracie Mansion, the mayor’s official residence.
Unlike Central Park, this one feels more intimate and low-key. You'll find dog walkers, joggers, kids playing, and couples relaxing on benches with coffee in hand. The adjacent East River Esplanade is perfect for a scenic walk or a bike ride, especially during golden hour when the river glows.
This is the kind of place where you slow down, sip a coffee, and enjoy a rare bit of stillness in the city. It's perfect after a morning at the museums—and completely free to enjoy.
Neue Galerie New York
Neue Galerie New York
Just a few doors down from The Met, the Neue Galerie is a small but powerful museum dedicated to early 20th-century German and Austrian art and design. Think Klimt, Schiele, and the entire Vienna Secession movement—all displayed in an elegant townhouse that feels more like a collector’s home than a traditional museum.
The showstopper here is Gustav Klimt’s Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I (a.k.a. “The Woman in Gold”)—a glittering, gold-leaf masterpiece that draws visitors from around the world. The building itself is a work of art, too, with a sweeping staircase, intricate woodwork, and marble accents that transport you straight to turn-of-the-century Europe.
After your visit, swing by Café Sabarsky, the on-site Viennese café known for apple strudel, sachertorte, and marble-topped tables. The atmosphere is old-world elegance at its best. Though not included in Go City, it’s well worth the entry fee for something that feels a little off the beaten path.
Frick Madison
For a limited time, the Frick Collection is housed at Frick Madison—inside the sleek, Brutalist-style former home of the Whitney Museum. It’s an unexpected pairing: Old Masters in a stark modernist setting. But it works. The contrast makes the art stand out in a fresh, almost intimate way. You’ll find Vermeer, Rembrandt, Turner, Bellini, and Fragonard all beautifully spaced out across minimalist galleries.
One of the best parts? The audio guide is free and genuinely interesting, offering deep dives into both the works and the collector behind them. The setting allows for quiet contemplation, and it’s often less crowded than the bigger museums nearby. Plus, the museum shop is small but well-curated, offering stylish prints and thoughtful gifts.
While the Frick isn’t currently part of the Go City Explorer Pass, it’s a worthy cultural stop that art lovers—and anyone craving a quieter museum experience—will truly appreciate.
Eat Your Way Through Lexington Candy Shop
This charming old-school luncheonette has been serving up milkshakes and tuna melts since 1925—and it hasn’t changed much since. Step inside Lexington Candy Shop and you’re instantly transported to a different era. The menu features diner staples with a New York twist: think thick-cut pastrami sandwiches, perfectly crisp grilled cheese, and hand-mixed sodas that are genuinely nostalgic.
The vibe is cozy and no-frills, with counter seating, vintage signs, and friendly service. It’s especially great for breakfast or a casual lunch, whether you’re solo or with friends. You’ll spot a mix of locals, tourists, and even the occasional celeb stopping in for pancakes or a malted milkshake.
What makes it special? The authenticity. It’s not trying to be retro—it just is. If you’re doing a museum crawl, this is a great spot to refuel. The milkshakes are legendary, and the grilled tuna melt is a sleeper hit.
Take a Stroll Along Museum Mile
Take a Stroll Along Museum Mile
Even if you don’t step inside every museum, walking Museum Mile is a must-do activity in the Upper East Side. This stretch of Fifth Avenue, running roughly from 82nd to 110th Streets, is lined with some of the most prestigious cultural institutions in the city—including The Met, Guggenheim, Cooper Hewitt, Jewish Museum, Neue Galerie, and El Museo del Barrio.
But it’s not just about what’s inside the walls. The neighborhood’s architecture is gorgeous, with historic townhouses, ornate prewar buildings, and leafy sidewalks that make for a picture-perfect walk. In the spring, cherry blossoms from Central Park spill into view. In the fall, the golden leaves add a glow to the whole avenue.
It’s a peaceful, museum-adjacent wander where you can snap photos, people-watch, and admire NYC’s culture from the outside. Tip: come on a Sunday morning when the street is quieter and the air feels just a bit more poetic.
Sip Coffee at Ralph’s Coffee at Ralph Lauren
Ralph’s Coffee, tucked inside the Ralph Lauren flagship store on Madison Avenue, feels like a secret spot where style and caffeine meet. The vibe is cozy yet luxurious—imagine green velvet seats, vintage Americana decor, and a menu of classic espresso drinks, pastries, and light bites. Whether you're after a flat white or a fresh croissant, the quality here matches the aesthetic.
It’s a great place to pause between shopping stops or to cozy up after a museum visit. You’ll find a mix of well-dressed locals, quiet readers, and curious visitors taking in the understated glam. The branding is meticulous (this is Ralph Lauren, after all), and even the coffee cups are Insta-worthy.
While the prices lean upscale, there’s no pressure to splurge—and sitting down here feels like a treat in itself. It’s one of those Upper East Side experiences that’s less about doing and more about soaking in the scene.
Browse the Books at Albertine
Albertine is a French-English bookstore and reading room inside the Cultural Services of the French Embassy—and it might be the most beautiful bookstore in New York. Located just off Fifth Avenue in the historic Payne Whitney Mansion, this literary haven feels more like a library in a Parisian palace than a retail space.
What makes it magical? The upstairs reading room features a hand-painted ceiling covered in stars and celestial symbols inspired by the zodiac. It’s the kind of place where you want to linger—whether you’re flipping through philosophy, hunting for an art book, or just sitting quietly among the shelves.
The shop regularly hosts author events, discussions, and free cultural programming, and the bilingual selection makes it a treasure trove for Francophiles and design lovers alike. It’s open to the public and completely free to explore, which makes it a perfect hidden gem to break up a busy Upper East Side day.
Take in a Concert at Church of the Heavenly Rest
Take in a Concert at Church of the Heavenly Rest
Just across from the northeast edge of Central Park sits the Church of the Heavenly Rest—an Episcopal church that doubles as a peaceful community space and occasional venue for free or low-cost music performances. The Gothic architecture alone is worth stopping in for, with soaring ceilings, stained-glass windows, and intricate stone carvings.
But what we love most are the cultural happenings. From chamber music and organ recitals to choral concerts and seasonal events, the church opens its doors to artists and performers year-round. It’s never too crowded, and the atmosphere is both spiritual and calming—even if you’re just there to admire the space in silence.
Visitors are welcome anytime during open hours, and the church café next door (Heavenly Rest Stop) serves up great coffee and pastries in a serene, sunlit space. It’s a deeply local experience—and a soothing pause from the city buzz.
Tour Gracie Mansion Grounds
Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the Mayor of New York City, sits inside Carl Schurz Park and offers periodic public tours of its historic grounds and interiors. Even if you don’t step inside, the exterior is worth a look. This Federal-style mansion dates back to 1799 and offers stunning views over the East River.
When tours are running (they're free but require advance booking), you’ll learn about the mansion’s architecture, art collection, and political history. Inside, rooms are restored with period details and rotating exhibitions that reflect New York’s diverse cultural heritage. Even outside tour hours, the surrounding lawn and gardens are open to the public and perfect for a quiet stroll.
It’s a low-key, local favorite—and a rare opportunity to explore one of NYC’s official residences. If you love history, architecture, or just want a change from museum halls, Gracie Mansion is a great addition to your day.
Enjoy a Sweet Treat at Lady M Cake Boutique
Lady M’s Upper East Side boutique is the kind of place you stumble upon and immediately want to stay. It’s chic, minimal, and full of impossibly elegant confections—especially their signature Mille Crêpes cake. If you’ve never had one, this layered masterpiece is made from paper-thin crêpes stacked with light pastry cream. The green tea and pistachio versions are especially dreamy.
You can dine in the white-on-white space for a polished break between museums or grab a slice to go and enjoy it in Central Park (which is just around the corner). The service is smooth, the slices are precise, and the vibe is just the right level of fancy without being fussy.
This is where to go when you need a sugar boost and want to feel like you’re part of the neighborhood for a moment. For sweet-toothed travelers, it’s a must.
Visit El Museo del Barrio
Visit El Museo del Barrio
Just at the northern edge of Museum Mile, El Museo del Barrio celebrates Latino, Caribbean, and Latin American culture through contemporary and historical art. It's the only museum of its kind in NYC and a vital voice in the local arts scene.
Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibitions that include painting, sculpture, photography, and multimedia pieces. The programming is vibrant and thought-provoking, often highlighting underrepresented artists or culturally specific narratives. It’s not as sprawling as The Met, but that’s part of the charm—you can enjoy it in under an hour without feeling rushed.
The museum also offers frequent community events, family days, and festivals, often with free or pay-what-you-wish admission.
Have a Cocktail at The Penrose
When the museum crowds thin and the afternoon sun fades, head to The Penrose for one of the best cocktail vibes in the neighborhood. This Upper East Side gastropub balances rustic charm with craft mixology, offering seasonal drinks alongside a strong food menu.
The interior feels like a retro-chic tavern—dark wood, globe lights, cozy booths—and the energy hits the sweet spot between laid-back and lively. Cocktails lean toward creative twists on classics (like a rosemary gin fizz or spiced bourbon sour), and the bartenders know what they’re doing. They also serve solid small plates—think hot pretzels with mustard, fried pickles, or an elevated grilled cheese with tomato soup dip.
It’s a great place to unwind after a day of walking and museum hopping. Whether you’re catching up with friends or sipping solo at the bar, The Penrose feels like a stylish neighborhood hangout with real substance.
Shop the Boutiques on Madison Avenue
If retail therapy is your idea of a great afternoon, the Upper East Side has you covered. Madison Avenue is lined with elegant boutiques, designer flagships, and upscale beauty counters that make for some top-tier window shopping. From international luxury brands like Chanel, Hermès, and Prada to niche fragrance houses and independent galleries, this stretch of the UES is a fashion-lover’s dream.
You don’t have to buy anything to enjoy it. Strolling past beautifully dressed windows, popping into perfumeries for a sample spritz, or browsing curated bookshops offers a peek into the polished world of Manhattan’s most stylish shoppers. The pace is slower than SoHo, and the experience feels a little more elevated.
Even if you leave empty-handed, the vibe alone—tree-lined streets, doormen holding open polished glass doors, and the occasional celeb sighting—makes this a quintessential Upper East Side experience. Treat yourself to the fantasy, even if it’s just for a few blocks.
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