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Manhattan: The Lower Part of the Upper West Side
By Nadine | April 9, 2008
Ryan R., who works in the RDNY.com Listings Dept, wrote this about his neighborhood. He’s from Arizona and loves NYC for its color, history, and variety.
Whenever I tell people where I live (57th Street & 11th Avenue) they always say the same thing: “Whoa.. What’s there to do out there?” Well, I figured I’d take a moment to tell you some things you may or may not know about that area if you’re maybe looking to live around there.
First, it’s quiet! Unlike some other areas of the city, development hasn’t “boomed” here, which is nice. When I’m coming home at night I’m not bothered with crowded sidewalks, honking cars, etc. It’s also a plus when you’re trying to sleep at night…as I do, like a baby.
I can probably list tons of stuff to do and places to go, but instead I’ll tell you about some of my favorites.
There are great places to enjoy an afternoon. Riverside Park is a beautiful area with great jogging and biking paths. It runs along the water so it’s also a peaceful location to sit and relax or take your dog on a run. There’s the Boat Basin in the 70’s, which is my favorite place to just park my bottom and read. 
Also, The Boat Basin Cafe is a good place to have lunch on the deck while enjoying the water views.
Jake’s Saloon, on 57th Street & 10th Avenue, is a perfect spot for grabbing a drink and some grub! For me, it’s the shepherd’s pie and a pint of Guinness. Also, since CBS is across the street you’ll see Katie Couric in there on many a night. (CBS also sponsors a free WiF izone in Manhattan from 42nd St up tp Central Park and from Sixth Ave to Eights Ave.)
Olympic Flame Diner on 58th Street & 9th Avenue is open 24 Hours and has great breakfast specials.
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart tapes on 52nd Street & 11th Avenue. I’ve been once and it was a great experience. Tickets are free, it’s just a matter of getting there super early to wait in line… totally worth it.
There’s a D’Agostino’s Supermarket on 54th Street & 10th Avenue too. I like to hit the Dunkin’ Donuts right next door when I go to get my groceries.
Happy Feet Pet Store on 52nd Street & 10th Avenue is where I buy all my catfood.. And I always make sure to get new toys for them when I’m there.
DeWitt Clinton Park is a cool spot to pick up on a softball game! I think my girlfriend likes it when we walk by and see the guys playing a game… so I try not to walk by there too often.
AND you’re a quick stroll away from Columbus Circle, Lincoln Center, all the fabulous restaurants in Hells Kitchen and lots of trains…can’t beat that!
I don’t want to spoil it for you. The great thing about this area is discovering new places for yourself! All I can tell you is that I’ve loved living in the area and am always stumbling upon new and exciting things to do.
