Explore the Upper East Side

Fall on the Upper East Side feels truly cinematic between Gossip Girl nostalgia, reddened leaves at golden hour in Central Park, marathon spectators spilling into First Avenue and, as of late, the hum of new restaurant openings. The Wall Street Journal may have declared the neighborhood the “new West Village,” but those of us who know, know: the Upper East Side has always been timeless and will never be the new anything.

Here’s our itinerary for a stunning fall day uptown. Good things come to those who dare to go above 14th Street.

Where to Stay

For classic uptown glamour, check into The Mark or The Carlyle (martinis at Bemelmans Bar are a must). For a new take on old-school luxury, stay at The Surrey, which reopened last year to much anticipation.
If proximity to the park is your priority, 1 Hotel Central Park and Baccarat Hotel both offer easy access and views worth waking up early for.

Start with a Sweat

Start your morning with a run through Central Park. The full loop is just over six miles and the best way to see the foliage in all its glory. For a shorter route, run or walk the Reservoir loop (~1.5 mi). Be sure to end at Bethesda Fountain or the Boathouse for the best view of the rowboats on the lake.

Prefer to skip the run? Channel your inner Upper East Side mom with pilates class at Reforming Pilates, a newly opened neighborhood favorite for a sculpt workout.

Lose yourself in the Central Park loop or try Reforming Pilates, the hottest new studio uptown by way of Miami.

Coffee Break

After your morning workout, it’s time for coffee. If you’ve just come from the park, Ralph’s Coffee on Madison is a must and very Blair Waldorf coded. For something more European, La Bomboniera, Sant Ambroeus, or Café Sabarsky (inside the Neue Galerie) all serve espresso with a side of old-world charm.

If you want grab and go, pick up a latte from Padoca Bakery or Eat Pretty and wander the neighborhood while admiring the seasonal stoop decor.

Time for Some Culture

A proper Upper East Side itinerary always includes a stop along Museum Mile. You can’t go wrong with The Met, but if you’ve already been, head to The Frick Collection, recently reopened and a must for anyone who loves The Gilded Age. If timing allows, check the calendar at 92NY– their talks and panels are a community staple.

Dinner Plans

For timeless uptown institutions, JG Melon, Elio’s and The Polo Bar remain neighborhood cornerstones (if you can snag a reservation).

Go to JG Melon and The Polo Bar for some of the best burgers and equally satisfying old-school aesthetics.

If you’re in the mood for something new, Chez Fifi and Café Commerce are the buzziest uptown additions. Or opt for Hoexter’s, Amarena, or Café Maud for a more laid-back, local feel. End the night at Dorrian’s, a proper UES nightcap spot where time stands still.

If you don’t have a res, you can grab a bite at the bar at Amarena or Hoexter’s (found on the same block).

Sweet Treat

A final, non-negotiable stop when immersing yourself in Upper East Side culture: frozen yogurt. Choose between Butterfield Market, Madison Fare or Glace: all local favorites for a sweet finish to your day uptown.