Manhattanville to Hamilton Heights: A Hidden Gem in New York City
By David Bibian, Lic. R. E. Salesperson in our Park Avenue office
Perhaps one of the most underrated neighborhoods of Manhattan is the part of West Harlem where Hamilton Heights and Manhattanville meet. As a former longtime resident of the area, I’ve experienced all the incredible things this neighborhood has to offer. From incredible eateries and cultural attractions to plenty of beautiful outdoor spaces and easy access to the riverbank, this area is a true hidden gem.
Given that this part of West Harlem is still somewhat under the radar, you can get plenty of value here compared to other neighborhoods. From housing to groceries, costs are relatively low. And with a train ride getting you to just about anywhere in the city, this area is an excellent place to consider if you’re in search of a new neighborhood to call home.
Here is just a snapshot of what the area of West Harlem between Hamilton Heights and Manhattanville offers:
You have access to some excellent restaurants and bars.
Found in scenic Riverside Park, Ellington in the Park offers an eclectic mix of Mediterranean fare, specialty cocktails, and live music. All of this is set in a vibrant part of Riverside Park, along a stunning panorama of the Hudson. Get there an hour before sunset to catch a view of the sun hitting the river.
For delicious, no-frills food in a lively setting, Harlem Public is a great option. Inventive burgers, signature sandwiches, and a healthy selection of beers, spirits, and cocktails make the bar/restaurant an excellent place to share a meal with friends. If this spot is packed, head next door to At the Wallace.
This German-style beer garden is another great spot to meet up with friends, over some pints and bratwurst. With both indoor and outdoor seating, you can enjoy the communal atmosphere with views of the iconic Riverside Drive Viaduct.
There are lots of cultural attractions in the area.
Hamilton Grange National Memorial
The Grange was Founding Father Alexander Hamilton’s final home, where he lived for two years prior to his death. There is plenty of history to explore here. You can take a self-guided or ranger-guided tour of the furnished rooms that Hamilton lived in and stroll around the grounds, imagining Harlem in the early 1800s, when it was a rural neighborhood.
Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling
A perfect destination for children and their families, the Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling offers cultural experiences for young people. Through workshops, art exposure, storytelling, and interactive experiences, the museum teaches children about the rich history of Sugar Hill as well as the world.
Found off of the West Harlem Piers, the USS Baylander is a former U.S. Navy freight and equipment lander that served in Vietnam. You can get a taste of military history as you go onboard and take a tour of the vessel.
If you want to be outdoors and spend time in nature, you have so many options.
With stunning water views and a peaceful atmosphere, the Hudson River Greenway is a beloved place for cyclists. You can ride along the water up to Washington Heights or all the way downtown, depending on your mood. Lining the perimeter of most of Manhattan, this path will take you all over the island.
You can enjoy the views of the Hudson here, as well as spend a day kayaking or canoeing. There are fishing sites, a boat dock, and several lawns and seating areas to lounge in. Plus, you can find (and join) dance fitness classes that take place here each week.
Formerly known as the Riverside Valley Community Garden, this garden was recently renamed in honor of Jenny Benitez, who has been looking after the space since the early 1980s. Back then, it was full of trash and abandoned cars. Today, because of Jenny’s decades of dedication and work, you can find vegetables and fruits planted by members of the community, greenhouses, and even a butterfly garden.
Named for the cherry blossoms that were donated and planted here by Japanese New Yorkers in 1912, Sakura Park offers a peaceful respite on the Upper West Side. It’s perfect for a springtime picnic or a scenic stroll.
This 28-acre landscaped park above the Hudson offers tons of recreational experiences. From a covered ice skating rink and an Olympic-sized pool to tennis courts, basketball courts, a fitness center, and more, there are plenty of facilities to take advantage of. Plus, you can enjoy a greenhouse, several picnic areas, and beautiful views of the Hudson River and the George Washington Bridge.
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