If you’ve been searching for what lies west of the reservoir in Central Park, you’re not alone. Many visitors arrive in New York City and feel overwhelmed by the sheer size of the park. They’re not sure where to walk, what to see, or how to connect their Central Park visit to the vibrant neighborhood just beyond its western edge.
This guide is here to make that easy. Whether you’re planning to jog the Central Park Reservoir loop, explore the Upper West Side’s best restaurants and museums, or simply find the best photography spots near the water everything you need is right here. I’ve walked these paths myself, eaten at these places, and gathered everything into one practical guide.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear picture of the Reservoir area, the Upper West Side neighborhood, where to eat and sleep, and how to plan your days without wasting time. Let’s get into it.
Exploring the Central Park Reservoir Loop
What Is the Reservoir Loop?
The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir sits at the heart of upper Central Park, roughly between 85th and 96th Streets. It covers about 106 acres and holds over a billion gallons of water though it no longer serves as an active water supply, it remains one of the most beloved features of the park.
The running and walking path that circles the reservoir is known as the Reservoir Loop. It stretches approximately 1.58 miles (2.5 km) around the water’s edge. The surface is packed dirt and cinder, which is softer underfoot than pavement a welcome relief for joggers who use it daily.
The terrain is flat and easy, making it suitable for all fitness levels. When I first walked this loop, I was struck by how quickly the noise of the city fades. You hear birds. You hear your own footsteps. It feels far removed from Midtown Manhattan, even though you’re technically still in it.
Best time to visit:
- Early morning (6–9 AM): Peaceful, cooler air, soft light for photography
- Weekday afternoons: Less crowded than weekends
- Spring and fall: Most scenic, with blooming trees or turning leaves
- Avoid weekends between 10 AM and 2 PM if you prefer quieter walks
The loop is open year-round, from 6 AM to 1 AM. There is no admission charge.
Attractions & Highlights Along the Loop
One of the most underrated things about the Reservoir is the skyline view from its northern bank. Standing on the path and looking south, you get an unobstructed view of the Central Park West skyline a lineup of iconic pre-war apartment buildings and towers reflected in the water. My favorite photography spot is the eastern path around 90th Street just after sunrise. The light hits the water perfectly.
Wildlife and Seasonal Flowers
The Reservoir is a recognized birding hotspot. During spring and fall migration, you can spot warblers, herons, cormorants, and even the occasional osprey. Canada geese are present almost year-round. A small pair of binoculars makes a big difference.
Along the surrounding paths, cherry blossoms appear in April and tulips bloom in May. In autumn, the surrounding trees shift to red, orange, and gold. Each season completely transforms the feel of the loop.
Photo-Worthy Spots
- North bank path (looking south toward the skyline)
- Near the pump house on the east side, which dates to 1862
- Belvedere Castle, visible from the south end of the reservoir
- Any clear morning with still water the reflection shots are stunning
Access Points & Entrances
You can enter the Reservoir loop from several points on Central Park West:
- 85th Street & Central Park West — Most popular access point for the Reservoir
- 90th Street & Central Park West — Direct access to the west side of the loop
- 96th Street & Central Park West — Northern entrance, less crowded
From the east side, use the Fifth Avenue entrances at 85th, 90th, or 96th Street.
Parking: Street parking in this area is limited and heavily regulated. Garage parking is available along 86th Street between Amsterdam and Columbus Avenues, typically around $20–35 for a few hours. It’s genuinely easier to arrive by subway or bus.
Directions & Transportation
By Subway:
- B and C trains — Stop at 86th Street and 96th Street on the west side. These are the most convenient stops for the Reservoir.
- 4, 5, 6 trains — Stop at 86th Street on the east side (Lexington Avenue). A 10-minute walk through the park gets you to the Reservoir.
By Bus:
- M10 bus runs along Central Park West and stops near 86th and 96th Streets.
- M86 crosstown bus connects the east and west sides along 86th Street.
Accessibility: The park paths around the Reservoir are generally manageable but not paved, which can be challenging for wheelchair users. The surrounding Central Park paths (Great Lawn area) offer paved alternatives with views of the reservoir.
Upper West Side Neighborhood Overview
Where Is the Upper West Side?
The Upper West Side occupies the western portion of Manhattan, stretching roughly from 59th Street in the south to 110th Street in the north. Central Park forms its eastern border, while Riverside Park and the Hudson River mark its western edge.
This is one of New York City’s most livable and walkable neighborhoods. The streets feel wide and purposeful. The architecture is gorgeous rows of pre-war brownstones, grand limestone apartment buildings, and beautiful corner turrets that you don’t find anywhere else in the city. Broad avenues like Broadway, Amsterdam, and Columbus are lined with restaurants, bookstores, and local shops.
The vibe is intellectual, family-friendly, and unpretentious. You’ll see parents pushing strollers, professors from Columbia, dog walkers, and tourists all sharing the sidewalk. It feels like a real neighborhood, not a tourist zone.
Best Parks on the Upper West Side
Central Park (West Side — Reservoir Area)
The western side of Central Park is quieter than the Midtown stretches near 59th Street. The area around the Reservoir is ideal for walkers, joggers, and anyone who wants to sit by the water without crowds. Nearby lawn areas include the Great Lawn and the North Meadow, both excellent for picnics.
Riverside Park
Running parallel to the Hudson River from 72nd to 158th Street, Riverside Park is one of New York’s most underrated green spaces. Frederick Law Olmsted the same designer behind Central Park designed it in the 1870s. The park has shaded promenades, tennis courts, playgrounds, and stunning river views. On weekends, the 79th Street Boat Basin area buzzes with locals. Admission is free, and it’s open all day.
Theodore Roosevelt Park
This small park wraps around the American Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side. It serves more as a gateway to the museum than a destination itself, but it has pleasant benches and green space. A good spot to sit and rest between museum visits.
Museums & Cultural Spots
American Museum of Natural History
Located on Central Park West between 77th and 81st Streets, this is one of the largest natural history museums in the world. Plan at least 3–4 hours here, or a full day if you have children.
- Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry at 5 PM)
- Admission: Suggested donation — approximately $28 for adults, $16 for children (prices may vary)
- Don’t miss: The blue whale model in the Hall of Ocean Life, the dinosaur halls, and the Hayden Planetarium
We visited on a Tuesday morning and it was noticeably less crowded than weekends. That’s the best time if you want breathing room near the exhibits.
New York Historical Society
Located at 77th Street and Central Park West, this is New York’s oldest museum. It focuses on American history with strong collections on the Civil War era, New York City’s past, and rotating contemporary exhibitions.
- Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 11 AM – 5 PM
- Admission: Around $22 for adults
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
A short ride or walk down to 65th Street brings you to Lincoln Center the world’s leading performing arts complex. It’s home to the Metropolitan Opera, the New York Philharmonic, and the New York City Ballet, among others. The plaza is beautiful and free to walk through.
- Free outdoor events are offered during summer at the Lincoln Center Out of Doors festival.
- Guided tours are available for approximately $25 per person.
Columbia University
Located farther north at 116th Street and Broadway, Columbia’s campus is beautiful and open to the public. Walking through the main gates onto the main quad is genuinely impressive. The Low Library steps are iconic. No charge to walk through, though guided tours can be arranged.
Local Markets
Grand Bazaar Flea Market
Open every Sunday year-round at 100th Street and Columbus Avenue, the Grand Bazaar is one of the city’s best weekly markets. You’ll find vintage clothing, antiques, handmade goods, and local food vendors. Proceeds benefit local public schools.
- Hours: Sundays, 10 AM – 5:30 PM
- Admission: Free
79th Street Greenmarket
Every Sunday at the corner of 79th Street and Columbus Avenue, this farmers market brings fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan products from regional farms. It’s smaller than the famous Union Square Greenmarket, but the neighborhood feel makes it worth a stop.
- Hours: Sundays, 9 AM – 4 PM (seasonal)
Food & Drink on the Upper West Side
Best Bagels & Jewish Delis
Zabar’s
Zabar’s at 2245 Broadway is more than just a deli it’s a neighborhood institution that has been operating since 1934. The smoked fish counter is legendary. The cream cheese selection alone is worth a visit. Pick up a bagel with lox and eat it on a bench in Riverside Park. This is peak New York.
Zucker’s Bagels
With a location on 83rd Street near Broadway, Zucker’s is beloved for consistently excellent hand-rolled bagels. The everything bagel with scallion cream cheese is a must-order. Lines form on weekend mornings, but they move quickly.
Cafes & Bakeries
Levain Bakery
One of the most famous bakeries in New York City. The original location is at 167 West 74th Street. Their chocolate chip walnut cookie is absurdly good thick, warm, and almost cake-like. Expect a short line, but it moves fast. Go early on weekends.
Daily Provisions
Located at 375 Amsterdam Avenue, Daily Provisions offers excellent coffee and a focused menu of pastries and sandwiches. The crullers are exceptional. It’s a calmer alternative to the more tourist-heavy spots. A great breakfast stop before heading to the park.
Fast Casual & Street Food
Parm
A casual Italian-American spot at 235 Columbus Avenue. The chicken parm hero is what they’re known for, and it’s properly good. Prices are reasonable for the neighborhood, and service is quick. Good for a lunch break after the museum.
Shake Shack
The Columbus Circle location (near 59th Street and Central Park South) puts you right at the park entrance. Classic burgers, crinkle-cut fries, and their ShackBurger are reliable crowd-pleasers. Expect a queue during peak hours.
Gray’s Papaya
A true New York City icon at 2090 Broadway (72nd Street). Hot dogs served with papaya or other tropical drinks. Open 24 hours. Cheap, fast, and completely unapologetic. One of my favorite things to do in New York is grab a “Recession Special” (two hot dogs and a drink for a few dollars) after a long walk in Central Park.
Bars & Nightlife
Tiki Chick
Located at 517 Amsterdam Avenue, Tiki Chick is a neighborhood bar with a tiki-lounge theme, strong rum drinks, and a fun atmosphere without pretension. Great for a casual evening out.
Pocket Bar 57
A small cocktail bar with a focused drinks menu. It has an intimate feel that suits the Upper West Side’s character. Better for conversation than dancing which is exactly what the neighborhood calls for.
Accommodation in Manhattan
Hotels near Central Park West / Upper West Side
The Upper West Side is not the cheapest part of Manhattan for hotels, but it offers excellent access to the park, museums, and the subway. Here are your main options:
Luxury Options:
- Hotel Beacon — Located at 2130 Broadway (75th Street). Spacious rooms, kitchenettes, and excellent location. Around $250–$400 per night. This is a favorite among families because of the extra space.
- The Excelsior Hotel — On West 81st Street, steps from the Natural History Museum. Classic Upper West Side location. Around $200–$350 per night.
Mid-Range Options:
- Milburn Hotel — West 76th Street, between Broadway and Amsterdam. Comfortable suites with kitchenettes. Around $150–$250 per night. Good value for the location.
Budget Tips:
- Consider staying slightly south near Columbus Circle or Midtown West. Subway access makes the Reservoir and Upper West Side easily reachable in 10–15 minutes.
- Book at least 4–6 weeks in advance for weekends, especially in spring and fall.
- Check rates mid-week — Sunday through Thursday nights are often 20–30% cheaper.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Safety and Accessibility
Central Park is extremely safe during daylight hours. Stick to well-traveled paths after dark, as lighting varies throughout the park. The Reservoir path itself is best avoided late at night.
The Upper West Side is one of Manhattan’s safest neighborhoods. Standard city caution applies be aware of your surroundings, keep your phone in your pocket on crowded streets.
For visitors with mobility challenges, the paved paths around Central Park’s perimeter and through the Great Lawn are the most accessible options. The dirt Reservoir path can be uneven in places.
Best Times to Visit the Reservoir and Upper West Side
| Season | Reservoir | Upper West Side |
| Spring (Apr–May) | Cherry blossoms, best photography | Greenmarkets open, perfect walking weather |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Busy, hot, great for early mornings | Lincoln Center outdoor events, lively |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | Peak foliage, stunning colors | Farmers markets in full swing |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Quiet, crisp air, occasional ice | Museums uncrowded, great for indoor visits |
Suggested Walking Loop
This half-day itinerary combines the Reservoir with key Upper West Side stops:
- Start at 86th Street & Central Park West — Enter the park and walk north to the Reservoir
- Complete the Reservoir Loop — Allow 30–45 minutes at a comfortable pace
- Exit at 79th Street — Walk west toward Columbus Avenue
- Stop at the American Museum of Natural History — Spend 2–3 hours
- Lunch at Parm or Zabar’s on Broadway
- Walk south on Amsterdam Avenue — Browse the storefronts
- End at Lincoln Center (65th Street) for a coffee or evening performance
Printable Itinerary: 5-Day NYC Plan Including Reservoir Loop & Upper West Side
Day 1 — Arrival & Upper West Side Orientation
- Check into hotel near Central Park West
- Evening stroll along Riverside Park
- Dinner at Gray’s Papaya or a local Columbus Avenue bistro
Day 2 — Reservoir Loop & Museums
- Morning jog or walk on the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir loop
- American Museum of Natural History (10 AM – 2 PM)
- Afternoon: New York Historical Society
- Evening: Dinner at Zabar’s, drinks at Tiki Chick
Day 3 — Downtown & Central Park South
- Morning at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Fifth Avenue, 82nd Street)
- Walk through Central Park south from the Reservoir area
- Afternoon: Columbus Circle and Midtown
- Evening: Lincoln Center for a performance (book in advance)
Day 4 — Columbia University & Morningside Heights
- Morning coffee and bagels from Zucker’s
- Walk north to Columbia University campus
- Explore Morningside Park and Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine
- Afternoon: Return south, Grand Bazaar (if Sunday)
- Evening: Pocket Bar 57
Day 5 — Leisure Day & Departure Prep
- Final morning walk on the Reservoir loop
- Levain Bakery for breakfast pastries
- Pick up provisions from Zabar’s for the journey home
- Depart from nearby subway stations (B/C at 86th Street)
FAQs
No. Swimming is not permitted in the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. It is a decorative and ecological feature of the park, not a recreational swimming area.
The loop is approximately 1.58 miles. At a comfortable walking pace, it takes around 30 to 40 minutes. Joggers typically complete it in 12 to 20 minutes depending on pace.
Fishing is not permitted in the Reservoir itself. However, Central Park does have designated fishing spots at Harlem Meer (near 110th Street) and the Conservatory Water area.
Yes. Entry to Central Park and the Reservoir loop is completely free, year-round.
The B and C trains stop at 86th Street on Central Park West, which is the most convenient for the Reservoir.
Final Thoughts
The area west of the Central Park Reservoir is one of the most rewarding parts of New York City to explore. The Reservoir loop gives you nature, skyline views, and peaceful movement in the middle of one of the world’s busiest cities. And just beyond the park’s western edge, the Upper West Side delivers everything a traveler needs great food, world-class museums, beautiful streets, and a neighborhood that feels genuinely alive.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a full week, this part of Manhattan rewards slow exploration. Walk the loop in the morning. Linger over a bagel at Zabar’s. Spend an afternoon lost inside the Natural History Museum. It’s the kind of travel that stays with you.
Take your time. This neighborhood has plenty to give.