Memorial Day Weekend: Sun, City & Celebration
Memorial Day 2025 is just around the corner, and New Yorkers are ready to celebrate the long weekend with sunshine, community, and culture. One of the best neighborhoods to do just that is the Upper West Side.
Known for its elegant brownstones, leafy, tree-lined streets, and cultural institutions, the Upper West Side is the perfect blend of tranquility and vibrancy — and an ideal place to spend Memorial Day weekend.
Start with a Scenic Stroll Along the Hudson
Kick off your Memorial Day 2025 with a peaceful yet invigorating stroll along the Hudson River Greenway, one of the city’s most scenic walking and biking paths, less than one-half mile from The Wallace Hotel. Stretching along the western edge of Manhattan, the Greenway offers uninterrupted views of the river and is especially lovely during late May when the trees are entirely in bloom and the breeze off the water is just right.
Unwind and Recharge in Riverside Park
Adjacent to the Greenway is Riverside Park, one of Manhattan’s most underrated gems and a perfect place to spend part of your Memorial Day in New York. On Memorial Day weekend, Riverside Park is a hub of activity and relaxation, and it’s about a 10-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel. Families spread picnic blankets across the lawns, friends gather for frisbee games or outdoor yoga, and street performers often pop up with music and dance. If you're traveling with kids, don’t miss the Hippo Playground at 91st Street.
Dine Al Fresco on Cozy Café Patios
One of the true joys of Memorial Day weekend is eating outside, and the Upper West Side does café patios right. Many restaurants along Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues have extended patios or sidewalk seating, and you’ll find everything from laid-back bagel shops to upscale eateries with curated wine lists.
From the rustic European charm of Cafe Luxembourg on West 70th Street to the farm-to-table favorites at Good Enough to Eat on Amsterdam Avenue, there’s no shortage of delicious brunches, coffee spots, and wine bars ready to welcome you, and most are only a few minutes away from The Wallace Hotel.
Catch Live Music and Soak Up the Culture
No Memorial Day in New York is complete without a little music. On the Upper West Side, that can mean everything from catching a classical performance at Lincoln Center to listening to jazz at a cozy local venue.
Lincoln Center often hosts Memorial Day weekend events, including outdoor performances and free concerts in Damrosch Park. Check the calendar for special programming—it’s a fantastic way to enjoy world-class music without the need for a ticket, and it’s only a 15-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel.
Smaller venues like Smoke Jazz & Supper Club offer intimate experiences with some of the city’s finest jazz talent. Sit back with a cocktail and let the music carry you into the evening—it’s a quintessential New York experience.
Explore Iconic Museums For A Dose Of Art and History
Rain or shine, the Upper West Side’s museums are worth a visit during Memorial Day weekend. The American Museum of Natural History, located right next to Central Park, a short 10-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel, is a fascinating destination for both kids and adults. Spend an afternoon exploring the famed dinosaur halls, marveling at the giant blue whale, or taking a trip to space in the Hayden Planetarium.
Just a few blocks south of the American Museum of Natural History, the New-York Historical Society provides a deeper look into the history of the city and the nation. Exhibits often focus on social justice, women’s rights, and the evolution of American identity. It’s especially meaningful over Memorial Day weekend, offering insight into the lives and sacrifices of those who shaped the country.
Toast to Summer with Rooftop Cocktails
As day turns to night, there’s no better way to celebrate the season’s arrival than with a cocktail in hand and a skyline view. Venture north for rooftop bars that offer a laid-back, local vibe that feels worlds away from downtown’s buzzy scene.
For a standout spot, head to Harlem’s The Heights Bar & Grill, a casual rooftop with sweeping city views, twinkling string lights, and a chill crowd of locals and Columbia students alike. It’s a short 12-minute ride share from The Wallace Hotel, so guests can easily enjoy the celebration.
Whether you’re sipping a chilled rosé, a classic mojito, or a zero-proof botanical spritzer, there’s something undeniably celebratory about raising a glass under the open sky with the hum of the city below.
Stay in Style at The Wallace Hotel
For those visiting or just looking for a luxurious home base over the weekend, consider booking a room at The Wallace Hotel. With modern, spacious rooms and a quiet elegance that reflects the neighborhood's charm, The Wallace offers both comfort and convenience, and it’s the perfect launchpad for Memorial Day 2025 in the heart of the Upper West Side.