When people think of the Upper East Side (UES), most New Yorkers included, they think of “The Nanny Diaries” or of it being the Socialites’ haven. This is, in part, some of what one can find but that has changed a lot, with young families moving in and bringing a more down-to Earth-ness to the area.

The UES has an incredible selection of bars and restaurants, both for entertaining out of town guests and for a night out with or without the family.  The shopping is fun, with a wonderful array of high end boutiques along Madison and 5th Avenues, and less expensive, but still fashionable ad trendy shops found along the Avenues further East.

Walk along 82nd and you will find yourself at the steps of the beautiful Metropolitan Museum and Central Park, walk a few blocks East and you will find yourself at one of the entrances of the East River Promenade.

View of the East River

Enter the Promenade and take the family (and doggie) into Carl Schurz Park.  The promenade extents from a long way up the East River and is a wonderful place for walks or even runs or bike rides. Younger kids will enjoy spending time playing at Catbird Playground .

East River Promenade

Carl Schurz Park

If hungry, just walk West, towards 1st and 2nd Aves for a huge selection of restaurants, ice cream shops, bakeries, cafes, and bars.  And unlike most other “touristy” spots in New York City, the food is often at a very reasonable price and very good.

So next time you find yourself in the city, remember to venture further into the UES neighborhood, hang with the locals, and enjoy a calm stroll along another part of town.  You won’t be disappointed.