Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Shoppers on the Upper West Side
Top Things to Do in New York City for Shoppers on the Upper West Side
1. Zabar's
An Old World food emporium where locals stock up on smoked fish, coffee, cheeses, and kitchenware. The narrow aisles, bustling counters, and mouthwatering aromas make it a quintessential Upper West Side shopping experience.
✓ Why Go:
For gourmet gifts and edible souvenirs that feel unmistakably New York—bagels and nova, babka, and Zabar’s-branded staples—plus a housewares annex for cookware and gadgets.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings from 9–11am for shorter deli-counter waits; avoid Saturday midday rushes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab a number at the smoked fish counter first, then browse coffee and cheeses while you wait. Don’t miss the housewares annex next door for quality knives and espresso gear.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Loyal regulars and first-timers alike rave about the classic NYC vibe, expert counter staff, and delicious take-home treats.
2. Fairway Market
This multi-level grocery institution packs in produce, specialty imports, fresh breads, and a lively prepared-foods section—perfect for provisioning a picnic or an Airbnb kitchen.
✓ Why Go:
A deep selection of New York favorites under one roof with fair prices, making it easy to assemble picnic spreads for nearby Central Park or stock up on local pantry items.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early mornings on weekdays or after 8pm to dodge peak crowds; Sundays are busiest.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the coffee roastery aromas and the olive bar; grab hot foods and head two blocks east to Central Park for an impromptu feast.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers praise the variety and value, noting that it’s crowded but worth it for the selection and neighborhood energy.
3. Grand Bazaar NYC
A year-round Sunday market featuring rotating vendors of vintage finds, handmade jewelry, artisan foods, and unique home goods—part community gathering, part treasure hunt.
✓ Why Go:
To discover one-of-a-kind pieces from local makers and vintage dealers while supporting public schools through the market’s charitable mission.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sundays at opening (10am) for first pick; spring and fall bring especially strong vendor lineups.
✓ Insider Tip:
Arrive with small bills and a tote; many sellers offer bundle discounts if you ask politely.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the eclectic mix, friendly vendors, and neighborhood feel—ideal for unique souvenirs.
4. Apple Upper West Side
A sleek neighborhood hub for tech upgrades, accessories, and swift repairs, steps from Lincoln Center and Central Park.
✓ Why Go:
To pick up travel-ready gear—chargers, adapters, headphones—or handle quick fixes with expert support while exploring the neighborhood.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings for the fastest service and easiest browsing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Book a Genius Bar slot in advance and use express pickup for online orders to minimize time in line.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers cite efficient staff, smooth service, and a reliably calm store experience by city standards.
5. Barnes & Noble Upper West Side
A spacious neighborhood bookstore with deep selections in fiction, kids’ lit, travel, and gifts—an inviting pause between food stops and museum visits.
✓ Why Go:
For signed editions, NYC-themed titles, journals, and puzzles—great gifts to tuck into your carry-on.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late weekday afternoons for a relaxed browse; weekends bring families and event crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head straight to the signed editions table and seasonal gift picks; staff can locate hard-to-find UWS authors quickly.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Customers appreciate the calm atmosphere, thoughtful displays, and helpful recommendations.
6. Westsider Records
A beloved, tightly packed vinyl shop where crate-diggers find jazz, classical, rock, and rare pressings amid hand-written notes and staff picks.
✓ Why Go:
To score distinctive, easy-to-pack souvenirs with a soundtrack of NYC history—perfect for music lovers.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons for elbow room at the listening stations and bins.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask staff for local jazz recommendations and check new arrivals behind the counter; the dollar bins hide unexpected gems.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans rave about the knowledgeable staff and distinctive selection that rewards slow browsing.
7. Housing Works Thrift Shop
A polished thrift boutique offering secondhand designer clothing, furniture, art, and books—proceeds support critical health and housing services.
✓ Why Go:
Sustainable shopping with style: discover statement pieces and home accents with a New York story.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings after restocks; arrive early on weekends for the best furniture picks.
✓ Insider Tip:
Follow the shop’s social channels for drop alerts and ask about upcoming sales or markdown color tags.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers praise the quality curation, fair prices, and feel-good mission.
8. PlantShed
A family-run florist and plant shop with a cozy cafe, offering bouquets, houseplants, and travel-friendly terrariums.
✓ Why Go:
To bring home a living reminder of your trip or gift a bouquet to a local host—plus caffeine for your shopping loop.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings are calmest; spring for blooms and winter for wreaths and evergreens.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask staff to pack plants for travel and consider compact succulents or dried bouquets for easy carry-on.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the serene vibe, helpful advice, and beautifully kept plants.
9. Levain Bakery
Home of the famously gooey cookies, plus pastries and gift tins—ideal edible souvenirs from a classic UWS storefront.
✓ Why Go:
To taste and take home one of NYC’s most talked-about treats; tins and boxes travel well.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning or late evening for the shortest lines; midday often queues out the door.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pick up cookie tins to keep them intact; if you’re snacking nearby, the benches on West 74th Street make a sweet pit stop.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Most say it’s worth the hype and lines move quickly; warm cookies win hearts.
10. New-York Historical Society Museum Store
A discerning shop featuring New York–centric books, prints, toys, and design objects that channel the city’s history and wit.
✓ Why Go:
For smart, giftable items you won’t find elsewhere—NYC map prints, history titles, and playful educational gifts.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays are quiet; pair with a museum visit or pop in solely for the shop.
✓ Insider Tip:
You can enter the store without museum admission; check the sale shelves for discounted exhibition merchandise.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers appreciate the thoughtful curation and high-quality, uniquely New York gifts.
