The Upper East Side is known for being one of the richest neighborhoods in New York City and it could be kind of basic to go and visit, but… I am a basic bitch and I’m proud! I don’t know why “basic” is an insult when mastering the basics is so important to anything you do.

Anyway, I’ve never been to New York City, one of the most famous cities in the world, but that changed on September 5, 2023.

If you know me or spent some time reading my blog posts, then you’ll know that I’m really into astrology. New York City is very close to my Jupiter line, meaning there was a lot of luck and growth in store for me in the Big Apple, so I was very excited about my trip! I was there for 4 days, so I split each “section” of New York.

Today, we’re exploring the Upper East Side of Manhattan.

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Exploring Central Park of the Upper East Side

My first very first stop! Obviously one of the most iconic landmarks in New York City, Central Park is situated in one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Manhattan.

This historic park was created to provide an escape to residents and visitors from the hustle and bustle of the City because there’s something so soothing about the blending of industry with the natural world!

There’s really not much to else to do (or recommend) besides just walk — you’ll find something interesting lol. I found The Lake, which is seriously what it’s called; “THE” Lake, not “a” lake. I saw people boating amongst the ducks and turtles swimming, as they do.

I eventually found my way toward Bow Bridge. Known for its ovals running along the railing, Bow Bridge offers an amazing view of The Lake that people line up to take pictures of.

Once you cross that bridge, you’ll find yourself on the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain. Also known as the Bethesda Fountain, it is one of the most famous features of Central Park.

The giant statue is of an angel called the Angel of Waters, which symbolizes, peace, purity, and healing.

I then made my way up down a dark stairway hallway of sorts, known as the Bethesda Arcade, where someone was playing the Chinese cello! The Arcade is known for its tile ceiling and has amazing acoustics, haha.

The stairs lead up to The Mall or Literary Walk where you’ll find yourself in the wide, straight promenade lined with trees and benches on the side. I know you’ve seen those pictures!

Funny enough, I didn’t take any. I took this time to have nice conversation with my cousin before taking a stroll to look at the vendors and random statues lol.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art AKA The Met

Afterward, I naturally made my way to the (in)famous Metropolitan Museum because it’s literally right next to Central Park.

The Met is one of the most famous art museums in the world. These days it’s most famous for hosting the Met Gala, a celebrity-studded fashion event for charity (I feel like a lot of people forget that part). The goal of the Met was to educate the public on art across 5,000 years of history from all cultures and civilizations.

In front of the entrance, there are food trucks all along the sidewalk, but you may also find a black guy playing the saxophone.

My cousin told me that he is very beloved amongst Koreans who visit and come across him because he plays old Korean songs. And I’m not talking k-pop from the 90s. He plays old, folky music like Arirang and the national anthem of the Republic of Korea LOL

One time my cousin went to the Met with her mom and they were very sad because he wasn’t there. But, I was lucky 🥰

We assume he studied there or dated someone who is Korean 🤷🏻‍♀️

Anyway, here I am on the famous Gossip Girl steps.

When I visited, admission was $30 something per person but was free for those visiting with a New York resident. The teller does ask if you’d like to donate and my cousin always gives at least a dollar because she feels socially awkward just being like “nah” lol.

Pro Tip: Wear your backpack in front of your body so you don’t bump into anything accidentally because some items are just out there ready to be bumped into.

But, yeah like every other museum, you walk around, take pictures, and look at shit. I’m the quick observer type so I speed-ran everything.

What I Ate in the Upper East Side

Of course, no one travels without thinking about the amazing food they’ll eat.

I did eat breakfast in Midtown at Hole in the Wall and dinner in Soho at Fish Cheeks (Soho), which I will detail in blog posts dedicated to exploring Midtown and Soho for the first time.

The restaurant I went to that is in the Upper East Side is Serendipity 3, or just Serendipity.

Of course I got their most famous dessert item: the Frrrozen Hot Chocolate. You know how packaged hot cocoa has that hot cocoa taste that melted chocolate just doesn’t have (because it lacks milk powder), The Frrrozen Hot Chocolate has that nostalgic hot cocoa taste! It’s addictive.

I also got the Chocolate Blackout Cake and if you love decadent chocolate desserts that aren’t too sweet, this. is. it. Very rich and indulgent!

Concluding thoughts on what to do in the Upper East Side of New York City

The Upper East Side is one of the most classically beautiful parts of New York in that you feel like you’re in New York City — you made it! Haha. I constantly thought of Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s when I looked up at the skyline to see the architecture.

There’s always going to be more to do but I think Central Park and the Met are the perfect first of many stops you’ll do 🙂

Next, I will be sharing what I did in Midtown! I’m really bad about updating all the places to find me, but rest assured that I’ll always keep my Beacons page up, so please sign up for the newsletter or follow me on Instagram and TikTok.