When you’re ready to break out of the typical tourist spots, head to Hamilton Heights in NYC, an Upper Manhattan neighborhood packed with history, culture, and enticing places to eat and drink. This pocket of New York City has something for everyone.
At the center of the neighborhood’s historical allure is Hamilton Grange, the preserved home of Alexander Hamilton. Just a short walk away, the Hispanic Society Museum & Library invites visitors to explore their collection of art, artifacts, and literature celebrating Spanish-speaking cultures. And pubs, bars, and restaurants in Hamilton Heights are plentiful, whether you’re in the mood for a hot beverage, a carefully crafted cocktail, or a tasty take-out meal.
Ready to explore? Check out the map below and then read on for some unforgettable things to do in Hamilton Heights!
Where is Hamilton Heights in NYC?
Located within West Harlem, Hamilton Heights is roughly bound by Riverside Dr. and St. Nicholas Ave. from east to west and between 155th and 135th Streets from north to south. It is just below the neighborhood of Washington Heights. To get to Hamilton Heights by subway, take the 1 train to 137th Street-City College, 145th Street, or 157th Street.
1. Brush up on History at Hamilton Grange National Memorial
After fighting in the Revolutionary War, Alexander Hamilton became the first Secretary of the Treasury, established the new nation’s currency, and—just two years before dying in a deadly duel—settled into his country estate with his wife and children.
Hamilton Grange is open to the public. An informational exhibit on the first floor walks visitors through the timeline of Hamilton’s life. Upstairs are the historical living quarters, open to visitors on guided tours only. See where the family dined and entertained, and get a glimpse into the life of a founding father in a fledgling nation.
When the Federalist style home was completed in 1802, it was surrounded by orchards and grazing sheep. The New York City subway would not arrive for another century, so Hamilton commuted to his office in Lower Manhattan via horse and carriage. Eliza Schuyler Hamilton lived in the home for many years after the death of her husband.
In 2008, to save it from being torn down, the home in its entirety was picked up and moved from its original location to where it now sits in St. Nicholas Park.
The first floor Visitor Center does not require a guide; the historically furnished second-floor does. Tours last approximately 25 minutes. Entrance and tours are free.
Address: 414 W. 141st St., New York, NY
TIP: Pair a trip to Hamilton Grange with a visit to Morris-Jumel Mansion, just a 15-minute bus or subway ride (or 30-minute walk) to the north. Hamilton once dined here, along with George Washington and other Cabinet members of the newly established United States. Visiting both historical homes will show you why Hamilton Heights in NYC is such a unique destination.
2. Discover Masterpieces at the Hispanic Society Museum & Library
Journey through the rich history of Spanish-speaking cultures at this Upper Manhattan institution. The beautiful Hispanic Society Museum & Library showcases art and artifacts from Medieval Spain, Latin America, Portugal, and the Philippines.
The vast collection includes paintings, sculptures, textiles, and ceramics, featuring works by masters like Francisco de Goya and Diego Velázquez. Don’t miss the Sorolla Vision of Spain Gallery, whose walls are adorned with murals by Joaquín Sorolla that celebrate various Spanish traditions.
The museum also houses a remarkable library with rare manuscripts, documents, and books, such as a first edition of Don Quixote. Located in a stunning Beaux-Arts building, the Hispanic Museum and Library offers free tours every Friday and Saturday at 2 p.m. Reservations are required due to limited space. Address: 3741 Broadway, New York, NY
3. Pay Your Respects at Trinity Cemetery
While it may seem maudlin to visit as a tourist, local cemeteries are the final resting place for some of the most intriguing New Yorkers. Among those interred at Trinity Church Cemetery are Madame Eliza Jumel (1775-1865) of Morris-Jumel Mansion, and writer and former Harlem resident Ralph Ellison (1913-1994), best known for his 1952 novel Invisible Man.
Many Astor family members are also here, including John Jacob Astor (1763-1848), America’s richest citizen at his time of death, and John Jacob Astor IV (1864-1912), who perished on the Titanic.
The 23-acre burial ground overlooks the Hudson River. It is part of the Heritage Rose District, so rose varieties in bloom may be hundreds of years old. The Revolutionary War’s Battle of Fort Washington took place on these grounds. The cemetery has been active since 1843 and still inters people today.
NOTE: The place mentioned above is Trinity Cemetery Uptown, not to be confused with its sister property, Trinity Cemetery Wall Street in Lower Manhattan, where Alexander Hamilton and Eliza Hamilton are buried.
Address: 770 Riverside Dr., New York, NY
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4. Spend the Day at Riverbank State Park
A sunny day in Hamilton Heights NYC is perfect for a day in the park! Spanning 28 acres on the banks of the Hudson River, Riverbank State Park is a remarkable urban oasis built atop a functioning water treatment facility. By transforming an industrial site into a place of rest and recreation, this unique rooftop park has redefined public spaces. It is also one of only three state parks in New York City (along with Hudson River Park and Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park).
Here are four ways to take advantage of all the park has to offer:
Picnic with a View
With unparalleled views of the Hudson River, the Palisades, and the iconic George Washington Bridge, it’s a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors. Bring a picnic, grab your riverfront spot, and plan for a relaxing day of rest.
Get Fit
For sports and fitness enthusiasts, the park includes an impressive athletic complex. The facilities include an Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool, an indoor pool, a covered rink for roller and ice skating, tennis and basketball courts, baseball fields, and a running track.
Soak in Entertainment for All Ages
The Amphitheater at Riverbank State Park is a local cultural hotspot. Depending on the season, visitors will find a variety of social, educational, and artistic events, including film screenings, dance and music performances, art workshops, and lectures. Families will also enjoy the Totally Kid Carousel, a whimsical attraction perfect for little ones.
Discover the Flavors of Puerto Rican Cuisine
If you make it to Riverbank State Park, don’t leave without a visit to Sofrito, where you can fill up on mofongo (fried plantains mashed with garlic, butter, and pork skins), arroz con pollo (Spanish saffron rice and chicken), and ropa vieja (shredded hangar steak stew), all imbued with the deeply aromatic flavors of Puerto Rico.
The 150-seat restaurant offers culinary delights in a serene waterfront setting. Note that Sofrito has a suggested dress code (notably they ask for professional dress attire and no athletic wear).
Happy Hour specials (at the bar only) include discounted cocktails and appetizers, from Monday to Thursday, 5-7 p.m.
Address: 679 Riverside Dr., New York, NY
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5. Sip on a Frothy Cappuccino at The Chipped Cup
Drop into this fun, funky neighborhood coffee shop for a fabulous coffee or espresso drink. An eclectic mix of Victorian décor, exposed brick walls, and sparkly tea lights make for a cozy cup of Joe (or tea or hot chocolate). Outside, the garden envelops guests in lush greenery. If you’re craving a brunchy dish to accompany your coffee, not to worry. Comfort favorites like bagel & lox, peanut butter banana toast, and tuna salad toast are served until 2 p.m. daily.
Address: 3610 Broadway, New York, NY
6. Step Back in Time at The Honey Well
Duck into this basement bar for a taste of old New York. The décor evokes a 1970s aesthetic—back when parents kept a full stock of liquor and promptly poured martinis when the clock struck the cocktail hour of 5 p.m. Here at The Honey Well, bartenders mix up concoctions you want to order for the name alone. Try a Dave’s Lookin’ Ass, a Monk Fashioned, or a Disco Inferno. The delightful always-intriguing selection of glassware the drinks are poured into are fun to see, too. The Honey Well serves appetizers in the form of dips, skewers, sliders, and salads. A handful of desserts are also available.
Happy Hour is every day from 4-6 p.m. and offers $11 cocktails and a $2 discount on dips and skewers.
Address: 3604 Broadway, New York, NY
7. Unwind at Harlem Public
Pop in for a cold one and stay to soak in the local vibe. Harlem Public is the quintessential corner pub, where neighbors gather and there’s always conversation and laughter. The outdoor patio is popular in warmer weather. Indoors, things are always buzzing.
The cozy hustle and bustle is inviting, the beer and cocktails are plentiful and the dishes that comes out of the kitchen are not only Instagrammable—they’re damn tasty. For a near-religious experience, try the Peanut Butter burger. The kitchen is open until midnight. Brunch is served on weekends from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. A visit during Happy Hour—from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. every weekday—will score you $1 off draft beers and a $7 cocktail that changes daily.
Address: 3612 Broadway, New York, NY
7. Drink Cheap At the Wallace
When the popularity of Harlem Public became all too apparent, the owners opened a bar just next door. It’s cheap and low-key and they aim to keep it that way, as a kind of antithesis to their popular older sister pub. On the menu are classic comfort foods, from waffle fries and chicken nuggets to chicken wings, burgers and sandwiches. Drinks are cheap—and not just NYC-cheap: there’s a list of cocktails for $9 a pop, and a PBR draft can be had for an astoundingly cheap $4.
Address: 3612 Broadway, New York, NY
8. Dine In at Cozy Bo-No Trattoria
Go with a friend or lover, order an Arugula Salad to start (add grilled shrimp!) and then split a couple of homemade brick oven pizzas (I can’t resist the Francescana or the Calabrese; the Margherita is a tangy pleasure, too) for the absolutely perfect meal. Then, of course, you must return for a signature homemade pasta dish. For a plate of homemade linguini topped with shrimp, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, order the Strangozzi. Or the Gnocchi al Pesto, if you’re a fan of gnocchi and pesto, is never a bad option.
A selection of French and Italian wines are served by the glass or bottle. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Happy Hour is Monday to Thursday from 4-7 pm and offers discounted appetizers and drink specials that include $5 wine and $6 beers.
Address: 3658 Broadway, New York, NY
9. Order Irresistable Takeout from The Handpulled Noodle
Noodles are made on the premises and seasoned with succulent spices. Diners can tailor much of the menu to their liking: first select either pressed or pulled noodles, then specify shape and thickness (I go for handpulled rice noodles). Next choice to be made is preparation style. Whether you opt for traditional (my go-to) , scallion ginger, spicy cumin, or others, you can add (as an upsell) your choice of meat, seitan, or jackfruit.
The bao sliders make a nice sharing dish. The wontons—specifically the broth they are served in—are another not-to-be missed item on the menu. The Hamilton Heights location is mostly a take-out joint but there are a few stools for eat-in.
Address: 3600 Broadway, New York, NY
Final Thoughts on Visiting Hamilton Heights
New York City is filled with some of the most iconic sites in the world. It’s also home to interesting neighborhoods in every borough, each one different than the last. Hamilton Heights in NYC is easy to visit and worth the trip uptown, especially if you’re looking to get a little off the beaten path!
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