Upper West Side and Black culture are not typically used in the same sentence. When I think of the Upper West Side, I picture brownstones, doormen, Central Park West, Columbus Circle, and people in suits. White people in suits. I do not think of a Black-owned Upper West Side. So it’s no wonder there have been more than one post on Reddit asking if there are any Black-owned businesses and where Black people hang out in the Upper West Side.
I’m here to say: Yes, there are Black-owned businesses in the Upper West Side. Not many, but they exist. Yes, Black people hang out here. No, you don’t have to go all the way up to Harlem or Manhattan Valley to find them. That is why I am creating this Upper West Side Black mini travel guide.
As a native New Yorker, I was pleasantly surprised to slowly uncover — an unveiling of sorts — that there is a Black history here, and that some Black-owned businesses exist and are thriving but hidden in plain view. As a Black travel enthusiast who loves to educate and curate, especially around U.S. travel, I’m always on the lookout for destinations where I can support Black-owned businesses, uncover rich Black history, and feel welcomed and seen.
If you’ve ever wondered:
Then this one-day teaser guide is for you! Craving more? My full 7-day itinerary of Manhattan (encompassing Harlem, the Upper West Side, the Upper East Side, Midtown, and Lower Manhattan with a bonus day trip to Governors Island) has you covered for an entire week packed with Black-owned spots, cultural gems, and hidden experiences in this borough of New York City. Be on the lookout – coming soon!
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Begin your morning with a leisurely stroll through Central Park, starting at West 85th Street and Central Park West, where the former site of Seneca Village once stood, the largest community of free Black property owners before the Civil War. I highly recommend taking an official tour through Central Park.
Address: Central Park West and West 85th Street
Then head down a few blocks to the New-York Historical Society, a space rich with exhibits on Black history in New York City. These collections highlight artifacts that capture the city’s evolving Black neighborhoods. Visiting the Historical Society not only grounds your day in context, but also allows you to see the continuity of Black excellence from the past to the present.
One of their permanent exhibits is “Our Composite Nation: Frederick Douglass’ America,” inspired by his powerful speech. Explore Douglass’ vision of freedom, citizenship, and equal rights, and experience his hopeful call for America to live up to the ideals it was founded on.
However, they also have some dope rotating temporary exhibits, such as the Gay Harlem Renaissance Exhibit. This exhibit celebrated Black queer artists, writers, and performers who shaped Harlem’s cultural explosion, often behind the scenes and unrecognized. Want to learn more about the hidden history of that time period? I’ve got you! Check out my 50 States of Untold Black History series.
There is a cafe (not Black-owned) in the shop, but it will help wake you up!
Address: 170 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024
After you’re immersed in history, please treat yourself at Charles Fried Chicken, just a short walk from the Historical Society. One of NYC’s Black-owned restaurants, this gem serves crispy fried chicken, creamy mac & cheese, and sides that taste like comfort on a plate. It is crispy and juicy, but be warned, it is pricey. It is worth having, though!
Address: 146 W 72nd St, New York, NY 10023
After lunch, explore Darryl’s Boutique, a small but mighty Black-owned shop on the Upper West Side. Founded in 1986 as a women’s clothing boutique, it was born out of a love for what is now often called styling — putting together head-to-toe looks that are chic, versatile, flattering, and affordable. Whether you’re browsing or making a purchase, spending time here isn’t just about shopping; it’s a chance to experience creativity, innovation, and a legacy thriving in unexpected corners of Manhattan.
For dinner, head to Tatiana by Kwame Onuachi, an innovative spot serving African and Caribbean-inspired cuisine. It’s the perfect pre-show meal before catching a performance at Lincoln Center. From flavorful dishes to a welcoming atmosphere, dining here supports Black entrepreneurship and adds depth to your Upper West Side experience.
Address: 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023
Before you see a show, take some time to take in this mural wall on the corner of West 64th Street and Broadway. You will find many words from Urban Renewal to San Juan Hill and Charleston. This reflects the Upper West Side’s layered and complex Black history.
Now, enjoy the culture through the performances! Lincoln Center does a great job in bringing programming featuring Black artists, musicians, poets, and performers, reflecting a vibrant cultural legacy. Even outside major events, smaller performances and community programs throughout the year continue to celebrate Black excellence and joy, making every visit feel meaningful and deeply connected to the city’s history. I’ve visited Lincoln Center countless times, often taking advantage of their “choose-what-you-pay” options, starting as low as $5.
If you want a late-night cap, check whether there are any Black-led performances happening at the David Rubenstein Atrium or Dizzy’s Club, both part of Lincoln Center.
Address: Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023
If you’re planning a long weekend or full week in New York City, check out my full Black-owned itinerary for Manhattan. This itinerary includes Black-owned Harlem (3 different sections), the Upper West Side, the Upper East Side, Midtown, and Lower Manhattan, with a bonus day trip to Governors Island.
From lodging and dining to cultural events and hidden gems, these guides are curated to ensure a meaningful and intentional experience. Each itinerary includes transportation tips, contacts for excursions and guides, must-see attractions, route planning, curated lists of Black-owned businesses, and a travel planner section for your own notes.
Whether you’re a conscious traveler, a supporter of Black businesses, or someone seeking a trip rooted in culture and history, this guide was made for you!
This post is part of my Journey to 50 States through my “USA Black Microcation” series, where I document my personal journey to all 50 states by creating Black-owned one-day guides and longer itineraries.
Because every destination is a Black destination.
Have you been to Upper West Side? What are you most excited to do during your visit?
Because sharing is caring and it costs nothing!
Welcome to the Franny the Traveler blog! I’m Dr. Franny, a national award-winning educator, entrepreneur, author, and Black travel enthusiast on a personal mission to make every destination a Black-owned destination. As I visit all 50 states and 50 countries by age 50, this Black travel blog is a growing collection of Black-owned city guides, itineraries, travel tips, and reflections on traveling while Black for the conscious traveler. I’m so happy you’re here!
