Your NYC Upper West Side Day | Fresh Fade, Food and Exploration

Perfect Upper West Side Day

The Upper West Side of NYC has a unique blend of classic New York culture and relaxed neighborhood charm. It’s in the sound of a jazz trio spilling out of a basement club, the smell of hot pretzels near Central Park, and the feel of a crisp, fresh haircut before a stroll down a tree-lined block.

For those in the know, a perfect UWS day doesn’t start with the crowds of Times Square. It starts in the chair at Topman Barbershop on 79th Street. It’s a neighborhood staple where the focus is on what matters: precision cuts, expert fades, and that unmistakable confidence that comes with looking your best.

Here’s your local’s guide to building the perfect Upper West Side day around a visit to Topman.

First, Get a Precision Cut at Topman Barbershop

Step into Topman and you’re in a classic New York barbershop. The buzz of clippers and the smell of aftershave mean business. The atmosphere is no-nonsense and professional, yet friendly and welcoming. It’s the kind of place where barbers know their craft and their regulars by name.

The barbers at Topman are specialists in modern and classic styles, executed with precision.

The Skin Fade: A seamless, expert blend that’s a true test of skill.
The Scissor Cut: For a textured, modern look that’s full of movement.
Beard Trim & Shape-Up: Keeping your facial hair sharp and defined.
The Hot Towel Shave: The ultimate luxury. A relaxing, traditional straight razor shave that leaves your skin smooth.

The Local Intel:

Appointments: They likely take walk-ins, but booking an appointment is recommended to guarantee your spot, especially on weekends. (Check their them out on our directory)
Grab a coffee from coffee master brewers available right across the street first and bring it in.
Mid-afternoon on a weekday is often the quietest time.

Getting There: Easily accessible. A short walk from the 79th St (1) subway station or the 81st St – Museum of Natural History (B, C) station.

The Perfect Upper West Side Itinerary: Culture, Park & Food

You’re looking sharp. Now, you’re in the heart of one of NYC’s most walkable and cultured neighborhoods. Here’s the ultimate local loop.

1. Fuel Up & Get Cultured (Steps Away)

For Coffee & A Bite: You are spoiled for options when it come to coffee houses experiment and see which one does it best.
For World-Class Culture: You are a 5-minute walk from the American Museum of Natural History (Central Park W & 79th St). Spend hours exploring the dinosaur fossils, the planetarium, and the iconic dioramas.

2. The Main Event: Central Park Exploration (5-Minute Walk)

Cross the street and you’re at the gateway to the park’s best features.

For a Stroll: Enter at Strawberry Fields, the peaceful memorial to John Lennon, located right across from the Dakota building where he lived.
For Activity: Rent a Citi Bike or simply wander the winding paths around the Lake, and rent a rowboat in the summer.
For Sightseeing: Visit the beautiful Bethesda Terrace and Fountain—a quintessential NYC filming location and a stunning piece of architecture.

3. Cap It Off: UWS Food & Jazz

For a Classic Dinner: Walk down to Jac’s on Broadway (204 W 72nd St) for elevated American comfort food in a warm, buzzing setting. It’s a neighborhood favorite.
For a Drink & Live Music: for a true UWS institution, catch a legendary jazz set at Smoke Jazz & Supper Club (2751 Broadway).

Why This is the Ultimate UWS Loop

The perfect Upper West Side day itinerary captures the true spirit of the Upper West Side: intellectual, cultured, and comfortably upscale without being pretentious. It efficiently connects world-famous landmarks with beloved local haunts, and Topman Barbershop is the perfect launchpad—ensuring you look the part for a day of classic NYC exploration.