Morningside Heights

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Morningside Heights is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood located in the upper west side of Manhattan, New York City. Stretching from 110th Street to 125th Street, it is bordered by Morningside Park to the east and Riverside Park to the west. The neighborhood is primarily known for its prominent educational institutions, cultural landmarks, and lush green spaces, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors.

At the heart of Morningside Heights is Columbia University, an Ivy League institution renowned for its academic excellence. The university's sprawling campus, with its iconic Low Library and Butler Library, gives the area a distinct college-town atmosphere. Nearby, Barnard College, Manhattan School of Music, and Union Theological Seminary contribute to the neighborhood's academic buzz.

Cultural attractions are abundant in Morningside Heights. The Riverside Church, with its impressive Gothic architecture and strong social justice legacy, stands as a prominent landmark. The Cathedral of St. John the Divine, one of the largest cathedrals in the world, hosts various events, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year. The neighborhood also houses the acclaimed American Museum of Natural History, offering a captivating learning experience for all ages.

Morningside Heights boasts a diverse culinary scene, featuring restaurants, cafes, and eateries that cater to various tastes and budgets. From international cuisine to trendy brunch spots, residents can find an array of dining options to satisfy their palates.

Green spaces are abundant, providing a refreshing escape from the urban bustle. Morningside Park, with its picturesque landscapes and recreational facilities, offers a tranquil oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Riverside Park, along the Hudson River, provides a scenic waterfront pathway perfect for jogging, cycling, or leisurely strolls.

The neighborhood's transportation network is well-developed, offering convenient access to other parts of Manhattan and beyond. With a mix of historic charm, academic energy, and cultural richness, Morningside Heights remains an attractive destination for residents seeking a lively and intellectually stimulating community.


Image Credits InSapphoWeTrust from Los Angeles, California, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Neighborhood Snapshot


train

Transit Score:

100/100

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Walk Score:

96/100

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Bike Score:

56/100


Commute Times


to Penn Station

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16.5 min

local_taxi

22 min

to Grand Central Terminal

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21.6 min

local_taxi

20.7 min

to Columbus Cir

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12.1 min

local_taxi

11.2 min

to Financial District

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34.5 min

local_taxi

29.4 min

to Union Square

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25.1 min

local_taxi

28.1 min

to Downtown Brooklyn

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45.4 min

local_taxi

30.2 min

to Long Island City

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31.7 min

local_taxi

25.6 min


Buildings Fun Facts


Oldest Building in Morningside Heights

Built in 1890

4 WEST 109 STREET

Cheapest Building in Morningside Heights (sold, p/sqft)

$5

301 WEST 108 STREET

Most Expensive Building in Morningside Heights (sold, p/sqft)

$3,680

478 CENTRAL PARK WEST

Biggest Building in Morningside Heights (total FAR)

1,109,765 ft

80 LA SALLE STREET


Subway Lines

Map of the neighborhood location

New Developments

Photo for  55 TIEMANN PLACE  - 51 TIEMANN PLACE Cooperative in Morningside Heights, Manhattan
55 TIEMANN PLACE 51 Tiemann Place, New York, NY 10027 Cooperative in Morningside Heights
Photo for  The Paterno  - 440 RIVERSIDE DRIVE Cooperative in Morningside Heights, Manhattan
The Paterno 440 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10027 Cooperative in Morningside Heights
Photo for  370 RIVERSIDE DRIVE  - 370 RIVERSIDE DRIVE Cooperative in Morningside Heights, Manhattan
370 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10025 Cooperative in Morningside Heights
Photo for  Claremont Hall  - 100 Claremont Avenue Condominium in Morningside Heights, Manhattan
Claremont Hall 100 Claremont Avenue, New York, NY 10027 Condominium in Morningside Heights
Photo for  The Vandewater  - 543 WEST 122ND STREET Condominium in Morningside Heights, Manhattan
The Vandewater 543 West 122nd Street, New York, NY 10027 Condominium in Morningside Heights
Photo for  The Hendrik Hudson  - 380 RIVERSIDE DRIVE Cooperative in Morningside Heights, Manhattan
The Hendrik Hudson 380 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10025 Cooperative in Morningside Heights

Popular Buildings

History of Neighborhood

photo of Morningside Heights Morningside Heights' history is deeply intertwined with the growth and development of New York City. Originally inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans, the area remained rural until the late 19th century when urbanization began to encroach upon the region.

The neighborhood's transformation began in the late 1800s when the Croton Aqueduct was extended to the area, providing a crucial water supply and encouraging development. In 1887, Columbia College (now Columbia University) relocated from midtown Manhattan to Morningside Heights, kickstarting the neighborhood's reputation as an academic hub.

Over the next few decades, Morningside Heights experienced significant growth, attracting other educational institutions, including Barnard College and Teachers College. The construction of the iconic Cathedral of St. John the Divine began in 1892, further shaping the area's character.

During the early 20th century, Morningside Heights evolved into a thriving residential neighborhood. Beautiful brownstones and apartment buildings were constructed, and its population became more diverse, including an influx of Jewish, Irish, and Italian immigrants.

The neighborhood faced challenges in the mid-20th century, like many urban areas in the United States. However, it experienced a revitalization in the 1960s, thanks to community efforts to preserve its historic architecture and foster cultural institutions.

Today, Morningside Heights stands as a vibrant community blending educational institutions, cultural landmarks, and residential charm. Its rich history and continuing evolution make it a cherished part of Manhattan's tapestry, drawing residents and visitors alike to its dynamic and intellectually engaging atmosphere.

Architectural Style

Architectural style of Art Deco
Art Deco Art Deco architecture, prominent during the 1920s and 1930s, is known for its bold geometric shapes, vibrant colors, and lavish ornamentation. Characterized by sleek lines and the use of materials like chrome, glass, and terracotta, Art Deco buildings exude a sense of modern sophistication and glamour.
Architectural style of Beaux-Arts
Beaux-Arts Beaux-Arts architecture, rooted in the academic tradition of the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris, emphasizes grandeur, symmetry, and classical ornamentation. Buildings in this style often boast elaborate sculptures, decorative friezes, and monumental entrances, conveying a sense of opulence and sophistication.
Architectural style of Brownstone
Brownstone Brownstone architecture, prevalent in New York City, features elegant brown sandstone facades. Often seen in rowhouses, these structures exhibit a harmonious blend of ornate details and historic charm, showcasing intricate carvings and stylish entryways.
Architectural style of Modern & Contemporary
Modern & Contemporary Modern and Contemporary architecture focuses on simplicity, clean lines, and open spaces. Contemporary designs often incorporate cutting-edge materials and technologies, emphasizing functionality and environmental sustainability. These buildings represent the evolution of architectural styles, reflecting the spirit of the present era.
Architectural style of Post-modern
Post-modern Post-modern architecture represents a departure from strict design conventions, blending traditional elements with contemporary forms and materials. Architects play with diverse styles, creating eclectic buildings that challenge architectural norms. Post-modern structures celebrate creativity, allowing architects to experiment with innovative designs and artistic expression.
Architectural style of Renaissance Revival
Renaissance Revival Renaissance Revival architecture draws inspiration from the Renaissance period, featuring arched windows, pilasters, and decorative motifs reminiscent of Italian and French Renaissance designs. This style showcases a harmonious blend of classical elements, creating buildings that exude timeless elegance.
Architectural style of Romanesque Revival
Romanesque Revival Romanesque Revival architecture harks back to medieval Roman designs, emphasizing sturdy stone construction, round arches, and robust facades. This style often incorporates intricate carvings and detailing, showcasing a sense of architectural strength and endurance.
Architectural style of Tudor
Tudor Tudor architecture, popular in the early 20th century, features steeply pitched roofs, decorative half-timbering, and tall, narrow windows. Inspired by medieval English and Tudor designs, these buildings often exude a cozy, storybook charm, making them a distinctive presence in architectural history.

Landmarks and Cultural Institutions

photo of Columbia University
Columbia University
photo of Riverside Church
Riverside Church
photo of Cathedral of St. John the Divine
Cathedral of St. John the Divine
photo of American Museum of Natural History
American Museum of Natural History
photo of Barnard College
Barnard College
photo of Teachers College, Columbia University
Teachers College, Columbia University
photo of Manhattan School of Music
Manhattan School of Music
photo of Sakura Park
Sakura Park

Landmarks and Cultural Institutions Image Credits InSapphoWeTrust from Los Angeles, California, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Chris06, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , William Porto, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Ingfbruno, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , ajay_suresh, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , The original uploader was Cmatta at English Wikipedia., CC BY-SA 2.5 , via Wikimedia Commons , ajay_suresh, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Louis Waweru, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Entertainment

photo of Cultural Institutions
Cultural Institutions Morningside Heights is home to various cultural institutions, including museums, art galleries, and theaters. The American Museum of Natural History, with its fascinating exhibits on natural history and scientific discoveries, is a prominent attraction. Additionally, the neighborhood hosts art galleries and studios that showcase the work of local artists.
photo of Live Performances
Live Performances Residents and visitors can enjoy live performances at venues like Riverside Church, which hosts concerts and events featuring diverse music genres. The Manhattan School of Music also offers recitals, concerts, and performances by talented students and faculty.
photo of Academic Events
Academic Events Being a hub for prestigious educational institutions, Morningside Heights frequently hosts academic events, public lectures, and discussions on various topics. Columbia University often opens its doors to the public for engaging lectures and debates.

Entertainment Image Credits Gigi alt, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Senseplain, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , bryan..., CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Popular Restaurants

photo of Tom's Restaurant
Tom's Restaurant This iconic diner, featured in the TV show "Seinfeld," is a neighborhood favorite, serving classic American comfort food, including pancakes, burgers, and milkshakes.
photo of Pisticci
Pisticci An Italian restaurant with a warm and cozy ambiance, Pisticci offers a range of pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and Italian specialties.
photo of Dig Inn
Dig Inn A fast-casual restaurant that emphasizes healthy, farm-to-table meals, Dig Inn allows customers to customize their bowls with various protein and vegetable options.

Restaurants Image Credits Danny-w, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Bb337, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Jim.henderson, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Neon Tommy, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Famous people connected to Morningside Heights

photo of Barack Obama Barack Obama
photo of Franklin D. Roosevelt Franklin D. Roosevelt
photo of Thurgood Marshall Thurgood Marshall
photo of Eleanor Roosevelt Eleanor Roosevelt

People Image Credits Photograph: Leon PerskieScan: FDR Presidential Library & Museum, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons , Marion S. Trikosko, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , See page for author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Movies

photo of movie Spider-Man (2002)

Spider-Man (2002)

photo of movie Inside Llewyn Davis

Inside Llewyn Davis

photo of movie Orange Is the New Black

Orange Is the New Black


Movies Image Credits selbst vektorisiert, Vorlage: Filmplakat, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , Mike Zoss ProductionsScott Rudin ProductionsStudioCanalBLT Communications, LLC, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , Netflix company, Jenji Kohan (Producer), Jordan Jacobs (Art Director), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Statistics for Morningside Heights

Recent Sales Activity
Date Unit Action
11/15/2025 400 Riverside Drive K Listed for sale at $425,000
11/14/2025 656 West 125th Street ICONIC Listed for sale at $20,000,000
11/13/2025 375 Riverside Drive 13E Listed for sale at $1,450,000
11/12/2025 70 La Salle Street 20F Listed for sale at $939,000
11/05/2025 100 Claremont Avenue 29D Listed for sale at $1,340,000
11/03/2025 100 Claremont Avenue 19E Listed for sale at $1,865,000
10/30/2025 100 Claremont Avenue 18B Listed for sale at $2,370,000
10/30/2025 395 Riverside Drive 7C Listed for sale at $895,000
10/29/2025 609 West 114th Street 54 Listed for sale at $1,150,000
10/28/2025 100 Claremont Avenue 27D Listed for sale at $1,320,000