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New York City, New York / History

Riverside-West End Historic District

A prestigious Manhattan enclave featuring a dense collection of historic row houses and elegant apartment buildings, reflecting the Upper West Side's transition from rural edges to urban grandeur.

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Riverside-West End Historic District
westendpreservation.org, website_hero_img_westendpreservation.org

Where is the Riverside-West End Historic District located?

It is located in Manhattan, New York City, and is roughly bounded by West End Avenue, Riverside Drive, West 105th Street, and West 106th Street.

What is the Riverside-West End Historic District known for?

The district is known for its residential architecture, including architecturally significant row houses, mansions, and apartment buildings. These include revival-style rowhouses and classically ornamented high-rises designed by architects such as Rosario Candela, C.P.H. Gilbert, and Clarence True.

Is it a officially recognized historic site?

Yes, the district is designated by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

When were the buildings in this area constructed?

Buildings in the district were primarily developed between the mid-1880s and the late 1930s, reflecting the area's transition from a rural edge into a dense urban neighborhood.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Riverside-West End Historic District is a distinguished residential area in Manhattan, New York City. The district is roughly bounded by West End Avenue, Riverside Drive, West 105th Street, and West 106th Street. It holds significant prestige as it is both listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission, with the LPC designation occurring on April 16, 1973. The neighborhood's architectural fabric reveals a transformation from a rural edge into a dense urban center. Buildings in the Extension I area were primarily constructed between the mid-1880s and the late 1930s, comprising approximately 194 residential, institutional, and commercial structures. This evolution is mirrored in the Extension II area, which is characterized by residential architecture developed from the 1880s through the 1920s. Visitors will find a rich array of styles, from revival-style rowhouses to classically ornamented high-rises. The district features works by major architects such as Rosario Candela, C.P.H. Gilbert, and Clarence True. Notable contributing buildings include 315 Riverside Drive and 780 West End Avenue, while the side streets are lined with architecturally significant mansions and row houses that knit the two great avenues together. Preservation efforts have continued into the 21st century through community advocacy and official extensions. A 344-property extension was designated to further protect the area's character. The Landmarks Preservation Commission held public hearings for these expansions on March 22, 2011, for Extension I and October 25, 2011, for Extension II, ensuring the continued protection of this Upper West Side landmark.

Visitor tips

  • Walk the side streets between Riverside Drive and West End Avenue to see the historic mansions.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the district covers a wide area of residential blocks.
  • Start your walk at Riverside Drive to enjoy the scenic views before heading inland to the row houses.

Nearby context

Located in the heart of Manhattan's Upper West Side, this district bridges the gap between the scenic Riverside Drive and the stately West End Avenue, creating a cohesive corridor of historic residential luxury.

Sources

Evidence and links