New York Upper West Side Architecture, Art and City Tour

Discover the Upper West Side: A Fusion of Architectural Brilliance and Cultural Heritage

Nestled between Central Park and the Hudson River, Manhattan’s Upper West Side is an architectural and cultural treasure trove. Renowned for its prestigious academic institutions, world-class cultural venues, and elegant residential areas, this neighborhood offers a unique glimpse into the heart of New York City’s urban and cultural evolution. On this expertly guided tour, explore iconic landmarks like the Hearst Tower by Foster + Partners, the VIA W57 by Bjarke Ingels Group, the transformative Lincoln Center for the Arts, and the architectural marvels of Columbia University. With its blend of historic and cutting-edge design, the Upper West Side is a must-see for architecture lovers, history enthusiasts, and art aficionados alike.

Tour Highlights: Must-See Architectural Gems

Time Warner Center – A modern icon at the southwest corner of Central Park by David Childs, SOM (2004).
LVMH Building – A striking example of contemporary luxury design by Christian de Portzamparc (1999).
Museum of Arts and Design – A showcase of creativity and innovation by Allied Works Architecture (2008).
Hearst Tower – NYC’s first LEED Gold-certified office building by Foster + Partners (2006).
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts – A cultural hub reimagined for the 21st century and redesigned by Diller Scofidio + Renfro (2011). Includes:
Vivian Beaumont Theater, Eero Saarinen, 1965.
Metropolitan Opera House, Wallace Harrison, 1966.
David Geffen (Avery Fisher) Hall, Max Abramovitz, 1962
New York City Ballet, Phillip Johnson, 1964
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, Gordon Bunshaft
Alice Tally Hall, Pietro Belluschi, Diler Scofidio+ Renfro, 2011
Fordham University School of Law – A sleek academic landmark by Pei Cobb Freed & Partners (2014).
VIA W57 – A revolutionary residential “courtscraper” by Bjarke Ingels Group, BIG (2016).

Your guide:
Dr. Ivan Shumkov is a New York based licensed architect, urban planner, entrepreneur, and professor with more than 20 years of experience across the private, public, and academic sectors. He is the founder of Build World and Build Academy, organizations dedicated to providing professional solutions and education for the built environment.

Ivan combines his experience of practicing and teaching architecture with his passion for discovering and sharing the history and secrets of New York. His tours provoke curiosity, show hidden urban gems, and give opportunities for experiencing and understanding art and architecture in a unique way. He helps his guests to see and connect the city through the eyes of an architect. They are activated and transformed by these immersive experiences and view the city in a new way.

Upper West Side NYC Architecture Tour