A bucolic reserve nestled in Upper Manhattan, Hamilton Heights brings a historic charm to the busy city. The neighborhood gets its name from founding father Alexander Hamilton, who was a resident of the area in his later life.
Bordered from North to South with 155th street to 135th street, and East to West with Edgecombe Avenue to Riverside Drive, Hamilton Heights is a neighbor to Harlem’s St. Nicholas Park and the Hudson River.
Accessibility
Hamilton Heights lies between the neighborhoods of Manhattanville and Washington Heights and is easily accessible from both the North and South. The Seventh Avenue line stops at the 137th and 145th street stations (1) train, while the Eighth Avenue line provides service to 135th street (A, B & C) trains, 145th street (A, B, C & D) trains, and 155th street (A & C) trains.
For more local travel, the MTA’s M3, M4, M5, M10, M11, M100, and M101 buses serve all throughout the Hamilton Heights area.
Lifestyle
Though it’s come a long way from the farmland days of Alexander Hamilton, Hamilton Heights is still home to some of Manhattan’s most open spaces and hilly topography. Residents enjoy the intricate, historic 19th/20th-century architecture along Convent Avenue and St. Nicholas Avenue in the East, as well as the beautiful rowhouses lining Riverside Drive in the West. For a window into classic New York, explore the Hamilton Heights Historic District, where landmark buildings (including Alexander Hamilton’s former estate) are too plentiful to count.
Restaurants & Bars
The neighborhood history and tradition gets a breath of fresh air when it comes to food and drink. Favorites in Hamilton Heights include ROKC (Ramen, Oysters, Kitchen, and Cocktails), a destination for great ramen, fresh seafood, and inspired cocktails. There’s also Anchor Wine Bar, a great spot for an authentic Italian evening of pasta and wine, as well as the popular Harlem Public, serving up craft beers and some of the best pub food in the city.
Cost
While costs are rising in this increasingly desirable neighborhood, median rent in Hamilton Heights remains below the city average at $2,550. The median sales price is $599,000.
Final Verdict
Hamilton Heights boasts magnificent riverside views, a wealth of historic charm, and a healthy dose of hot spots for dining and drinking. It’s no secret why New Yorkers are increasingly seeking residency in this unique Harlem enclave. Come to Hamilton Heights singing Hamilton show tunes, and stay forever relishing in the neighborhood’s rich history.