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Morningside Heights - Manhattan - NYC

Dominated by Columbia University, Morningside Heights rests between the Upper West Side and Harlem.

Morningside Heights VIDEO

The Neighborhood

Between West 110th Street and West 126th Street, from the Hudson River to Morningside Avenue is the neighborhood of Morningside Heights - almost synonymous with Columbia University. In fact, the university, its buildings, residences and its services comprise the vast majority of the area.

However, be on the lookout for Riverside Church - its towering spire rivals the architecture of Columbia University. And Riverside Park provides a welcome respite from the business of academia.

Morningside Heights, Manhattan is a captivating and culturally rich neighborhood located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Situated on a high bluff overlooking the Hudson River, this vibrant community is home to several prestigious institutions, most notably Columbia University. The neighborhood derives its name from Morningside Park, a scenic and expansive green space that serves as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. Morningside Heights is characterized by its beautiful architecture, with notable landmarks such as Riverside Church, a towering Gothic Revival church known for its stunning stained glass windows and its connection to social justice movements. The neighborhood also boasts an array of cultural institutions, including the renowned Cathedral of St. John the Divine, the largest Gothic cathedral in the United States. With its academic atmosphere, historic charm, and cultural treasures, Morningside Heights offers a unique and enriching experience that draws students, scholars, and residents seeking intellectual and artistic inspiration.

The neighborhood of Morningside Heights, Manhattan got its name from Morningside Park, a scenic park located within its borders. The term "Morningside" refers to the elevated location of the neighborhood, which sits on a high bluff overlooking the Hudson River. The area was originally known as Vandewater Heights, named after a prominent Dutch family, but the name gradually changed to Morningside Heights over time. The "Heights" in the name signifies the neighborhood's elevated position and the picturesque views it offers. Morningside Heights became more widely recognized when Columbia University relocated its campus to the neighborhood in the late 19th century, solidifying its identity as an academic and intellectual hub. Today, Morningside Heights retains its historic charm and continues to be a sought-after residential area with a vibrant mix of educational institutions, cultural landmarks, and a thriving community.

The history of Morningside Heights, Manhattan is deeply rooted in the growth and development of New York City. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the area witnessed the arrival of Dutch settlers in the 17th century. By the late 19th century, the neighborhood experienced a significant transformation with the establishment of educational institutions, most notably Columbia University, which relocated to Morningside Heights in 1897. The presence of the university played a pivotal role in shaping the character of the neighborhood, attracting students, scholars, and academics. In the early 20th century, Morningside Heights became a center for religious institutions, with the construction of prominent churches and synagogues such as Riverside Church and the Cathedral of St. John the Divine. The neighborhood also saw significant urban development, including the construction of the iconic apartment buildings along Riverside Drive. Morningside Heights played an important role in the Civil Rights Movement, with protests and activism centered around the university campus. Today, the neighborhood continues to thrive as a cultural and intellectual hub, with its historic architecture, academic institutions, and vibrant community contributing to its unique identity within Manhattan.

Morningside Heights, Manhattan is home to several major landmarks and attractions that add to its cultural and architectural significance. One of the most prominent landmarks is Columbia University, an Ivy League institution renowned for its academic excellence and historic campus. The magnificent Cathedral of St. John the Divine, the largest Gothic cathedral in the United States, is a breathtaking sight that attracts visitors from near and far. Riverside Church, with its stunning neo-Gothic architecture, stands as an important spiritual and cultural center in the neighborhood. Morningside Park, with its picturesque landscapes and walking paths, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets. The General Grant National Memorial, also known as Grant's Tomb, is the final resting place of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States, and is a notable historical site. With its combination of educational institutions, religious landmarks, and natural beauty, Morningside Heights offers a diverse array of attractions that enrich the cultural fabric of Manhattan.

Morningside Heights, Manhattan has been a residence or workplace for numerous famous individuals who have left an indelible mark in their respective fields. One notable figure is former U.S. President Barack Obama, who lived in the neighborhood while attending Columbia University. Renowned poet and civil rights activist Langston Hughes also called Morningside Heights home, where he wrote influential works that celebrated the African American experience. Acclaimed filmmaker and screenwriter Joel Coen, known for his work on films like Fargo and No Country for Old Men, grew up in Morningside Heights. Jazz legend Duke Ellington, whose innovative music revolutionized the genre, spent his formative years in the neighborhood and later attended Columbia University. These individuals, among many others, have added to the cultural legacy of Morningside Heights, reflecting the neighborhood's rich history as a breeding ground for creativity, intellect, and artistic expression.

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All photography provided by Samuel Walters