The northern border of Central Park (near the North Woods) is W. 110th Street. A few blocks northwest of that visitors will find Columbia University and the Cathedral of St. John the Divine. How on earth had I missed these places on previous visits? Just above Central Park is a world that tourists often miss when they visit NYC. Here’s my advice. Add two-three hours onto your itinerary so you have time to see these two gems. . . and take your camera.
Just Above Central Park: Columbia University
While at first it seems like Columbia University is a typical urban campus with buildings that blend into the sidewalks, and the bustle and traffic of New York, it hides a surprise on Amsterdam Avenue. Here, you’ll find an arched gate. Inside that gate is another world.
The central hub of campus is the expansive south lawn. At one end is the Butler Library and at the other is the Low Memorial Library. This place is nothing short of stunning. I could easily see why the students did more than hustle from class to class, but rather, stretched out on benches and plots of grass. Perhaps the grandeur of these buildings, the sheer scale of this courtyard, and the undeniable beauty of this campus is well-known to everyone else. It was a darn pleasant surprise for this visitor.
Just Above Central Park: St. John the Divine
The Cathedral of St. John the Divine is world-famous. Its beauty was not as unexpected to me as that of Columbia’s campus. However, I had to force myself to put my camera away and be present in the moment. It was that impactful. In addition to the main sanctuary, it is studded with smaller chapels all dedicated to a myriad of special purposes. There are art displays, history displays and more. Included in the experience are September 11th memorial art and The Poet’s Corner, which is a tribute to American Literature. I get weepy just thinking of how beautiful an idea that is. A $10 donation is necessary to enter and stroll around on your own. It is worth every penny. In the side yard, the peace fountain is worthy of a roll of film all by itself. Below is a sample of the treasures I found.
When people say that there is too much to see/do in New York City on one visit, they aren’t kidding. I’ve been half a dozen times and continue to be introduced to gems that I never expected and never regret.
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