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Amster Yard: A Hidden Oasis in Midtown East

Discover Amster Yard, a hidden gem in Midtown Manhattan offering a tranquil escape with its lush greenery and historic charm.

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Tucked away in Midtown East, Amster Yard is a Landmark-designated courtyard offering a tranquil escape from the city's hustle. Originally redeveloped in the 1940s by interior designer James Amster, this charming enclave features a lush garden surrounded by historic brick buildings, providing a serene respite for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Amster Yard

  • 211 E 49th St, New York, Manhattan, New York, 10017, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and beautiful natural light for photography.
  • Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature; there are plenty of spots to sit and relax.
  • Look for the unique sculptures scattered throughout the park; they make for great conversation starters and photo opportunities.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Amster Yard is located at 211 E 49th St, between 2nd and 3rd Avenues. From Grand Central Terminal, walk east on 42nd Street towards 2nd Avenue. Turn left onto 2nd Avenue and walk north to 49th Street. Turn right onto 49th Street; Amster Yard will be on your left. The entrance is through an archway beneath one of the buildings facing the street.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest subway stations to Amster Yard are the 51st Street station ( served by the 6 train) and the Lexington Avenue/53rd Street station (served by the E and M trains). From Times Square, take the subway from 42 St-Bryant Park to Lexington Avenue/53rd Street. The cost for a single ride is $3. From either station, walk towards 49th Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues. Amster Yard is located at 211 E 49th St.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services offer a convenient way to reach Amster Yard. From Grand Central Terminal, a taxi ride to Amster Yard typically costs $10-$15 and takes approximately 15 minutes, depending on traffic. From Times Square, a taxi will cost $10 - $13. Be sure to provide the driver with the address: 211 E 49th St, New York, NY 10017.

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Discover more about Amster Yard

Amster Yard, nestled in the Turtle Bay neighborhood of Midtown East, Manhattan, is a captivating hidden courtyard that offers a serene escape from the city's frenetic pace. Located at 211 E 49th St, between Second and Third Avenues, this L-shaped courtyard is a designated New York City Landmark, celebrated for its picturesque charm and unique history. Originally, the site was the terminal stop for the 18th-century Boston stagecoach line. In the late 19th century, the area was developed with a carpenter's shop, boarding houses, and commercial spaces. By 1944, however, the area had become dilapidated. Interior designer James Amster purchased the cluster of buildings and transformed the dissonant structures into a harmonious array of one-to-four-story brick houses surrounding a lush courtyard garden. Amster adorned the renovated buildings with hanging lamps, iron grille work, climbing ivy, and black-painted window trim, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The courtyard became a popular meeting place, attracting notable figures like sculptor Isamu Noguchi and designer Billy Baldwin. In 1966, the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission designated Amster Yard as a landmark, recognizing its special character and historical significance. After Amster's death in 1986, the property was acquired by the Instituto Cervantes, a non-profit organization created by the Spanish government. While some of the original buildings were replaced with replicas in the early 2000s due to structural concerns, the essence of Amster's design has been preserved. Today, visitors can wander through the tranquil courtyard, admire the blend of nature and architecture, and experience a moment of peace in the heart of Manhattan.

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