During the 1930’s a significant number of Jewish refugees escaping Europe moved to Manhattan’s Upper West Side to join an already diverse community. Bordered by Central Park on one side and Riverside Park on the other, this 2.5 square mile neighborhood is a 'powerhouse' of shuls, schools, and Jewish culture, and has some of the most outstanding 19th century row houses in New York City. It contains a wealth of history and architectural styles, exemplifying Beaux Arts, Art Noveau, and Art Deco.

Join our guide, Barry Judelman, as we explore the unique and vibrant testament to the range and diversity of religious, educational, and cultural community on the Jewish Upper West Side.

Learn about THE JEWISH CENTER, a neo-classical Modern Orthodox synagogue, built in 1918, that was among the first in the US to feature a pool and recreational space. Its founding Rabbi was the controversial Mordecai Kaplan.

Some of the many other sites we will stop at will be: Congregation Rodeph Sholom, The JCC of Manhattan, Congregation B'nai Jeshurun, and the Society for the Advancement of Judaism (Judaism that Stands for All.) Other world-renowned synagogues discussed include Ohab Zedek, Shaare Zedek and more.

We will discuss how this special community continues to shape the identity of American Jews to this day.

For an additional charge, this walking tour can include a guided viewing of the sanctuary at Congregation Shearith Israel (commonly known as The Spanish & Portuguese Synagogue) – the oldest congregation in North America, founded in 1654.  This magnificent palatial site features stained glass windows designed by the Louis Tiffany Studios. 

This tour lasts approximately 2 1/2 to 3 hours with significant walking.