The Dakota Apartments

The Basics

Designed by architect Henry J. Hardenbergh (who also created the Plaza Hotel and the Waldorf Astoria) and built in 1884, the Dakota has been listed as a National Historic Monument since 1976. Roberta Flack, Judy Garland, Lauren Bacall, and Leonard Bernstein are some of the celebrities who have called the Dakota home over the years—and musician Yoko Ono is still a resident today. Recognizable for its soaring gables and ornamented exterior, the Dakota remains one of the most desirable luxury apartment buildings in the city, despite—or perhaps because of—its spooky lore.

Numerous Upper West Side tours feature the Dakota Apartments, including neighborhood walking jaunts, architecture-themed excursions, and filming location itineraries.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Dakota is a popular stop for pop culture junkies and architecture enthusiasts.

• According to several accounts, the Dakota is supposedly haunted, and ghost sightings have been reported.

How to Get There

Located at 72nd Street and Central Park West, the Dakota is easy to get to by subway. Take the B or C train to 72nd Street station, or the 1, 2, or 3 train to 72nd and Broadway. Several bus lines also serve the landmark.

When to Get There

The Dakota isn’t generally open to the public, but its imposing facade is impressive from every angle. Stop by at twilight to capture photos as the sun goes down.

Nearby Attractions

The Dakota is located just steps from Central Park and the Strawberry Fields memorial, dedicated to John Lennon. Other nearby cultural attractions include the New-York Historical Society, the American Museum of Natural History, and Lincoln Center.

Ways to explore

The Dakota is a private residence and not open to the public, but travelers can admire its striking architecture from the sidewalk. It’s also featured on broader walking tours of the Upper West Side and Central Park, and guides typically include context about the building’s design, its role in New York’s cultural history, and famous former residents such as John Lennon, Judy Garland, and Rosemary Clooney. These tours also offer insight into the surrounding neighborhood’s historic buildings, notable figures, and architectural evolution.

Accessibility

The sidewalks around the Dakota are wheelchair accessible. However, as a private residence, there is no public access to the building’s interior.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water bottle, sunscreen

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing

Not allowed

Entering the building without permission, loitering at the entrance, disturbing residents

Amenities

Public restrooms are available nearby in Central Park. Cafés and shops can be found along Columbus Avenue and Amsterdam Avenue.

Address

The Dakota sits at the northwest corner of 72nd Street and Central Park West in Manhattan’s Upper West Side. It’s easily accessible by public transit from various parts of the city.

Driving

Driving in Manhattan can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking. If you choose to drive, nearby parking garages are available on 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue. However, public transportation is generally more convenient.

Public transportation

Take NYC Subway’s B or C train to 72nd Street station, located across from the Dakota. Alternatively, the 1, 2, and 3 trains stop at 72nd Street and Broadway. Several buses, including the M72 and M10, also serve the area.

Best times to visit

Late morning to early afternoon offers good lighting for photography and a pleasant atmosphere for walking tours.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, providing visitors with a more relaxed experience.

Best months to visit

Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) bring mild weather to the city, making either season ideal for walking tours and outdoor exploration.

Special events

While there are no specific events at the Dakota, nearby Central Park hosts various events throughout the year, including Shakespeare in the Park.