Washington Heights Apartments

Situated between Harlem on the south and Inwood on the north, Washington Heights is the inspiration behind Lin-Manuel Miranda's Tony Award-winning musical "In The Heights." Sometimes referred to as the Upper West Side of the '80s, Washington Heights is hailed as one of Manhattan's most historic and most revived neighborhoods.

Washington Heights is named for George Washington's eponymous fort, which was built on the highest point of Manhattan to protect the military from British troops during the Revolutionary War. Throughout the early and mid-20th century, Irish and Greek immigrants, and European Jews escaping Nazism moved into the area. The strong Greek presence earned the neighborhood the nickname the Astoria of Manhattan. By the late 20th century, the area was predominantly Dominican.

A much-anticipated new development in the neighborhood is the Highbridge apartment complex, coming in Summer 2015. In addition, the Highbridge Park Recreation Center -- part of Highbridge Park -- has recently undergone a renovation in May 2014, as part of a $98-million total repair effort that will also include restoration of the actual High Bridge, the oldest bridge left in Manhattan.

A notable place to visit while in Washington Heights is Caffe X, named for Malcolm X and located in the former Audubon Ballroom, where he was assassinated. Other places to visit include the Hispanic Society of America, a museum and library dedicated to Spanish, Portuguese, and Latin American culture; the Morris-Jumel Mansion, where George Washington stayed during the war; and NoMAA, the Northern Manhattan Arts Alliance, which presents work from local artists. For a drink and some views, try Hispaniola, a cigar bar that offers tapas and views of the George Washington Bridge.

Known for its hilly terrain, Washington Heights is home to Manhattan's highest point, which is located in Bennett Park and sits 265 feet above sea level.

One of Washington Heights' most iconic destinations is the Cloisters museum and gardens. This branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art sits high atop a hill in Fort Tryon Park and showcases Medieval European art and architecture.