28 West 96th Street, 9

Tucked inside a classic Upper West Side brownstone, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath triplex spans 1,200 square feet across three beautifully laid-out levels. Yes, it's a walk-up, but leads to a home worth the climb, with a layout, light, and outdoor space that are hard to find anywhere in the city, at any price point.

The first floor opens into a sprawling living and dining space anchored by a decorative fireplace (once operable, and buyers are welcome to pursue approval to restore it) beneath dramatic arched windows that flood the room with light. A separate galley kitchen features stainless steel appliances, a full range, and a dishwasher. A half bath and two generous closets complete this level.

Up the first flight, the primary suite awaits: a king-sized bedroom, en-suite bath, walk-in closet, and a private outdoor terrace - your own quiet perch above the city.

Climb to the penthouse level and find two additional king/queen-sized bedrooms, each with its own closet and south-facing windows for all-day natural light, plus a second full bath and an in-unit washer/dryer. Crowning it all is a private penthouse terrace with sweeping city views - an incredible spot for morning coffee, evening wine, or weekend entertaining under the sky.

Set on a picture-perfect brownstone block, this home is a short stroll to Central Park, with the C/B trains at 96th and Central Park West and the 1/2/3 lines just three blocks away on Broadway, plus easy crosstown bus access. Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, and a great mix of restaurants, cafes, and shops line nearby Columbus Avenue.

For those who want outdoor space, light, and Central Park at their doorstep - and don't mind trading an elevator for a few flights of stairs - this one is special.