Finding a reliable spot for glasses in Upper Manhattan used to feel like a chore. You either trekked down to midtown or settled for a dusty shop with frames from 2004. Then, Warby Parker Morningside Heights opened up at 2875 Broadway, and things got a lot easier for the Columbia University crowd and locals alike.
Located right between 111th and 112th Streets, this isn't just another retail box. It’s a bright, high-ceilinged space that feels more like a library than a medical office. Honestly, that’s the whole point. They want you to hang out, try on thirty pairs of glasses, and not feel pressured by a salesperson in a white coat.
Why this location actually matters
Most people don't realize that the Morningside Heights branch was a milestone for the company. It opened in late December 2022 as part of a tandem launch with their Union Square flagship. Together, they marked the brand's 200th store. That's a lot of acetate and nose pads.
For the neighborhood, it filled a massive gap. If you’re a student at Columbia or Barnard, you’ve probably walked past it a dozen times. It’s conveniently near the 1 train at Cathedral Parkway (110 St). You can basically pop in between classes, get an adjustment, and be back in the library before your coffee gets cold.
Getting your eyes checked at 2875 Broadway
Can you get an exam here? Yes.
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They have independent optometrists on-site. It’s a full-service setup. You can book a comprehensive eye exam that covers your vision and general eye health. If you’re looking for contact lenses, they do those exams too.
Wait, what about the cost? Generally, a standard eye exam for glasses starts around $85-$95 at most Warby locations. If you need a contact lens fitting, expect to pay more—usually in the $150 range. A quick tip: check your insurance first. They take UnitedHealthcare, Davis Vision, and a few others. Even if they're "out-of-network" for you, they make the reimbursement paperwork pretty painless.
One thing people often miss is the Digital Retinal Imaging. It’s an extra $35 or so. Some folks get annoyed when they see it on the bill at the end, so just know going in that it’s an optional add-on for a deeper look at your eye health.
The vibe and the "Wall of Frames"
The layout is classic Warby. Clean shelves. Mirrors everywhere.
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You’ve got the core collection—the Durands, the Percey's, the Laurel's—but they also rotate in seasonal collections. If you’ve got a narrow face, this place is a godsend. They are one of the few brands that consistently stocks "Extra Narrow" frames that don't look like they belong in the kids' section.
The staff here is generally chill. They won't hover. But if you ask for an opinion on whether those oversized aviators make you look like a 70s detective or a fashion icon, they’ll usually give it to you straight.
What most people get wrong about Warby Parker
A common complaint you'll hear—and you see this on Reddit threads all the time—is that the lenses scratch easily.
Is it true?
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Well, it’s a "you get what you pay for" situation. At $95 for frames and lenses, you aren't getting the same high-index, triple-coated Zeiss lenses you'd find at a boutique for $600. However, for a daily driver or a backup pair, they hold up fine if you actually use the microfiber cloth instead of your t-shirt.
Another misconception: you have to buy everything at once.
You don't. You can bring a prescription from your own doctor and just buy the frames. Or, you can get the exam there and take your prescription to go. They’re legally required to give it to you.
Practical details for your visit
- Address: 2875 Broadway, New York, NY 10025
- Phone: (929) 822-4165
- Hours: Usually 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily, but Sundays sometimes close an hour early.
- Pro Tip: If you need an adjustment (your glasses are sliding down your nose), just walk in. You don't need an appointment for that. They’ll tighten the screws and tweak the arms for free, even if you bought them years ago.
Moving forward with your vision
If you're planning to head to the Warby Parker Morningside Heights store, your first move should be checking your vision insurance portal. See if you have an "exam only" benefit or a "full hardware" benefit.
Book your appointment online at least three days in advance if you want a weekend slot; they fill up fast because of the local student population. If you just need to browse, Tuesday mornings are the quietest time to visit. Once you pick a frame, it usually takes about 7-10 business days for them to ship to the store or your apartment.
Don't forget to ask them to measure your pupillary distance (PD) while you're there. It’s a small number, but if it’s off by even a millimeter, your new glasses will give you a massive headache. Get it done right the first time so you don't have to deal with returns later.