As summer races by and fall approaches, many in Lincoln Square are busy signing up their kids for classes—but why should the learning stop there? This vibrant cultural epicenter offers a wealth of opportunities for adults seeking to enrich their lives, acquire new skills, or pursue long-held passions. Whether you’re interested in the performing arts, academic advancement, or holistic wellness, this dynamic neighborhood provides a diverse array of programs tailored for the adult learner.
You don’t have to be a full-time student to experience the excellence of The Juilliard School (155 West 65th Street between Amsterdam Avenue and Broadway). Through Juilliard Extension, adults can immerse themselves in dance, drama, and music, benefiting from world-class artistic training available both in person and online. The curriculum spans composition, conducting, dance, drama, musicianship, and history and appreciation, allowing you to refine your technical abilities, gain professional skills, earn college credit, or simply broaden your artistic horizons. Juilliard Extension welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and abilities. Specialized certificate programs are also available in areas such as Core Musical Skills, Music Composition, and Music Production. Ready to explore your artistic side? Learn more and register on Juilliard’s website.
The Kaufman Music Center (129 West 67th Street between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue), home to the Lucy Moses School, is a true haven for adult music enthusiasts, fostering a nurturing and supportive environment. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or looking to reconnect with an old passion, you’ll find diverse opportunities to express yourself. They offer private lessons for nearly any instrument or voice, carefully matching you with an experienced faculty member. Beyond individual instruction, consider joining a chamber group or jazz ensemble to make music with others, or deepen your understanding with musicianship and Dalcroze (music training through movement) classes. They also offer adult dance and movement classes, including ballet, making it easy and fun to develop your skills or discover a new artistic outlet. Find your rhythm this fall! Discover classes and register on Kaufman’s website. If you can’t wait for the fall, you can attend the free SummerFest afternoon concerts and masterclasses being offered from Monday, August 18 through Friday, August 23. No tickets or reservations are required—just show up and enjoy the performances.
For those passionate about jazz, Jazz at Lincoln Center‘s (Broadway at 60th Street) Swing University offers an incredible opportunity to deepen your appreciation and knowledge. These engaging, virtual courses are taught by renowned jazz educators and musicians. Whether you’re a seasoned listener or just beginning your jazz journey, you can explore influential artists, genres, and the cultural impact of this iconic American art form through dynamic lectures from the comfort of your home. The summer session has just begun, and you can still sign up for those classes, but be on the lookout for the fall session soon. Dive into the world of jazz! Explore courses and register on the Swing U website.
For those aiming for academic or professional growth, Fordham University‘s Lincoln Center campus (113 West 60th Street between Amsterdam Avenue and Columbus Avenue) provides robust options through its School of Professional and Continuing Studies. Designed with the adult learner in mind, they offer flexible evening, weekend, and online classes to help you balance education with work and family life. Adults can pursue undergraduate degrees to begin or complete their bachelor’s, embark on a rigorous Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical/Pre-Health Program for career changers, or enroll in continuing education courses for professional certificates in fields like Real Estate or Human Resources. Their acclaimed College at 60 program also stands out, offering non-credit liberal arts courses for those 60 and older. This program provides a vibrant, intellectually stimulating community where you can engage with diverse subjects like creative writing, 20th-century art, world history, music, philosophy, psychology, and theology, all taught by experienced Fordham faculty. Advance your education or career. Explore programs and apply on Fordham’s website.
The West Side YMCA (5 West 63rd Street between Broadway and Central Park West) is dedicated to fostering community and well-being, offering a range of programs for adult enrichment. For those looking to stay active, the YMCA provides various fitness options, including adult swim lessons. Beyond fitness, they are known for their Community Arts program, offering several ceramics courses for all levels, providing wonderful avenues for creative expression and skill-building. While the full fall schedule for programs has not yet been updated, we encourage you to check the West Side YMCA’s website on August 9 when member registration is set to begin for the fall.
Whether you’re returning to a creative pursuit, exploring a new academic path, or simply looking to connect with others through the arts, Lincoln Square offers a rich landscape for lifelong learning. With so many esteemed institutions just steps apart, it’s never been easier—or more inspiring—for adults to grow, create, and thrive. And if you’re looking for less formal ways to learn and socialize, organizations like DOROT (171 West 85th Street at Amsterdam Avenue) and the Lincoln Square Neighborhood Center (250 West 65th Street between Amsterdam Avenue and West End Avenue) offer a wide range of engaging programs for older adults, from discussion groups to creative workshops and wellness activities. However you choose to engage, there are countless ways to stay curious and connected this fall.
Photo Credit: Kaufman Music Center
