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The New York community relies on Cherokee Station, located at 1483 York Avenue, for an essential suite of postal and passport services, firmly anchoring itself within the fabric of the Upper East Side. Positioned strategically between East 78th and East 79th Streets, this facility is a constant for residents of the immediate Yorkville neighborhood and the broader swath of the Upper East Side, extending from East 60th Street up to East 96th Street. Its presence here addresses the specific needs of a highly concentrated, diverse urban populace, which includes families navigating school applications, professionals managing international travel for work, and a significant expatriate community requiring regular passport renewals or new applications for their children born in the U.S. University students from nearby institutions like Rockefeller University (just blocks south on York Avenue at East 66th Street) and Marymount Manhattan College (further west on East 71st Street) also frequent this location for their international study and travel needs, making it a critical resource beyond typical neighborhood post office functions.
Historically, the area around Cherokee Station has transformed significantly. What was once a more industrial or less developed stretch of Manhattan, particularly along the East River, has evolved into a dense residential corridor, punctuated by world-renowned medical institutions. The station itself, a robust structure likely established in the mid-20th century to accommodate the growing population, has adapted its offerings over decades. Its current role as a passport acceptance facility is a direct response to the escalating demand for international travel documentation among Manhattanites, a service that often requires in-person verification not available at every postal branch. This specialized function distinguishes Cherokee Station from many smaller post offices in the borough.
Those who utilize this facility span various demographics unique to this affluent, yet bustling, section of New York City. Medical professionals from the nearby NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center complex, situated between East 68th and East 72nd Streets, often rely on Cherokee Station for expedited passport services ahead of conferences or mission trips abroad. Similarly, staff from the Hospital for Special Surgery, located at East 70th Street along the FDR Drive, find its proximity incredibly convenient. Families residing in the residential towers along York Avenue and First Avenue, particularly those with young children needing first-time passports, constitute a large segment of its clientele. The facility becomes especially busy during school holidays and the summer months, as families prepare for international vacations.
Specific local landmarks influence the daily rhythm of Cherokee Station. Just a few blocks north, Carl Schurz Park, a serene green space overlooking the East River at East 86th Street, draws many local families and dog walkers, some of whom combine a trip to the post office with their recreational outings. Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the Mayor of New York City, is also located nearby within Carl Schurz Park, adding to the area’s distinct character. Further north, the Asphalt Green campus on East 90th Street provides athletic and fitness programs, bringing another wave of local residents who may visit the station for various services. The retail corridor along First Avenue, just two blocks west, offers numerous dining and shopping options, allowing individuals to integrate their passport appointment into a broader errand run or lunch break.
One of the unique aspects of Cherokee Station is its ability to handle both the logistical complexities of passport applications alongside the everyday postal needs of a high-density urban environment. While mail services for the East 10021 and 10028 zip codes remain a core function, the dedicated passport operation ensures a focused, efficient process for applicants. Unlike some facilities where passport services might be an afterthought, here it is a well-integrated component. The staff are accustomed to the nuanced requirements of passport forms and identification, providing a level of expertise that Manhattan residents expect. The steady flow of pedestrian traffic on York Avenue, particularly around the time schools dismiss and medical shifts change, illustrates the constant interaction between the facility and its immediate surroundings. This consistent community engagement cements Cherokee Station as a truly indispensable resource, reflecting the dynamic, demanding character of the Upper East Side itself.
Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 2128794401.0 to confirm hours before visiting.
Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling
Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout
Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)
Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)
Located at CHEROKEE STATION at 1483 YORK AVENUE. Easy access from major highways.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of Cherokee Station on York Avenue can be challenging, a common reality across the Upper East Side. Street parking on York Avenue is metered, typically costing $3.50 per hour from 7 AM to 7 PM, Monday through Saturday, with a two-hour limit. Finding an open spot often requires patience and luck, especially during weekday business hours. Side streets like East 78th and East 79th Streets offer similar metered parking, though often with a bit more turnover. For a guaranteed space, several commercial parking garages are available within a short walking distance. The iPark garage at 425 East 79th Street, just two blocks east, offers hourly rates starting around $25 for the first hour and increasing thereafter, with daily maximums often exceeding $55. Another convenient option is the SP+ Parking garage at 1475 First Avenue, approximately three blocks west, which may have slightly different pricing but similar rates. For those with a passport appointment, planning to arrive 15-20 minutes early is advisable, whether searching for street parking or navigating to a garage. Consider adverse weather conditions, too. During a typical New York summer, temperatures can soar to the high 90s with stifling humidity, making a longer walk from a distant spot uncomfortable. In winter, icy sidewalks or heavy snowfalls can significantly extend walking times and complicate street parking, making a garage a more practical, albeit costlier, choice for peace of mind.
Reaching Cherokee Station at 1483 York Avenue via public transit offers several convenient options, given its prime Upper East Side location. The most direct bus route is the M31, which runs along York Avenue itself, with stops directly at East 79th Street, placing you mere steps from the facility entrance. This bus operates frequently, typically every 8-12 minutes during weekdays, and less often on weekends. Another excellent choice is the M79-SBS crosstown bus, which travels along East 79th Street. You can disembark at the York Avenue stop and walk half a block south to the station. This service also runs every 7-10 minutes during peak times. For subway riders, the closest station is the Q train at 86th Street and Second Avenue, approximately 0.6 miles (about a 10-12 minute walk) north of the station. Upon exiting the Q train, walk east on 86th Street to York Avenue, then head south. Alternatively, the 4, 5, and 6 subway lines stop at 86th Street and Lexington Avenue, requiring a slightly longer walk of about 0.8 miles (15-18 minutes) or a transfer to the M79-SBS bus eastbound. A single ride on any MTA bus or subway costs $2.90, payable by MetroCard or contactless payment methods like OMNY. All M31 and M79-SBS buses are equipped with ramps for wheelchair accessibility, and the 86th Street Q train station is fully ADA compliant with elevators from street level to the platform, ensuring easy access for all visitors to Cherokee Station.
Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the CHEROKEE STATION’s office at 1483 YORK AVENUE. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.
Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.
Walk into CHEROKEE STATION (1483 YORK AVENUE) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 2128794401.0 to check wait times.
The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).
Your application is mailed to a federal processing center. Expect 12-13 weeks for routine service (or 7-9 weeks for expedited at +$60). Track status at travel.state.gov.
Skip all these steps with our hassle-free expedited service. We handle everything and deliver your passport in as little as 3 days. Get started from $147 →
Upon entering Cherokee Station, visitors will find the main entrance prominently situated on the west side of York Avenue, facing directly onto the street, between East 78th and East 79th Streets. The facade is typical of many established New York City postal branches, often featuring a functional brick or stone exterior with large, clear glass doors. Once inside, you step into a straightforward, well-lit lobby. The architectural style emphasizes utility and efficiency, with a main service counter stretching across the back wall of the primary customer area. For passport services, applicants should proceed to the designated passport acceptance window, typically Window 3 or 4, clearly marked with specific signage to the far right side of the main counter area. There, a staff member will guide you through the check-in process, verifying your appointment details.
The layout facilitates a smooth flow, even during peak hours, ensuring distinct areas for general mail services and passport processing. You’ll observe rows of P.O. boxes lining the north wall, while package drop-off and stamp purchases typically occur at the central windows. Accessibility is a key consideration; the entrance provides a gradual ramp or is at street level with wide double doors, accommodating wheelchairs and strollers with ease. Inside, the floor plan is open and level, allowing for unhindered movement to the passport service counter. A typical passport appointment at Cherokee Station is efficiently managed, usually lasting between 18 to 22 minutes, assuming all documentation is in order. The dedicated acceptance agents are proficient in reviewing applications, administering the oath, and processing payments for the execution fee, streamlining your experience.
Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at CHEROKEE STATION versus using our expedited service.
While CHEROKEE STATION offers standard passport services, our expedited service gets your passport 40x faster with white-glove support from start to finish.
Get your passport in as little as 3 business days vs 12-13 weeks standard processing
24/7 phone support, real-time tracking, and a dedicated specialist managing your case
Over 500,000 passports processed since 1992 with a 98% first-time approval rate
Or call us at 800-860-8610
Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service
“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. CHEROKEE STATION was booked 3 weeks out, and I was traveling in 10 days. PassportsandVisas.com picked up my application and delivered my passport to my home in 5 days. Worth every penny!”
“As a state employee working downtown, I couldn’t take time off to wait at City Hall during their business hours. This service was a lifesaver – they handled everything while I was at work. My passport arrived in 4 days, just in time for my Ireland trip.”
“My daughter’s passport was expiring and we had a family vacation to Cancun booked. The NEW YORK post offices all had 2+ month waits for appointments. PassportsandVisas.com got her renewal done in 3 days. Customer service was excellent and kept us updated throughout.”
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