Welcome to the Bronx, a sometimes forgotten treasure of New York City. Most New Yorkers are very familiar with Manhattan and tend to have their day-to-day lives revolve around that one–although quite awesome–borough. Fun fact: the Bronx was originally considered to be a part of Westchester until it joined New York County. If you’re looking for new terrain to charter with family fun for all, then give the Bronx a try. The “Boogie Down Bronx” is more than just a spot on a map–it’s filled with possibilities.
Wave Hill
649 W 249th Street
This lovely public garden is the perfect place to spend a Saturday strolling away. It’s about a half an hour from Manhattan, accessible by subway, and they even have a free shuttle available to take you to and from the train station. Take a look around the conservatory, inhale beautiful scents in the flower garden, explore an exhibit, or just have a seat and appreciate the scenery. They also have a food cafe for your convenience, as well as great spots for afternoon tea. Enjoy one of the many concerts that are available all year-round, hands-on workshops, and more. Whatever you decide to do–it’s definitely worth a trip. Members and children, under age 6, are free; non-member admission prices range from $2-8. Open year-round, Tuesday-Sunday, from 9am-4:30pm. wavehill.org
The New York Botanical Garden
2900 Southern Blvd
Located near Fordham University is the lovely New York Botanical Garden. The Bronx has claim to yet another New York treasure, and all you have to do is leave your current borough for a couple of hours to experience it. Take the B, D, or 4 train to Bedford Park Blvd. and you will be on your way to seeing green. Members and children under 2 are free; see website for non-member pricing. Open year-round, Tuesday-Sunday, from 10am-6pm. nybg.org
Yankee Stadium
1 East 161st Street
The home of the New York Yankees is easily accessible by train. If you’ve never visited, have a child who adores baseball, or just want to experience America’s favorite pastime, then this is your opportunity. Guests have the option of viewing a batting practice before the game starts, or going straight to Monument Park for a look at some legendary baseball greats. If you’re feeling like having the ultimate Yankee Stadium experience, visit the Hard Rock Cafe for a blend of Yankees memorabilia and good burgers. You can also enjoy some prime rib at the Yankee Steakhouse, located right above the Hard Rock Cafe. Take the 4 or D train to 161st Street and be prepared to hustle and bustle a bit, as it tends to get busy on this side of the city. See website for hours, pricing, and additional information. newyork.yankees.mlb.com
Little Italy
Arthur Avenue
For the resident foodies, this is the spot to enjoy sausage, bread, fancy espressos, dessert, pizza, prime cuts of meat, and gelato! Located a small distance from the Bronx Zoo, it’s definitely an option for having the perfect 2-in-1 trip. Arthur Avenue is rich with old world Italian character and is considered to be the authentic “Little Italy” of New York City. One of its best attractions is the Arthur Avenue retail market; a place to find housewares, prime cuts, and various trinkets. Arthur Avenue is in the Belmont section of the Bronx, and the neighborhood is more than just food and stores; the surrounding neighborhood is just as interesting. Take the B, D, or 4 train to Fordham road, and then it’s a couple of minutes walking distance. arthuravenuebronx.com
The Bronx Zoo
2300 Southern Blvd
There is no list of places to visit in the Bronx that does not include this wonderful park full of lions, tigers, and bears! Okay, there’s more than that, but you get the point. Many New Yorkers are familiar with the Central Park Zoo, but it doesn’t top this zoo in terms of number of animals, exhibits, and scenery. Bring the children and experience a camel ride, children’s zoo, sea lion and penguin feedings, carousel rides, and if you’re up for it, check out the 4-D theater. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes–the zoo is a whopping 265 acres, and that includes some mini hills to walk over. Open daily from 10am-4:30pm, hours subject to change seasonally. General admission is free on Wednesdays. bronxzoo.com
[gravityform id=”14″ title=”false” description=”false” ajax=”true”]
Crotona Park
1596-1672 Crotona Avenue
Summer isn’t here yet, but when it does arrive–it tends to get hot and humid! What better way to cool off than by running around in some sprinklers in Crotona Park? Home to the borough’s largest public pool, 300 feet worth of chlorinated water, it’s definitely a potential summer oasis, for both the young and older. Free, check website for hours. nycgovparks.org
City Island
City Island Avenue
Don’t hesitate to visit this seaside village in the Bronx. Home to many restaurants, it is definitely a good place to take a weekend day trip. You can take the 6 train to Pelham Bay Park, and then hop onto the Bx29. On the first Friday evening of every month from April to December the City Island Trolley will take you on a guided tour, but keep in mind that not all of the restaurants are open in the evening. Trolley aside, you can still explore City Island Avenue local shops and restaurants and then take a peek at the City Island Nautical Museum. If you’re an ice cream lover, stop by Lickety Split and get your taste buds going with yummy ice cream and other delicious treats. City Island has great views of the Long Island Sound, and for those who love to fish will find plenty of places to cast a line. nycgo.com
