The Bronx has historically been divided into two regions: West Bronx and East Bronx, separated by the Bronx River. The West Bronx is known for its rich history and iconic neighborhoods like the Grand Concourse, famous for its Art Deco architecture and cultural institutions. Meanwhile, the East Bronx boasts thriving communities such as Pelham Bay and Throggs Neck, known for their waterfront views and strong sense of community. Despite these differences, the Bronx has a diverse culture and offers a wide range of experiences for residents and visitors. Whether you are exploring the lush parks of the West Bronx or enjoying waterfront activities in the East Bronx, each region has its unique charm and attractions waiting to be discovered.
If you look at a map of NYC, you will see that the Bronx is a pretty big place with over 50 bronx neighborhoods. In this blog, we will help you find the best neighborhoods by highlighting some of the most popular and safest areas to make your search easier. If you find something that interests you, then visit the area in person before making a decision. If you're a tourist and looking for things to do in New York for first-timers then you have come to the right place. Take a look at this blog and make your decision wisely.
Top 16 Famous Bronx Neighborhoods
1.Bedford Park
Bedford Park is a lively neighborhood in the northwest part of the Bronx in New York City. It is the most diverse neighborhood because people from different backgrounds live there. It's famous for the New York Botanical Garden and Bronx Park where people can relax away from the busy city. Bedford Park has both homes and shops, making it a convenient and nice place to live. It's friendly and one of the most vibrant bronx attractions. The neighborhood is quite diverse, which makes it easy for anyone to feel at home.
2.Belmont
Belmont is a culturally rich neighborhood in the Bronx, known for its Italian heritage and fun atmosphere. The area's main attraction is Arthur Avenue, which is like a small version of Italy. People can eat real Italian food, so if you are looking for the best italian restaurants in the bronx then consider going to Arthur Avenue. You can buy things from family-owned shops, and enjoy the area's old-fashioned feel. Belmont also has the Bronx Zoo, a big zoo with lots of animals to see. The neighborhood is diverse, meaning there are people from different backgrounds, and it has a strong cultural identity, making it an exciting place to be in the Bronx.
3.Fordham
Fordham has changed a lot over time and is now considered one of the best places in the bronx. It used to be farmland, but then families from Manhattan started moving there. From the 1930s to the 1970s, many Jewish people lived there, but then many left. During this time, the crime rate was at its peak but over time police have been working hard to make it safer which has led to less crime over the years. There are different types of homes in Fordham, like single-family houses and buildings with several apartments. If you want to live near popular places like The Bronx Zoo and The New York Botanical Garden, Fordham is a good choice.
4.Highbridge
Highbridge is a special neighborhood on a hill in the Southwest Bronx. It's near the Harlem River and Yankee Stadium. Due to the steep land, it's hard to get over there. There are mostly short apartment buildings and some houses on hills that you can only reach by stairs. What's interesting is that even the streets here are connected with stairs. Since there's not a lot of space for buildings, people have made gardens and green areas in those spots. Highbridge is a tight-knit community with local shops and a sense of pride. It seems to be the most unique bronx tourist attraction bringing more services and nicer homes to the neighborhood.
5.Hunts Point
Hunts Point, situated in the South Bronx, is a historically significant neighborhood renowned for its vibrant energy and bustling markets. It is home to one of the largest wholesale produce markets in the world, supplying fresh fruits and vegetables. This neighborhood hosts the Cooperative Market, specializing in the distribution of meat and seafood. Hunts Point is also recognized for its creative scene, with various art spaces and studios contributing to the area's cultural energy. Hunts Point is basically famous for its entrepreneurial spirit attracting new businesses and residents.
6.Jerome Park
Jerome Park is in the Northwest Bronx and is popular because of the Jerome Park Racetrack. It has a mix of older buildings with more space than usual in New York City, like courtyard buildings from before World War II. In addition to six-story apartments, there are also a few duplexes and houses for one family. Jerome Park has lovely parks, streets with trees, and old houses, making it a calm and pretty place for families and individuals. It's also close to big transportation centers, so it's easy to get around the city from there.
7.Kingsbridge
Kingsbridge is in the northwest part of the Bronx and is a diverse and lively neighborhood with a strong community feeling. It has a mix of homes and businesses, making it a cool place with many fun things to do in the bronx. One of its famous landmarks is the Kingsbridge Armory, which is now used for sports, events, and community gatherings. People can also enjoy Van Cortlandt Park, a big park where they can do outdoor activities and relax. Kingsbridge is close to the Harlem River and has lots of local shops, restaurants, and cultural places, making it a fun and friendly part of the Bronx.
8.Morris Park
Morris Park is in the eastern part of the Bronx and is known for its closely connected community and Italian-American culture. They have a big parade every year to celebrate Italian heritage, and it's popular with people from all over the city. The main street there, Morris Park Avenue, has lots of small businesses, restaurants, and stores, making it busy and lively. Morris Park also has a pretty park called Haffen Park where people can relax outside. The mix of traditions and different people make Morris Park a special and friendly place in the Bronx.
9.Morrisania
Morrisania, located in the South Bronx, is a historically significant neighborhood with a rich cultural heritage. Morrisania has been getting better lately, with a focus on making homes affordable and helping businesses grow. The neighborhood has groups and places that support the arts, education, and helping people. It also has nice parks like St. Mary's Park, where people can play outside and meet up. Morrisania is a unique and diverse area in the Bronx that is constantly evolving, and it's all because of its strong community.
10.Mott Haven
Mott Haven is in the Southwest Bronx and is close to Manhattan but not actually in Manhattan. So, if you are in NYC and want places to visit in manhattan, then must mark this place to be visited as well. It used to be more about factories but now there are different kinds of people living there, like workers and families. There are fancy buildings by the Harlem River and more affordable ones further inside. The neighborhood has parks, and a lot of money is being spent to make it even better. Mott Haven also has good schools, which is important because it used to be known for having some problems.
11.Parkchester
Parkchester is in the Southeast Bronx and is one of the few planned communities for middle-class families. The name comes from combining two nearby neighborhoods, Park Versailles and Westchester Heights. The developers were careful to include stores and parks and to keep some areas natural. There are many artistic decorations around, giving it a creative feel. So, if you are looking for some creative places to visit and what to do in the bronx then visit this beautiful neighborhood. In the 1990s, the Parkchester Preservation Company took over and spent a lot of money fixing things up. Now, Parkchester is back to how it was meant to be, but it's harder to find a place there because it's popular again.
12.Riverdale
Riverdale is a New York neighborhood that has a lot to offer. Although it is located in the northernmost point of the West Bronx, it is still a great place to live. It might be a little challenging to get to midtown, but the Hudson River can be found to the west while Van Cortlandt Park is located to the east. This provides residents with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Also, it only takes about 30 minutes to get to the Upper West Side of Manhattan, making Riverdale a rare kind of neighborhood. The schools in the area are also known for their strong academic performance.
13.Spuyten Duyvil
Spuyten Duyvil is a neighborhood in the Bronx named after a creek with strong currents. The area is known as a safe and attractive place to live, what is the bronx known for actually. People here are well-educated, with many having gone to college. Most families make over $150,000 each year. There are different types of homes available, like apartments, townhouses, and houses, with some buildings having doormen. Spuyten Duyvil is diverse and has everything you might want, like good schools, places to go out at night, and parks. It only takes about 20 minutes to get to Grand Central Station for work or fun.
14.Throgs Neck
Throgs Neck is a neighborhood in the southeastern Bronx by the water. It's famous for its beautiful views of the East River and Long Island Sound. People live and work here, making it a diverse place. The Throgs Neck Bridge is a big landmark that connects the Bronx to Queens, so if you are looking for places to go in queens then consider this place to be visited. The neighborhood also has nice parks by the water, like Ferry Point Park, where you can relax and do outdoor activities. Throgs Neck is special because it has great views and it's easy to get to other areas nearby.
15.University Heights
The University Heights neighborhood is situated in the Northwest Bronx. It was named after the New York University's Bronx campus, which was built in 1894 in the area. The neighborhood was initially popular with the wealthy and single-family homes, including some Victorians. As demand increased over time, apartments and rowhomes were built. The neighborhood has many parks and backs up to the Harlem River. It is also well-served by the 4 train and has numerous services and amenities close by. The area is ideal for those who don't want a long commute or to pay Manhattan prices but still wish to be close to the action.
16.Woodlawn
Woodlawn is a small neighborhood sometimes called "Woodlawn Heights" or "Little Ireland." It is surrounded by the Bronx River to the east, Van Cortlandt Park to the northwest, and the Woodlawn Cemetery to the south. It is so close to the Bronx River. Woodlawn is a pretty place with lots of things to do in the bronx outdoors. People say it's clean and friendly, and everyone, no matter their age, enjoys being outside and eating out together. The only drawback is that it's not near a subway, so you need to take a bus or walk if you're commuting.
