The Bronx, which is now a reputable borough of NYC, is located in the north of Manhattan. It has now improved itself in recent years. The borough offers a unique perspective of New York, with plenty of green spaces, historical buildings, and a diverse culture. If you are looking for things to do in New York for first-timers, then visiting this culturally diverse city is the best thing you can do. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in NYC.
Their parks have many sporting facilities and natural elements such as streams, forests, and a freshwater lake. It has one of the city's largest and oldest cemeteries and is the final resting place for notable figures such as Herman Melville, Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, and Celia Cruz.
If you are looking for things to do in the Bronx, then this blog will surely help you out in planning your trip. Some notable places like the New York Botanical Garden, Wave Hill's public garden, Orchard Beach, Bronx Museum of the Arts, Edgar Allan Poe Cottage, and Yankee Stadium.
If you are an adventure enthusiast and looking for some unique things to do in nyc, then it is recommended that you take a contrast tour of the four NYC boroughs: the Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. It's one of the best tours in NYC and provides a good overview of the Bronx.
The Bronx is not as popular as the other tourist spots of Manhattan and Brooklyn, but its rich history, artistic legacy, and plenty of natural parks and green spaces make it worthwhile to visit for once.
To help you decide what to see in the Bronx, here are the top 20 best attractions and activities below. When planning a trip to New York City, consider these places to visit and make your trip unforgettable.
Top 16 Things To Do in The Bronx
1. Bronx Zoo: A Wild Expedition
It is one of the most adventurous things to do in nyc, so if you are in the Bronx then begin your journey with a visit to the world-renowned Bronx Zoo. Experience the magic of the Congo Gorilla Forest, trek through the Himalayan Highlands, and witness the Wild Asia Monorail. With more than 5,000 animals housed on 265 acres, your day will be well spent there. It is known as one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world, it showcases a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors can experience a wildlife expedition through the naked eye. The Bronx Zoo offers a unique opportunity to witness and learn about the wonders of the animal kingdom.
2. Wave Hill: A Riverside Retreat
Wave Hill, is situated along the Hudson River in the Bronx. It’s a cool and calm place far away from the city’s hustle and bustle. This public garden and cultural center boasts landscaped grounds with a diverse collection of gardens, woodlands, and flowerbeds. Visitors can wander through flower-filled landscapes, enjoy breathtaking views of the Hudson River, and enjoy the serene environment. Beyond its natural beauty, Wave Hill also hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs.
3. Little Italy on Arthur Avenue: A Gastronomic Adventure
If you are looking for the best italian restaurants in the bronx, then indulge your taste buds in the authentic Italian flavors of Arthur Avenue. You will get from fresh pasta to cannoli, and the culinary delights in Little Italy will push you to the heart of Italy. This vibrant place is a haven for food lovers, showcasing a rich tapestry of Italian culinary delights. Stepping onto Arthur Avenue feels like entering a traditional Italian village, with its family-owned bakeries, delis, and restaurants that have preserved authentic recipes for generations
4. Yankee Stadium: Baseball Glory
Yankee Stadium stands as a monumental symbol of baseball glory, located in the Bronx. So, if you are a true “Yankee” then hurry up and grab the ticket of the game. This historic stadium has witnessed some of the most legendary moments in baseball history. The stadium, with its classic architecture and modern facilities, provides a perfect stage for fans to witness the pursuit of excellence in the sport. So, catch a Yankees game at the iconic Yankee Stadium and experience the love of sports.
5. Bronx Museum of the Arts: Cultural Odyssey
The museum is a cultural journey with a diverse display of artistic expressions. This vibrant museum is an inspiration of creativity that showcases contemporary and traditional works by local and international artists. The museum is involved in educational programs, workshops, and events that foster a deeper connection between art and the public. The Bronx Museum of the Arts is a lively cultural center that welcomes visitors to explore and appreciate human creativity and expression. The museum offers a space for dialogue, celebration, and discovery. It invites visitors to embark on a captivating journey through a rich tapestry of art and culture.
6. Van Cortlandt Park: Nature's Playground
Van Cortlandt Park stands as nature's playground, surrounded by lush greenery and recreational spaces. This expansive park offers a serene escape from urban life, providing a diverse array of natural landscapes, including woodlands, meadows, and the iconic Van Cortlandt Lake. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring trails for hiking and running, as well as sports facilities for activities like golf, tennis, and cricket. This place is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. It's a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to relax and enjoy nature's rejuvenating power.
7. City Island: Seaside Charm
City Island is a charming place that offers a seaside escape, far away from the hustle and bustle of the Bronx. It is a small island community located along the Long Island Sound, which you can explore by strolling along the waterfront. The harbor is filled with sailboats and fishing vessels that create a maritime atmosphere. The island has a relaxing ambiance where you can find Victorian-style houses, seafood restaurants, and cozy shops. The seafood in City Island is known for its freshness, and the restaurants offer a great culinary experience. You can also visit the City Island Nautical Museum to learn about the island's nautical heritage. If you want to experience a seaside retreat within the Bronx, City Island is the right place to go.
8. Bronx River Greenway: Scenic Bliss
This greenway, following the passage of the Bronx River, offers a beautiful corridor with lush greenery and waterways. As visitors cross the paths, they will experience the beauty of nature. The greenway's well-maintained trails are perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling, providing an opportunity for exercise and relaxation. This pathway provides green spaces within an urban environment, with a scenic haven for residents and visitors alike.
9. New York Botanical Garden: Floral Fantasy
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the New York Botanical Garden. Known as one of New York's crowning glories, the New York Botanical Garden is full of feasts. With more than a million tropical, temperate, and desert flora houses on 250 acres, the New York Botanical Garden is among the world’s largest plant research and conservation programs. The garden is open to visitors year-round. From the seasonal beauty of the Rose Garden to the immersive Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, it's a floral paradise for nature lovers.
10. Poe Cottage: Literary Pilgrimage
Poe Cottage, located in the Bronx, is a place where people who admire the famous American writer Edgar Allan Poe can go to pay tribute. This small, white cottage was the last place Poe lived, and it reminds us of his important contributions to literature. The cottage was built in 1812, and it is simple and charming, giving us a glimpse into Poe's life during his final years. It is surrounded by trees and is a peaceful place where visitors can reflect. Today, the cottage is a museum that houses items that belonged to Poe and exhibits that explain his life and work. Poe Cottage is a special place for those who love literature and history, and it invites us to visit and learn more about this celebrated American writer.
11. Bronx Night Market: Culinary Extravaganza
The Bronx Night Market is a food event that takes place regularly in the evenings. It is more similar to the queens night market. It is a place where people can try different types of food from local vendors and international cuisines. The market offers a variety of culinary options, from traditional dishes to innovative street food creations. Visitors can explore different flavors and enjoy live music and cultural performances. The market is not only about food but also about celebrating the cultural richness of the Bronx.
12. Woodlawn Cemetery: Historic Resting Place
Established in 1863, this vast cemetery serves as the final resting place for many notable figures, including artists, politicians, and business magnates. Its serene landscape, adorned with majestic mausoleums, sculptures, and tree-lined avenues, creates a contemplative atmosphere for visitors. The cemetery's historical significance is deep as one explores the final resting places of prominent individuals such as jazz legend Miles Davis and author Herman Melville. Beyond being a burial ground, Woodlawn Cemetery is also a designated National Historic Landmark, preserving the architectural and cultural heritage of the Bronx.
13. Pelham Bay Park: Bronx's Only Public Beach
Pelham Bay Park is the largest public park in New York City, across 2,766 acres and offering 13 miles of shoreline, a golf course, and a museum. The park is three times larger than Central Park and takes hours to explore fully. You can enjoy various activities in the park, such as visiting the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum or launching a canoe in the park's lagoon. The park also has a public beach, Orchard Beach, which is the only one in the Bronx. Please note that admission to activities and events in the park may require a separate fee, but access to the park itself is free and open to the public.
14. Wave Hill: Place to Go as Family
One of the top things to do in nyc with kids is to spend time in a park or natural area, and for that, Wave Hill is the best place. This old estate dates back to 1843 and consists of two homes, a conservatory, and beautiful public gardens spread across 28 acres. Wave Hill was built by a lawyer before being sold to a prominent New York publisher in 1903. Over the years, famous figures have rented the home, such as Theodore Roosevelt and Mark Twain. Today, it’s a gorgeous landmark in The Bronx, New York that’s open to the public.
15. Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum: Another Museum In The Bronx
The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is situated in Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx. This estate house is one of the few remaining buildings from the mid-19th century in the area. It was built in 1836, with Greek Revival style architecture, but later renovations reflect the Federal style. The estate has a main mansion, a carriage house, and a formal garden with a terrace and a children’s garden. The mansion museum showcases impressive objects like Aaron Burr’s old desk, an authentic Lannuier bed, and the Pell family gravesites. The estate overlooks the bay, making it a great place to enjoy a change of scenery in The Bronx.
16. Bronx Terminal Market: Shopping Haven
Discover a world of shopping at the Bronx Terminal Market. You will find both big-name stores and local boutiques over there. This modern shopping complex is located in the heart of the Bronx, along the Harlem River. It's a busy area that offers a diverse selection of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. You can explore a mix of popular retailers and local businesses. The market is more than just a retail destination; it's a community hub that reflects the Bronx's diverse culture. The Bronx Terminal Market provides a convenient one-stop destination for shopping, dining, and leisure. So, maybe you will find the best restaurants in the Bronx at this Terminal Market.
