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The Bronx is NYC's northernmost borough and is a must-visit, thanks to all it has to offer. It is located only a short distance from Manhattan's Midtown, reachable by subway ride. Vacationers will find the incredible culinary scene, with some of the best Italian, Latin, and soul food. It boasts a fascinating history and a plethora of beautiful art galleries.

Apart from being the birthplace of hip-hop and home to America’s largest zoo, the Bronx has some of the prettiest green spaces, including the New York Botanical Garden and Pelham Bay Park.

UPDATE: 2023/08/01 11:18 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There's So Much More To Experience In The Bronx, NY!

This article has been refreshed with new information regarding traveling to the Bronx, New York. From the iconic Bronx Zoo to a botanical garden to a city park, the Bronx may just be NYC's best borough. Have fun and be safe!

Things To Do

While it's one of the lesser-visited boroughs in NYC, The Bronx is a wonderful destination. Want to experience the best of the Bronx? Here is the ultimate travel guide and things to do in the Bronx.

1 Edgar Allan Poe Cottage

Edgar Allan Poe Cottage
Zoirusha at English Wikipedia, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Outside view of the Edgar Allan Poe Cottage in the Bronx
  • Address: 2640 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10458
  • Hours: Thursday/Friday from 10 AM to 3 PM, Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM, and Sunday from 1-5 PM

For those who love literature and history, visiting the Edgar Allan Poe Cottage in the Bronx, NY, is a must. Here, guests can view the former home of American writer Edgar Allan Poe, learning about his writing and why he chose New York as his home.

The cottage is small but should be a great experience for any fans of his work.

2 Universal Hip Hop Museum

Bronx, New York
Photo by Victor Amenze on Unsplash
Sunset over the Hudson River, Bronx, NY
  • Address: 610 Exterior Street, Bronx, NY 10451
  • Hours: Sunday/Tuesday from 12 PM to 6 PM, Wednesday - Saturday, 12 PM to 7 PM

One thing to see while in the Bronx is the borough's Universal Hip Hop Museum. This location boasts the celebration and preservation of Hip hop music, dance, art, and culture, all within the walls of a city-loved museum.

New York is credited for the birth of hip-hop, specifically blooming in the Bronx. This is a nice way to spend the afternoon while absorbing the local flare.

3 The Bronx Museum Of The Arts

Bronx, New York
Photo by Victor Amenze on Unsplash
Houseplant near window in the Bronx
  • Address: 1040 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10456
  • Hours: Wednesday - Sunday, 11 AM to 6 PM
  • Tickets: Free

When in the Bronx, it can't hurt to visit the borough's museum. Here, guests can enjoy a contemporary art museum that connects diverse audiences to the urban experience. Considering the Bronx has such a diverse population, this is a great way to gain insight into the beloved New York community.

4 The Van Cortlandt House Museum

Van-cortland-house-bronx
DmadeoCC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Van Cortland House in the Bronx, NY
  • Address: 6036 Broadway, Van Cortlandt Park, Bronx, NY 10471
  • Hours: Tuesday - Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM

Something to see while in the Bronx is the Van Cortlandt House Museum, tucked within a stunning 1,000-acre urban park that encompasses what was once the Van Cortlandt family's plantation.

Here, people can experience the history of the city while walking through and around the estate, enjoying peaceful sights and nature galore. There are also events held here now and then: so make sure and check the estate's website before heading over.

5 Bronx Zoo

A beautiful bird in Bronx Zoo, NY, United States
Photo by Vinicius Gomes on Unsplash
A beautiful bird in Bronx Zoo, NY, United States
  • Address: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460
  • Hours: Monday - Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM, Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 5:30 PM
  • Tickets: $39.95 per adult

One of the most iconic landmarks in the Bronx, NY, is the famous Bronx Zoo. This property was built in the 1890s, opening in 1899 to the public. Today, it boasts 265 acres of parkland and naturalistic habitats separated by the Bronx River. For those who love nature and animals, this is THE place to be.

Bronx, New York
Photo by Victor Amenze on Unsplash
City park in Bronx, NY
  • Address: Middletown Road & Stadium Avenue, NY 10465
  • Hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM

Featuring beautiful miles of shoreline, oak forests, and marshes, Pelham Bay Park is NYC’s largest park. Covering a space of 2,772 acres, this park offers numerous outdoor activities, including horseback riding, golf, tennis, and football, among others.

One of the places to explore while in the park is the museum of Bartow-Pell Mansion.

6 Yankee Stadium

The Yankee Stadium, The Bronx, New York City, NY
Photo by Tomas Martinez on Unsplash
The Yankee Stadium, The Bronx, New York City, NY
  • Address: 1 E 161 St, Bronx, NY 10451
  • Hours: Dependent on the event or game

Yankee Stadium is one of the top destinations in New York City for sports fans. Home to the 27-time World Champions, the stadium offers an unforgettable baseball-watching experience. There are plenty of dining options for vacationers, including Mighty Quinn's BBQ and Haru Sushi.

There is a long, interesting history to catch here. Learn about America Baseball's most successful team and some of the most famous baseball icons.

7 New York Botanical Garden

Enid A. Haupt Conservatory building at New York Botanical Garden
via Shutterstock
An exterior view of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory building in the New York Botanical Garden in Bronx NY
  • Address: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458
  • Hours: Tuesday - Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM
  • Tickets: $35 per adult

Boasting several magnificent gardens, New York Botanical Garden is one of the most iconic landmarks in this borough. It hosts several events throughout the year, including the impressive Holiday Train Shoe and the Orchid Show.

Explore the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory for a real tropical paradise experience. The surrounding is absolutely stunning, and it’s hard to get out of this botanical garden without taking some epic pictures.

Related: The New York Botanical Gardens Are Home To NYC's Old Growth Forests, But That's Not The Only Reason To Visit

8 City Island

City Island Village
Photo by Pixabay
City Island Village in the Bronx
  • Population: 4,387 (2010)
  • Community District: The Bronx 10

Often described as a small city in a big city, City Island is spectacular and has a lot of fun experiences awaiting outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of art galleries, beautiful stores, historic homes, and top-notch seaside restaurants offering incredible culinary experiences.

9 Wave Hill Public Garden & Cultural Center

Boat on the Hudson River in New York
Via Unsplash
Boat on the Hudson River in New York 
  • Address: 4900 Independence Ave, Bronx, NY 10471
  • Hours: Tuesday - Sunday from 10 AM to 5:30 PM

For anyone wanting to experience the quintessential Bronx, New York, heading over to the Wave Hill Public Garden & Cultural Center is a great way to spend an afternoon in this borough.

Here, guests can find a 28-acre estate in the Hudson Hill section of Riverdale in the Bronx containing public horticultural gardens and a cultural center. The park also overlooks the Hudson River.

10 Best Time To Visit The Bronx

Bronx, NY, USA
Photo by Renan Kamikoga Unsplash
Bronx, NY, USA

May and June are the best months to visit the Bronx for ideal weather. July is the busiest month, then May and December follow immediately. During these times, the hotels and flights are quite pricey, making it an unpleasant time to visit for vacationers on a budget.

November is the most affordable month of the year, making it a perfect choice for exploring the borough. For outdoor adventure, plan a trip to the Bronx during the warmer months.

  • Best time for good weather: May and June
  • Busiest Months: July, May, December
  • Best time for outdoor adventures: Summer
  • Cheapest month to visit the Bronx: November

11 Best Ways To Get Around The Bronx

New York City skyline at dusk with boats on the Hudson River
Photo by Pauline Bernfeld on Unsplash
New York City skyline at dusk with boats on the Hudson River

Just as in most parts of New York City, walking and biking are favorite ways of getting around this borough. Vacationers will find beautiful pathways and Citi Bike stations all over, giving tourists an affordable means of getting around.

When it comes to public transportation, the subway system is the best since it can take vacationers to whichever destination in the Bronx and the rest of NYC.

  • Cost of subway ride: $2.75

Alternatively, visitors can make use of public buses and ferries to get to various destinations. There are many stations connecting the borough to the rest of the city. Looking to get around in a private car? Consider Uber/Lyft, which are plentiful in the Bronx, except cabs are more affordable than them.

Vacationers who’d love to drive on their own will find plenty of parking spots through the Bronx.

12 Best Neighborhoods In The Bronx

Bronx, NY, USA
Photo by Sam LaRussa on Unsplash
Bronx, NY, USA

The Bronx is one of the most impressive boroughs, offering solo travelers, families, and couples plenty of fun activities in the Big Apple. Here are the best neighborhoods in the Bronx.

Baychester: Best Neighborhood For Families

Baychester's urban lifestyle and family-friendly atmosphere make it one of the best neighborhoods in the Bronx. It is brimming with several shopping opportunities, green spaces, basketball courts, and a fantastic food scene.

The Mall at Bay Plaza has everything vacationers could look for, thanks to its numerous stores offering different goods. One of the best public beaches in the borough, Orchard Beach, is only a short drive away. There is a fun experience to develop in this neighborhood.

Pelham Bay: Outdoor Adventures

Pelham Bay is home to a famous park of the same name, situated on its northeastern edge. Pelham Bay Park is NYC’s largest public park. While this park is one of the Bronx’s most popular attractions, this neighborhood is one of the least visited.

It boasts a wonderful blend of urban and suburban architecture, evident in the gorgeous buildings lining its streets.

Related: Villa Charlotte Brönte: A Taste Of Italy In The Middle Of The Bronx

Some of the most famous destinations, such as the New York Botanical Garden and the Bronx Zoo, are located near Fordham, making them an excellent choice for tourists. Located on the western side of the Bronx, this neighborhood boasts some of the best Latin American restaurants.

Morris Park: Access To Big City Amenities And Plenty Of Outdoor Space

Lying east of the Bronx Zoo, Morris Park is located on the borough's eastern side and is among the best neighborhoods for families, thanks to its affordability and plenty of fun activities. Vacationers can go picnicking, explore its beautiful gardens, spot some wildlife, and experience its amazing food scene.

Nearby places to explore include New York Botanical Garden and Bronx Zoo.

13 Where To Eat In The Bronx

Bronx, NY, USA
Photo by Magnus Andersson on Unsplash
Bronx, NY, USA
  • McDonald's: This restaurant is dedicated to serving high-quality food and offering outstanding, quick customer service. The Menu is extensive and includes some of the most delicious burgers, coffee, and more.
  • Hudson Garden Grill: This is a farm-to-table restaurant located at the New York Botanical Garden. It offers an adorable sit-down spot for visitors to explore the magnificent botanical garden. The ingredients are locally sourced and ethically produced. Vacationers choosing to have lunch here will enjoy seasonal menus with some of the tastiest dishes in the borough.
  • Louie & Ernie's Pizza: This restaurant has been there for more than 60 years and is dedicated to serving the best food Bronx. They boast an outdoor patio where vacationers can dine as they enjoy the beautiful surrounding.
  • Bronx Alehouse: This is a long-standing favorite place to grab drinks while in the Bronx. Here, guests can enjoy burgers, wings, and hearty sandwiches washed down with a selection of craft beers in a casual saloon.

14 Where To Stay In The Bronx

Bronx, NY, USA
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
Bronx, NY, USA

Wingate By Wyndham Bronx/Haven Park

There are plenty of gorgeous hotels in NYC, and one of the best hotels is in the Bronx; Wingate by Wyndham Bronx/Haven Park, boasts amazing fitness centers and offers a free hot breakfast buffet. The rooms are stylish, and each comes with free internet, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, and more. Staying in this beautiful hotel gives vacationers the convenience of visiting other popular spots in the borough.

Residence Inn by Marriott New York The Bronx at Metro Center Atrium

Residence Inn by Marriott New York, The Bronx at Metro Center Atrium, guarantees a safe and beautiful travel experience of the Bronx and NYC. The pet-friendly is located near some of the borough's best destinations, including the Yankee Stadium, Bronx Zoo, New York Botanical Garden, and more.

Opera House Hotel

Located an eight-minute drive from the United Nations Headquarters, the Opera House Hotel is one of a kind. This hotel offers a wonderful accommodation experience thanks to its world-class amenities.

  • Address: 436 East 149th Street, Bronx, NY 10455
  • Amenities: Fitness center, coffee shop, business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas, flat-screen TV, free toiletries, meeting/banquet facilities, laundry service, and laundry facilities.

Related: These 10 Hotels Offer The Most Comfortable Stay In Manhattan

15 Tips For Visiting The Bronx, New York

The City Island Bridge in the Bronx, NYC
Jag Via Wikimedia Commons
The City Island Causeway Bridge, the Bronx, NYC
  • If visiting the Bronx in summer, especially in Yankee Stadium, it is important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen for protection against the sun's rays. Other than Yankee Stadium, there are other numerous outdoor things to do in the borough, including spending time at the Bronx Zoo.
  • The NYC subway system is the most accessible, affordable, and reliable means of getting around the Bronx. The lines serving this borough are 1,2,3,4,5,6, B, and D.
  • Stay in the hostel to save on accommodation. Couchsurfing is also a great option if traveling on a budget.
  • Stick to budget-friendly activities, like visiting the beach. Orchard Beach in Pelham Bay Park is one f the best public beaches to explore.
  • Instead of dining in expensive restaurants, vacationers can cook their own meals to save some dollars.

Related: 10 Tips For Riding New York City's Subways & Trains During The Holidays

16 How To Spend A Perfect Day In The Bronx

Yankee Stadium Station, Bronx
Photo by Flow Flo on Unsplash
Yankee Stadium Station, Bronx

There are several attractions to explore in the Bronx that a day won’t be enough. But if going on a day trip to this beautiful borough, there is a way to spend the time and have an unforgettable 24-hour experience of this part of NYC.

What not to miss on a day trip to the Bronx is the Yankee Stadium. Whether travelers are fans of baseball or not, a visit to this amazing stadium will offer a memorable experience.

Related: Creepy Crawly Carousel: A Unique Bronx Zoo Attraction

From Yankee Stadium, visit the Bronx Zoo, the largest urban zoo in the country. This place is a must-visit for families and animal lovers. There is a lot to experience in the zoo, including over 650 species of wildlife and fascinating exhibits, like the Wild Asia Monorail and the Congo Gorilla Forest.

New York Botanical Garden is a great spot to complete a day trip to the Bronx. Just a cross the road from America’s largest urban zoo, vacationers will find this beautiful botanical garden that stretches for 250 acres. It is one of the most beautiful places in the Bronx, hands down.

FAQ

Q: Is the Bronx worth visiting?

The Bronx is NYC's northernmost borough, and is a must-visit, thanks to all it has to offer. Vacationers will find the incredible culinary scene, with some of the best Italian, Latin, and soul food. It boasts a fascinating history, numerous outdoor activities, and a plethora of beautiful art galleries.

Q: What is the Bronx famous for?

Apart from being the birthplace of hip-hop and home to America’s largest zoo, the Bronx is known for some of the prettiest green spaces, including the New York Botanical Garden and Pelham Bay Park. It is also famous for being home to Yankee Stadium.

Q: Is the Bronx still rough?

The Bronx has always had a reputation for being one of the toughest spots in NYC. And it's true that there are dangers here, but no more than in other big cities in the United States. Even the NYC subway can be safe and enjoyable to ride; it's all about how tourists and residents handle themselves and their surroundings.