Pelham Bay Park New York City
NYC's largest park, offering 2,700 acres of beaches, forests, trails, and golf courses for a true urban escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more nature
Pelham Bay Park New York City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
NYC's largest park, offering 2,700 acres of beaches, forests, trails, and golf courses for a true urban escape.
"It's the largest park in NYC, three times the size of Central Park, and feels like a world away."
🚗 Public Transit Challenges
The 6 train stops at Pelham Bay Park, but buses are often needed for deeper park access . Plan your route! 🚌
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, whether on trails or along the beach. Sturdy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 10,002 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Orchard Beach
Long Island Sound
NYC's 'Riviera' offers a sandy escape with stunning waterfront views and recreational activities.
Hunter Island Trails
Hunter Island
Discover diverse ecosystems and potential wildlife sightings, offering a true nature escape.
Pelham Bay Golf Course
Pelham Bay Golf Course
Tee off amidst scenic parkland for a challenging and picturesque round of golf.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Vastness
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Public Transit Challenges
The 6 train stops at Pelham Bay Park, but buses are often needed for deeper park access. Plan your route! 🚌
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, whether on trails or along the beach. Sturdy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
🌳 Explore Beyond the Beach
Don't just stick to Orchard Beach! The park's trails offer a true escape and chance to see wildlife. 🦌
📍 Use the Park Website
For detailed trail maps and bus information, the official NYC Parks website is your best friend. 💻
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Public Transit Challenges
The 6 train stops at Pelham Bay Park, but buses are often needed for deeper park access. Plan your route! 🚌
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, whether on trails or along the beach. Sturdy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
🌳 Explore Beyond the Beach
Don't just stick to Orchard Beach! The park's trails offer a true escape and chance to see wildlife. 🦌
📍 Use the Park Website
For detailed trail maps and bus information, the official NYC Parks website is your best friend. 💻
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Especially at Orchard Beach, sunblock, hats, and sunglasses are essential for a comfortable day. :sunwithface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Pelham Bay Park for its immense size and natural beauty, offering a true escape from the city. Many highlight Orchard Beach as a great summer spot and appreciate the extensive trails for hiking and wildlife spotting. However, some find accessing certain areas by public transit challenging.
"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Perfect Family Day at Pelham Bay Park!
We had such a beautiful day at Pelham Bay Park with the whole family! It’s truly a hidden gem in New York City — peaceful, spacious, and full of natural beauty. From wide open green spaces to scenic walking trails and picnic spots, the park offered something for everyone.
The kids had a blast running around, and we enjoyed a relaxing stroll while soaking in the fresh air and calm atmosphere. It was the perfect place to unwind and spend quality time together.
Whether you’re planning a quiet afternoon, a family picnic, or just want to escape the city noise for a while, Pelham Bay Park is a fantastic choice. Can’t wait to come back!"
Sadman Chowdhury
"Orchard Beach parking lot is a good starting point for Hunter Island and Two Trees Island trails (they were actual islands before Robert Moses’ transformation have created Orchard Beach). These are most picturesque and well-maintained ones, especially good to stroll in fall season. Another good trailhead is at Bartow-Pell mansion with nice views of the lagoon. I’ve also hiked marked trail from Orchard beach to City Island bridge and then crossing the Meadow back to the beach, this one is somewhat overgrown. Good place to spend few hours of weekend hiking."
Mike Z
"The best destination for seafood and fun in the sun without boardwalks and vendors and rides and noise. Lots of parking, police everywhere. No swim zones are constantly patrolled by the authorities. Perfect for summer fun!!!"
Carla Fleming
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While the 6 train stops at Pelham Bay Park station, it's over a mile from the main park areas. You'll likely need to take connecting buses like the BX29 to reach specific sections or Orchard Beach.+1 Some locals suggest the bus to City Island might also pass by wilder sections.
Yes, but it requires some planning. The 6 train is the closest subway line, but buses are essential for navigating the vast park and reaching attractions like Orchard Beach.+1
Many visitors find the trails on Hunter Island and the areas further from the main entrances to offer a more natural, less developed experience.+1
Yes, you can walk from the 6 train's Pelham Bay Park station into the park, though it's a significant distance to reach key areas.
Absolutely! Pelham Bay Park offers scenic routes for biking, including paths that connect to City Island and other park sections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Pelham Bay Park is a public park and is free to enter. There are no admission fees for general access.
Pelham Bay Park is generally open from 6 AM to 10 PM daily. However, specific facilities like the golf course or nature center may have different hours.
Orchard Beach itself is free to access. Parking fees may apply during the peak season.
Yes, the park hosts various events throughout the year, including nature walks, concerts, and community gatherings. Check the NYC Parks website for schedules.
Some picnic areas can be reserved in advance through the NYC Parks Department, especially for larger groups. It's best to check their website for reservation details and availability.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Pelham Bay Park offers a wide range of activities including hiking, biking, birdwatching, picnicking, fishing, and enjoying Orchard Beach.
Yes, Pelham Bay Park is excellent for hiking, with miles of trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes, especially on Hunter Island.+1
Many visitors have reported seeing wildlife, including deer, birds, and other small animals, particularly in the less developed areas of the park.
Restrooms are available at Orchard Beach and other key areas within the park. Availability may vary by season and location.
Like any large urban park, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings. Sticking to well-trafficked trails during daylight hours is recommended for solo visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are concessions at Orchard Beach and nearby restaurants like The Rail House offer dining options close to the park.
Absolutely! Pelham Bay Park is a great spot for picnics. There are many scenic areas perfect for enjoying your own packed meal.
Orchard Beach typically has concessions offering classic beach fare like hot dogs, ice cream, and snacks.
Yes, the surrounding neighborhoods, including City Island and the area near The Rail House, offer various dining options.
Alcohol consumption is generally not permitted in NYC parks, including Pelham Bay Park.
📸 📸 Photography
Orchard Beach offers great coastal shots, while the wooded trails on Hunter Island provide opportunities for nature photography.
Yes, the park is home to various bird species and other wildlife, making it a good location for nature photography.
The expansive views from Orchard Beach and the diverse natural landscapes of Hunter Island are popular subjects for photographers.
Yes, the 6 train line runs through the park, offering opportunities to photograph trains, especially the R62A models heading towards Pelham Bay.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for both landscapes and wildlife photography.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit