Wave Hill New York City
A serene oasis with stunning Hudson River views and meticulously manicured gardens, just a short trip from Manhattan.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Extended summer hours, fewer crowds
Wave Hill New York City
Best Time
Extended summer hours, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene oasis with stunning Hudson River views and meticulously manicured gardens, just a short trip from Manhattan.
"Wave Hill offers a peaceful escape with breathtaking views and beautiful gardens, a true gem in the Bronx."
🚶♀️ Walk from Metro-North
Enjoy a scenic, albeit hilly, walk from the Metro-North station.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with a view on the Great Lawn or a scenic bench.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hudson River Views
Pergola and various overlooks
Breathtaking panoramic views of the Hudson River and Palisades. A true urban oasis.
The Great Lawn
Central lawn area
Expansive green space perfect for picnics, relaxing, and soaking in the garden's beauty.
Wooded Paths
Various garden sections
Winding trails through lush greenery, offering a peaceful stroll and a sense of discovery.
Historic Houses
Glyndor House and Wave Hill House
Explore elegant historic buildings that add a touch of grandeur to the natural landscape.
Planning Your Visit
Escape the City Buzz
Navigating the Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk from Metro-North
Enjoy a scenic, albeit hilly, walk from the Metro-North station.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with a view on the Great Lawn or a scenic bench.
Anyone been to Wave Hill?
♿️ Accessibility Check
Call ahead about golf carts if mobility is a concern; some paths are hilly.
⏰ Check Extended Hours
Summer Wednesdays and Fridays offer late access until 8 PM.
Wave Hill, question
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk from Metro-North
Enjoy a scenic, albeit hilly, walk from the Metro-North station.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with a view on the Great Lawn or a scenic bench.
♿️ Accessibility Check
Call ahead about golf carts if mobility is a concern; some paths are hilly.
⏰ Check Extended Hours
Summer Wednesdays and Fridays offer late access until 8 PM.
📸 Capture the Views
The river vistas and manicured gardens are incredibly photogenic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wave Hill for its breathtaking Hudson River views and tranquil, beautifully maintained gardens, offering a peaceful escape from the city. While some find the terrain hilly, the overall experience is highly regarded as a serene and picturesque destination.
"This place is truly an oasis and a must-visit destination. Located just 30 minutes from Grand Central, it's a beautiful botanical garden with wonderful wooden trails perfect for a short hike. The shaded trails stay refreshingly cool even on hot summer days.
A few practical tips: Come prepared with bug spray and sunscreen, as they may not be available for purchase on-site and there are a lot of mosquitoes. Also note that there's limited air conditioning in the buildings throughout the grounds. It's there but pretty mild.
The on-site cafe offers quality food, though it's a bit pricey.
For transportation, there's a convenient shuttle that runs hourly either on the hour or usually 10 minutes before the hour depending on whether you're going to the subway or Metro North. You can also walk from the station, but it's a steep climb through a safe, residential area."
Niurka
"Wave Hill is one of the most beautiful escapes in the Bronx. For just $10 admission (and free on Thursdays), you get access to 28 acres of gardens, greenhouses, gallery spaces and wooded trails with epic views of the Hudson River and the Palisades.
We visited on a Sunday afternoon and were blown away. The garden’s divided into serene spaces: formal flower beds, a tropical conservatory, the alpine house, and the woodland paths. It never feels rushed to explore—there’s always something in bloom, and the pergola overlooking the water is stunning during golden hour.
Despite being a public garden, Wave Hill also feels like a cultural center. The historic Wave Hill House and Glyndor House gallery host seasonal art shows and live music events—on Sundays, they often have jazz or string quartets in Armor Hall or out on the Terrace.
Staff were incredibly knowledgeable and welcoming, and maintenance around the grounds is clearly a priority. The visitor center shop is small but thoughtful, offering crafts and botanical-themed gifts. There is also a charming café where you can grab a coffee or snack before walking the grounds.
Pro tip: bring bug spray if you plan to hit the woodland trails—they’re lovely, but mosquitoes come out sometimes.
The setting is leafy and restorative, the history is rich (this landscape hosted Mark Twain and Theodore Roosevelt), and the programming is thoughtful. It’s rare to find a garden so beautiful and also deeply connected to art and education. Can’t recommend it enough."
Dwight Kenneth
"Getting there on the GPS was pretty easy because you drive this very narrow street and it at the end of It the parking lot is right in front of you. The parking lot is small so they have extra parking off the premises. The entrance and parking together cost 23.00. The grounds are absolutely amazing. The bathrooms are clean. You can bring a packed lunch to enjoy in designated areas. There is also a cafe available with plenty of options, soups, sandwiches, salads ect. You can bring a good book or a craft project if you'd like . I have posted pictures of the view."
Taina Baker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wave Hill is accessible via public transit. Take the Metro-North Railroad to the Riverdale station, followed by a walk or a short taxi/rideshare. Alternatively, the Bx7 and Bx10 buses stop nearby.
Yes, Wave Hill is conveniently located about 40 minutes from Manhattan by public transport, offering a refreshing escape from the city bustle.
Many visitors opt for the Metro-North train for a scenic journey, followed by a walk. Buses are also a viable option for reaching Wave Hill Gardens Bronx NY.
Limited parking is available at Wave Hill, but it can fill up quickly. Public transportation is often recommended for a smoother experience.
Absolutely! Wave Hill is often cited as a hidden gem in the outer boroughs, offering a tranquil experience away from typical tourist crowds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary. Check the official Wave Hill website for the most current pricing and any special event ticket information.
Wave Hill sometimes offers free admission days or specific times, especially during certain seasons or for local residents. It's best to check their official calendar.
Wave Hill's hours vary seasonally. During summer, they offer extended hours on Wednesdays and Fridays until 8 PM. Always confirm current hours before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for weekend visits or special events, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
Yes, Wave Hill is a popular venue for weddings and events, offering stunning backdrops for ceremonies and receptions. [^SEO keyword: wave hill nyc wedding]
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Explore manicured gardens, enjoy breathtaking Hudson River views, walk wooded paths, visit historic houses, and relax on the Great Lawn.
Yes, Wave Hill has some hilly terrain. While there are accessible paths, visitors with mobility issues may find certain areas challenging.
Picnics are welcome at Wave Hill, particularly on the Great Lawn. It's a perfect spot to enjoy a meal amidst beautiful scenery.
Generally, pets are not permitted at Wave Hill, except for service animals. Please check their official policy for details.
The Pergola, the Great Lawn overlooking the river, and the various garden alcoves offer stunning photographic opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Wave Hill typically has a cafe or concessions offering light refreshments and snacks. For a full meal, consider bringing your own picnic.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a popular option at Wave Hill, especially for enjoying the scenic grounds.
The Riverdale neighborhood surrounding Wave Hill has several local restaurants and cafes offering various dining options.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, both morning and evening, offers beautiful light for capturing the gardens and river views. Weekdays also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Check Wave Hill's guidelines.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive river views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the week to avoid larger crowds. The open spaces and beautiful scenery offer a refreshing change of pace from typical city attractions, making it a great spot for a family outing.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, pack your own picnic and enjoy it on the Great Lawn.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider visiting during the extended summer evening hours on Wednesdays and Fridays for a particularly magical experience as the sun sets over the river.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Gardens
Each season brings a new palette to Wave Hill. Spring bursts with vibrant blooms, while summer offers lush greenery and extended evening hours for visitors. Autumn paints the landscape in warm hues, and even winter provides a stark, beautiful tranquility. The Wave Hill Gardens Bronx NY are a testament to thoughtful horticultural design, ensuring beauty year-round. [^SEO keyword: wave hill bronx ny garden]
For those interested in the history and architecture, the Glyndor House and Wave Hill House offer glimpses into the estate's past. These historic buildings are often used for exhibitions and events, adding cultural depth to the natural beauty. [^SEO keyword: wave hill new york city]
Accessibility and Mobility
However, Wave Hill strives to be accommodating. There are paved and smooth paths within certain garden areas and along the waterfront, which can be manageable with a walker.
While you might not be able to see every corner of the expansive estate, focusing on the more accessible areas like the main lawn and the paths closest to the visitor center can still provide a rewarding and beautiful experience.
Photography at Wave Hill
For capturing the expansive landscapes, a wide-angle lens is highly recommended to encompass the grandeur of the river and the rolling lawns. A versatile zoom lens (like a 24-70mm) will be useful for capturing both the sweeping vistas and the intricate details of the flora.
Remember to check Wave Hill's specific policies regarding photography, especially if you plan on conducting commercial shoots. However, for personal use, capturing the beauty of this Bronx gem is highly encouraged.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit