Untermyer Gardens
A 43-acre historic oasis near NYC, featuring a stunning walled Persian garden and breathtaking Hudson River vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery and fewer crowds.
Untermyer Gardens
Best Time
Lush greenery and fewer crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 43-acre historic oasis near NYC, featuring a stunning walled Persian garden and breathtaking Hudson River vistas.
"A magical place with artistic choices of plants, arches, domes, and walkways that are to die for."
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Terrain includes rocks, dirt, grass, and stairs. Strollers may be difficult.
Donations appreciated :heart:
Free admission, but donations help maintain this beautiful historic park.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Walled Persian Garden
Central area
A stunning, meticulously restored Persian garden, a true oasis of tranquility and intricate design.
Temple of Love
Overlooking the Hudson River
An enchanting structure offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Hudson River and Palisades.
Grand Staircase
Overlooking the Hudson River
Iconic steps leading down to a vista point, perfect for photos and soaking in the expansive scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Getting There & Navigating
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Terrain includes rocks, dirt, grass, and stairs. Strollers may be difficult.
Donations appreciated :heart:
Free admission, but donations help maintain this beautiful historic park.
Photo ops galore! :camera:
This garden is a dream for photographers, especially with stunning architecture and views. +1
Plan your parking :car:
Main entrance parking is limited; street parking is available but requires a hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Terrain includes rocks, dirt, grass, and stairs. Strollers may be difficult.
Donations appreciated :heart:
Free admission, but donations help maintain this beautiful historic park.
Photo ops galore! :camera:
This garden is a dream for photographers, especially with stunning architecture and views. +1
Plan your parking :car:
Main entrance parking is limited; street parking is available but requires a hike.
Check for events :calendar:
Summer Saturdays can be crowded with weddings and proposals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Untermyer Gardens for its stunning beauty, meticulous maintenance, and breathtaking Hudson River views, calling it a magical and artistic escape. While the free admission is a major draw, some note that parking can be limited and the terrain challenging for strollers or those with mobility issues, especially when events cause crowds.
"What a beautiful place! Such an interesting history getting inspiration from Persian gardens, fountains from Alhambra, castles, the Roman’s and Greeks, etc. It all goes together beautifully. You can spend a good amount of time here exploring the expansive grounds and the different areas. Lots of beautiful flowers in bloom. I imagine it looks so nice in every season."
Melissa Pate
"Very beautiful garden with views of Hudson River. It’s pretty walkable as we did it with 3yr old and 60 yr old family members. Each nook and corner is created with so much love, thought and art. Yeh overall artistic choices of plants, arches, domes, walkways are to die for. I loved the range of green in every frame, atleast 4-5 shades of green next to each other.
The property has been well maintained.
There are restrooms and water fountain at the main entrance of the garden. Parking inside is limited but even on a Sat we found parking easily on the street.
There were a lot of wedding, sweet 16, engagement proposals happening when we visited on a summer Saturday and got really crowded due to that."
Shruti Sinha
"Untermyer Gardens is absolutely stunning and one of the best spots in the Hudson Valley. The views of the Hudson River are breathtaking, especially in the fall when the trees burst with color. The gardens are beautifully maintained with lovely paths, fountains, and architecture. Fall is the perfect time to visit for a peaceful and unforgettable experience."
Martín Coronado
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive (approx. 30-35 mins from Manhattan) or take the Metro-North Hudson Line from Grand Central to Yonkers station, then transfer to the Yonkers 6 Bus.
Yes, there's limited parking at the main entrance. Street parking is available behind the gardens, but be prepared for a hike to the entrance.
Absolutely! Public transport via Metro-North and a bus connection makes it easily accessible from NYC. +1
The main entrance area is most accessible. The grounds have varied terrain (rocks, dirt, grass, stairs), making strollers difficult.
It's a great day trip from NYC, offering a peaceful escape. Consider combining it with other Westchester attractions if you have a car. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Untermyer Gardens is completely free! Donations are highly encouraged to support the conservancy's maintenance and restoration efforts.
The gardens are typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any seasonal changes or special event closures.
No, tickets are not required as admission is free. You can visit anytime during their operating hours.
Generally, it's a public park, but be mindful of private events that might be taking place. Respect the garden's beauty and history.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, public parks often have leash laws. It's best to check the official park rules for pet policies.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Yes, it's a photographer's paradise! The stunning architecture, diverse plant life, and river views make it incredibly picturesque.
The gardens are beautiful from spring through fall, with vibrant blooms and foliage. Fall offers particularly breathtaking views of the Hudson River.
Explore the various garden sections, enjoy the views, relax, take photos, and learn about its rich history. It's perfect for a peaceful stroll or a picnic. +1
Yes, restrooms and a water fountain are available at the main entrance of the garden.
The main entrance area is more accessible. The terrain can be challenging with rocks, dirt, grass, and stairs, making it difficult for strollers or those with significant mobility issues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the main entrance area for easier access to key sights like the Walled Garden. Pack snacks and water, and consider a picnic to make the most of your visit. The open spaces provide room for kids to move around, and the sheer beauty of the gardens offers a refreshing change of pace.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1Consider visiting during the 'golden hours' for the best light. The Temple of Love and the grand staircase are particularly photogenic spots. Remember that the gardens can get crowded, especially on weekends with events, so plan your shots accordingly.
🚶♀️ Seniors & Those Seeking Tranquility
While the expansive grounds offer much to see, visitors with mobility concerns may want to focus on the areas closest to the main entrance to minimize strenuous walking. The breathtaking views and artistic beauty provide a calming and enriching experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
After Untermyer's death, the gardens fell into neglect and disrepair for decades. However, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy and the city of Yonkers, a remarkable restoration project began in 2011. This revitalization has brought the Walled Garden, the Temple of Love, and other key features back to their former glory, preserving this historic gem for public enjoyment.
Today, visitors can wander through the meticulously maintained grounds, appreciating the artistic choices in plants, arches, domes, and walkways that create a truly unique and beautiful landscape. The gardens offer a glimpse into a bygone era of opulence and horticultural artistry.
Navigating Your Visit
+2Upon arrival, you'll find limited parking at the main entrance. If this lot is full, street parking is available behind the gardens. However, be aware that accessing the gardens from this rear parking area involves a significant hike, and the terrain can be challenging.
Within the gardens, the paths are a mix of rocks, dirt, grass, and stairs, which can make navigating with strollers difficult. The main entrance area offers the most accessible sights and minimal walking. Comfortable footwear is highly recommended to fully enjoy exploring the expansive grounds.
Photography Paradise
The Temple of Love, perched with a view of the Hudson River and Palisades, is another iconic spot. The grand staircase leading to this vista point is particularly popular for capturing breathtaking panoramic images.
Whether you're capturing the architectural details, the diverse plant life, or the sweeping landscapes, Untermyer Gardens offers a visually rich experience. Visiting during the golden hours of morning or late afternoon can further enhance the magical quality of your photographs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit