Pelham Bay Park is the largest public park in New York City, spanning over 2,700 acres. Located in the northeast corner of the Bronx, this park offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, Pelham Bay Park has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, and much more.
Top Attractions
Pelham Bay Park has a lot to offer in terms of attractions. Here are some of the must-sees:
Pelham Bay and Orchard Beach
Pelham Bay and Orchard Beach are two of the most popular attractions in the park. Pelham Bay is the largest of the park’s four bays, and it’s a great place for swimming, fishing, and boating. Orchard Beach, also known as “the Riviera of New York City,” is a mile-long beach with plenty of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and changing rooms.
Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum
The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. The mansion dates back to the mid-19th century and is a great example of Greek Revival architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and learn about its history.
Turtle Cove Golf Center
If you’re a golf enthusiast, be sure to check out the Turtle Cove Golf Center. This 18-hole mini-golf course is perfect for families and groups, and it’s a great way to spend an afternoon.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are definitely worth visiting, Pelham Bay Park also has some hidden gems that are worth seeking out:
Hunter Island
Located at the eastern end of the park, Hunter Island is a secluded and peaceful spot that’s perfect for a picnic or a hike. The island offers great views of the Long Island Sound and the surrounding area.
The Bronx Victory Column
The Bronx Victory Column is a little-known monument that commemorates the Bronx’s role in World War I. The column is located near the park’s entrance and is worth a visit for history buffs.
Bronx Equestrian Center
The Bronx Equestrian Center is a hidden gem for horse lovers. The center offers horseback riding lessons and trail rides through the park’s scenic trails.
Food Scene
Pelham Bay Park has a diverse food scene that’s sure to please all palates. Here are some of the top places to eat:
Orchard Beach Snack Bar
The Orchard Beach Snack Bar is a classic New York City institution. This no-frills eatery serves up hot dogs, burgers, and other classic beach fare.
Bartow’s Station
Bartow’s Station is a great spot for a quick bite. This cafe serves up sandwiches, wraps, and salads, as well as coffee and other drinks.
La Masa
La Masa is a Latin American restaurant that’s known for its empanadas. This cozy spot also serves up other traditional dishes, such as arepas and churros.
Outdoor Adventures
Pelham Bay Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top outdoor activities:
Hiking
The park has over 13 miles of hiking trails that wind through forests, wetlands, and beaches. Some of the most popular trails include the Split Rock Trail and the Kazimiroff Trail.
Biking
Pelham Bay Park is also a great place for biking. The park has several miles of bike trails that offer scenic views of the Long Island Sound.
Canoeing and Kayaking
If you’re looking for a water adventure, the park’s bays are perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Rentals are available at the park’s boat house.
Historical Landmarks
Pelham Bay Park is steeped in history, and there are several landmarks that are worth a visit:
The Pell Family Cemetery
The Pell Family Cemetery is the final resting place of several members of the prominent Pell family, who played a key role in the history of the Bronx. The cemetery is located near the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum.
The Glover House
The Glover House is a historic farmhouse that dates back to the 18th century. The house is located near the park’s entrance and is worth a visit for history buffs.
The Hunter Mansion
The Hunter Mansion is a historic mansion that dates back to the 19th century. The mansion is now used as a community center and is open to the public for events and activities.
Family-Friendly Activities
Pelham Bay Park is a great place for families with children. Here are some of the top family-friendly activities:
Playgrounds
The park has several playgrounds that are perfect for kids of all ages. Some of the most popular playgrounds include the Orchard Beach Playground and the Turtle Cove Playground.
Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo is located just a short drive from Pelham Bay Park and is a great place for a family outing. The zoo is home to over 6,000 animals and offers a wide range of exhibits and attractions.
Pelham Bay Park Nature Center
The Pelham Bay Park Nature Center is a great place for kids to learn about the park’s flora and fauna. The center offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, and guided hikes.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, Pelham Bay Park has plenty of options:
The Orchard Beach Nature Trail
The Orchard Beach Nature Trail is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. The trail winds through a salt marsh and offers great views of the surrounding area.
The Split Rock Golf Course
The Split Rock Golf Course is a public golf course that’s located within the park. The course offers 18 holes of golf and is a great way to spend an afternoon.
The Bartow-Pell Mansion Carriage House
The Bartow-Pell Mansion Carriage House is a hidden gem for art lovers. The carriage house hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary art and is a great place to discover new artists.
Natural Wonders
Pelham Bay Park is home to several natural wonders that are worth exploring:
Orchard Beach Wetlands
The Orchard Beach Wetlands are a great place to spot wildlife. The wetlands are home to a variety of bird species, as well as fish and other aquatic animals.
The Twin Islands
The Twin Islands are two small islands that are located off the coast of Pelham Bay. The islands are a great place to explore and offer great views of the Long Island Sound.
The Hunter Island Marine Zoology and Geology Sanctuary
The Hunter Island Marine Zoology and Geology Sanctuary is a protected area of the park that’s home to a variety of marine life, including horseshoe crabs, sea stars, and sea urchins.
Vibrant Nightlife
Pelham Bay Park may not be known for its nightlife, but there are still plenty of options for those who want to stay out late:
Pelham Bay Golf Center
The Pelham Bay Golf Center is a great spot for a night out. The center offers mini-golf, batting cages, and other fun activities, as well as a bar and grill.
The Throggs Neck Clipper
The Throggs Neck Clipper is a popular spot for drinks and live music. The bar features a wide range of beers on tap and hosts local bands and musicians.
The Bronx Alehouse
The Bronx Alehouse is a cozy spot that’s perfect for a nightcap. The bar offers a wide range of craft beers and has a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding.
Local Markets
Pelham Bay Park is home to several local markets that offer fresh produce, artisanal products, and other goods:
The Bartow-Pell Farmers Market
The Bartow-Pell Farmers Market is a great place to stock up on fresh produce. The market is open on Wednesdays from June through November and features a wide range of vendors.
The Bronx Terminal Market
The Bronx Terminal Market is a large shopping center that’s home to several local vendors. The market features a wide range of products, including fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts.
The Pelham
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