Recently, a darling friend invited me to join her on a little play date excursion to the Bronx. I know you’re thinking, “Why the Bronx?”. But really, if you haven’t discovered all the Bronx has to offer, than you are truly missing out. Because among many things, it offers the serenity of the peaceful neighborhood of Riverdale, and within the Riverdale community is the amazing and breathtaking Wave Hill.
Wave Hill was once upon a time a private estate that is now a garden and cultural center open to the public.
With 28-acres of beautiful landscaped gardens, overlooking the Hudson River and Palisades, one feels as if they have left New York City entirely and gone somewhere far more serene. Wave Hill’s mission is “to celebrate the artistry and legacy of its gardens and landscapes, to preserve its magnificent views, and to explore human connections to the natural world through programs in horticulture, education and the arts”. And after walking through the area and seeing all they have to offer, I can honestly say they are right on course.
My boys’ batteries were fully charged that day, and as is most cases with children when they find themselves with an abundance of open space, they ran. They ran far and fast, throwing themselves on the grass, rolling around like playful puppies who have been caged for a long time. At first I felt nervous, concerned that their playfulness would disrupt the “feel” of the place.
“I’m sorry my boys are so nutty!” I apologized.
“Wave Hill is one of the best outdoor spaces on earth to get nutty in,” responded Martha Gellens, Wave Hill’s Assistant Director for Marketing and Communications. Love her.
And so they did. And we enjoyed a light snack in the cafeteria, and admired the wonderful views, and took in the sun. I didn’t come with my 12 year old, as he was still in school, nor my husband, as he was still at work. But I can’t wait to.
There are no dogs allowed, which means no nasty surprises on the grass, and there are specific places where one can eat, which again helps maintain the area clean and green. But if you are looking to take in some rays, just sit out with the family or a friend…or even by yourself, while at the same time escaping the hustle and bustle of the city, then Wave Hill is definitely the spot to go to.
Check their Calendar of Events page for listings of events, activities, and other fun happenings at Wave Hill, including tours, garden walks, workshops, and a special Mother’s Day celebration.
Family Art Project Celebration at Wave Hill_credit Joshua Bright
Wave Hill Garden Walk_credit Dan Willner
My kids and I loved it, and we think you will too. There is tons to do for the entire family…and if you’d rather do nothing but layout on the grass, that’s fine too!
HOURS * ADMISSION * DIRECTIONS
Open all year, Tuesday–Sunday and many major holidays: 9am–5:30pm Closes 4:30pm, October 15–April 15. $8 adults, $4 students and seniors 65+, $2 children 6–18 Free Tuesday, Saturday mornings until noon. Free to Members and children under 6. Getting here is easy!
Located only 30 minutes from midtown Manhattan, Wave Hill’s free shuttle van transport you to and from our front gate and Metro-North’s Riverdale station, the West 242 Street stop on the #1 subway line, and to and from our free offsite parking lot. Limited onsite parking is available for $8 per vehicle. Complete directions and shuttle bus schedule available at www.wavehill.org.
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