It had been a long time that I wanted to visit Wave Hill. It is a public garden and also a cultural center. Located in The Bronx, about 50 minutes (on average) away from Midtown, this place has amazing views of the Hudson River and its mission is to celebrate the artistry and legacy of its gardens and landscapes. I had seen several pictures on the internet and I was looking forward to going there. Wave Hill is not a place visited by tourists – perhaps for lack of knowledge, or because it is not in Manhattan. Last Saturday, a beautiful sunny day, we spend the day there and the result is that I was blown away!
As you may know, Fall is here already and one of my favorite things about the season is the changing colors of the foliage, which in some areas may already be well observed. In Wave Hill, the change was subtle – but we already feel that mid-season atmosphere. The place is very beautiful, charming, and quiet – and without a doubt, the highlight is the Pergola Overlook. Wave Hill has a privileged location which provides an incredible view of the Hudson River and Pergola Overlook is like the postcard of the place. The spot is so special that many people celebrate weddings there. Wave Hill is located in Riverdale, a residential and super charming area in The Bronx – when we got off the bus, I was already delighted with the views of the place.
Another highlight at Wave Hill is Flower Garden, which features a glass greenhouse and many flowers. The garden is super charming and I wonder how wonderful it must be during spring. There are other gardens such as Aquatic Garden and Wild Garden and also Glyndor Gallery, a gallery with arts inspired by nature. There is also a trail that circumvents the area of the garden. At Wave Hill House & Cafe, you can stop for a snack or lunch. The menu includes options such as wraps and sandwiches – and the food is good. Prices are around $10 to $15. If you want, you can take your food and have a picnic in the designated area.
It is good to remember that Wave Hill has a perfect size – not the kind of garden that you take a long time to explore it and make you think that you have not seen everything. We stayed there for about 3 and a half hours – including our lunch break.
Wave Hill is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 5:30 pm. Between November and March, the place closes at 4:30 pm. Admission is $8 (adults) and $ 2 (children -under 6 years, admission is free). On Saturdays and Tuesdays, admission is free from 9 am to noon.
How to get there – 649 W 249th St
Subway – Take the #1 train to the terminus of the line at West 242nd Street. A free Wave Hill shuttle van meets passengers on the west side of Broadway in front of Burger King at 10 minutes past the hour, from 9:10am to 3:10pm. The shuttle van returns visitors to Broadway in front of Burger King, departing Wave Hill’s front gate on the hour, from noon until 5pm.
Bus – we choose this option. BxM1 express bus service runs between the East Side of Manhattan, starting at Third Avenue and 33rd Street, and Riverdale. BxM2 express bus service runs between the West Side of Manhattan, starting at Sixth Avenue and 35th Street, and Riverdale. Both buses stop at 252nd Street and the Henry Hudson Parkway East Service Road. Wave Hill is a pleasant five-minute walk down West 252nd Street from the Henry Hudson Parkway/252nd Street bus stop. Fare is $6,50 – you can’t use your unlimited Metrocard. I follow the route through Google Maps – so, this way I knew when to request the stop. I loved this option, because it was a very pleasant trip, with beautiful views. You may also take the Bx7 or Bx10 bus to West 252nd Street.
Metro-North – Take the Hudson Line local train to the Riverdale station.
On the website, you can check all the details about transportation.
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