Top Attractions for Families
The Bronx may be one of New York City’s lesser-known boroughs, but it’s filled with fun attractions and activities for families of all ages and sizes! From world-class zoos to kid-friendly museums, here are some of our top picks for family-friendly things to do in the Bronx:
The Bronx Zoo
You can’t visit the Bronx without stopping by this massive, world-renowned zoo! With over 4,000 animals across 265 acres, kids will love seeing creatures like lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, elephants, giraffes, and more up-close. Be sure to hop on the Wild Asia Monorail for an elevated view of rhinos, tigers, and other exotic wildlife roaming expansive habitats. With 9 different zones covering everything from an African savanna to a misty Himalayan highlands, you’ll want to allow a full day to experience it all!
Address: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460
New York Botanical Garden
This National Historic Landmark is home to 50 breathtaking gardens spread across 250 acres. From rose gardens to an aquatic garden and forest, there’s a new world of plants and flowers to discover around every corner. Be sure to check seasonal blooms like the Cherry Valley in spring and Chrysanthemum Garden in autumn. Kids will also love attractions like the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory greenhouses, the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, and the Holiday Train Show around the holidays.
Address: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458
Bronx Children’s Museum
Let your little ones’ imaginations run wild at this interactive children’s museum, with eleven galleries focused on science, literacy, and multicultural arts exhibits. Kids can pretend to be paleontologists in the dinosaur dig gallery, perform chemistry experiments in the lab gallery, or get creative in the music studio gallery. With hands-on exhibits designed just for children ages 1-8, it’s the perfect indoor activity for young families.
Address: 1 Children’s Pl, The Bronx, NY 10468
Top Attractions for First-Timers
If you’re visiting the Bronx for the very first time, you’ll definitely want to include these iconic attractions on your Bronx bucket list:
Arthur Avenue
Known as the “Real Little Italy,” this charming neighborhood is the place to go to feast on authentic Italian cuisine, especially if you love pizza, pasta, breads, and pastries. Belmont’s Arthur Avenue Retail Market is home to delis, bakeries, cheese shops, restaurants, and more all in one area. Or stroll the avenue for mom-and-pop restaurants, cafes, and markets selling Italian groceries and desserts.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts
Experience thought-provoking modern and contemporary art exhibitions at New York City’s only arts institution that’s dedicated solely to 20th and 21st century artists from Africa, Asia, and Latin America. With free admission and an idyllic outdoor sculpture garden, it’s a great way to soak in some culture in the Bronx.
Address: 1040 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10456
Top Attractions for Wine & Beer Connoisseurs
While the Bronx may not be as well known as Manhattan or Brooklyn for nightlife, its homebrewed beer scene and Bronx wineries are starting to put it on the map for craft beverages. Here’s where to go for a tasty local brew or glass of wine:
Bronx Brewery
Sample a flight of award-winning ales at New York City’s brewery, from summer ales to stouts and IPAs. Tours run Wednesday-Sunday and include tastings of their year-round classics and seasonal offerings. They even allow outside food, so feel free to order in pizza or empanadas to go with your brews! Address: 856 E 136th St, Bronx, NY 10454
City Island
This laidback island neighborhood is home to several great waterfront bars and restaurants where you can enjoy picturesque city views alongside your drinks. Stop by the Snug Harbor for craft beer and live music, the Black Whale for island cocktails, or Seafood City for fresh oysters with your white wine. Address: City Island, Bronx, NY 10464
Riverdale Winery
New York City’s only winery is set in an ivy-covered stone building dating back to 1917 and offers tastings of their signature red and white wines. Sip a glass on the patio overlooking the Palisades or inside the cozy tasting room. They also host live music events and food/wine pairing experiences throughout the year. Address: 3701 Henry Hudson Pkwy E, Riverdale, NY 10463
Top Attractions for Sports Fans
Sports lovers visiting the Bronx will want to pencil in a trip to see of one New York City’s beloved home teams at these two storied stadiums:
Yankee Stadium
You can’t visit NYC without catching a Yankees game at the iconic Yankee Stadium. The Bronx Bombers have called this ballpark home since 2009. Be sure to stroll Monument Park beyond center field to pay homage to Yankee greats like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Joe DiMaggio. And don’t miss out on classic Yankee Stadium snacks like garlic fries, chicken buckets, and frosty cold beers! Address: 1 E 161 St, Bronx, NY 10451
Arthur Ashe Stadium
Each August, the world’s top tennis pros descend upon Flushing Meadows for the U.S. Open Championships, with the main event happening at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Marvel at 23,700 fans cheering for tennis legends like Serena Williams and Roger Federer at this massive tennis arena, which also hosts big music acts and other sporting events. Address: 124-02 Roosevelt Ave, Flushing, NY 11368
Top Attractions for Foodies
From Latin American street food to old-school Italian red sauce joints, the Bronx is a seriously underrated foodie destination in New York City. Food lovers simply must try these local favorites:
City Island
On this fishing village island, seafood rules. Follow the lobster statues to Lobster Box for buttery lobster rolls, platters of chilled oysters, and more ocean fare. Or try the snails and whole fried fish at the no-frills Seafood City.
Little Colombia
In South Bronx, you’ll find Little Colombia, NYC’s largest Latin American enclave. Indulge in arepas stuffed with cheese and avocado at La Fonda de Laura or gorge on Colombian empanadas and tamales from food carts.
Top Attractions for Shopaholics
You may not expect it, but the Bronx actually has some great spots to shop ’til you drop, especially if you love vintage finds and outlet deals:
The Mall at Bay Plaza
This 650,000 square foot mall in Co-op City has all your favorite chains like H&M, JCPenney, Macy’s, and Old Navy, along with over 100 other stores and restaurants. With so much variety, it’s easy to spend a whole afternoon browsing and snacking here. Address: 200 Baychester Ave, Bronx, NY 10475
Fleetwood Shopping District
North of Yonkers, Fleetwood is known for its 50+ outlet stores selling designer brands at deep discounts. Find deals on Levi’s, Cole Haan, Calvin Klein, Nike, and more all in one place. Address: 552 Main St, Mount Vernon, NY 10550
Antique Row
Bargain hunters and vintage lovers flock to the Arthur Avenue Retail Market and neighborhood shops along Arthur Avenue’s “Antique Row” for one-of-a-kind furniture, lighting, glassware, artwork, jewelry, and more dating back to the 1920s-1960s. With so many treasures to uncover, you’re sure to leave with at least one new unique piece.
How to Get Around the Bronx
With so many places to explore across New York City’s largest borough, you’ll want to have a solid transportation plan for getting around the Bronx. Here are some of the most popular options:
MTA Subway
New York City’s extensive subway system reaches several spots within the Bronx, making it easy to get to Yankee Stadium, Arthur Avenue, and more without a car. Just plan enough time to walk from stations, as some attractions are a bit of a trek. The B, D, and 4 trains offer the most Bronx subway access.
Metro-North Railroad
The Metro-North has several stations within the Bronx along the Hudson Line, Harlem Line, and New Haven Line. It’s a handy option for reaching attractions like Arthur Avenue’s “Little Italy”, City Island, Bronx Zoo, New York Botanical Garden, and more.
Charter Bus
For ultimate convenience exploring the Bronx, charter a private bus! A charter bus rental lets your group travel together in comfort while avoiding subway crowds and traffic. Your professional driver will pick you up and drop you off right at each attraction. Onboard amenities like WiFi, power outlets, and entertainment systems will keep everyone happy en route. Charter buses allow you to efficiently customize and optimize your Bronx itinerary.
Ready to Explore the Bronx?
Now that you know where to go and how to get around, the Bronx is your oyster! From world-famous zoos and gardens to mouthwatering Italian feasts and craft brews, New York’s northernmost borough has something for every interest. Avoid logistical hassles and keep your group together with a charter bus as you experience all that “Boogie Down Bronx” has to offer.
Call Charter Bus Company Bronx at (929) 480-9452 or request a free quote online to get started planning your ideal Bronx adventure! Our team is ready to help you craft a custom itinerary and provide reliable group transportation in the Bronx and beyond. Let us handle the driving so you can focus on making memories with your favorite people. Whether you need airport transfers, day trips from NYC, or an hourly charter bus rental for sightseeing, we’ve got you covered.