Pelham Bay Park
New York City, NY
While Central Park might be New York City’s most famous park, Pelham Bay Park is its largest, at more than three times bigger than its Manhattan counterpart. Located on the city’s outskirts, it has sports fields, historic sites, golf courses, playgrounds, hiking trails, the Bronx’s only public beach at Orchard Beach, and more.
The basics
On New York City’s north-eastern edge, Pelham Bay Park is within the city limits but feels like a completely different place. As well as the many outdoor recreation facilities, the park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal life, including the osprey bird of prey and groves of protected trees. Travelers typically visit independently from New York City or towns in Westchester County.
Things to know before you go
The water quality at Orchard Beach is tested throughout the open season and the beach will close if it’s not safe enough to swim. Orchard Beach is wheelchair accessible, with beach mats and wheelchairs designed for use on sand available. Two of the park’s playgrounds are also wheelchair accessible: the Orchard Beach Playground and the Playground for All Children. You need a permit to use the park’s tennis courts and golf courses.
How to get there
It’s easiest to get to the park by car—it’s about a 30-minute drive from Manhattan. The New England Thruway and the Hutchinson River Parkway pass near, and there are five car parking areas in the park. The 6 subway line ends at Pelham Bay Park station (it’s about a 1.5 hour train journey from Manhattan), but this is quite far from some of the park’s main attractions. Several buses also serve the park.
When to get there
Different facilities within the park operate different opening hours. The playgrounds and sports courts are typically open from early morning until dusk or late evening. Orchard Beach is seasonal, with lifeguards on duty from mid-morning until early evening in the summer; swimming is prohibited when they’re not on duty. The season runs from late May until early September.
Other New York City beaches
Pelham Bay Park contains one of New York City’s best beaches, Orchard Beach, but there are several other great spots to cool off in summer, mainly in the city’s south. Staten Island’s South Beach has good views of the Verrazano–Narrows Bridge, Queens’ Rockaway Beach offers surfboard rentals and surfing lessons, and Brooklyn’s Coney Island is a must for fairground enthusiasts.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!