A Weekend in Yonkers: History, Hops & Horticulture
The city of Yonkers is filled with relaxing activities, culinary treasures and rich, provocative history, providing an ideal break from the busy routine of everyday life.
Getting Here
Yonkers is a quick 30-minute ride on Metro-North Railroad's Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal. Standing for over a century, the Yonkers Station provides easy access to the rest of the city through its connections to bus lines and proximity to downtown and city square.
Day 1
Within steps from the train station are three stops along Westchester County's African American Heritage Trail, a path that spans the length of the county and includes 16 sites dedicated to the remembrance and celebration of the region’s African American history and culture.
A bronze statue commemorates Yonkers-native Ella Fitzgerald, a jazz legend who paved the way for other African Americans to live and work more freely. Along the waterfront is Yonkers artist Vinnie Bagwell's Enslaved Africans’ Rain Garden, a four-piece sculpture installation paying tribute to the lives, feelings and legacy of enslaved Africans in America.
Philipse Manor Hall, located just across from the train station, is a pre-Revolutionary War home that housed merchants responsible for much of the commercial growth of the area. The manor has two floors of interactive, ADA-accessible exhibits recounting the history and impact of the people who were enslaved there, the indigenous people from whom the Philipse lands derive and the journeys of the Philipse family.
After a morning of exploration, it’s time to sit back and enjoy a satisfying meal from one of Yonkers’ most loved restaurants. For a casual bite that doesn’t skimp on flavor, stop in at TaqueRio Taco Bar for a hearty assortment of tacos, street corn and margaritas.
For a relaxed afternoon, visit Untermyer Park & Gardens in Northwest Yonkers. The Gardens are divided into six unique sections, including the Color Gardens, Rock and Stream Gardens, the Vista, the Rhododendron Walk, the Temple of Love and the Walled Garden. Free to visit, Untermyer has been a major environmental attraction for well over a century, and the city’s 43 acres of plantings are maintained by local horticulturists. Complete your visit by marveling at the outstanding views of a crimson-colored sunset over the Hudson River.
In the evening, delight your palate with modern Italian fare featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients at Zuppa Restaurant, located in a renovated newspaper press building. After dinner, stroll over Yonkers Brewing Company inside the former trolley barn, to sample craft brews, enjoy light bites and listen to live music in a convivial atmosphere.
Day 2
Start the day at the fun and cozy jungle-themed Sheza Coffee House with the house specialty whipped coffee and freshly baked goods.
For an activity sure to get your heart rate up, spend time at Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts to catch the races, play a few games, enjoy a wide selection of dining or take in a show.
Then, shop in the beautiful village setting of Ridge Hill complete with children’s play area, fountains, green space and over 60 stores and restaurants. Attractions include Showcase Cinema de Lux, LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, iFLY Indoor Skydiving and more. While at Ridge Hill, savor a lunch at Texas de Brazil, serving Brazilian favorites including all-you-can-eat grilled meat carved tableside.
Next, stop inside the Hudson River Museum to experience a dynamic collection of art, learn about the cosmos in the planetarium and tour Glenview, an 1877 house on the National Register of Historic Places.
Complete your weekend tour of Yonkers with a delicious dinner at One Pier Steakhouse serving up mouthwatering steak and seafood dishes paired with craft cocktails using artisanal ingredients. After dinner, it's a quick walk to Yonkers Metro-North Railroad Station where you can start planning your next visit.
Where to Stay
No weekend getaway is complete without a luxurious place to unwind and catch some z’s. Hyatt Place, located near Empire City Casino, is a well-located option with plenty of amenities and pristine, modern rooms. For an elegant night in, try the Royal Regency in Northeast Yonkers for an evening of restful comfort and options for dining, exclusive packages and events.